Last time I wrote about a tool which I’m finding helpful in the task of writing a novel (yWriter novel writing software). To be complete, here are the other two tools which are helping me most.

1. PDA with fold-up keyboard

Many creative types feel most inspired when out in nature, walking, or anywhere else that’s far away from a desk with a computer on it. Some sort of mobile text capture device is needed to take advantage of these moments. While a notebook and pen has served well for centuries, a more modern and flexible way is to use a handheld computer with portable keyboard.

I currently use a Palm (Tungsten T5 model) with an infra-red wireless keyboard (see photo, coffee mug shows scale), though countless other devices will do the job. The Palm fits in one pocket, the keyboard folds up and fits in another, making it far more portable than any laptop. With an internet connection using a phone or wireless access in a cafe, any writing can be e-mailed to yourself, thus providing a secure backup method when away from home.

Most of my novel writing has been done on long weekends and holidays using this setup, or earlier equivalents. The small keyboard may take a little getting used to for some, but its fine for folks like me who spend most of their time thinking of what to type rather than actually typing.

2. Voice Recognition Software

I originally bought Dragon Naturally Speaking voice recognition software for home use when I started developing an RSI problem, and have found it useful for all sorts of writing tasks, including e-mails and this blog. The latest version is uncannily accurate, and learns from its mistakes.

For novel writing, it allows creativity to flow onto the computer screen as fast as you can speak into a microphone. This leads to smoother “flow”, more natural written conversation, and greater output … or so I’ve read. I’m yet to achieve this - years of writing slowly is a hard habit to break - but the potential is there. Not having to use a mouse is a great occupational health bonus too!

Writing a novel has never been easy, and still isn’t, but with tools like these to help facilitate the process there are fewer obstacles than ever. Its getting harder to find excuses for why my first novel still isn’t finished!