A few writing tools
Posted on January 6th, 2009 | by Tom |I tried out the free-writing technique that i mentioned in my last post. it was a blast and I highly recommend it. I was a little stuck after my first chapter because the main character was about to start searching for someone but I/he had no idea how to get the search started. So, I set a timer for one hour and then started to type. No editing or second guessing and I wouldn’t let myself stop typing for more than a few seconds at a time. I am not claiming that I wrote ageless prose from some divine inspiration. Some of it,.. well a lot,.. OK most of it was drivel but my character ended up on a roof top holding a rifle over a dead body that the ensuing crowd assumed he had murdered (he is innocent). I didn’t see that twist coming and hadn’t planned it but i am sure it will stay in one form or another. if you wanted to try this yourself here are the programs i have been using:
- Online Stopwatch - For obvious reasons. Even if you don’t normally write with a deadline i would recommend trying it out. It gives your writing an immediacy and forces you to think of new ideas.
- Q10 - This is a great no frill word processor and it works at full screen so it will block out the other distractions lying around your computer desktop. it forces you to focus on the story.
- Ywriter - Use this in conjunction with Q10. Ywriter is a great tool for organizing your story into chapers, story arcs, character bios and traits. You can be as detailed as you like.
Not only are these free but they are very portable. I havent tested Ywriter but i know Q10 can be installed as a portable app and then put on a memory stick. I carry mine on a lanyard around my neck so anytime I am near a computer and feel like writing I have everything I need. I also encrypt mine so if i ever lose it I dont have to worry about anyone reading my notes but I dont really remember how I set that one up. If i remember I will post the process later.