Writing can be a difficult, lonely and often thankless task; why make it harder than it has to be. Here are my favourite writers tools that help make the whole process a little easier:
Write or Die
There are no words to describe how much I love this site. It’s quite simple, you set your word target, set a time limit and away you go. There are different settings with punishments if you stop typing varying from a God-awful noise to your words actually disappearing from the screen. It’s a great motivator; you won’t believe how much you can get done in a short time.
Duotrope
A database of publications accepting submissions. The listing varies vastly, with a search engine to help you find exactly what you are looking for. If you join – for free – you can also keep a check of your submissions, and you will receive weekly emails with new additions to the list. This site should be on every writers bookmarks.
Six Minute Story
Another fantastic site for getting your creative juices flowing. It’s pretty self-explanatory. You pick a prompt and write a short piece of fiction in six minutes. Simple, huh? It’s great if you’re a bit stuck on ideas and proves that you do have time to write matter how busy you are.
Notebook
Yes, a notebook. For me, going back to basics and reverting to pen and paper over the computer never fails to work. Of course, you then have to type it all up, but just scribbling by hand is a fantastic method.
A pocket-sized notebook is also great for scribbling snippets of ideas down in.
Dictionary/thesaurus
A dictionary and thesaurus. Seems obvious, but it is vital, so I’m including it anyway. The Oxford Dictionary is a good version. Another good online dictionary is the slang dictionary, for when you need to nail that dialogue, it contains slang, colloquialisms and features a slang thesaurus.
Twitter
Yes, really. No, I’m not joking. As well as being the perfect distraction for the procrastinating writer, Twitter is also a great tool for writers. There are countless informative links, motivating quotes and plenty of moral support from fellow writers. It’s invaluable – when used in moderation of course.
What are your favourite writers tools?
I'm Emma; mum, writer and coffee addict trying to make a mark on the crazy world of fiction.
January 19th, 2012 at 6:54 pm
This is the second time I’ve read something about write or die in the last few days. The idea of words disappearing terrifies me, but maybe it would make me write!
You’re right about Twitter being good, but I think it for a different reason. We don’t have the internet at home at the moment. Because I can’t check Twitter (or Facebook), I don’t turn on the computer, therefore don’t write. I need it back. That’s my excuse anyway!