January 9, 2012

The Writer's Toolbox

The Writer's Toolbox: Links to Improve the Mechanics of Your Writing (This is Part 1 of a new series of writing posts to help make 2012 YOUR writing year.)

"The scariest moment is always just before you start. After that, things can only get better." -- Stephen King, On Writing


Writing can be scary. So let's get started, then the scary part is over faster, right? We've compiled a list of practical links to help with the mechanics of writing—the tools you need to write without fear. Ignore the creaking sound of footsteps in the hallway. It's just your inspiration bringing you a cup of coffee.



Free Online Dictionary
http://www.thefreedictionary.com

This link is like a running buddy—helping fuel you when you think you can't take another step. Keep it open when you're writing, and when you can't think of the right word, type in the wrong one for a list of synonyms. You can use it as a dictionary too.

Grammar Girl
http://grammar.quickanddirtytips.com

She is smart and sassy. Easy explanations to help you avoid the grammar potholes.

Wordsmith
http://wordsmith.org/awad/index.html

This is the best gift for your writing. Sign up for the free subscription to AWAD (A.Word.A.Day). Founder Anu Garg's fascination with words is contagious and you will rush to open your daily email to learn the word, its definition, etymology, and example of usage.

Daily Writing Tips
http://www.dailywritingtips.com

A daily source of nourishment. Tips and tricks offered by a team of contributors to help provide a balanced diet for your writing life.

What about you? Let us know which sites you use to jumpstart your writing.

Join us for the upcoming season of Creative Writing courses at WICE. Take care of that New Year's Resolution to START WRITING!


Posted by Kathryn Kemp-Griffin, WICE Director of Creative Writing.