Writer's Database
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It’s a new year and the perfect time to start taking your writing more seriously.
If you're ready to graduate from hobbiest to professional writer, part three in my Submission Tracking for Writers Series may be the tool you need to achieve your goals.
Today I will spotlight Writer's Database and their software that will help you manage the business side of writing.
A picture speaks a thousand words
Writer's Database has many features similar to Writer's Market and Duotrope, but for those writers who are more visually inclined, the graphing feature may be the thing that makes this one more attractive to you.
A little more robust by allowing you to chart your writing habits, Writer's Database’s daily word count graphs allow you to see how much time you are directly devoting to your craft. You can view your output on a daily, weekly, monthly or yearly basis.
You can also use their Facebook feature to share your productivity with your friends and post updates to the newsfeed section of your Facebook profile.
Boldly go where you haven't gone before
Another interesting tool is the “Where hasn’t this manuscript been?” feature.
When you visit the “Search Markets” page, simply select the “No submissions pending @ market” checkbox and you will see a list of markets that you haven't yet sent a particular piece to.
Various search methods
Although markets can be searched for alphabetically, I wish there was an alphabetical "List By Index" option like at Duotrope. There is, however, the ability to sort by keyword, payrate, response time, number of users and date updated for each market listed.
Making progress
If you like to see your progress, and do well with a little encouragement from friends and fellow scribes, Writer's Database may be exactly what you need to organize your writing life.
Share your thoughts
Does the graphing feature of Writer's Database appeal to you? Would sharing your productivity with friends on Facebook help, or would it take time away from your writing?
Share your thoughts in the comments section!
Do you have a tip on local writing events? Email your comments, questions or suggestions for future articles to torontowriting@gmail.com
Comments
I like the idea of the "where hasn't this manuscript been" feature. I keep track in a ledger whenever I send something out, write down valuable feedback when I get a response, but scrolling through when you send a lot of stuff out can be a real pain in the butt. Great stuff in this series. It's very informative.
I think that is a great feature too, Jenny! Anything that can help us as writers and save time is tops in my book. And I'm glad you are enjoying the series - I've got a few more tips coming up soon!
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