The most-used tool, of course, is my computer. The desktop still gets the most use, because my new laptop is too fancy to connect with our old printer.
The internet is like layers of drawers in my treasure chest, and I dig into it whenever I need information of almost any kind. I love www.biblegateway.com, google maps, youtube videos, and many other sites that welcome me into their warehouses of knowledge.
Social media is still a struggle for this technosaur, but I couldn’t manage without Facebook and Weebly (for my website and blog).
I love books. (Duh. Doesn’t every writer?) The ones I reach for most often while writing are my Gage Canadian Thesaurus, Oxford Dictionary, Strong’s Concordance, and most important, the Bible. I’m collecting and will eventually finish reading books on how to write better, more concisely, in deeper point of view, without over-explaning. Like that.
The Chicago Manual of Style is on my wish list. I used a trial on-line version while writing my last novel, but I prefer one I can mark up, flip through, and hold in my eager hands. (Should have mentioned that before Christmas, eh?)
I also use a large calendar for tracking the timelines of my stories. If I get confused, so will my readers. So I jot notes of each important event on my super-sized calendar. After all, the more I write down, the less I have to try to remember. For me, that’s noteworthy
One tool I usually take for granted but wouldn’t want to do without is my comfy steno chair. When one lives with arthritic joints, one learns that comfort is of utmost importance. Sigh.
Now, he’s not terribly pleased about being listed amongst my favorite Tools, but I do use my husband. He’s my sounding board, and his super-logical mind has saved me from embarrassing scenarios many times. Yep, he’s golden.
I have friends I go to for expertise in medical and law-related issues. I wouldn’t normally call people tools, but I certainly appreciate being able to take advantage of the wisdom they so willingly share.
Ditto my critique partners. They are precious gems who are teaching me with every critical and encouraging note. Thanks, ladies!
So there you have it: the contents of my writing treasure chest. What’s in yours?
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