Do I need to do a course or join a writer's group before I can become a writer?
Most writers join writers groups now more than they did in the past. There is something to be said about having a community of like minds who will discuss with you your work. And of course, it gives you access to readers, for the first time, who will have critical opinions to make. Most people benefit from the workshop type of scenario so it is becoming much more preferable for writers to join some group. Although, my word of caution would be, don't stay in that for the rest of your life.