8 Essential Tools A Writer Must Keep On Hand

Learning to be a good writer is essential to a becoming a successful author. But what tools must be available when we sit down to write? I believe in being organized and prepared. Here are some items I feel are essential for every writer and must be kept on hand!

1) A good thesaurus and dictionary. There will be numerous moments where you’ll need a better explanation for what you’re trying to say. These resources will keep the story diverse and fresh.

2) A grammar book. I’m not sure there’s anyone who knows every grammar rule, but knowing the rules is a key aspect in writing a book. Many publishers prefer the Chicago Manual of Style. I use a small book called Write and Wrong by Marthy Johnson.

3) A reliable computer of some kind. This may go without saying, but I figured I’d throw it on my list. You need something dependable. The first thing my husband did when I decided to write was purchase a good computer. I also have a laptop I can take with me when we travel or when I have to wait around for my kids, like at a competition.

4) A good software program. From what I can tell, most professionals prefer Microsoft Word because it has many editing features, but I’ve seen authors use other programs.

5) A travel-size notebook (or small voice recorder). Inspiration can strike anywhere, and you must be ready to jot some notes. One day I was sitting in church when a thought hit and I quickly had to write it down for later! If you’re like me, you have too many ideas to keep track of, so a notebook or recording device is quite helpful.

6) Plenty of writing utensils. I keep multiple pens in my purse because somehow I manage to lose them and there’s noting more frustrating than having an idea and not being able to make a note. I also keep about ten pens and half a dozen highlighters on my desk. I like to do things in color; assigning meaning to each of them helps me stay organized.

7) A ready environment. Other than physical items, I need a quite place to work and I have to have music. If I’m upstairs, I keep the door shut to block out noise. If I’m downstairs, I make sure the family and the pets are all occupied to they won’t bother me. I heard of one author who lights a candle to get creativity to flow through her brain. Figure out what works for you.

8) A binder/organizer. For each series I’ve written, I have a notebook where I keep various important items for quick reference.

+  Main character profiles: A best-selling author who visited Alaska showed me a profile sheet she created which lists out several details to reference back to once you start writing. I plan to explain this in specific detail in a few weeks, so stay tuned!

+  A list of character names: Because I write multiple stories in each series, I need a list to keep track of all the characters. I type it up and print it out, updating it every few months as needed.

+  A list of possible names to choose from: I write historical novels, so I’m always looking for names that fit the time periods. For example, for the Viking series I am currently working on, I made a list of old Scandinavian names. When it comes time to add another character, I have a quick reference sheet close by.

+  Historical details: I keep a folder in the back of my notebook with specific historical details I may need to reference. For example, in my second Viking novel, I need to know exactly when Olaf Trygvasson was killed and when Sven Forkbeard ruled Denmark because it ties into the story. So I have an outline of real life events. I also keep an article I found with Viking food items, so I can reference that when I talk about cooking or eating meals.

+  Maps of the area: For me to keep my dimensions correct, I like to have maps nearby so I can make sure I’m calculating distances correctly. Plus, I may need to reference a specific item, such as the name of a city or river.

+  Calender: In order to keep track of where my characters have been and how much time has passed between each chapter, I keep a calender of events. I jot down each scene in pencil, so I can erase it and move it later if it doesn’t fit the timeline.

For me, all of these items are essential to a positive, productive writing experience. Is there something you just have to have nearby?

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©Jen Cudmore 2014, All Rights Reserved

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