A Writer’s Treasure Box
Must-Have Writing Tools and Resources for Every Aspiring Author
As a fellow writer, I know how important it is to have the right tools to support your writing journey. Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned pro, here are my must-have writing tools for every aspiring author. Note: This page contains affiliate links. If you purchase an item through my links, I get a small commission at no extra cost to you. I’d never promote something I didn’t love.
Books on Writing Craft
Most writers will tell you that books are the most valued items in their treasure box. I know this is true for me. My favorite writing craft books are always featured on my Instagram page first so be sure to follow me to stay informed. Tap HERE.
Save the Cat! Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody
The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer’s Guide to Character Expression by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi
Writing Vivid Settings by Rayne Hall
1,000 Strong Verbs by Valerie Howard
Conflict and Suspense by James Scott Bell
Rivet Your Readers With Deep Point of View by Jill Elizabeth Nelson
How to Write Dazzling Dialogue by James Scott Bell
The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr. and E. B. White
If you don't already have an author brand, you're missing out. Your brand is like a stamp that lets people know what makes your writing unique and sets it apart from all the other books out there. Plus, it can help you build a fanbase and connect with your readers. And let's be real, having a strong brand makes it way easier to promote your work. Trust me, you want an author brand.
Get started by creating a great Instagram Profile - go here
How to grow on Instagram - go here
Content Ideas for Instagram - go here
For a great way to advertise and get traffic to your website - go here (coming soon - In the meantime, you can check out how I have been getting daily traffic to my website using Pinterest by going here.)
Hardware
Computer - Your writing toolkit wouldn't be complete without a reliable computer to draft, edit, and submit your work. I love my Macbook for its sleek design and user-friendly interface, but there are plenty of great options out there to suit your needs and budget.
Monitor - I will also add that I love my large secondary monitor. Though it is an extra, it increases my productivity by allowing me to have more information in view as I write without having to strain my eyes on a smaller laptop monitor.
Chair - You need a comfy place that you will want to return to each and every day. I love this High Back Executive Ergonomic Office Chair.
Wrist pad - This Gimars Memory Foam Wrist Pad is a #1 Best seller on Amazon and an essential for comfort and typing pain relief.
Foot rest - This Ergonomic Under Desk Foot Rest is also an essential for my comfort.
Pomodoro timer - It’s a thoughtful gift when it helps to solve one of a writer’s problems like staying on task. Pomodoro clocks are great ways to keep track of writing sprints. You can go with very advanced models but I suggest keeping it simple with a cube timer like this.
Office Supplies - Sometimes the best ideas come to us when we're away from our computer, so it's always a good idea to have a notebook and pen on hand to jot down your thoughts and ideas. I also love my post-its, highlighters, tabs, and notepads.
Software
Google Docs - You'll need a program to draft and edit your work, and I highly recommend Google Docs. With Google Docs, it is easy for me to track progress, collaborate and share with others, add quick comments and notes, and I can access it on any device since my work is stored in the cloud. I also occasionally use the notes app to jot quick thoughts.
Trello - For organizing my writing day, story timelines, revision process and much more, I use Trello. There are many different tools to help with organization and task management on the market but what I like about Trello is that it is free, has both a great website & app that link seemlessly, and is super easy to learn.
Canva - free tool that can help with a wide variety of graphic needs and no special training required. And did you know that there is a Canva Docs now?
With these tools in your arsenal, you'll be well-equipped to tackle any writing project and achieve your literary goals. If there are any writing tools you would like to recommend for me to try out or you think I missed something that you find essential, send me a comment down below. Happy writing!
Let’s connect!
Subscribe to my Newsletter Here - for the latest Instagram updates, tips, and strategies to help all writers shine on social media. I have much to share with you.
Leave me a comment and tell me what you would add to this list. Let me know if you have tried any of the resources on the list.
If you want to get social, come find me at all the links below. Enjoy your writing time!❤️
Follow Susan:
-
2024
2
- Jan 10, 2024 Daily Themes For Your Instagram Content
- Jan 3, 2024 Writer Friends Challenge
-
2023
4
- Nov 15, 2023 A Writer’s Guide to Instagram Stories
- May 15, 2023 Tough Love Advice for New Writers
- Feb 14, 2023 Build a Strong Writing Community
- Jan 12, 2023 Boost Your Instagram Reach
-
2022
8
- Dec 14, 2022 A Writer’s Treasure Box
- Nov 13, 2022 Scene Level Edit - Checklist for Writers
- Oct 10, 2022 Instagram Growth
- Sep 12, 2022 The Secret Instagram Strategy
- Aug 15, 2022 Line Level Edit - Checklist for Writers
- Jul 15, 2022 Tightened Prose - Checklists for Writers
- May 15, 2022 A Complete Guide To Being A More Productive Writer
- Mar 13, 2022 20 Writing Prompts
-
2021
7
- Jun 16, 2021 Scene Balance
- May 21, 2021 Lessons From Almost-Land or How to be Your Own Writing Mentor
- May 3, 2021 12 Quick Tips for Writing Interesting Characters
- Mar 1, 2021 Writer Friends Challenge (March)
- Feb 15, 2021 Writerly Advice - Pacing
- Jan 20, 2021 20 ‘What If’ Writing Prompts To Grow Your Imagination
- Jan 4, 2021 MGWAVES
-
2020
7
- Dec 13, 2020 Writer Joy - Guest Post
- Dec 9, 2020 Christmas Reading Traditions With Guest Writer Jennifer Mattern
- Aug 24, 2020 Writerly Advice - Plotting
- Jul 27, 2020 Writerly Advice - Staying Motivated
- Jul 13, 2020 Writerly Advice - Navigating Storms
- Jun 22, 2020 Writerly Advice - Core Conflict
- May 11, 2020 Revise and Resub - Should you do it?