Tools of the Trade

Good to see you, my fellow writers! Pull up a chair, have a cup of coffee or tea-- whichever you prefer, my friend-- and let's talk.

Talk about what? How about the tools of the trade?

There are many programs out there for writers to use. Word processors, novel writing software, and, of course, the age old pen and paper. We can't forget the old fashioned clicky-clack typewriter either!

*sighs dreamily* Ah, the typewriter... How I love thee.

*ahem* Right. Back on track, whether you're traditional or digital, there are plenty of tools you can use to get the job done. Personally, I use a good mixture of Microsoft Word and Scrivener (Windows beta) for my writing.

I also use My Writing Spot for when I'm on the go. I like being able to jot down a few sentences while waiting in line at the store. And all I have to do is whip out my phone instead of digging through my bag for my notebook and pen.

When I'm editing, I prefer the good old red pen on paper and a notebook for my notes. Then everything goes back onto the computer again for more work and polishing. And when I'm outlining, I use a mixture of sticky notes, a notebook and pen, and Microsoft Word (which I usually write my extremely rough draft on-- you know, that draft before your official first draft?). I have a tack board I put all my handwritten notes on while I'm in the outlining and planning process. I just have to make sure I see them all and haven't buried any under the layers and layers of notes...

These are my favored techniques and tools. But my way isn't the only way. There are plenty of different processes and programs out there. So, my fellow writers, I would love to hear from you. What are your favored writing tools?

What are your preferred tools? Do you have a refined technique you use? Do you favor traditional or digital? If you favor digital, what programs do you use?

Who knows? You might even help another writer refine their technique or find a program that works better for them.