Writing Tools Every Aspiring Writer Needs

If you aspire to be a professional writer, you probably know all about the usual writing tools. A word processor. A thesaurus. A program to track manuscript submissions.

But there are other writing tools that can be just as valuable and useful. You might doubt the usefulness of some of these writing tools. But, no matter how simple, or even silly, some of these writing tools might seem, they pack a real punch.

Writing Tools That Foster Creativity

These writing tools will help you stay creative, and keep track of your ideas.

Notebooks are indispensable writing tools. It's so easy to forget a great idea. But, if you keep a notebook with you at all times, you'll always have a place to record those sparks of inspiration. Choose something small, that you can carry in your pocket if necessary.

Journals are also great writing tools. If you only write things you know will be read by others (like editors or teachers) you might start censoring yourself without even realizing it. Keep a journal that you know no one else will ever read, so you'll feel free to write absolutely anything in it. That feeling of creative freedom will translate to your other writing.

Inspirational Writing Tools

These writing tools help when you're feeling lonely, tired, or discouraged.

Quotes by successful writers make great writing tools. Reading words of wisdom by people who have succeeded at doing what you are trying to do can give you a real boost. Choose one or two favorites, and tape them where you can always see them.

Interviews given by writers can also be great writing tools. Reading about how they successfully dealt with things you might be experiencing, like rejection or writer's block, can be very encouraging.

Motivational Writing Tools

Most writers don't have a boss looking over their shoulder, telling them to get to work. That's where these writing tools come in.

Mock-ups are great writing tools. Create mock-up of what your first magazine bio, or the back of your first novel, might be like. Tape it next to your desk. When you look at it, you'll remember that you won't have the real thing unless you write that novel or keep submitting those magazine articles.

Rewards are excellent writing tools. Tell yourself you can't have something you really want until you complete a particular task. You can't have a bowl of your favorite ice cream until you've completed an article. Or you can't go on a weekend vacation you've completed the first draft of your novel.

These writing tools are invaluable to an aspiring writer. Sometimes, the smallest, simplest writing tools can be just what you need to keep you going.