
Yes, I'm here today to talk about how writers should use technology. It might be hard to turn off YouTube or click out of those memes, but writers can't let technology become a distraction from the writing itself. We can use it, but we shouldn't abuse it.
Let me tell you how.
photo courtsey of glenn carstens peters on unsplash
Set Limits for Yourself
First thing's first: set limits for yourself on all distracting websites and apps. That way, when you're trying to write on your computer, you won't get distracted by a new notification or a comment on a post.
I like to use Limit, which you can find at the Chrome Web Store here. It's a free extension for your computer where you set daily website limits for yourself, anywhere from 0 to 500 minutes. I have limits on YouTube and the Young Writer Workshop community especially, to ensure I don't spend all day on them.
Use a Separate Window
Need to search for an answer on Google? That's fine. But do it in a separate window from all your distracting stuff so you don't get tempted to check your emails or social media during writing time.
Google Chrome allows you to create a new window when you right-click on the application. You can also drag an already-open tab downward, creating a new window.
Set a Time Limit
Now that you've limited your time on distracting websites, you also need to set a time limit for your screen overall.
Try taking short breaks from your screen every hour or half hour--maybe five- to ten-minute breaks every hour you're on the screen. Experiment with different screen time to break ratios until you find what's best for you.
You should also limit your screen time to one or two hours every day. Be firm with yourself, and try as much as possible not to go over your screen time.
Now that we've talked about how to keep technology from being a distraction, let's talk about how to use it as a tool.
Utilize Search Engines and Reputable Websites
A writer doesn't know everything. That's why we have search engines like Google, where we can look things up. Just make sure that you're getting your information from reputable and up-to-date websites.
How? Make sure, first of all, that the resource isn't too old. Was it written or updated over ten years ago? Not worth it. Find something newer. Also, look at who wrote the article, post, etc. that you're reading. Are they an authority on the subject they're writing about? What are their credentials? Check the information and website before you use it's information.
Try Out a Word Processor
Unless you want to be typing out your masterpiece on Notes or Text Edit, a word processor is a great idea!
There are so many options out there, from Google Docs and Microsoft Word to Scrivener and Highland. Some are free, others aren't. It depends on what features you want. Google Docs is a great free processor that many people use. I use Scrivener, which isn't free, but has many features that make it worth the money.
Look For Communities or Groups To Join
Every writer needs support, and an online community or group is a great option for this! There are free writing groups through NaNoWriMo, Writing.com, The Reddit Writer’s Group, and tons of other places.
As for online writing communities, some of them might be paid (like the amazing one I'm a part of, the Young Writer's Workshop) but many can have free plans as well. Research online for ones you might like to join, and look for special interest groups like fiction writers, Christian writers, or girl writers, too.
I hope this article has been helpful to you! Using technology in the right way is something I struggle with, too, so you aren't alone. But knowing how to limit your distractions and use the many tools right at your fingertips is one step closer to using technology rather than abusing it.
Best wishes,
Jonah
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