The web is full of grammar resources, but how do you find out inclusive ways to write about characters? What about style? In this tool kit, you’ll find writing resources that go beyond grammar, as well as the nuts and bolts of grammar. Editors will also find this page helpful, as we’re always learning.
Be sure to bookmark this site, as it will be updated periodically.
Resources last updated: Saturday, February 17, 2024
The Craft of Writing
- Words At Play by Merriam-Webster.com
Merriam-Webster is not just a dictionary! M-W also has a blog, which is geared at language changes that haven’t quite made it into the dictionary yet. Don’t know what “yeet” means? No worries—M-W addresses that!
Conscious Language
Part of the craft of language is keeping up with how language changes, which includes understanding conscious and inclusive language. The following resources help address the current changes.
- Conscious Style Guide
This style guide has a plethora of information! It may feel a little overwhelming, but take your time with it. - Writing With Color
This is an invaluable tool. If you‘re looking for a place to start, check out their featured posts. - Conscious Language PerfectIt style sheet by Sofia Matias
This is a style sheet that can be uploaded to the Windows version of PerfectIt. Matias is a lone individual and isn’t a conscious language authority. Per Matias, “I am by no means an authority on conscious language, and this sheet is not a definitive guide on what language you should use or not or a way to ‘police’ your writing.” As an editor, I have used this sheet to help an author discover one of their fantasy creature names was a not-well-known slur, allowing the author to update their manuscript. It’s definitely a check worth running. - Words in the Middle
This is a podcast I am working through, listening to episodes here and there. - Rabbit with a RedPen’s Conscious Language Toolkit for Writers and Editors
When I am in a pinch or am questioning a certain word or phrase, the editor’s version has rescued me more than once. - Resources for Writing Disabled Characters
This is a collection of resources and articles I am working my way through, compiled by Allison Alexander, a colleague of mine in the Editors Tea Club, about how to write characters with disabilities.
Nuts and Bolts of Grammar
- Grammar Girl
Mignon Fogarty has both a blog and a podcast, which offers options based on the type of learner you are. - The Chicago Manual of Style Online
If you need to follow The Chicago Manual of Style and if you can swing a subscription, I would highly recommend it. However, if that’s not in your budget, CMOS Online does have some free resources, such as their Citation Quick Guide; their Q&A section; and their blog, CMOS Shop Talk. - APStyleBook.com
Again, if you can swing a subscription and you need to follow AP style, I would highly recommend it. But there are free resources on the site as well. Ask the Editor Style Guidance offers guidance on grammar and punctuation as well as figures, numerals, and dimensions. - Purdue Online Writing Lab (Purdue OWL)
This writing resource is geared toward students and faculty at Purdue University. However, others online can use it. I have found their writing lab easy to understand and navigate. - Copyediting-L
Copyediting-L is a discussion list geared toward editors. However, as a writer, you can still learn a lot!
Tools and Tech
- Microsoft Word
Word is the industry standard when it comes to writing (drafting) and editing. It most definitely has its quirks, but given how ubiquitous it is in the industry, you‘ll do yourself a favor if you get this software. Also, use the spell checker, despite it being far from perfect. (You‘ll have to make decisions on a case-by-case basis.) - PerfectIt by Intelligent Editing
As an editor, PerfectIt has been an invaluable tool. It is an add-on to Microsoft Word and functions as a consistency checker, but it doesn’t do the work for you. You still need to verify each suggestion. If you have a Mac, you may want to consider using a Windows virtual machine—PerfectIt on Mac for Word is fairly lacking. For writers, there may be some handy tools, such as the Conscious Language PerfectIt style sheet mentioned above. - Parallels
This software allows you to create a virtual machine on your computer. I use a Mac and primarily use Parallels to run software that just seems to work better in Windows, such as PerfectIt. - Macros by Paul Beverley
Macros are basically programmed actions that can be completed with a click of a button or two. Beverley does have a YouTube channel that can walk you through different macros as well as how to install macros. (Beverley does use a Windows PC typically; however, I personally haven’t had much trouble using macros on macOS.) - Touch Portal
This is a macro remote control that, of course, launches macros but also allows the user to launch and control programs on their computer. I find it handy to use it to run macros that I use frequently (but not frequently enough to memorize a shortcut). There is a free version, but after using it for only a short while, I ended up purchasing a license. What I also like about this is that I was about to upcycle an old tablet—and by old, I mean this tablet was originally launched back in 2013. - Grammarly and the Hemmingway App
I am hesitant to suggest Grammarly and Hemmingway. The “corrections” offered aren’t always correct, but more importantly, the software can strip a writer of their voice if the writer accepts all the suggestions without careful examination. However, the tools are good for catching unwieldy sentences and typos.
Staying Active and Taking Rest
Not quite what you were expecting in a tool kit dedicated to editing and writing resources, I‘m sure! However, if I am not moving, I get drained, and I am not at my best. When it comes to writing and editing, your brain and eyes are your most valuable tools.
Look for ways to stay active during the day in whatever capacity you are physically able to—whether that’s moving your lower legs with a rocking footrest, making a point to take a daily stet walk, or just swinging your arm around. We all have different levels of ability, so do your best. Of course, definitely have a chat with your physician before incorporating anything new.
Additional writing resources writers should tap into?
Editors that specialize in the type of editing required.
If you’re ready to move in that direction, please contact me!
Disclaimer: Please note that I am not responsible for where external links lead or any individual’s experience with any software downloaded based on this list. Also, I cannot be responsible for anything listed or referenced on external sites, nor am I responsible for their privacy policies. Be sure to check out each site’s privacy policy.