Agreed on the benefit of writing workshops. I also would like to mention writers groups. They can serve a similar function, although typically, the writers bring material to the group that’s already written and read by the group members. Then critiques are made. This is versus doing writing exercises in a group setting. I’ve been part of a writers group at my local library for almost two years now, and I find it extremely beneficial. I always encourage other writers to seek out a group like this. I have also become friends with several of the group members.