Write Smarter, Not Harder: Embracing Digital Tools in Writing
When it comes to using technology in the writing process, from brainstorming ideas to finishing full-length stories, opinions vary widely. On one hand, writers have access to tools that can speed up their creative process and clean up their drafts. On the other, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, or guilty, for considering them.
In the world of storytelling and idea-sharing, there's an ongoing debate about when, where, how, and even if writing assistant tools can be used with integrity. That debate might never be settled given the many ways digital tools can be used throughout the writing process.
However, if a writer wants to get the most out of these tools without feeling like they’re cheating or compromising their creative integrity, finding the balance between support in developing their ideas and generative ideation is the key.
Today, my focus is on the former — developmental support.
My Writing Workflow
I grew up with journals and diaries, so I prefer to write by hand. As a result, I created workshops tailored to this kind of writing because time slows down, it still feels natural, and contributes to a grounding experience.
I have since updated the workshop structure to account for digital writing.
My method to clear my mind and ensure new ideas are not lost is to never leave home without a notebook, and stack of sticky notes. The notes capture the flood of thoughts and ideas I develop throughout the day while working on other projects.
Eventually, I realized I had more handwritten notes and journal entries than stories saved on my computer. That’s when I knew I needed a system for capturing and transferring those ideas into a digital format—something that fit seamlessly into my daily routine.
Additionally, I'm constantly producing different types of formatted writing materials for various audiences. Which means I need tools that support me without being intrusive that can help me proofread and copy edit my drafts. Preferably without seeking to, even unintentionally, plagiarize or commandeer my intellectual property.
Finding a Solution
I summarized my needs to two main things:
An easy way to bridge the gap between the analog and digital to maintain writing by hand while still getting everything into text.
Non-invasive self-editing tools that can help when I don’t have someone else to review my work.
For notes I take on the go, the generic app pre-loaded to my phone, which happens to be Samsung, replaces half of the used sticky notes I use to write. This phone app also has the ability to convert into a PDF and includes sharing features for simple conversion, but I do not use that feature very often.
After a few days of reviewing my notes and building rough drafts, I dictate what I've written into a digital document, OneNote. This platform can also be downloaded as an app and has the same conversion/sharing abilities. It also saves me from the frustration and burnout of typing out content I’ve already written.
Fun fact: I really don’t like writing the same thing multiple times.
Dictation is also a great way to overcoming writer’s block. Talking through your thoughts in a free-flowing, stream-of-consciousness style can be less intimidating than staring at a blank page. Just look for that little mic icon 🎙️ and start talking!
Tools I’m Currently Testing
Here are a few browser-based platforms I’m experimenting with to see how well they support story the writing process.
ZenPen I/O ~ Minimal Distraction, Maximum Zen: A minimalist writing zone, where you can block out all distractions and get to what's important. The writing!
Zen - Online Text Editor: A minimal in-browser writing tool
Cliché Finder – Find, Highlight, and Remove Clichés in Your Text: This free cliché finder finds and highlights clichés in your writing so you can remove them
https://wordcounter.net/: Apart from counting words and characters, our online editor can help you to improve word choice and writing style, and, optionally, help you to detect grammar mistakes and plagiarism.
Descriptions are sourced directly from the website or program provider.
By combining analog habits with thoughtful use of digital tools, I’ve found a rhythm that works—and I hope other writers can, too. Every writer’s process is different, but with the right tools and mindset, it’s possible to build a workflow that honors both creativity and productivity.
