Writing software revisited—Part 2
From Rick: Part 1 of this topic got a bit long, and after completing it, I felt I had more to say. In addition, I was recently pointed to a review of several pieces of editing software, a couple of
Read moreWriting software
Writing software revisited—Part 1
From Rick: From time to time I’ve talked about various pieces of software for writers. Although I haven’t subdivided them before, all the ones I’ve seen fall into two primary categories: (1) Word and text processing software (2) Writing improvement
Read moreSetting intelligent MS word defaults for writers
From Rick: MS Word comes set with some really stupid defaults, at least for writers. While thy may seem good for the average person and for business, many of these defaults are counterproductive for writers, especially if you’re planning on
Read moreOut, damned participle phrase! out, I say!
From Rick: For those unfamiliar with it (or who have forgotten the source) title of this post comes from Act 5, Scene 1 of Shakespeare’s Macbeth. The original line (“Out, damned spot! out, I say!) is spoken by Lady Macbeth,
Read moreSelf-publishing how to–PART 3
From Rick: Before I launch into the basics of cleaning your manuscript, I want you to read the article on Clean Source Files in the link below. Fair warning: Reading this might give you nightmares or permanently damage you mentally.
Read moreSelf-publishing how to–PART 2
Formatting dos and don’ts From Rick: Most reputable book designers will tell you that you should not use Microsoft Word to format your print book. Professionals use Adobe InDesign (and they can afford its high price). My understanding is that
Read moreTools for writers: Macros in Microsoft Word–a basic how to
From Rick: What are they? Some of you have no doubt heard about “macros” and either had no clue or figured they were something too techie for you. Put simply, a macro is nothing more than a group of keystrokes
Read moreScrivener vs. MS Word
From Scott: Today, word processing programs abound. Users of PCs have a wide variety of choices. By far the most widely used program is Microsoft Word, a part of the MS Office Suite. For years, I have been an exclusive
Read moreUsing automated grammar checking
Here begins a series on grammar checkers and editing software. We will be talking about other pieces of software on the market and the caveats of using them, along with our advice. We won’t necessarily be doing these articles one
Read moreTechnology and writing
From Scott: This week, I’d like to take a look at how technology has changed the way I write my novels. This evolution began with my fourth novel, and it continues even to this day. Some authors who are just
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