Writer Guidelines

A beginner-friendly guide for contributors

Before You Begin

If you haven’t yet, please read the story on our About the Project page. It explains the heart of how we work together – listening to one another, welcoming different experiences, and creating something stronger than any one of us could make alone.

These guidelines are here to support you – not to gatekeep or intimidate you. You don’t need to be a “writer” to contribute. You just need to care.

Your Voice Matters

You don’t need formal training. You don’t need to write like a journalist. You don’t need citations, research papers, or expertise.

We welcome:

• personal stories
• lived experience
• observations
• questions
• ideas
• solutions
• curiosity
• honesty
• reflection

This project belongs to all of us – not a select few.

Write Like You Are Having a Real Conversation

The best writing for this project is simple, human, and sincere.

Try to:

• use everyday language
• explain ideas the way you would explain them to a friend
• avoid jargon whenever possible
• stay focused on the heart of what you are saying

You are not being graded. Your chapter doesn’t need to “sound smart.” It just needs to be real.

Collaboration Is Part of the Process

This is a shared writing project, not a solo assignment. When you join, you also join a group of people exploring similar topics.

As you write:

• talk to each other
• share ideas
• ask questions
• help others clarify their thoughts
• offer gentle suggestions
• explain why something matters to you
• remain open to feedback to make the project better – but never change something just because someone suggests it

Collaboration isn’t about debating or winning. It’s about building something meaningful together.

Keep It Constructive and Respectful

This project is a space for thoughtful, good-faith conversation.

Please avoid:

• personal attacks
• name-calling
• rants
• conspiracy language
• “gotcha” arguments
• attacking or demeaning groups of people

If you disagree with someone, try:

• “I see this differently – here’s my experience…”
• “Can you explain more about that? I’m curious.”
• “What if we approached it this way?”

Curiosity and respect keep the collaboration strong.

Accuracy Matters, but Perfection Isn’t Required

We want this project to be grounded in reality, but not bogged down by research rules.

If you share a fact:

• try to include a link to a news article or reputable source if you can

If you don’t have one:

• no worries – another contributor can help track it down or clarify

We are building this together. Accuracy is a shared responsibility, not an individual burden.

You Are Welcome to Write in Whatever Format Works for You

You can contribute in many different styles:

• storytelling
• analysis
• bullet points
• letter-style
• personal reflection
• persuasive
• descriptive explanation
• hopeful vision
• lists of problems and ideas

Your voice and your approach are welcome here.

Length Guidelines (Flexible)

A chapter can be:

• short (300-600 words)
• moderate (800-1200 words)
• long (1500-2000+ words)

These are not strict limits. Some topics need space and some don’t. Use whatever length communicates your ideas clearly.

Working in the Shared Folder

When your topic has been approved, we will give you access to the collaboration folder.

Inside, you will find:

• your personal chapter draft
• a topic group folder (if others are writing related chapters)
• notes or reference materials
• a space for conversation and suggestions

Please:

• do not edit someone else’s file without their permission
• feel free to add comments and questions
• keep communication kind and helpful
• notify us if you see a mistake or broken link

This keeps the project organized and respectful.

We Are Here to Support You

If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to begin:

• ask your topic group
• reach out through the contact page
• share a rough idea or outline
• request feedback
• send a voice note if writing is hard
• start small – even one sentence is a start

We can help shape your thoughts together. You are not alone in this process.

Most of All – Thank You!

Your willingness to contribute your time, stories, and ideas is what will make this project meaningful. This is a people-powered effort and it only works because people like you care enough to participate.

Your voice belongs here.

We’re glad you’re part of this.