Rewritten 2025-10-22
Hello, today I want to talk about something that might not be the most glamorous part of our craft but is definitely essential – setting up your writing tools. Now, before you roll your eyes and think “Oh great, another post on writing tools,” hear me out. This isn’t just a list of must-have gadgets or software; it’s about creating an environment that works for you.
So grab a cup of coffee (or tea, if that’s more your style), get comfortable, and let’s dive in!
“Assembling your writing tools is not just about gathering physical items, but also cultivating the right mindset, environment, and habits to create a space where your creativity can thrive.” – Austin Kleon
First things first: Your writing space
I know some people can write anywhere – on the bus, in a noisy cafe, or even during their daily commute. If you’re one of those people, you have my admiration! But for many writers, having a dedicated space where they feel comfortable and inspired is crucial. It doesn’t have to be an entire room; it could just be a corner of your living room or a cosy nook in your bedroom.
Make sure this spot has everything you need: good lighting (natural light if possible), a comfy chair, and a desk or table that suits your writing style. Some writers prefer standing desks, while others like to sprawl out with their laptop on a lap-desk. Find what works for you!
Next up: Your writing instruments
Now we’re getting into the fun stuff – pens, pencils, markers, highlighters… oh boy! This is where things can get really personal. Some writers love using fountain pens and fancy notebooks, while others prefer the simplicity of a trusty biro and a spiral-bound notepad.
Don’t feel pressured to have the latest gadget or trendiest gear. Your writing instruments should be comfortable in your hand, produce clear, legible text (unless illegibility is part of your artistic expression), and most importantly, inspire you to write!
The digital arsenal
Let’s talk about software now. Whether you prefer Mac or PC, Windows or Linux, there are countless tools out there to help you with every aspect of the writing process. From distraction-free writing environments like FocusWriter or Ommwriter to project management and collaboration platforms like Trello or Asana, the options are endless.
Then there’s Scrivener – a powerful tool that many writers swear by for its organisational features and ease of use (and those who don’t swear by it tend to swear at it! I certainly did!) Or maybe you prefer Google Docs because of its cloud-based accessibility and real-time collaboration capabilities. The key here is to find what works best for your writing process, not the other way around.
Staying organised: Time management tools and habit trackers
Writing can be a chaotic endeavour, especially if you’re juggling multiple projects or trying to stick to a strict schedule. That’s where time management tools and habit trackers come in handy. Whether it’s a simple calendar app like Google Calendar or something more robust like Asana or Trello, these tools can help you keep track of deadlines, set goals, and visualise your progress.
Habit trackers are another great way to stay on top of things. They can be as simple as checking off a box in a notebook every day that you write or as high-tech as using an app like Habitica or Streaks. The idea is to create positive routines and maintain consistency, which will ultimately lead to better productivity and more words on the page.
Inspiration and research: Online resources and reference materials
Let’s not forget about inspiration and research! As writers, we often need to look up information, brush up on grammar rules, or find writing prompts to kick-start our creativity. That’s where online resources like Grammarly (for proofreading), Merriam-Webster’s Online Dictionary & Thesaurus, and Purdue OWL come in handy.
Physical reference materials are also essential for many writers. Whether it’s a well-worn copy of Strunk & White’s The Elements of Style or a favourite thesaurus, having these resources close at hand can make all the difference when you need to find just the right word or brush up on grammar rules.
Lastly, remember that inspiration can strike anywhere. Keep a list of your favourite books, blogs, and websites on hand to help you find new ideas when needed. And don’t forget about personal experience – using anecdotes from your own life is a great way to make your writing feel authentic and engaging!
5 Guidelines on assembling your writing tools
- Find your favourite writing app or tool: Just like how you have that favourite mug for your morning coffee, find an app or tool that feels just right for your writing process. Maybe it’s Google Docs with its simple interface or Scrivener with all its bells and whistles. The key is to feel comfortable using it so you can focus on the words, not the tech.
- Keep a schedule: Writing isn’t always about inspiration striking at just the right moment. It’s also about showing up consistently. Whether that means setting aside an hour every morning or blocking out a day each weekend, find what works for your schedule and stick to it. Consistency is key!
- Embrace your inner editor: You don’t need to wait until the end of a piece to start editing – but you should only do light editing, nothing much further than correcting your spelling after a writing session.
- Visualise your progress: A little visual aid can do wonders for motivation. Google Calendar or Asana are great options here. They let you see the progress you’ve made, which can be a powerful motivator when those mid-project slumps hit. Plus, who doesn’t love checking off completed tasks?
- Draw inspiration from everywhere: Keep a list of favourite books, blogs, and websites on hand to help you find new ideas when needed. And don’t forget about personal experience – using anecdotes from your own life is a great way to make your writing feel authentic and engaging!
5 Common mistakes to avoid
- Over-relying on grammar checkers: While these tools can be helpful, they’re not infallible. Always double-check their suggestions and trust your instincts if something doesn’t feel right. Remember, a good writer knows the rules before breaking them!
- Choosing too many writing apps or platforms: It’s easy to get carried away with trying out new tools. But having too many can lead to confusion and disorganisation. Stick to a few that you find most useful and comfortable to use.
- Neglecting the importance of style guides: Style guides like The Chicago Manual of Style or AP Stylebook are your friends! They help maintain consistency in your writing, which is crucial for professionalism. Don’t skip them just because they might seem boring.
- Ignoring the power of reading widely: Reading is not only a source of inspiration but also helps you understand how successful authors use language effectively. Make it a habit to read different genres and styles to improve your own writing skills.
- Failing to set realistic goals and timelines: Setting unrealistic expectations for yourself can lead to frustration and burnout. Be kind to yourself, and remember that every writer has their own pace. Set achievable goals and give yourself the time you need to grow as a writer.
Remember, writing is a journey of continuous learning and improvement. Enjoy the process, and don’t be too hard on yourself!
5 Key takeaways
- Choose the right tools: Invest in a mix of digital and traditional writing tools that suit your preferences, comfort, and style. Experiment with different options to find what works best for you.
- Maintain consistency: Utilise style guides like The Chicago Manual of Style or AP Stylebook to maintain consistency in your writing, which is crucial for professionalism.
- Read widely: Make it a habit to read various genres and styles to improve your own writing skills and gain inspiration from successful authors.
- Set realistic goals and timelines: Avoid setting unrealistic expectations for yourself by creating achievable goals and giving yourself the time you need to grow as a writer.
- Embrace the journey: Writing is a continuous learning process, so enjoy the ride, learn from your mistakes, and be kind to yourself throughout the journey.
“Writing isn’t about making an impression physically or visually, but about making an impression on someone else’s mind.” – Stephen King
And there you have it – your comprehensive guide to assembling your writing tools! Remember, this is your space and your process, so don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things until you find what works best for you. And please, the most important thing is that these tools inspire you and help you create content that feels true to yourself. Happy writing!