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Writing Helps and Tools for the Aspiring Author

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There are a variety of items on this list that will help and an encourage writers at the different stages of the writing process.
Sections
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Books

Every good writer is a good reader. There are great books to help with the writing craft listed in this section.

 
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Save the Cat Writes a Novel has been the best book to help with the pacing of a story!
Save the Cat! Writes a Novel: Essential Guide
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When you want to learn the craft, you go to the best!
On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft
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Any author will love this rare find! Robert Benson takes you on a delightful writing journey!
Dancing on the Head of a Pen: Writing Life
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The Chicago Manual of Style is a great resource to have on hand.
The Chicago Manual of Style
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Such a great book for any writer!
Bird by Bird
 
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This book helps to conquer the obstacles of creative discipline and the doubts that most writers deal with.
The War of Art: Break Through Creative Blocks
 
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It is easy for our creativity to get blocked, but this book gives techniques to break through.
The Artist's Way

Writing Tools

A writer needs several tools to help in the writing process anywhere from a good pen to different choices for typing the manuscript. 

 
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A nice set of highlighters helps the writer color code and keep track of important information regarding time and characters throughout the story.
Highlighters
 
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A foldable bluetooth keyboard has proven to be a great help and less bulky than a laptop.
Samsers Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard w/ Touchpad
 
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For the final edits, red pens draw the attention to things that need corrected.
Red Pens - Ballpoint, Gel, and More - Staples.com
 
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A good pen is a must for book signings!
Gel Pens Fine Point
 
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A desk-top PC of course is a must for writers.
Desktop Computers & All-in-One PCs - Best Buy
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A lap top is handy for writers to accompany them to their favorite inspirational place to write!
The 6 Best Laptops For College of 2025 - RTINGS.com
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Another great tool when you are on the go!
Traveler - Freewrite Store
 
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These are nice to have on hand.
Faber-Castell Grip 1347 0.7mm Pencil - Black
 
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When I can't be at my desk, this has been the next best thing to use!
Lap Desks & Workspace Organizers

Organizers

it is important to keep dates and information safe at hand. These tools can help in that area. 

 
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Multiple flash drives are necessary to back up important documents and manuscripts in different places.
USB Flash Drives / Data Storage
 
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Pocket calendars are a need to keep track of the signings and events.
Pocket Calendars & Wallet Calendars - Current Catalog
 
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A bulletin board/white board is helpful to jot down notes and pin inspirational quotes to urge the writer on.
Bulletin Boards & Presentation Supplies
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Colored sticky notes are another great way to color code your story. Assign a color to each character for your story board to see how often they are showing up in the story line.
Sticky Notes Multicolor
 
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These tabs come in handy when going through your manuscript and proof copy of your book.
Sticky Arrow Flags: Office Products

Office Helps

Self-care items in the office will keep the writer encouraged!

 
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Standing lamps are helpful to have near a writer's desk.
Floors Lamps - Standing Lamps - Reading Lamps - IKEA
 
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A coffee mug warmer helps to keep the creative juices flowing  and eliminating the distraction of having to get up to warm their coffee.
The 4 Best Mug Warmers of 2025 | Reviews by Wirecutter
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The job of a writer does not involve much activity. The walking pad can be used at a standing desk while they write or edit or listen to their writing being read back to them. It tucks nicely under the desk.
WalkingPad® US Official Store - Patented Foldable Treadmill for ...
 
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A desk printer is a must! I love being able to print anything I need at a moment's notice.
Find a Home or Office Printer - Staples.com
 
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It's always good to have a supply of paper on hand.
Printer Paper - Shop Printing Paper at Great Prices - Staples.com
 
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Of course, every desk needs a good stapler, staples, and staple puller.
Staples
 
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Every writer's office needs bookshelves!
Free Standing Bookshelves
 
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Drown the rest of the world out as you concentrate on your work with these noise-cancelling headphones.
Noise-Canceling Headphones
 
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I just received one of these for Christmas and it is so perfect. I raise it and am able to walk on my walking pad while I edit and proofread!
Adjustable Standing Desks - Staples.com
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