When I ask my clients about their research and writing processes, I usually get one of two responses:
Sheepishly: I don’t really have a process.
Excitedly: Showing me a highly organized and idiosyncratic workflow.
The thing is: both of these people have processes. The difference is that one person has acknowledged the choices made and (potentially) made them more intentionally. If you have ever produced a piece of writing (and if you’re subscribed to this newsletter the chances are high that you have done so), you have a writing process.
Take a moment and reflect:
What tools do you use to reflect on themes and ideas in your work?
What tools do you use to organize or keep track of research materials?
What tools do you use to take notes on or analyze these research materials?
What tools do you use to draft text?
What tools do you use to edit your manuscripts?
Now, ask yourself: how are these tools serving you? Are there points in the process where you get frustrated — unavoidable, but worth noting — or lose the thread? Do you want to experiment with something new?
Implementing shiny new tools can be a preferred mode of procrastination for some of us (don’t ask me how I know this). If only I had the perfectly organized note-taking method then all thoughts would brilliantly pour forth. That said, intentionally surfacing the tools you do use and why you continue to use them can help you identify what’s working well and where you might be in need of further support.
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Disclaimer: Software is created by people who have values and goals (often making money). I’ve tried to foreground free (or freemium), open-source, and/or privacy-oriented products here but please do your own research to determine whether these are a good fit for you and your values. Suggestions are always welcome ([email protected]). This list is a work in progress.
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Have a favourite tool that you think I should add to this list? Send me an email: [email protected].
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Image credit: From a series of library education posters designed by Peabody Visual Aids in the 1930s and 1940s under the supervision of librarian Ruby Ethel Cundiff. Source.