Question: Essentials for a Writers Office

Question: I'm setting up my office for freelance writing. What are the essentials that every writer needs? ml

 Answer: Hi ml - mileage will vary but here's what I think is the absolute minimum every writer needs

• A decent computer and monitor with Microsoft Word.
• A good printer - inkjet will do just fine and multi-function printers can serve as fax machines and copiers.
• A ream of white paper - copy paper is just fine.
• An ergonomic chair, keyboard and maybe other items - you'll be spending hours at the computer and you need to sit properly.
• A desk that you can sit at ergonomically.
• A broadband internet connection - for research, etc.
• A phone that you can use while you're on the 'net.
• An easy-to-say-on-the-phone email address.
• A good dictionary - yes, there are good online versions, but you'll find you want a book-style one too.
• A copy of the current Writers Market.
• A plan for your freelance writing business.

You'll also want to read The Writer's Office.

It may be that that plan is the most important.

It doesn't have to be complicated, but it's awfully hard to be really successful if you don't know roughly where you're headed.