Looking for a Writing Group? Here’s What to Know

If you’ve ever tried to write consistently, you know how quiet it can get. Sometimes that quiet feels peaceful, and sometimes it feels like you’re stuck in your own head, wondering if your words even make sense. I’ve been there — staring at a half-finished story, convincing myself I’ll “get back to it tomorrow.” Spoiler: I didn’t.

That’s where writing groups come in. A good writing group isn’t just about critique — it’s about connection. It’s a space where you can show up, share your work, and get honest reactions from people who understand what it’s like to wrestle with words. You learn to see your own blind spots, to celebrate others’ wins, and to realize you’re not the only one doubting every sentence.

I joined my first writing group years ago, nervous and sure my story was terrible. But hearing others talk about their messy drafts? It changed everything. I learned that feedback isn’t scary — it’s fuel.

What You Can Get Out of a Writing Group

When people think of writing groups, they often picture a circle of writers politely reading aloud. But the real value runs deeper than that.

Accountability is huge. There’s something about knowing people expect you to show up with new pages that makes you actually write them. I’ve finished stories I would’ve abandoned if it weren’t for my group asking, “So… how’s that chapter coming?”

Then there’s feedback — not just compliments, but the kind that makes you rethink how you write. For example, I once shared a story I thought was about friendship. Someone said, “This reads more like a love story.” They were right. That single comment reshaped the whole piece.

And don’t underestimate community. Writing can be lonely, and when you find people who geek out about sentence rhythm or character arcs like you do, it’s like finding your tribe. Plus, you’ll pick up networking opportunities — sharing contest links, submission calls, or editing gigs you’d never have found alone.

Every group has its own vibe, so finding one that fits your energy — whether you like structured critiques or casual chats — is part of the fun.

Types of Writing Groups You’ll Find

Critique Circles
These are the classic ones. You share work, others review it, and you return the favor. Perfect if you’re serious about improving your craft.

Accountability Groups
More about progress than polish. Members check in on goals — “Did you write 500 words today?” — and cheer each other on.

Genre-Specific Groups
Whether you’re into poetry, sci-fi, romance, or essays, there’s a niche group for you. You’ll get advice from people who get your genre’s quirks.

Online Communities
If you’re busy or shy, these are gold. Websites like Scribophile or Discord servers let you connect with writers worldwide, anytime.

Workshop-Based Groups
Usually led by a mentor or teacher. Think mini writing classes with feedback built in — great if you crave structure.

Social or Creative Meetups
More casual — people gather to write together in cafes or online sessions. Less critique, more inspiration. Sometimes you just need someone else typing next to you to stay focused.

Finding and Keeping the Right Group

So, how do you actually find your people? It’s easier than you think.

Start by checking local libraries or community centers — they often host writing meetups. Meetup.com, Reddit’s r/writing, and Facebook groups are also great starting points. If you’re into feedback-focused communities, try Scribophile or Critique Circle.

When you find one, pay attention to a few key things:

• Shared goals. Are people there for feedback, publishing, or just fun?
• Constructive vibes. Feedback should be honest but kind. If everyone’s just roasting each other’s work, it’s not worth your time.
• Group size. Smaller groups (5–8 people) often mean more meaningful feedback.

And here’s a little truth: you might not click with the first group you join — and that’s okay. It’s like dating. You learn what works for you by trying it out. I left one group because it was too focused on competition; the next one? They became some of my closest friends.

The magic of a writing group isn’t just in the words you write — it’s in the people who remind you why you wanted to write them in the first place. Find that energy, and your writing will grow faster than you ever thought possible.

Types of Writing Groups You’ll Find

Let’s be real — not all writing groups are built the same. Some feel like a masterclass every week, while others are just a bunch of caffeine-fueled writers in a coffee shop trying not to fall asleep over their laptops. That’s the beauty of it: there’s no one-size-fits-all version of a writing group. The trick is figuring out what you need right now — structure, support, or simply a reminder that you’re not in this alone.

I’ve been part of a few, and each one taught me something different about my own writing habits and what keeps me motivated. So, let’s dig into the main types you’ll come across and what makes each one worth checking out.

Critique Circles

If you’re serious about improving your craft, this is where the magic happens — and sometimes, where the ego gets a little bruised (in the best way). In critique circles, everyone brings a piece of writing, reads or shares it, and gets feedback from the group. Sounds simple, right? It is — but it’s also where you’ll grow the most.

I once brought a short story I thought was airtight. Then someone said, “I don’t understand why the main character made that choice.” It stung at first, but they were right. That question pushed me to rework the story into something way stronger. The best feedback doesn’t hand you answers — it gives you better questions.

The key to thriving in critique groups is balance. You need thick skin to take notes without getting defensive, but also enough empathy to give thoughtful feedback to others. It’s a two-way street, and when everyone commits, it becomes a masterclass in storytelling every single week.

Accountability Groups

These are all about momentum. There’s no deep critique here — just a group of people who want to make sure you’re writing something, anything. You set goals (“I’ll write for 30 minutes every day” or “I’ll finish one poem a week”), and the group checks in to keep you honest.

I once joined a virtual accountability group that met every Sunday. We didn’t even read each other’s work. We just shared what we’d done and what we planned next. That tiny bit of external pressure was enough to keep me from falling off the wagon. Sometimes, progress isn’t about perfection — it’s about not quitting.

Genre-Specific Groups

If you’ve ever tried explaining your fantasy world’s magic system to someone who doesn’t read fantasy, you know how awkward that can be. That’s where genre-specific groups shine. They’re made up of writers who “get it.” Whether you’re a horror buff, a romance enthusiast, or a sci-fi worldbuilder, you’ll find people who speak your creative language.

For instance, in my local speculative fiction group, someone once caught an inconsistency in my time-travel logic (and saved me from a huge plot hole). You don’t get that kind of precision from general groups — only from people who know the tropes, the expectations, and the heart of your genre.

Online Communities

Maybe you’re shy. Or busy. Or living in a tiny town where the nearest writing group is an hour away. Online writing groups are your lifeline. They can be as formal as structured workshops (like Scribophile or Critique Circle) or as casual as Discord servers and Reddit threads.

The best part? You can find a group that matches your exact vibe. Want in-depth line edits? There’s a group for that. Want to exchange funny drafts at 2 a.m.? There’s one for that too.

Of course, the downside is the lack of real-world connection. Without face-to-face accountability, it’s easy to drift away. But if you’re self-disciplined, online communities give you access to diverse voices from all over the world — and that’s priceless.

Workshop-Based Groups

Think of these as a mix between a class and a writing circle. Usually led by an experienced facilitator or author, workshop groups often have a set schedule and curriculum. You’ll submit work, get detailed feedback, and maybe even do exercises designed to sharpen your technique.

These can be intense, but they’re incredibly rewarding. A friend of mine took part in a six-week memoir workshop and said it completely changed how she approached storytelling — from focusing on “what happened” to exploring “what it meant.” Workshops are perfect if you thrive under structure and want more than casual feedback.

Social or Creative Meetups

Sometimes, you don’t need critique or structure. You just need company. Social writing meetups — whether online “write-ins” or coffeehouse gatherings — create that sense of shared energy. There’s something strangely powerful about sitting next to someone typing away, even in silence.

A friend and I used to meet every Thursday at a café, order the same drinks, and just write. No feedback, no deadlines. Just vibes. That little ritual became my favorite part of the week. Community doesn’t always have to mean conversation — sometimes, it’s just presence.

No matter what kind of group you join, the important thing is to find one that fuels you. You might outgrow one and move to another, and that’s totally fine. Writing is a lifelong journey, and your community should evolve with you.

Finding and Keeping the Right Group

Finding the right writing group can feel a bit like dating — exciting, awkward, and occasionally disappointing. You’ll meet some people who inspire you instantly and others who make you wonder if you even belong there. But when you find your crew? It’s worth every awkward introduction.

Where to Look

Start local. Libraries, bookstores, and community centers often host writing meetups. I once stumbled into mine through a flyer pinned near a bulletin board in a coffee shop. It ended up being one of the most supportive groups I’ve ever joined.

If in-person isn’t an option, try the internet. Sites like Meetup, Reddit’s r/writing, or Facebook groups have hundreds of active circles. If you’re craving real critique, check out Scribophile or Critique Circle. For more casual connection, Discord servers and Substack communities can be great places to start.

What to Look For

Now, not every group will fit — and that’s okay. Look for one that shares your goals and energy. Ask yourself:

• Are members supportive and constructive when giving feedback?
• Is the group’s tone collaborative, not competitive?
• Does it meet often enough to keep you accountable but not so often that it becomes stressful?
• Are the writers at a similar stage or at least open-minded about learning together?

Remember: you’re not just joining a group — you’re building relationships. You want people who will root for you even when you’re stuck in revision hell.

How to Be a Good Member

This part doesn’t get talked about enough. It’s easy to focus on what you’ll get from a group, but what you give matters just as much. Be the person who reads others’ work thoughtfully, shows up consistently, and offers encouragement without ego.

In one of my groups, a rule we had was simple: “Assume good intentions.” It kept things kind, even when critiques got tough. People wrote more freely knowing no one was out to tear them down.

Also, be honest about what kind of feedback you want. If you’re sharing a messy draft, say so — it helps others focus on big-picture comments instead of grammar nitpicks.

When It’s Time to Move On

Sometimes, you outgrow a group. Maybe your goals change, or maybe the group dynamic shifts. Don’t feel guilty about leaving. I once stayed in a group that had turned more into a social club than a writing circle, and while I loved the people, my writing suffered. Moving on helped me refocus.

You can always stay friends with your old group while exploring something new — writing relationships don’t have to be all-or-nothing.

The right writing group doesn’t just improve your work — it helps you grow as a person. You learn empathy through feedback, resilience through critique, and confidence through sharing. And if you’re lucky, you might even find lifelong friends who understand exactly what it means to chase words on a blank page.

Before You Leave

If there’s one thing I hope you take from this, it’s that writing doesn’t have to be lonely. Finding a group that fits your rhythm can transform your creative life. You’ll write more, care deeper, and learn faster — not because someone told you to, but because you finally feel seen.

Every writer deserves that — a circle of people who remind you that your stories matter. So, go out there and find your people. They’re waiting, probably with coffee, notebooks, and open hearts — just like you.