Writing is difficult, there’s no way around it. While that’s true, using certain tools can make the processes that are a part of it so much easier. Optimizing these processes through effective writing tools allows you to streamline your writing. With that said, here are a few of my favourite tools I use to make the writing process just a little bit easier.

1. The Google Suite

While I love the Google Suite, I mainly use Google Sheets and Google Docs to keep track of everything relating to my writing. I use Sheets for data and important quantitative research and Docs for qualitative research. I love how it saves automatically for me and is super easy to keep track of when I make changes. The Google Suite is especially great when working with multiple people, as you can work in Sheets or Docs at the same time and get your work done quicker and easier.

2. A Favourite Pen and Notebook

There’s something to be said about a decent pen and notebook. While keeping track of notes on online platforms works for some people, I love the tactile experience of using a pen and paper. Jotting down quick notes after an interview or during a school lecture is a great way of retaining important information that you can later transfer to Google Docs.

3. Music

I know it’s controversial, but I stand by listening to music as you write. It allows me to write and stay focused for longer periods of time. Grab your headphones and put on your favourite tunes and relax as you pen your next piece. Spotify and Apple music have so many great playlists that make it easy to just set it and forget it.

Check out both platforms and search study playlists to get in the zone.

Ultimately, if you can get the organizational processes of writing optimized, the actual writing will be so much easier and you’ll be surprised at how much more effective you can be when you sit down at your desk to work on the next chapter of your novel or write an important email for work.

If you haven’t already, experiment with the tools above to see which works for you.