Learn to Write From Ayn Rand

by Jackson UpmannAnnouncementsAug 15, 2024

“I don’t need outlines—I write best when I’m free from constraints.”

“I can’t cut any of this material—it’s all essential.”

“I need to use complex words; if I don’t, people won’t take me seriously.”

“Another round of edits? Seriously? The article is perfectly clear to me.”

“Is writing supposed to be this hard? Maybe it’s just not for me.”

If you’re a writer or editor, you’ve likely heard such claims. You may even have said them yourself.

The fact is that writing well is hard. But it’s also a skill that anyone can learn—and one you can always improve.

If you want to write more clearly and persuasively, this workshop is for you.

Led by Thomas Walker-Werth, you’ll read Ayn Rand’s The Art of Nonfiction. And, applying its proven principles, you’ll develop your own article.

You’ll learn how to:

  • Generate ideas for articles;
  • Select a subject, theme, and audience;
  • Understand your reader’s context;
  • Identify the points necessary to convey your theme;
  • Create a useful outline;
  • Write a rough draft;
  • Edit your draft; and
  • Choose a title that gets people to click.

Rand’s The Art of Nonfiction is a masterpiece of writing advice. Come learn its principles and put them to work. You’ll improve your writing and create new opportunities in your work and life.

Sessions begin September 5! Spots are limited, so enroll now.


If you’re 29 or younger, you can apply for a scholarship here.

On Solid Ground

On Solid Ground is the hub for content from OSI fellows and affiliates, along with announcements about OSI’s programs and events. Here, you’ll find links to our team’s articles, videos, and other materials published across various platforms. And you’ll discover opportunities to support and engage with our global community.

Latest Blog Posts

Mr. Savior

by Maddox LocherPhilosophy

Oct 28, 2025

To “save” someone means to protect him from something that threatens or hinders his life. So... is God really a savior?

Violence as Spectacle in Chain-Gang All-Stars

by Angelica WerthArt & Culture

Oct 28, 2025

Brutal and at times jarring, Chain-Gang All-Stars nevertheless reminds us to view every single person as a fellow human being.

Why I’m Not a Republican

by Kiyah WillisPolitics & Liberty

Oct 28, 2025

In her new video, Kiyah explains why she’s not a Republican.

No, Not All Worldviews Are Faith-Based

by Maddox LocherPhilosophy

Oct 24, 2025

Maddox examines the divide between reason-based philosophy and faith-based Christianity—and why it matters. It’s the difference between knowing how to know and merely assuming you do, without evidence.