Five Indispensible Things Writers Can’t Live Without

Do you feel you’d like to write more often, but can’t squeeze in enough time? Yearn to write better?  Feel body pain due to the time you spend at the computer or other work?

Over the years of writing, I’ve discovered some tidbits.  They save time, help me write better, and one even helps my repetitive body pain.

    1. Dictionary.com/Thesaurus.com 

 Quick, easy and free! What’s not to love about this site? 

2. The Synonym Finder by J. J. Rodale

The best thesaurus ever!  If you like one more, let me know. 

3. Which Word When?  The Indispensable Dictionary of 1,500 Commonly Confused Words by Paul Heacock

Although the edition I own is from 1989, you may find one updated or different book you like in bookstores.  For those of you who shop online, a physical site is best for you really must peruse it.  Otherwise you’ll start collecting various books nearly like the one you crave, but none of them quite right.

4. Fisher Space Pen.

 I confess.  I don’t write the rough drafts of my chapters on a machine. I handwrite my first draft on slanted knees. 

Not only do I benefit from this change of position, I climb more stairs to reach my comfy old lady’s chair or I get fresh air outside on my lounger. But the main reason I write by hand is I’m “freed” through the act of handwriting.   Ideas flow, where they might get bogged down when I face a screen.   

However, a regular pen won’t do it.  A Fischer Space Pen will write any way, any time, any where!  Its description: “A pen that can write in the air, under water, upside down, over grease, any angle.”  (You might find another brand that does the job, too.)  

Try various methods and places to write.  Which works best for you? 

5. A writing group or writing partner.

Probably the most important item on this list.  It won’t break your pocketbook either.  My writing partner and I meet every two weeks to share our work, discuss craft, and support one another.  My writing group meets once a month to do the same.  I’m fortunate every member is a good writing with terrific critiquing skills. 

Writing Prompts:

1. Switch your writing habits.  If you’ve been composing only on a computer, try writing by hand.  Give it some time and see if this allows your mind to wander and discover the right words, more depth of character, and fresh ideas.  If you’ve been writing by hand, give it a go on a computer or typewriter.  Discover what works for you!
2. Switch places.  Do you write in a home office?  Try a park, café, or your backyard.  Maybe an airport, the library, or your car will spark your best work. 

3. Do you always start writing from the beginning?  Attempt your next project by starting in the middle, or towards the end.  Begin with the major conflict, an emotional scene, or a hidden secret.  Do any of these propel you forward more than starting at chapter one?

4. Write at different times of the day for a week.  Have you learned anything about yourself?