Writing Hacks - Blog Posts
Hacks For Writing
Writing (at least for me) is all about momentum. If you stop, you crash and burn. So, here are some hacks I use to keep myself writing.
-Instead of stopping to google information, like “How long does it take for trees to grow,” or “how many different species of birds of paradise are there, simply put "TK" in the spot where the units or information would be and move on. After you are done writing, you can go back and google for the needed information.
-In scenes where you simply cannot think of what to put, simply write something in brackets like, “[The characters reminisce with each other around the fire. This leads into the next topic.]” or something similar. Oftentimes, later writing will give you inspiration for what to put in those spots.
-If you can’t remember the word, or need a synonym, DON’T stop to google. Simply put the word (or “placeholder”) in brackets and come back later. If you are still having trouble finding out or remembering the word when going back through, I would recommend Onelook Reverse Dictionary as a very good source for finding words and synonyms.
-When plotting something out, don’t feel the need to put everything that happens. If you want to, cool! For me, I find I quickly lose disinterest in actually writing when I have every little thing already planned out. It has become boring to me. To combat this, I simply write the main ideas of what I want to happen and things I want to mention (symbolism/foreshadowing) and move on, giving myself room to continue to explore and discover as you write.
-To avoid burnout, If I’m working on a bigger project, I’ll usually also have something that I’m writing on the side that I can switch back and forth so I don’t lose interest.
-Don’t be afraid to use generators! Character names, places, powers, etc. can all be created using a generator. You don’t have to worry about every little thing. Also, if you can’t think of a name or something else at the moment that you could use a generator for, just mark it in brackets (ex: [Name]) and move on.
Lastly, remember that everything you write is for yourself. Having others validate you is always great, but they are the ones who have the privilege of reading your works. You don't owe them anything.
8 useful websites & apps for writers
Notion
Desktop app for organizing your notes with tons of views and functions - works like a mini personal website.
Ommwriter
A peaceful writing program with focus options and ambience settings - complete with typing sound effects!
Reedsy
A massive website for writers with tools, generators, prompts, programs, tips and services.
Figma
A free-form editable and collaborative mind-map interface, for laying all your notes out visually.
Novlr
Free online writing software with goal setting and thorough tracking options, now with in-app courses as well.
Freedom
Distraction-muting app that blocks attention-sucking websites for a set period of time.
Milanote
Another visual board organizer for your notes and plans.
Wordtune
Editing app to rephrase your sentences depending on length or tone.
Do you need help getting your WIP organized?
Pick up my 3 extensive workbooks for writers, with dozens of fully-customisable templates. These are my first ever original E-books and templates available outside of my coaching programs!
The Writer’s ToolBoox contains: The Character Bible, The Plotter’s Almanac, and The World-Builder’s Chronicle
Grab it through the [link here] or below!
