In his lifetime, Heinlein wrote over 66 books and countless essays for science fiction magazines.
Starship Troopers (1959), Stranger in a Strange Land (1961), The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress (1966), and "The Green Hills of Earth" (1947) are just a few of his most notable works.
In this article, we have compiled some of the best writing tips by the “Dean of Science Fiction,” Robert A. Heinlein.
Heinlein’s Timeless Writing Advice
1. Be an Expert on the Genre/Topic Before You Write About It
At the 34th World Science Fiction Convention, held in Kansas City in 1976, Robert Heinlein said in his guest of honor speech, “Anyone who thinks science fiction can be written without science deserves to go and room with the person who thinks that historical novels can be written without a knowledge of history.”
This is something that writers today often overlook. It’s not only for sci-fi. Thorough research and absolute knowledge of the topic you’re writing about make or break the story.
Fiction is not about tweaking reality at your convenience. It is more about tweaking it with intention, in synergy with the narrative. Not knowing puts you at risk of leaving loopholes all over.
2. Not Everything in Your Book Can Be Perfect
In an interview published in the leading fanzine Science Fiction Review after the release of his groundbreaking novel The Number of the Beast, Heinlein said something that all writers will relate to.
When asked why some elements of space travel were repeatedly explained in detail, Heinlein said that he didn’t realize that he had explained that too much. He did so because he felt it was necessary.
As a writer who’s constantly worried about disappointing my readers, the simplicity and honesty of his answer were like a boost of confidence.
Heinlein's honest acknowledgment reflects the wisdom of an experienced writer who understood that, unlike beginning authors who chase perfection, seasoned professionals recognize the limits of their control over how their work is received.
3. If It Entertains, It’s a Job Well Done
While answering a question by Science Fiction Review about his book, Heinlein said that he intended to write a story that was entertaining. He did not set out to teach any lessons.
“If it entertained you, then it was successful,” he said.
'Starship Troopers'Credit: TriStar Pictures
4. Writing Can Get Tedious, Yet You Must Write
It might hurt the pride of writers like us to accept that the art we pursue can indeed become difficult.
Sometimes, we encounter repeated dead ends; sometimes it’s a never-ending writer's block, and at other times, it’s not good enough.
If it provides any comfort, even an experienced writer like Heinlein admitted to facing similar challenges while speaking with Science Fiction Review. But the point is to push through it.
Heinlein boiled his advice down in another piece of writing. In 1947, he was included in the book Of Worlds Beyond: The Science of Science Fiction Writing.
The book features articles by John Taine, Jack Williamson, A.E. van Vogt, L. Sprague de Camp, E.E. “Doc” Smith, John W. Campbell, Jr., and Robert A. Heinlein.
Heinlein’s piece was “On the Writing of Speculative Fiction," in which he offered four steps for writing.
His first rule: “You must write.”
Heinlein always emphasized the importance of writing consistently and finishing what you start. Only endless writing can help you achieve your potential. So start something and finish it. Once done, send it out for feedback, take notes on your mistakes, and immediately move on to write the next one. Turn this cycle into your life mantra.
5. There’s a Market for Everybody
In his interview with Science Fiction Review, Heinlein also said, “There has always been a market for anybody who really had good stuff to print.”
Many of us are scared to release our writing, fearing rejection and criticism. But if you don't, how will you know where to improve?
Heinlein gave similar advice in “On the Writing of Speculative Fiction”, with rule number four: “You must put it on the market.”
Referring to what Heinlein always said about writing and feedback, keeping our work away from exposure also blocks our understanding of the market.
As artists, it is important to face the rejections and criticism, so that you can take notes from them to improve your work.
The market only values you if you have something really good to offer. The audience’s response is not a rigged system, but rather a merit-based one. Embrace it, because there's a market for everyone, but only if you’re at the top of your own game.
Finally, rule number 5: “You must keep it on the market until sold.”
6. Writing for the Audience Should Be Your Goal
Many people mistakenly believe that mass-market content is beneath them when it shouldn’t be. Heinlein pointed this out while speaking with Science Fiction Review.
“[They] assume that writing what the audience wants is not being creative. You have to be extremely creative to write what the audience wants, instead of writing what everybody else is and the audience is tired of,” Heinlein said.
The irony is that, most of the time, audiences aren’t actually served the wrong “order” repeatedly. Whether it’s in mainstream films or books, creators tend to mitigate risk by serving up the same familiar hit again and again.
An artist is most creative when they give the audience what they want.
Which one of these tips do you already abide by?
Credit: Sony
'Starship Troopers'Credit: TriStar Pictures 
