My Writing Tools Recommendations
Tools That Support My Writing Life
(What I use—and why)
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Writing resources are things that make what I love to do possible with ease and without distraction. This isn’t a list of “must-haves” or productivity hacks. There are things that have genuinely supported my writing life over time. Some may suit you; others may not, and that’s okay. You can always get in touch to let me know what you think.
Writing Tools I Use Often
Rarely a day goes by without these being used. Here's what I use and why.
A quality journal
When anyone asks me what notebooks I use, it is an easy answer. I have used many (many!) journals and notebooks over the years, rarely going back to the same one. That is until I came across the Rettacy journal. I must have about close to ten of these now. They have a quality cover, smooth, thick cream lined paper (you can get dotted ones too). They come in a range of colours which is helpful for me because I like to colour code... or to just be colourful! They also come in a range of sizes including A4, A5, and the less common but sweet spot size: B5. B5 is smaller than A4 but bigger than A5 which means it is substantial while still being portable. I prefer the traditional binding but if you like spiral bound journal then they have these too.
Pens
As much as I enjoy writing with a fountain pen, when it comes to getting writing done, I prefer biros. I go through a lot of pens because I write so much, so I prefer to buy them in packs. I like these ones because they write well, last a good while, and the boxes are uniform and have a practical opening. I tend to buy black, blue, and purple in single colour packs and pick up some other colours in multipacks. I also like to write with
Highlighters
Whether it's journaling my prayers, doing a Bible Study, or editing my writing, I find highlighters come in very handy. I like ones that are durable and vibrant. I try to highlight my writing using a key. There are lots of different ways to do this across and within genres. From highlighting writing styles to highlighting different types of issues. Find what works for you and highlight then review and amend.
Printer paper
Printing my drafts helps me with the editing process. I can make corrections, highlight things, or make notes with ease. Don't forget to add page numbers to your draft and or staple the pages once printed. Here's some good value printer paper. It's not very exciting, but I find it essential.
Technical Resources
As much as a love to write by hand, if I want people to read what I write, using electronic tools that support that aim helps. Technology is can help writers in a range of ways, such as collating research, notetaking, reminders, formatting documents, editing, focusing, and more. Here are just a few I use.
Reedsy
Reedsy is an online publishing services platform and writing ecosystem aimed primarily at authors and self-publishers. As such it can be used in lots of ways. I use its online writing app called Reedsy Studio which is built specifically for book authors. Reedsy offers a calm, professional environment for writers who want support with the writing and publishing process. It’s designed to take you from first idea to publication-ready manuscript without needing extra software like Word. You can import existing work or start your writing project directly in the studio. It monitors word count (per book and per chapter) and invites you to join word count challenges, separates your work into chapters, and automatically typesets your manuscript to industry standards as you write, so it looks like a book page as you type. The free version is perfectly serviceable, but the paid options are affordable.
Grammarly
Grammarly does far more than your Microsoft Word or Google Docs spellchecker. Grammarly can be helpful at the editing stage, particularly for catching basic errors and improving clarity. If you use it for long enough while paying attention to the corrections and suggestions, you will notice these reducing because this process subtly trains you into a more grammatically correct writer. Don't overuse it and erase your unique writing style and voice. Used selectively, it supports revision without replacing the writer’s own judgement or voice. The free version is sufficient if you have a solid understanding of English grammar. The paid version has added features that might be useful. Though some have concerns about the integration of AI tools.
Microsoft OneNote
Good for notes on the go. Tabs
Good Notes
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Creating the Right Environment
Let's be honest, I am often writing away on my bed because it is comfy, but I have promised myself i will use a desk more often and focus on my posture and agile working. Here's how.
Book stand
When anyone asks me what notebooks I use, it is an easy answer. I have used a many (many) journals and notebooks over the years, rarely going back to
Laptop stand
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Overhead lamp
I don't always want a bright light when I work. This XX lamp works well because it has different settings, a flexible but sturdy neck, and a adjustable bulb. The usb connection means I can plug it into my laptop and avoid having another wire on the floor.
Chair
The perfect chair makes all the difference to writers. A poor chair could have you fidgeting ans squirming to get comfortable, which can be quite distracting. It can also leave you in pain. I am currently on the lookout for an upgrade in this department, so I will let you know how I get on.
Focus and Rhythm
Let's be honest, I am often writing away on my bed because it is comfy, but I have promised myself i will use a desk and focus on my posture so here's how I do this
Book stand
When anyone asks me what notebooks I use, it is an easy answer. I have used a many (many) journals and notebooks over the years, rarely going back to
Laptop stand
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Planning, Structure, and Accountability
Let's be honest, I am often writing away on my bed because it is comfy, but I have promised myself i will use a desk and focus on my posture so here's how I do this
Book stand
When anyone asks me what notebooks I use, it is an easy answer. I have used a many (many) journals and notebooks over the years, rarely going back to
Laptop stand
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Soul Care for Christian Writers
Let's be honest, I am often writing away on my bed because it is comfy, but I have promised myself i will use a desk and focus on my posture so here's how I do this
Book stand
When anyone asks me what notebooks I use, it is an easy answer. I have used a many (many) journals and notebooks over the years, rarely going back to
Laptop stand
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Spiritual
Not every Christian writer will produce overtly Christian content. However, no matter the nature of the words our gift to write came from God and we can best use it when we are rooted and rounded in Him
Study Bible
The Spirit Filled Life study Bible is my
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Read about translations and how to choose your next Bible here.
The Writers' Prayer Board
The Writers' Prayer Board Digital Duo is a set of two products: A desktop wallpaper and a printable version you can pin or stick up or put in your journal. It focuses on four areas which I believe are key to covering your writing life in prayer. Courage, Inspiration, Discipline, and Impact.
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