tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27617981905374160472024-03-12T23:01:01.380-07:00Tony Thomas' The Writing Lifetony10000http://www.blogger.com/profile/05977366058505227985noreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2761798190537416047.post-27848305551201269872020-11-27T07:19:00.000-08:002020-11-27T07:19:10.500-08:00BLACK FRIDAY 2020 BOOK DEAL: WRITING AT THE SPEED OF SOUND<p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRM6fzzbEw_gWJ1F4fwPjR2L2eGJIPTvXnAPo-Lolm-KfpFHniF08w75rMRf9retGylodckAMRoWTDlij7oUIdiPfeFbeg5UbH_LhbgvM8WP7lg1cqBShKQvS7Vi0NjwL3asTLMecB3csO/s345/writing+at+speed+of+sound+_+thumbnail.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="345" data-original-width="213" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRM6fzzbEw_gWJ1F4fwPjR2L2eGJIPTvXnAPo-Lolm-KfpFHniF08w75rMRf9retGylodckAMRoWTDlij7oUIdiPfeFbeg5UbH_LhbgvM8WP7lg1cqBShKQvS7Vi0NjwL3asTLMecB3csO/s320/writing+at+speed+of+sound+_+thumbnail.jpg" /></a></p><p><br /></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>BLACK FRIDAY DEAL</b></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: x-large;">Writing at the Speed of Sound: Dictation Made Easy by Tony Thomas</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: x-large;">Only 99 cents for Amazon Kindle!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Writing-Speed-Sound-Dictation-Made-ebook/dp/B08HLGYVQ9"></a><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Writing-Speed-Sound-Dictation-Made-ebook/dp/B08HLGYVQ9">https://www.amazon.com/Writing-Speed-Sound-Dictation-Made-ebook/dp/B08HLGYVQ9</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: x-large;">#writing #writer #writers #writingcommunity #dictation #voicerecognition #blackfriday #BlackFriday2020</span></p><br /><p></p>tony10000http://www.blogger.com/profile/05977366058505227985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2761798190537416047.post-35784993961535805832020-11-23T01:11:00.001-08:002020-11-23T01:25:10.189-08:00 How to Make Money with Your Writing<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrfwy9ZmDxbkuXwLmd17AzYnb0DnZZk-kxImGCGoee6iGEMVF_OB2S5g0UXdH75P0-JLz_Zd3p54CuMZsUgZ3iEoXCBz5utbqYusBrLGG5DCk9y1pNx7wEz2ipg5vaFr4E4TbxqlXliVXQ/s3264/IMG_0267.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrfwy9ZmDxbkuXwLmd17AzYnb0DnZZk-kxImGCGoee6iGEMVF_OB2S5g0UXdH75P0-JLz_Zd3p54CuMZsUgZ3iEoXCBz5utbqYusBrLGG5DCk9y1pNx7wEz2ipg5vaFr4E4TbxqlXliVXQ/w222-h167/IMG_0267.HEIC" width="222" /></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: large;">by Tony Thomas</span></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Many of those of us who love to write have a difficult time monetizing our efforts. There seems to be no shortage of writers out there who are content to work for next to nothing.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Succeeding as a writer requires marketing skill, specialized knowledge, and the ability to "think outside the box". And the more relevant knowledge and experience you have, the more money you can receive.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">When I first decided to become a professional writer over 40 years ago, I hit the streets and found a local business that wanted to produce a marketing brochure. While that was an ambitious project and I had zero experience, I hired a photographer/graphic designer, got quotes from a printer, and wrote the copy for the brochure with the assistance of the client.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Although I made very little money on the deal, I learned a lot about copywriting and print production. I spent a lot of time with the dictionary, the thesaurus, and grammar books and honed my writing skills. Shortly thereafter, I co-founded an advertising agency and did copy/creative for a variety of major clients. I wrote magazine ads, radio commercials, marketing proposals, and copy for promotional pieces.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">While working at the agency, I decided I wanted to write for print publications. I boldly walked into the office of a local newspaper with a sample of my work. The editor was impressed and asked me about my areas of specialized knowledge.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">That led to a long mutually beneficial relationship with that publication that lasted for decades. With samples from that publication, I was able to get writing assignments from many other national and international publications.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">My point is that small efforts can lead to substantial success with time and effort. You just need to find your niche and your market.</span></p>tony10000http://www.blogger.com/profile/05977366058505227985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2761798190537416047.post-41359430013935324772020-10-05T03:32:00.002-07:002020-10-05T03:32:53.032-07:00BOOK REVIEW: "How to Make a Living with Your Writing" by Joanna Penn<p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibkdgP2qLOaYl1m7yZNidDIMRO4WBuUcb9XuhcSXyVXuTXQ1L_jXol49sTdjKT_orWSMzIQiXDkOGTBUBnsgHmpAPn7ZGjCyyc561jv-Tz2Vv1FrsrtR9Z-aDvYg6dBD2Nry_gMqXbAguJ/s424/how+to+make+a+living+with+your+writing_cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="424" data-original-width="268" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibkdgP2qLOaYl1m7yZNidDIMRO4WBuUcb9XuhcSXyVXuTXQ1L_jXol49sTdjKT_orWSMzIQiXDkOGTBUBnsgHmpAPn7ZGjCyyc561jv-Tz2Vv1FrsrtR9Z-aDvYg6dBD2Nry_gMqXbAguJ/s320/how+to+make+a+living+with+your+writing_cover.jpg" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /> </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">by Tony Thomas</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Joanna Penn well known and prolific writer and YouTuber. I have enjoyed watching videos on her YouTube channel “The Creative Penn” for several years. She is entertaining, funny, personable, and very knowledgeable.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Her book "How to Make a Living with your Writing" details all of her principles of becoming a successful, self-published, author. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Can You Really Make a Living as a Writer?</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">According to the first chapter of Penn's book: “Yes, it is possible!” Of course, that does not mean it easy. As with any career, achieving success requires a lot of hard work. Penn claims that she makes a six-figure income with her writing through a combination of ethical marketing, blogging, and writing books for a global audience. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">She began by totally immersing herself in info about writing, publishing, social media marketing, podcasting, and more. In the book, she offers solid advice about entrepreneurship, developing multiple income streams, building a scalable business, and much more.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Takeaways</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">One of the takeaways that I received from this book is that you don't just write one book. To be successful, you must write many books. That is the way that you grow in popularity. You must build a name and a brand.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">She also discusses different publishing options, changes in the industry, audiobooks, ebooks, how to self-publish, and how to make money with content marketing, affiliate marketing, freelance writing, consulting and coaching, product sales and professional speaking. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">This is a great book to get you started in the world of professional writing and self-publishing. I highly recommend it!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Buy it on Amazon: <a href="https://amzn.to/30CjwZI">https://amzn.to/30CjwZI</a></span></p><p><i style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: large;">"As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases."</span></i></p>tony10000http://www.blogger.com/profile/05977366058505227985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2761798190537416047.post-48719812789009483752020-09-08T11:09:00.004-07:002020-09-16T23:36:12.638-07:00My New Book: "Writing at the Speed of Sound: Dictation Made Easy"<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRM6fzzbEw_gWJ1F4fwPjR2L2eGJIPTvXnAPo-Lolm-KfpFHniF08w75rMRf9retGylodckAMRoWTDlij7oUIdiPfeFbeg5UbH_LhbgvM8WP7lg1cqBShKQvS7Vi0NjwL3asTLMecB3csO/s345/writing+at+speed+of+sound+_+thumbnail.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="345" data-original-width="213" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRM6fzzbEw_gWJ1F4fwPjR2L2eGJIPTvXnAPo-Lolm-KfpFHniF08w75rMRf9retGylodckAMRoWTDlij7oUIdiPfeFbeg5UbH_LhbgvM8WP7lg1cqBShKQvS7Vi0NjwL3asTLMecB3csO/s320/writing+at+speed+of+sound+_+thumbnail.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div>by Tony Thomas</div></span><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">I just finished my first writing book entitled: "Writing at the Speed of Sound: Dictation Made Easy". Since I am such a slow typist, dictation has come in very handy for me and has helped me greatly increase my throughput and productivity. It has become a key part of my writing workflow.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Here are some excerpts from the introduction (shameless plug): </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">"Do you want to write faster? What writer doesn't want to write faster? I'll say it now: Dictation is the key to faster writing and improved productivity. Not only does it reduce the potential for repetitive strain injury, it increases your writing speed by multiples of what most people can type.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">"If dictation is so wonderful, why don't all writers use it? I think the barriers to dictation include unfamiliarity with a process, the need to prepare and think differently, and self-consciousness.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">"For most people, talking into a microphone isn't a natural process, even though that is exactly what we are doing when we use a cell phone, for example. And, it really takes a lot of practice to get the hang of it. But, once you get going. you will find that you can write hundreds of words per minute with ease.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">"It also allows you to write while standing, walking around the room, closing your eyes, listening to your favorite music on headphones , and even when out taking a stroll or walking your dog.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">"This short book will help you get started with dictation. There is no filler or fluff. Just the information that you need to rapidly increase your productivity and throughput."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">If you have ever thought about trying dictation, I think my book will be very useful to you. It is very concise and I kept the price low to make it affordable for every writer. Check it out!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Amazon link: </span></p><p><a href="https://amzn.to/3m0jSCa"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">https://amzn.to/3m0jSCa</span></a></p><p></p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br />Smashwords Link: <br /><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1041731</a><br /><br /><br /></span><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.</i></span><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>tony10000http://www.blogger.com/profile/05977366058505227985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2761798190537416047.post-6483480265487404382020-09-06T14:51:00.012-07:002020-10-05T00:06:35.651-07:00The Writing Productivity Bundle - Book Review<div class="separator"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNYiagBB9HlUUQ-VJ3mCsDtHskkzLL25N6ZxhT1abHK84qlkFbIWjZYIfcLJa1bylYtkhTLG8ltNQKktDY0_KHV8esFFHCctzFNY31CcZRN9l0iYXTGBMAyBHHE08YeyNU2JI_vzxXk7Lz/s344/wpb.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="344" data-original-width="226" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNYiagBB9HlUUQ-VJ3mCsDtHskkzLL25N6ZxhT1abHK84qlkFbIWjZYIfcLJa1bylYtkhTLG8ltNQKktDY0_KHV8esFFHCctzFNY31CcZRN9l0iYXTGBMAyBHHE08YeyNU2JI_vzxXk7Lz/s320/wpb.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">by Tony Thomas</span></p><p><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p><p><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">This is actually a set of three books penned by author, Monica Leonelle. The books included are:</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: x-large;">“Write Better, Faster”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">“The 8 Minute Writing Habit”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">“Dictate Your Book”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: x-large;">“Write Better, Faster” actually started off as a blog post that detailed Monica’s experience in trying hit her writing goals by using the “Pomodoro method”, dictation and meticulously tracking her progress. It is an easy read and a book worth revisiting from time to time. The book ends with a very long appendix which is essentially a diary of her progress. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: x-large;">“The 8 Minute Writing Habit” covers the five “author blocks that are keeping you from your writing” and provides nine strategies for success. The last part of the book is the “8 x 8 challenge” that encompasses trying different techniques for 8 days that only take 8 minutes per day.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: x-large;">“Dictating Your Book” is about learning how to dictate to improve your productivity. It primarily focuses on using “Dragon Naturally Speaking”. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: x-large;">What I found refreshing about this set is that is written in a first-person, conversational tone. She imparts a lot of wisdom that has been produced by her writing experiences. I think it is a useful set for any writer.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: x-large;">Click link below to buy it on Amazon: </span></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3i4aX0g">https://amzn.to/3i4aX0g</a></span></p><p><br /></p><p><i><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Full disclosure: </span></i><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><i>As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.</i></span></p>tony10000http://www.blogger.com/profile/05977366058505227985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2761798190537416047.post-34563916767840358372020-09-03T15:12:00.001-07:002020-09-06T14:10:39.477-07:00Fun with Mechanical Keyboards!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy1a1XsyaoDytkqKfug32ToWq1pMgjRS2Svoe7nN-yvm3z9p3gNVSMD-HxmtTbioDuWZkAitbHqM6it6-M3Tj7eoBB1GyovnIV6k7qKYMiXvGUOY1YyZ3KKVFDDOI1mezfadNrcjEQRWel/s3264/IMG_0079.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy1a1XsyaoDytkqKfug32ToWq1pMgjRS2Svoe7nN-yvm3z9p3gNVSMD-HxmtTbioDuWZkAitbHqM6it6-M3Tj7eoBB1GyovnIV6k7qKYMiXvGUOY1YyZ3KKVFDDOI1mezfadNrcjEQRWel/s320/IMG_0079.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p> <br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">by Tony Thomas</span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> After playing with my Red Dragon mechanical keyboard for a few weeks, I decided that I wanted something that was quieter so that I would not drive my wife crazy as I typed. The "blue" keys in the Red Dragon have a high-pitched tactile click that is great for improving your typing speed but hard on the ears.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">As a result I picked up a Techware "Phantom" TKL (ten key-less) keyboard that looks very similar to the Red Dragon but also includes RGB LED backlighting. It looks so cool. Then I spotted a cute Dierya 60% bluetooth keyboard that I can also use with my iPad when I am out and about. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I started reading more and watching YouTube videos (very dangerous, BTW) and decided I need a keyboard that I can customize with different switches and keycaps. The recently released Keychron K8 is now on order.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Yes, I am now in that black hole that is the mechanical keyboard hobby and my wallet is a bit emptier.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">There are plenty of great YouTube channels that are devoted to mechanical keyboards (Taeha Types, Switch and Click, The Techne, and TaeKeyboards are standouts) as well as a sub-Reddit: r/MechanicalKeyboards.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The good news is mechanical keyboards have made me way more productive since they are a joy to type on. If you are a writer, you may want to give mechanical keyboards a try!</span></p><p> </p><p><br /> </p>tony10000http://www.blogger.com/profile/05977366058505227985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2761798190537416047.post-51553302613897409442020-08-21T02:53:00.005-07:002020-09-06T14:09:47.008-07:00My Favorite Writing Tools<p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfqgx7UJRt3IZxbFHZYQ5__SBVpXyf10cEDRqpbeF62EZrOGQ_xTi1Q9NPkBrB0Gzwog6k9hChhocOv8xiXyTqUMZd8iwQXfnofZ6fkI4Wt86dsrf7VOEy97G60ztecJn1l7mS3mpddvMS/s2048/RedDragon+Kumara.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfqgx7UJRt3IZxbFHZYQ5__SBVpXyf10cEDRqpbeF62EZrOGQ_xTi1Q9NPkBrB0Gzwog6k9hChhocOv8xiXyTqUMZd8iwQXfnofZ6fkI4Wt86dsrf7VOEy97G60ztecJn1l7mS3mpddvMS/w410-h307/RedDragon+Kumara.jpg" width="410" /></a><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></span><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">by Tony Thomas<div style="-en-clipboard: true;"><br /></div><div style="-en-clipboard: true;">One of my biggest writing obstacles is finding and using writing tools that I am both comfortable with and improve my workflow. Here are some that I have found that help:</div><div><br /></div><div><b>RedDragon Keyboard:</b> I recently purchased a Red Dragon Kumara keyboard. It has real switches that are pretty quiet and have excellent tactile response. Its back-lit keys also allow me to work easily when the lights are off. I find that I can type very fast and accurately with this keyboard (after trying many others) so it is a keeper.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Evernote:</b> After taking a few years off, I renewed my Evernote subscription. I tried to replace it with Google Keep but was not impressed with its overall dependability. I also missed having a dedicated Windows app with word count capability that would sync with all of my other devices while offering a web app. I find the web clipper extension invaluable for organization and research. And, as I often forget things and can become disorganized at times, Evernote functions as an extension of my brain.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Dragon Naturally Speaking:</b> I am regularly using dictation again. While I often type when outlining or drafting, dictation definitely comes in handy when I am "in the flow". As I can talk a lot faster than I can I can type, it definitely increases my productivity and word count without much effort. Dragon NaturallySpeaking is my favorite tool for dictation, although I also use Google dictation and Siri at times.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Scrivener:</b> For writing books, I have not found a better solution than Scrivener. While I often draft in other apps or programs, the content always ends up in Scrivener for final formatting and book production. I also love its tools for tracking project stats and targets.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Google Docs:</b> When I work on my Chromebook or PC, I usually just use Google Docs. It has all of the basic functions I need like built-in dictation, word count, formatting, plus grammar and spell checking. What's not to like?</div><div><br /></div><div><b>iPad:</b> While I use the iPad primarily for content consumption, b<span style="min-height: 11pt;">elieve it or not, I really like typing on the iPad screen. I have been experimenting with a variety of text editors on the iPad and use them quite a bit to come up with ideas and for light drafting. I also like using various outlining and mind mapping apps on the iPad. And having other tools like Evernote and Scrivener on the iPad is a huge plus.</span></div><div><span style="min-height: 11pt;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="min-height: 11pt;">What writing tools do you like to use?</span></div></span></span></div>tony10000http://www.blogger.com/profile/05977366058505227985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2761798190537416047.post-46941968639357099692020-07-20T13:57:00.000-07:002020-07-20T14:05:31.940-07:00Back to Writing Again<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">by Tony Thomas</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">After taking a few years off to concentrate on music production, I finally decided it is time to get back to writing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I want to start writing more books and also start blogging again. I hope to share some of the things that I find on my writing journey with you in the future.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I find myself using my iPad a lot more and also using my PC for dictation. In fact, I am in the process of writing a book on dictation and I hope to have it finished and released soon.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">There are a lot of great tools out there to ease the writing process. I wish I would've had them when I started writing more than 40 years ago. Back then, I just used paper and pencil and an old manual typewriter. The progress from that using some of the early computers like the KayPro in the little NEC PC8201.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I'm fortunate to have written for numerous magazines and other publications such as Mix, Electronic Musician, Recording, AV Video, Roland Users Group, the Cleveland Scene, and others. Unfortunately, there doesn't seem to be a lot of print work anymore and most of the paying stuff is on the web. </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As a result, I have had to learn to adapt my skills to the marketplace. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Still, it is an exciting time to be a writer!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">What you writing these days? What tools are you using? Are you writing for yourself or for others? I would love to hear from you!</span>tony10000http://www.blogger.com/profile/05977366058505227985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2761798190537416047.post-42358329435856544562018-09-13T13:47:00.000-07:002018-09-13T13:47:09.689-07:00How to Write More<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7pdwFE89bnZmR31kZAj4nRfirb72eeR6t-nfMhSiENxnzk-cV9uaunmP-OXGrwjCtYZ7hSkV6gIlq4LN9oLQ4hJAdP0mg-TnNl_ruxdc_L0ftcVKieO8Ffe_0AV6JsI0gPxVTatmzSTZd/s1600/flame.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="961" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7pdwFE89bnZmR31kZAj4nRfirb72eeR6t-nfMhSiENxnzk-cV9uaunmP-OXGrwjCtYZ7hSkV6gIlq4LN9oLQ4hJAdP0mg-TnNl_ruxdc_L0ftcVKieO8Ffe_0AV6JsI0gPxVTatmzSTZd/s320/flame.jpg" width="192" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">by Tony Thomas</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">To write more, first, you must write. Sounds simple, doesn’t it? It begins with a single word. <br /><br />That word turns into a sentence. That sentence turns into a paragraph. Paragraphs turn into pages. And so on. <br /><br />To get the single words that you need to build pages, begin to think in keywords—single words that encapsulate rich ideas that you can build upon. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">These words can be unpacked and expanded to create ideas and sentence structures that form the skeleton of your written composition. These keywords will make it easier to start writing. They stimulate your brain.<br /><br />They are like a small flame that turns into a raging fire.</span><style type="text/css">.alphabetical_list_level_0 { color: #000000; margin-bottom: 5px; line-height: 120%; font-size: 12pt; list-style-type: upper-alpha; text-indent: 1px; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; } .alphabetical_list_level_1 { color: #000000; margin-bottom: 5px; line-height: 120%; font-size: 12pt; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-indent: 2px; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; } .alphabetical_list_level_2 { color: #000000; margin-bottom: 5px; line-height: 120%; font-size: 12pt; list-style-type: disc; text-indent: 3px; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; } .body { color: #000000; margin-bottom: 20px; line-height: 120%; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 400; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; } .bullet_list_level_0 { color: #000000; margin-bottom: 5px; line-height: 120%; font-size: 12pt; list-style-type: disc; text-indent: 1px; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; } .bullet_list_level_1 { color: #000000; margin-bottom: 5px; line-height: 120%; font-size: 12pt; list-style-type: circle; text-indent: 2px; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; } .bullet_list_level_2 { color: #000000; margin-bottom: 5px; line-height: 120%; font-size: 12pt; list-style-type: square; text-indent: 3px; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; } .code { color: #002699; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; line-height: 100%; font-size: 10pt; font-family: 'Roboto Mono', monospace; } .emphasized { color: #f05030; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; line-height: 115%; font-size: 14pt; font-weight: 600; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; } .header_1 { color: #000000; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 15px; line-height: 100%; font-size: 34pt; font-weight: 600; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; } .header_2 { color: #808080; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 15px; font-size: 24pt; font-weight: 400; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; } .header_3 { color: #000000; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 15px; font-size: 18pt; font-weight: 400; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; } .header_4 { color: #000000; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; } .numeric_list_level_0 { color: #000000; margin-bottom: 5px; line-height: 120%; font-size: 12pt; list-style-type: decimal; text-indent: 1px; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; } .numeric_list_level_1 { color: #000000; margin-bottom: 5px; line-height: 120%; font-size: 12pt; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-indent: 2px; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; } .numeric_list_level_2 { color: #000000; margin-bottom: 5px; line-height: 120%; font-size: 12pt; list-style-type: disc; text-indent: 3px; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; } .quote { color: #808080; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 35px; line-height: 115%; font-size: 14pt; font-weight: 400; font-style: italic; font-family: 'Open Sans', cursive; } .hyperlink { color: #1f75cc; } </style></div>
tony10000http://www.blogger.com/profile/05977366058505227985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2761798190537416047.post-79737211785856137362018-08-29T20:38:00.002-07:002020-08-21T03:23:19.032-07:00The Book That Changed How I Approach Writing<br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><em><br /></em></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">by Tony Thomas</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><em><br /></em></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><em>On Writing Well</em>. </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Those three words say it all.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">William Zinsser's book on non-fiction writing is a true gem and is must-read for any writer. It certainly revolutionized the way that I approach writing.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Zinsser taught me that "less is more" and that I need to simplify. He taught me to write to an individual and not to an audience. He also taught me to think clearly.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">One of my favorite quotes from <em>On Writing Well</em>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #262626;"><br /></span></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“But the secret of good writing is to strip every sentence to its cleanest components. Every word that serves no function, every long word that could be a short word, every adverb that carries the same meaning that's already in the verb, every passive construction that leaves the reader unsure of who is doing what--these are the thousand and one adulterants that weaken the strength of a sentence. And they usually occur in proportion to education and rank...” (1)<br /><br />Word economy is the key to clear communication. When I read older works, I often labor to dissect a sentence to determine exactly what a writer meant to say. This is unfortunate and a lot of us are similarly guilty of unnecessary embellishment. We use several paragraphs to convey information that can be summarized in one sentence. Sometimes this is due to arrogance. Sometimes it is just plain laziness.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As Zinsser says, "Writing is hard work". I would add that editing is even harder work.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: georgia, times new roman, serif;">(1) <i>On Writing Well</i>, William Zinsser</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">You can buy a copy of <i>On Writing Well</i> here:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2nZKmHm">https://amzn.to/2nZKmHm</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>tony10000http://www.blogger.com/profile/05977366058505227985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2761798190537416047.post-70576717995726115152018-08-14T21:32:00.000-07:002018-08-14T21:32:10.929-07:00Why I Write<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">by Tony Thomas<br /><br />Why do I write? I write because I love words. I write because I can sculpt my sentences into the messages that I want to convey. I write because writing is the ultimate form of communication.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have been writing professionally for over 40 years. I've written articles, ad copy, radio commercials, collateral material, white papers, and books. I have loved every project and every moment that I have spent writing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes words don't come easy. I have to stop, reflect, and think hard to coax them out. Eventually, they exit my mind and appear on the page. I am not a voluminous writer. I am stingy with my words. I believe in word economy. I mercilessly excise every superfluous sentence and word. Each word in the sentence has to work harder to perfectly render the correct shade of meaning.<br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am a writer. That is why I write.</span></div>
tony10000http://www.blogger.com/profile/05977366058505227985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2761798190537416047.post-24623914269005011352018-07-25T10:47:00.000-07:002018-07-25T10:47:26.330-07:00The Changing Landscape<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">by Tony Thomas</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br />I've noticed that writing is a lot different than it was in the 70s, 80s, and 90s when I was an active writer. <br /><br />First of all, there aren't that many print magazines around anymore. The exceptions are large consumer mags and some specialized trade publications. Paper and printing costs have risen astronomically, and that has either bankrupted or constrained many players in the magazine business.<br /><br />It seems like the British are still very active in magazine publishing judging from my trips to the local Barnes & Noble. Those buying their beautiful magazines probably get sticker shock every time they look at the prices. Some of them cost as much or more than a trade paperback.<br /><br />Consolidation has also taken hold, and there are conglomerates with several similar publications under one roof. Many publications are entirely staff-written and, as a result, there is less work for freelancers. And most of the companies that were once involved in the magazine business have moved their content to the Internet, even if some of them maintain a print version. <br /><br />The Internet has been a game changer in a lot of different ways. Some good, and some not so good. Content mills and writing brokers are pervasive. Some websites that allow you to bid on work, but it is a race to the bottom. Writing rates are going down, down, down. If you are a professional writer and want to get paid well, you have to market yourself to find clients that value quality writing.<br /><br />On the plus side, anyone can start their own blog and write their own self-published book very quickly, easily and inexpensively. As a result, there are fewer barriers to entry for those who want to write. Technology has also improved greatly. <br /><br />In the 70s, I wrote all of my articles on a manual typewriter. In the 80s, I moved to computers. And now, I can dictate my words into a microphone and they are automatically recognized by the programs that I use. That allows me to write faster, even if the final product requires a bit more editing. <br /><br />The only thing that I struggle with is getting back into the frame of mind to write. That requires discipline and a lot of deep thinking. Right now, I am in the process of working to streamline my workflow and strengthen my writing muscles.</span>tony10000http://www.blogger.com/profile/05977366058505227985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2761798190537416047.post-40154484246165933712018-07-23T11:55:00.001-07:002020-08-21T11:10:07.235-07:00My Review of the Speechnotes Voice Dictation App<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTPwVbFhRZ-W5krSGHw2a1wopGI4rMQSJBkiPj5tz-h31QuuDbtI__0T5YlwNteepu0xs9xLk3qt5mTWMsOc6zjH6GBxC3CoWbfSK7JKZkxL0vA2owIWtuuph1iWXcIXBEnAkAfQtKWi-n/s1600/speechnotes+screen.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="762" data-original-width="1439" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTPwVbFhRZ-W5krSGHw2a1wopGI4rMQSJBkiPj5tz-h31QuuDbtI__0T5YlwNteepu0xs9xLk3qt5mTWMsOc6zjH6GBxC3CoWbfSK7JKZkxL0vA2owIWtuuph1iWXcIXBEnAkAfQtKWi-n/s400/speechnotes+screen.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span face="" style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">by Tony Thomas</span></div>
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<span face="" style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">I did a quick YouTube review of the Speechnotes voice dictation app that uses the Google voice recognition engine and works inside the Chrome browser. I use it quite a bit and think that it is a great tool for any professional writer since it is quick and easy to use and requires no setup or training.</span></div>
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<br />tony10000http://www.blogger.com/profile/05977366058505227985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2761798190537416047.post-84321212872589102072018-07-18T12:34:00.000-07:002018-07-19T18:56:07.115-07:00My Writing Journey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">by Tony Thomas</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I began writing professionally in 1976. My first project was a brochure for a small loudspeaker manufacturer. Thankfully, my client was patient with me because I wasn't very good. In fact, he suggested that I take a writing course. I took his advice to heart and took steps to become a better writer. <br /><br />I started reading voraciously and bought an unabridged dictionary. I brushed up on grammar and sentence construction. I also discovered the David Ogilvy book: <i>Confessions of an Advertising Man</i>. That book had a tremendous influence on me and defined my trajectory as a writer. Ogilvy was a brilliant copywriter and a true advertising titan.<br /><br />I went on to become a partner in an advertising agency and started writing for <i>Cleveland Scene</i>, a popular weekly newspaper. Later, I moved to Los Angeles and began writing for a number of magazines including <i>Mix</i>, <i>Electronic Musician</i>, <i>AV/Video</i>, <i>Roland User's Group</i>, and more. I moved back to Cleveland and continued writing. I returned to <i>Cleveland Scene</i> and also began contributing regularly to <i>Recording</i>.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As soon as I discovered the Internet, I began blogging. I started with <i>Tony Thomas' Techtrends</i> beginning in the mid-1990s and added <i>The Frugal Fountain Pen</i> in 2014. I wrote some short e-books that are on Amazon and plan to write many more.<br /><br />Over 40 years later, I am still writing. And I plan to share my writing experiences with you in this blog. I look forward to the journey ahead.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Check out the YouTube video:</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>tony10000http://www.blogger.com/profile/05977366058505227985noreply@blogger.com0