As a writer I’m aware of the many complicated and technical ways to operate a writing life. I have found the simpler the system, the better. When you think about it writing is simply using your imagination while you move the pen across the page to write a story, so why make it complicated?

Here are some ideas I incorporated into my writing life that have made it easier and simpler, more organized, and more productive:

1. I use my dining room table to do all my writing. There is enough room to spread out especially when I’m researching a subject using numerous sources. When it’s time for the family to eat, I scoop everything up and pile it in the corner. It’s not difficult, only a little inconvenient. I write, revise, and rewrite at the table and only when I’m satisfied do I sit at my computer and type.

2. I sold my old bulky and space guzzling desk-top for a cheap and basic laptop. If you don’t have the money, have a yard sale or pawn something you no longer use or need. Along with selling the old computer I sold two musical instruments my kids tired of years ago. That gave me enough money for laptop.

3. The laptop, along with a simple printer sits on my modest desk in the living room. I bought the desk at Goodwill and painted it. On the desk I have a lamp, a scented candle and a seashell. Even though it’s a work-horse of a desk I wanted it to be pretty and a comfortable space for me.

4. If you don’t have a desk or are planning to get one make sure it has enough drawers to hold your writing supplies. I have found plastic bins keep the drawers organized at a cheap price. Silverware trays are great for paperclips, stamps, push-pins, etc.

5. I put my old metal file cabinet in the closet; more about that later. In its place I bought a large enough basket with handles to hold file folders. In this basket I keep manuscripts and research material for current projects I’m working on. I also keep post-it notes, a couple of pens, paper, and a copy of Magazine Markets for Children’s Writers. If I need to work on a manuscript, but want to be with my family watching TV or something, my portable basket goes with me. Remember, have basket, will write! I can take my basket with supplies and go wherever I want.

6. My manuscripts are put into color file folders with a pocket. The colored folders help my imagination by adding a layer of joy to my writing world. They also offer a place to store any material related to the piece I’m working on. The other day I was at a dollar store and found beautiful flower-covered file folders. I won’t tell you how many I snatched up! Everything in my basket is labeled for easy access.

7. I keep updated records of where my manuscripts go. I have a manuscript record form that is stapled to the inside of each file folder. It tells me the name of the piece, no. of words, publisher, when I sent it, when it was returned, sold, date of issue, rights, payment/date received, and comments. With one glance I can find what I need to know about my babies.

8. Get a corkboard. Mine hangs above my desk in the living room. You can keep it neat so it looks more like a picture than a mess. I only paid a few dollars on sale at an art store. It measures 17x23, although you can find them larger or smaller depending on your needs. I keep bits and pieces like photos, notes, and affirmations tacked to my corkboard.

9. Instead of a large wall calendar or even a calendar on my computer, I bought a cheap twelve month plan-head spiral bound one at the drug store. I can take it wherever I go; it’s simple to use to keep tract of appointments; has room for notes; a place for addresses; month-at-a-glance. It saves on clutter and can go in my basket.

10. Periodically, I sort through all my files, notes, and research material and discard what I’ll never use again. Any material I want to save goes into a large envelope where it’s labeled, and stored in that metal file cabinet I put in the closet. I keep a running list taped to the side of the cabinet, of all the material stored so I know what I have.

I find that when I’m organized and free from all the “stuff” of writing my mind is clearer and I focus on my work better. If I keep it simple I find the inspiration to keep writing. Try the writing basket approach and see what happens to your writing!

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