Tools and Trade Secrets for Aspiring Writers
I’m proud to share with you the many sources I turn to in search of tools and trade secrets for writers. These sites are truly awesome, daunting in fact in their coverage. They are mostly aimed at “computer nuts” like me that want to know the latest software on the block. My task, with my blog/website, is to filter this mass of material and bring to writers the very best options to increase their productivity.
COMPUTER FORUMS
There are several web forums which feature lively discussion about software, exploring differing features among similar programs, which is best for which task, what developments are just around the corner. Software developers tend to flock around these discussions, along with obsessive program users.
DonationCoder is a remarkable community, offering especially helpful reviews and rigorous discussion. The site identifies many, many programs, and monthly offers substantial discounts on featured programs. There’s also a daily blog and a monthly e-mail newsletter. The site encourages “donations” to help software developers.
Outliner Software attracts people who are obsessive about keeping track of information. I’ve learned about many programs here and followed detailed discussions about program capabilities. Much of the information here is of direct interest to non-fiction writers — you may want to check by frequently.
PRODUCTIVITY ADVICE
A number of blogs/websites focus on the many ways computers and the internet can increase personal productivity.
43 Folders – Thoughtful and detailed posts here, lots of help to be more productive. There is even a series of podcasts focussing on Getting Things Done.
Lifehacker – One of the internet’s most popular resources, backed by a full staff of contributors, which is now spinning off into printed books.
MyLife Organized – I’m linking here to this site’s own reference page to productivity sites and groups. I return to this page often to provide another jolt to my system. This entire website and the software itself are as good as it gets.
Web Worker Daily – Another very popular productivity site.
WEB 2.0 BLOGS & SITES
The internet is taking on a new look, with many online software applications and interactive websites. Tracking developments are a number of blogs/websites which help users keep up with rapid developments, some of which offer facilities useful to writers.
ReadWriteWeb – Website offering broad coverage from staff writers, with email newsletter option.
Somewhat Frank – Daily email alerts from internet guru Frank Gruber, backed up by a website.
TechCrunch – One of the most popular blogs on the internet with huge circulation, TechCrunch functions like a daily email magazine with a full staff of writers. Full articles available at group’s website.
WebWare – Frequently updated, with news about new interactive, Web 2.0 websites. On rare occasions, there’s something of interest to writers.
KEEPING UP WITH FREEWARE/SHAREWARE
Many of the most useful software programs a.nd utilties for writers are developed in the relative obscurity of the freeware and shareware market.
alt.comp.freeware – This free-wheeling, little-known usenet site has a more accessible mirror at Google Groups, with an email version. Group members choose an “Best of Category”, with selections announced and evaluated at Pricelessware, an extremely valuable resource.
Barry’s Best Computer Tips — This informative blog focusses on individual software. Because he is also a writer, Barry includes software for writers among his wide-ranging coverage. It’s worth your time to search back through past posts.
BetaNews and FileForum – This is perhaps my “best-kept secret.” Listed here is a vast catalog of software that’s in pre-release form for public testing, with excellent user reviews. This site allows one to stay ahead of the game. Registration is required, but it’s free.
Bits de Jour – A remarkable website that features one software program a day, with a one-day only substantial discount ranging from 20-60 percent. Learn about little-known programs, snap up bargains when appropriate.
CNET – This website offers excellent software reviews, as well as a download portal, which itself provides both staff and user reviews.
SnapFiles – One of my favorite sites to track freeware/shareware, well organized with excellent staff and user reviews.
Tech Support Alert – One of my favorite websites and newsletters, produced by “Gizmo” Richards. On the website, one finds the “best” software in each of countless categories, with brief reviews, an invaluable resource, continually updated. Richards also offers a monthly free newsletter, and a special edition for “supporters” who contribute a fee. I get the Premium Edition for all the extras.