Tools
There are endless writing tools and apps out there. You could spend all of your time trying to find the best tools possible and never write a single word. Spend some time to find the tools that unlock your creativity and make writing fun. Here are the tools I use and how I use them:
- 8.5″ x 11″ Yellow Pad. This is how I capture my notes and ideas during business meetings, interviews, and work.
- Pilot Precise V5 Extra Fine Rolling Ball Pen. I love this pen. The right amount of line thickness and weight.
- Strathmore 9″ x 12″ Sketchbook. The 60 lb. paper is a staple for my journals and daily collection of ideas and quotes from reading.
- iA Writer. This app, combined with Markdown, a shorthand for quickly providing style and hierarchy to your documents, is where I do most of my work. I can also organize files and folders based upon my different projects. The program is light-weight and fast.
- Microsoft Word. If iA Writer is light-weight and fast, Word feels heavy and formal to me. If I need to quickly add formatting or send a formal document to a client for revisions or feedback, I’ll often use Word.
- Google Docs. Google Docs is essentially an online version of Microsoft Word with one massive difference: you can collaborate in real-time with other writers.
- Grammarly. A tool that not only checks spelling and grammar, but ensures you’re writing in a style that is clear and direct.
- Adobe InDesign. The software I use to design and publish my ebooks.
- WordPress. The blogging platform I have used since 2008.
- ConvertKit. An online platform for building a mailing list and sending email newsletters.
- Substack. An online platform for free and paid newsletters.
- Scrivener. I’m exploring Scrivener for long-form writing projects. It not only allows you to organize your work, but also stores your research in the same file.
- Mighty Networks. A platform for free and paid online communities and courses.
- Vellum. A recommended tool by Tom Morin to produce beautiful ebooks.
Interested in writing scripts for film or theater?
The TheaterSeatStore blog is an excellent resource for screenplay basics and formatting. Special thanks to Anna and Kelly for sharing this resource!
- Final Draft. The industry standard writing platform for screenplays.