How I Write

When I first started writing, I never pre-plan how I would write my stories.  That writing style worked because it allowed the creative juice to flow.  Although I still prefer to be spontaneous, I incorporate some form of outline to help guide the story alone.  Also, I try to follow a process that help with removing distractions so I can work hassle free.

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  • Clean Desk

    Clutter is a sign of dysfunction for some people, and I am one of those people.  Wherever I find myself writing, it has to be clean because I would focus on the work instead of the clutter.

  • Defined Working Times

    Writers must allot time to write, and it should be periods of interruptions.  Working early in the morning, between 4 am and 10 am, has worked for me.  Sometimes I would work late at night because at those times, the house was quiet, and everyone in the family was sleeping.

  • No Distractions

    Distractions can lead to unproductive.  When trying to make a writing deadline, writers should avoid places where they are distractions.  So going to a library or neighborhood cafe can help.

My Tools

My Most Important Tools

Macbook

For Writing and Editing

I have two machines I use to write.  One is my MacBook Pro laptop, and the other is my Mac Mini in my office.  I alternate between machines based on the time of day and where I am.

Writing Software

The Tools of the Trade

Just like a mechanic needs his tools to do his job, writers need theirs, and in this case, the most important one is reliable writing software.  It could be a desktop or online application.  In my case, I use a combination of Google Docs, MS Word, and Scrivener.  My favorite is Scrivener because I can write to a specific scene and arrange them the way I want without copying and pasting down the page.

Beverages

Always Useful

I find have a cup of tea, coffee, a bottle of water, or a beverage of your choice, can help when writing.  Since I am from Jamaica, I prefer drinking tea because it helps when I need the creative juice to flow.

Listening to Music

Music is Life

This might sound strange, but whenever I am writing, I always play classic soft rock.  I often find myself not paying attention to the music and just writing, and I always have success.  So listen to whatever music you like, if it is not distracting you from your goal.

What you hate, you may grow to love.

Sachet Douglas

Main Working Principles

The Most Important Steps To Follow

Write A Lot

No matter where you are, keep writing. Ideas come fast and sometimes unexpectedly, so have your tools ready to jot down those ideas. Use MS Word or Google Docs on a phone phone, tablet or computer to get those ideas down.

Read A Lot

If you expect to grow as a writer you will have to start reading material that is similar to what you writing, and those that are different. Read for research and most importantly, reach for fun.

Think A Lot

When you get an idea for a story, first write it down, then workshop it with friends and family. It can lead to a variety of differents to take the story, but most importantly, it allows you to think of other places to take the story.