Cheap Gadgets for the Writer’s Toolbox

By Debby Giusti

What’s in your toolbox?

I thought it might be fun to talk about the cheap gadgets in my writing toolbox. We all have computers or laptops. Those are costly purchases that are almost a necessity for writers. But what about some of the inexpensive items that make our writing life run more smoothly?

Here are a few of the gadgets you’ll find in my toolbox:

AlphaSmart

The sturdy and durable word processor has 8 files, each of which holds roughly 25 manuscript pages of text. The Alpha’s narrow screen and lack of editing functions keep me moving forward when writing my first draft. Once a file is full, I download the text to my computer. Created for school children, the AlphaSmart is portable, battery powered and seemingly indestructible. If purchased new, the Alpha and the more advanced models--the NEO2 and the upgraded DANA—are expensive, but they can be purchased used at a minimal price online or on eBay. Since many schools are providing laptops or chrome books for their students, I suggest calling your local elementary or middle schools to see if they are phasing out of using AlphaSmarts. If so, you might be able to purchase an Alpha from the school at a reduced cost.

Kitchen Timer

When I’m on deadline, my kitchen timer is my best friend. I grab my AlphaSmart and set my timer for thirty minutes of non-stop typing. The timer’s constant ticking helps to keep me focused and on task. When the timer dings at the end of the thirty minutes, I relax my hands, stand and stretch, gulp some water and give my brain time to regroup before I set the timer again. When the words are flowing, I can fill a 25-page file on my AlphaSmart in six thirty-minute writing bursts. Best of all, the basic kitchen timer sells for under $5.

Multi-plug USB Hub

I’m sure you all use this gadget. I have two of them attached to my laptop. They allow me to keep my external hard drive, my printer, mouse and AlphaSmart cable hooked up and ready for use. The hubs cost less than $10 and can be found at Staples, Walmart or anywhere computer products are sold. 

Desk

For years, I worked on a 4-foot Folding Banquet Table instead of an actual desk. The tables are currently available at Target for a reasonable $31.49. Walmart also carries them. The 4-foot table provides a large enough work space for a computer, research material, paper and pens and other necessities. I stacked plastic crates--a cheap way to store files and books--under the table and had everything within reach that I needed. The table is small enough to fit into most bedrooms or alcove areas. Add a lamp and a surge protector, and you’ll be ready to work in your new office space.

Photo: www.Target.com

Yeti Rambler Tumbler

Writers need to stay hydrated that’s why I keep my Yeti close at hand. The Yeti tumbler is well-insulated, doesn’t sweat and keeps drinks ice cold all day. The tumbler can also be used for hot beverages and maintains the temperature of any drink for hours.  Order your Yeti online for $29.99 or find them at your favorite outdoors store.  

  

2 ½ inch Three-Ring Binder

When time permits, I print a hard copy of my manuscript, punch holes in the pages and insert them into a binder. The 2 ½ inch size works perfectly for my 55,000 word Love Inspired Suspense stories. I read my draft and make corrections on the page without fear of losing the initial text in case I decide later to include the deleted material. To make additions to the manuscript, I write on the blank backside of the previous page. When I’m ready to insert the changes into my computer file, I start on the last page in my binder and work forward so my hard copy pages sync with the computer pages. Binders sell for under $5.

WordWeb Pro

This online dictionary and thesaurus is better than cheap, it’s free for download at http://wordweb.info/. With a couple of key strokes, I can check spelling, word definitions and find synonyms and antonyms.

Ergonomic Keyboard

Laptop keyboards are not user friendly. Last year, I bought an external ergonomic keyboard that’s far easier to use and places my hands in a better position when I type. It also allows me to raise my laptop onto a box, thus elevating the screen almost to eye level. I use a Logitech keyboard that sells for $44, although cheaper models are also available.

Pillows

Pillows? That’s right. I have an old desk chair so I “pad” the seat with a pillow and use a Forever Comfy Combination Cushion to support my back. I sometimes add a lumbar roll for extra support. I purchased the Comfy Cushion for $11.99 at Ross. The lumbar roll was equally as inexpensive.

Briefcase

For conferences, I use a rolling briefcase. My first one was a Solo Rolling Briefcase that I bought at Ross for about $30. It came in handy during an RWA conference when I was staying at the “other” hotel, which meant lots of walking. As you can imagine, the wheels were a lifesaver and allowed me to cart my Goodie Room giveaways, conference program, handouts, notebooks and paperbacks without pain or strain. Walmart carries a Protégé 16 inch Rolling Briefcase for $27.00 and Amazon features AmazonBasics Rolling Laptop for $38.99.

Folding Cart

Another back saver is a Mobile Folding Cart from Office Depot that’s perfect for hauling books and promo items. I use mine when attending reader luncheons or signings. The plastic bin is large enough to haul a couple of cases of books, promo items and a giveaway author basket. When not in use, the cart folds up and has an easy carrying handle. The cart I have currently sells at Office Depot for $24.99.

What are your favorite writing tools? Leave a comment to be entered in two drawings. Each winner will receive a copy of AMISH REFUGE, the first book in my Amish Protectors series. The winners will also receive a two-in-one that features my story, PLAIN DANGER, as well as THE SHEPHERD’S BRIDE, by Patricia Davids. An added gift for each winner is one of my favorite writing tools, a Kitchen Timer!

Happy writing!

Wishing you abundant blessings,

Debby Giusti

www.DebbyGiusti.com

www.craftieladiesofromance.blogspot.com

AMISH REFUGE

By Debby Giusti

HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT

Miriam Miller barely escapes the ruthless attacker that killed her mother and kidnapped her sister. Running deeper into the woods, she’s running out of hope…until she falls into the arms of an unlikely bodyguard—a peaceful Amish farmer. Something about Abram Zook inspires her trust, but even in bucolic Willkommen, Georgia, Miriam faces danger. Both from the men pursuing her and from her growing feelings for the caring—though guarded— widower who protects her. Because if she falls for Abram she’ll have to embrace his Amish faith as her own—or lose him. With each minute, her abductor creeps closer, pushing Miriam to an inevitable choice: stay and risk her heart…or leave and risk her life.

Order HERE.