A year ago, I started a new job as a copywriter. Writing is what I love with all my heart, but every time I was supposed to write an article I found myself staring at a blank page. I got distracted all the time, and put things off for so long that I had to ask for an extension of my deadlines. I knew it was time to do something to solve my problem.
There are many tools for out there for boosting productivity or stopping procrastination or making your workflow more efficient, and sometimes it seems like I’ve tried them all. Here’s a list of my favorites that will help you be more productive.
1. OmmWriter
OmmWriter, made for both Mac and PC, offers a simplified work environment that can help you to focus more on writing by cutting out all the distractions you find in other platforms. It’s designed to feel like using a typewriter, displaying only what you have written.
2. iA Writer
Available for both the Mac and the iPhone, iA Writer is one more simple text editor that is free from distraction. The idea is to create a typewriter effect by eliminating all the features that are often found in word processors. You can work in two modes – light (black text on white background) and dark (white text on black background).
3. Calmly Writer
Like some of the other text editors I have mentioned, Calmly Writer is aimed at creating a writing environment that’s free from distractions and a number of formatting options. Its simple design allows you to focus more on what you’re writing without all the extra features. It’s entirely web-based, so it runs directly on your browser. Your text is automatically saved every time you make changes. Dark mode is available here as well.
4. Unplag
Worried about accidentally using a phrase or sentence that has already been published? It can be a serious issue, especially when you’re putting together a report that requires you to use outside research. Unplag can be a great way to catch yourself before you hit send. It scans what you have written and lets you know if it has already been published.
5. The Brainstormer
This one is for those of you out there who are fiction writers. The Brainstormer has three spinning wheels – plot/conflict, theme/setting and subject/location. Users can also enjoy the Character Builder wheel (it combines character features and backgrounds) and the World Builder (combines themes, moods and places). You just do a spin and get randomly generated combinations that may seem quite odd at first (like ‘genius jungle fairy’), however, they can give you new ideas. It can be a fun tool if you’re stuck in a creative rut, which happens to us all from time to time.
6. Trello
Managing your workflow is half the battle, and Trello is a great tool for keeping track of all your projects. You can organize them into different categories and you can create checklists to help you monitor your progress. You can even set due dates for yourself. This tool is available on any kind of devices you use so it’s possible to sync your notes across them all.
7. Rescue Time
This is another time management program that can work on any PC or mobile device, but it works differently than Trello. Rescue Time works in the background, keeping track of the amount of time you spend on each application. It can be a great way to monitor your productivity.
8. Shareist
Shareist is a great tool for bloggers, as it can help you manage any content you have published on the web: All your texts, videos, images, audios and other stuff is captured in one place, you have an editorial calendar and can schedule your social media posts, you use your content in the library and so on. It’s a handy tool for someone who manages several different blogs at the same time.
9. Toodledo
As the name suggests, Toodledo allows you to create an online to-do list, which can be useful in helping you to keep track of all those little tasks you never get around to doing. You can organize them into different folders, and even split more involved projects into smaller tasks. A plus: you can access it from any device.
10. Write or Die
If you need that extra push to keep you motivated, Write or Die holds you accountable if you fail to meet your writing goals. In fact, it will punish you if you procrastinate or encourage if you succeed. The severity can vary, and you have the option to set it according to your personal preference. For example, if you fail writing 500 words in an hour you suffer consequences, be ready to hear a cacophony sound and see a creepy creature image.
11. Coffitivity
Coffee shop sounds have been proven to boost productivity, as they provide just the right amount of ambient noise. Coffitivity is a great app that allows you to play the pleasant sounds of espresso machines and clinking glasses from your computer or smartphone.