Whether you’re a speechwriter, a technical writer, or a creative writer, you need the right tools and software to get the job done. If writing is a big part of your life, if it’s your job, then you want only the very best to get that job done.
Luckily, these days there are tons of options for writing software to help you get your job done fast and efficiently as well. Whether it’s MadCap technical writing software or some of the software below, the key to great writing is patience and the software you use. So, if you don’t have any of the writing software programs below, check into them as soon as you can.
Microsoft Word
While Microsoft Word is one of the oldest writing software programs out there, it’s still one of the most popular and one of the most widely used. It is said to be the gold standard by which other writing software is measured and it makes sharing and collaborating with editors, other writers, and clients much easier to do. It also makes tracking and reviewing edits and comments much easier for everyone concerned.
Google Docs
Google Docs is quite a bit newer than Microsoft Word, but it’s still a strong contender in writing software. In reality, Google Docs is a simpler version of Word, but that doesn’t make it any less effective. It’s becoming more and more popular because it makes it easy to collaborate and share with editors, clients, and other team members. It doesn’t, however, offer a whole lot in the way of formatting and outlining.
One of Google Doc’s best benefits is that you don’t have to install it on your computer. It’s browser operated, so all you have to do is open it up and start typing. It even saves automatically, so you don’t lose everything if your computer decides to update or the power fails. The biggest benefit is that it’s free, the biggest negative is that if you don’t have offline writing enabled, you can’t write with Google Docs if the internet is out.
ClickHelp
ClickHelp is browser-based and perfect for the tech writers in the bunch. It’s 100% cloud-friendly and seems to be a big favorite today. They provide full transparency and tech writers seem to love them.
Tips for Minimizing Software and File Problems
Now that you know the best software to use for writing, you could use some tips for minimizing any problems you come across with your software and files.
Save Often
It’s important to save often if you don’t want to lose everything you’ve been working on that day. While Google Docs and Word Online save automatically for you, it’s important not to rely on tech all the time. If you get up to take a phone call or visit the fridge, take a moment to save. You’ll be glad that you did.
Always Back Up Your Work
Never rely on just your writing software to save work. You should always back it up with an option like Dropbox or some other form of backup. Using a portable USB flash drive is a good backup as well. You never know when your computer is going to go out and you won’t be able to get to your work. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
These are just a few of the writing software and processors you need as a speech, technical, or creative writer. Remember, your work will go much easier with one of these in your corner. Just don’t forget to back up your work as well, just to be safe.
