5 Useful Tools of the Modern Writer
Writing is a craft that requires skill, creativity and dedication. But it also depends on the tools that writers use to express their ideas, organize their thoughts and polish their work. In this blog post, we will explore five tools that every modern writer should have in their arsenal.
1. A word processor.
This may seem obvious, but a good word processor is essential for effective, speedy writing. It allows you to type, edit, format and save your documents with ease. You can also use features like spell check, grammar check, word count and track changes to improve your writing quality and efficiency. Some popular word processors are Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Scrivener and Pages.
2. A note-taking app.
Sometimes, inspiration strikes when you least expect it. That’s why you need a note-taking app to capture your ideas, thoughts and observations wherever you are. You can also use it to organize your research, outline your plot and structure your chapters. Some popular note-taking apps are Evernote, OneNote, Notion and Bear.
3. A cloud storage service.
Writing is not only about creating, but also about protecting your work. You don’t want to lose your precious words due to a computer crash, a virus or a theft. That’s why you need a cloud storage service to back-up your files online and access them from any device. You can also use it to share your work with others and collaborate in real time. Some popular cloud storage services are Dropbox, Google Drive, iCloud and OneDrive.
4. Writing software.
Sometimes, you need more than a word processor to write effectively. You may need a writing software that is designed specifically for your genre, style or format. For example, if you are writing a novel, you may need a software that helps you create characters, scenes, settings and timelines. If you are writing a screenplay, you may need a software that helps you format your script according to industry standards. Some popular writing software are Ulysses, Final Draft, Storyist and Celtx.
5. A grammar checker.
Even the best writers make mistakes. That’s why you need a grammar checker to proofread your work and catch errors in spelling, punctuation, syntax and style. You can also use it to improve your vocabulary, tone and readability. Some popular grammar checkers are Grammarly, ProWritingAid, Hemingway and LanguageTool.
While some of the above may not be essential tools for some of us, I think most writers will find at least one of the above tools very useful during their writing journey. If that’s the case then I’ve achieved what I’ve set out to do in this article.
What do you think of the list? Did you find any of the above suggestions helpful? Have a missed an important tool you think will help other writers? Please let us all know in the comments below.
Thanks.
© Colin Lawson Books