On this bonus episode, I share the equipment (hardware) I use to write. More at www.bemovingforward.com.
Moving Forward is also available on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music.
My three writing devices
[NOTE: the books mentioned in this episode are out of print. For more, check out episode 388.]
Macbook Pro
I do the bulk of my writing on my Macbook, which I also use for daily work, podcasting and more. It’s where I wrote the first draft of my book and did the final compilation for publication on KDP using Scrivener.
Microsoft Surface Go with Keyboard case
Recently, I got a Surface Go so I could interface with my dad’s shop and keep track of the in-store inventory to update his Poshmark listings as needed. Since his CRM system runs on Windows, I needed a Windows-based device. I’ve had the Surface for about a month and really like it. It’s super slim, portable and has great battery life. I’ve started doing more writing with it and since it’s a Microsoft product, getting onto OneDrive and Word is seamless.
Neo 2
This is the least expensive and feature-laden device of the three and by far my favorite when it comes to writing first drafts. The Neo 2 is a word processor – a keyboard plus a small LCD screen with 4-5 lines of text display. It runs on three AA batteries, which I have yet to change, and provides a comfortable typing experience with a roomy keyboard. It’s ideal for writing first drafts since it’s hard to edit documents. Unlike a laptop or Tablet where you can point, click, copy, paste, delete, this device only has arrow keys and a delete button for editing, making it a real pain. That means, I don’t edit. I just write. Finally, the device does not have WiFi which means no distractions. When I take this to the coffee shop or write with it at home all I can do is write. I later transfer the document to my Macbook and edit there. Note: since they’re not making these anymore, you can only find them used or refurbished on marketplaces like eBay.
Homework:
Try out different writing tools. There are many out there. Find one (or several) that work well for you and stick with it.
For writing software check out MF 230
[NOTE: the books mentioned in this episode and in the book writing series are out of print. I am leaving these episodes mostly as is and strictly for informational and instructional purposes only. I have retracted my story from the book discussed in this episode and its sequel with full reservation of my copyright. For more, check out episode 388.]
Scrivener
Scrivener (available for Mac, Win, IOS) is a book writing program that auto formats for self-publishing on Amazon’s KDP and other platforms. It’s a great tool with rich features that allow co-writers to collaborate through Dropbox. Scrivener has a bit of a learning curve but I’ve been a fan since 2017 and have talked to many authors who use it as their go-to. If you’re interested in Scrivener, you can use the coupon code MOVINGFORWARD to get 20% off your purchase (for Mac or Win). It’s a one-time license fee and available for Mac, Win, IOS.
Note: this section contains affiliate links and coupon codes for which the author may receive some compensation.
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