The answer to this is one I think that will please you guys: Yes, of course! Contrary to popular belief, anyone can learn to write if they make up their mind to it.

What Does It Really Take?

If you can express yourself, explain detailed instructions about something, or describe something that happened to you, you can write. It's a matter of having the ideas in your head and knowing how to put them into a written, instead of verbal, form.

How About Grammar and Spelling?

It's true that nobody can write professionally and have poor grammar and spelling that is uncorrected. This is even true of sites where articles are posted mainly for page views. However, there are numerous tools you can use to help improve both. See the following examples: Commonly mispelled words (comic format), Lots of helpful Grammar Girl tips (blog format)

Some Good Practice Tips

• If you use a journal or diary, write in it regularly. This is better practice than you may realize.
• Still have your HS or college English textbook? Try some of the writing exercises.
• Sign up with a few sites, such as Yahoo! Contributor Network, Helium, Triond or Infobarrel that allow you to write articles in exchange for revenue shares. You won't get rich, but you will have possible portfolio links.
• Consider signing up as a mystery shopper, compliance auditor or retail merchandiser (or all 3). All of these jobs involve writing brief reports about your experiences that will hone your skills. Volition.com lists some reputable options. Avoid sites that require you to pay a fee to be a shopper.

I hope these are some helpful starter tips. My next post will cover the different types of writing jobs you may find.

AJtheIrishLass