The Writer’s Toolkit

Every writer has a toolkit, or toolbox, they use to create their work. It is unique to the writer. They create this tool kit from several parts, their vocabulary, their style and voice. They should also include their grasp on grammar, and their ideas.

I would also put their reading in it as well. Reading helps with learning about the works that are out there. Their library of writing books belongs in the tool box as well. Rearch and revision skills should be in their toolbox, too. They are important parts of any writer’s toolkit.

I keep a list of topics for this blog in a schedule. I know what I’m going to write about before I write these blogs. I also keep a list of ideas that could spark a story. Whether it is a novel or short story or whatever, I write it done in a notebook. Ok, it’s a virtual notebook, but it is still there. You can use a folder on a cloud device or your phone for the purpose. This practice allows you to review your ideas on a regular basis. It might even let you keep your notes nice and organized. This is what works for me. It might work for you as well.

An extensive vocabulary is important. You don’t want to keep repeating the same words over and over again. That’s simple common sense. You are a writer. Words are your raw materials in creating your products. Have as many of them at your command as you can.

Coupled with your vocabulary is grammar. A good grasp of grammar is important if you want to be clear in your writing. It’s no good to write if you produce something that’s hard to read.

Revision is a necessary evil for a lot of writers. You’ve written a story or whatever, and you want to move on to another item. Revising what you’ve written is key to ensuring that what you wrote is what you meant. Develop the skills to do so. Learn to love revision, if you don’t already. It will make your writing life so much easier.

Writing books are great if you need a little information on how to write a particular type of story. I have many books on scenes, plot, and other topics. I have one on weapons which I use to ensure that when I write about a character using a gun of some sort or a knife. It helps me write an accurate description. I also have books on everyday life in the middle ages and other eras. I have more on my wish list as well.

The most important thing in your toolbox is time. All these tools mean nothing without the time to write. You need to time management if you want to write. Carve out time throughout your day. Look at what you do and find the little places where you could write. Without this time, you won’t write a word.

So I have a challenge for you. Sit down and mentally examine what’s in your toolbox. Then work out what you might need to add to it. If you need a writing exercise, try describing your writer’s tool box. You might surprise yourself.

About pebblepup

I am not one who is comfortable talking about myself but here goes. I enjoy writing, family history, and reading. I decided to do this blog because I wanted to try something new. I decided to make it a weekly blog because I wasn't sure that I could keep up with a daily one, and monthly seemed like I was writing a magazine. I think I did ok with my choices. You'll notice that there are not a lot of graphics on my site. That's because there are graphics plastered everywhere on the Internet and those sites sometimes take forever to load. This blog is a place where you can kick back, relax and be ready to be amused. At least I hope I willbamuse you. This blog is on a variety of subjects from my ficitional cat agency, the FFL, which is monthly, to instructional blogs to editorials, which are my opinions only. I admit that I don't know everything and could be wrong -- I frequently am. Now, stop reading about me and read what I have to say!