Resources

When it comes to being a writer, there are a few tools of the trade that are essential. A good pen, some quality paper, and a comfortable place to write are all must-haves. But in the age of the internet, there are also a few online resources that every writer should be aware of. Here are 10 of the best.

WordPress – WordPress is a popular content management system that helps writers easily create and manage their websites. WordPress is free to use, and there are thousands of themes and plugins available to help you customize your site.

Google Docs – Google Docs is a free online word processing application that allows writers to create and edit documents from anywhere with an internet connection. Google Docs also makes it easy to collaborate with other writers on projects.

Evernote – Evernote is an app that helps writers capture ideas and organize their thoughts. Evernote can be used on your computer, phone, or tablet, and it syncs across all of your devices so you can access your notes from anywhere.

Scrivener – Scrivener is a popular writing software application that helps writers organize their thoughts and structure their writing projects. Scrivener has a free trial period, and it costs $49 to purchase the full version of the software.

The Chicago Manual of Style Online – The Chicago Manual of Style Online is a comprehensive guide to style and grammar for writers. The website includes a searchable database of style rules, as well as articles on grammar and usage. The Chicago Manual of Style Online costs $43 per year for individuals and as low as $197 per year for institutions.

Dictionary.com – Dictionary.com is an online dictionary and thesaurus that writers can use to look up words and find synonyms for words they’re struggling to find on their own. Dictionary.com also has a blog with articles on grammar, spelling, and vocabulary development.

Merriam-Webster Unabridged – Merriam-Webster Unabridged is an online dictionary that contains more than 225,000 entries from Merriam-Webster’s print dictionaries.

The Elements of Style – The Elements of Style is a classic style guide for writers that covers topics such as grammar, punctuation, word choice, and sentence structure. The book costs about $10 in paperback or can be downloaded for free from Project Gutenberg.

Writer’s Digest – Writer’s Digest is a magazine for writers that includes articles on the craft of writing, as well as interviews with successful authors. Writer’s Digest also offers online courses on topics such as creative writing, novel writing, and freelance writing.

National Novel Writing Month – National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) is an annual event during which writers attempt to write a 50,000-word novel in 30 days . NaNoWriMo takes place every November , and it’s free to participate.

There are endless online resources available for writers these days, which can be both overwhelming and exciting at the same time! The 10 resources listed above are just a starting point—explore around and see what else is out there waiting to help you on your writing journey . Whatever resources you choose to utilize , remember that the most important tool for any writer is still his or her own imagination . So get out there and start writing!