The internet is a big place, and there’s a boatload of information out there!

OK, I’m sure you know this already. But, I am very grateful for the wealth of knowledge available at my fingertips every time I open my laptop. Whether I’m learning a new skill or simply doing research, I utilize every possible resource. Since I work out of a remote office in Namibia, I rely heavily on online tools like webinars, blogs, and e-books to help me get work done.

Allow me to share some of my favorite writing resources with you…from creative writing to blogging and SEO. Enjoy!

Blogging

How to Become a Well-Paid Freelance Blogger: This e-book and worksheet walks through all of the principles of a great blog, from setting up a blog to creating great content to SEO.

CopyBlogger: Comprehensive site that talks about (you guessed it), both blogging and copywriting. Great tips on SEO as well.

ProBlogger: This site has articles, videos, e-books and much more. A really great resource if you want to take a deep dive into blogging.

Social Media Examiner: Anything you’d ever need or want to know about social media. From beginner stuff to advanced analytics, it’s all here.

SEO Book: In the ever changing world of search engine optimization, it’s important for me to stay up to date. SEO book has tips and articles from keywords to link building and lots more.

Freelance Writing

Freelance Writing on About.com: For anyone just starting out in the freelance world, or even seasoned freelancers, this About.com section has a ton of information.

Make a Living Writing: This blog offers great advice on how to grow your own freelance writing business. From articles to webinars and even e-books, there is a lot of motivational and helpful content on this site.  

Writer’s Market: This is like the yellowpages for all things writing. And, it’s just as big! The print publication comes out once a year and includes all types of listings from agents to editors and everything in between. You can also sign up for the online service, but I have to say that the printed version is much better. All in all, it’s an awesome resource.

Freelance Writing: This comprehensive site is perfect for all freelance writers. Including articles, jobs, contests and even tutorials. I really like their “ask the experts” section.

Novel Writing

Writers in the Storm: This novel writing blog always has tips on plot, character, setting and all of the different tools nee

ed to write a novel.

Writer’s Digest: I subscribe to the print magazine, but I use their website regularly and I get their newsletter.

Nathan Bransford: Former literary agent, turned freelance, Nathan Bransford’s blog regularly includes things like “should I hire an editor for my book” and other important questions for novelists. His book, How to Write a Novel, is available on Amazon.

Writing With Emotion, Tension, and Conflict: Techniques for Crafting an Expressive and Compelling Novel: This Writer’s Digest book by Cheryl St. John is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to amp up the tension in their novel.

The Seven Basic Plots: Why We Tell Stories: This classic plot book by Christopher Booker is a must read for anyone diving into the world of novel writing. The book goes through these seven classic plot lines, with plenty of examples along the way.

Grammar

Grammar Girl: For those of you (like me), who can’t remember every single grammar rule…there’s Grammar Girl! This lighthearted, up to date, and incredibly accurate site is a wealth of information about grammar.

Grammarly: This is a very well-regarded online grammar checking program. Great if you’re a content creator for your company and need someone to proofread your work. It’s a paid subscription service, with monthly rates starting at around $30 USD and annual rates starting around $140 USD.

 

For note-taking, check out my post on Ideas to Make Your Freelance Life Easier , where I talk about the wonders of Microsoft One Note.

What are some of your go-to writing resources? Comment below to share!

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