Do You Have an Apple in Your Toolbox?

Ok, so "Apple" here is in reference to an "Apple" Device and NOT a delicious fruit.  

I know many of us use Apple devices to write, chat, post, text, and revolve our writing world around such devices. There are many, many apps geared towards writers and some only available for the Mac operating system.

Tech is great, when it works but stops us cold when it doesn't.

I know that no one has time to read a giant tech manual; therefore, today's post is short, sweet, and laser focused on keeping your Apple Device (in this case, computer) running smoothly with some solid best practices. Do not fall into the trap that turning a Mac on for the first time means you are safe. There are many tweaks that you need to do to button up security options.

Apple Laptops and Desktops

• Keep in mind that only MacOS Catalina and higher are receiving updates now. Apple tends to only support OS for the most recent 3 Major Upgrades. Once is a blue moon, an older device will get a core update when it's something uber critical.
• When major or minor updates come out (aka Security Updates,) wait a day or two to ensure the update isn't causing major headaches.
• Keep up with your Time Machine updates so you have a backup plan in place if something goes wrong.
• From time to time, make a copy on a USB of  your most precious files (this is different from a Time Machine backup).
• Find 2 or 3 good sources of info and check those often.
• Apple Insider is one of my key points for updates.
• Bookmark key Apple Support knowledge base documents or reference.
• Make use of the Apple discussion community. Lots of good, free advice.
• The support section really cover a lot of ground, but can be overwhelming. 
• Use one Apple ID for all to keep all your devices in sync.
• If you use one for personal and one for work, be sure to set up Family Sharing to cover both.
• Do I need an Anti-Virus, Malware cleaner, or other Utility?
• This is an age-old question and one of major debate.
• Contrary to belief, Mac's can still have issues. Virus, no. Malware or Adware, yes.
• In some cases, most of the issues are because users mistakenly overide the basic security through mis-informed actions.
• Best Defense is a good offense.
• Use the built in App store.
• Update your security settings to use only App Store and Approved vendors.
• If you purchase a 3rd party app outside of the app store, be sure it is legit.
• If using another browser besides Safari, make sure you keep it up-to-date.
• Chrome defaults to automatic update
• Firefox has controllable settings
• Safari updates via the the mac app store or Software update (depending on your OS).
• There are 2 apps I recommend
• Etrecheck: a utility that can tell you a lot about the health of your machine and can identify real issues.
• Malwarebytes for Mac: one of the only apps suggested by Apple and can be found as references on the Apple Discussion forum. They offer a free passive scanner and a paid active scanner. The free trial gives you everything at first and then reverts to a passive scanner once that is over. Well worth it with little to no stress on your system.
• There are some other reputable apps out there, but most geared towards a specific function. Do your research before you install anything.
• Turn your Firewall ON and don't forget the sub-setting for fine tuning.

Knowing what to do when things go wrong, keeping your tech updated, and knowing WHERE to look for help is 50% of the battle in keeping everything up and running smoothly so you can spend your time writing and NOT rebuilding your Mac from the ground up.

-Darren Kehrer

The Writing Toolbox: One App to Rule Them All?

We all have our favorite writing apps, note taking apps, picture apps, and apps that keep track of ideas. In fact, regardless of your technology platform, writers have many choices these days. “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” might not really apply as strongly as it did before app stores became populated with so many apps for writers.

These days, Microsoft Office is not the only writing app out there. Yes, once it was the staple of the writing industry (well, besides pen, paper, or typewriter), but now it’s just a choice among many.  As Mr. Scott of the starship Enterprise once said, “How many times have I told you? You need the right tool for the right job.” (Star Trek V, for those wondering).

Because I write on the Apple technology platform, I will be suggesting a few apps that I have found useful. By the way, Apple does a great job of categorizing “writing apps” on their respective app stores (Mac App Store vs iOS App Store).

Apple Pages, Keynote, and Numbers are the “Apple versions” of Microsoft Office. These three apps have come along way since they were first introduced as the iWork suite back in 2005. The bonus here is that all three apps are free. When funds are limited, they can give those using Apple technology a ready to use set of applications that are robust in options and not considered entry level software.

Other software useful to writers:
• Story Planner
• Lists for Writers
• Scrivener
• Storyist
• Cardflow
• Wordsmith
• MS OneNote
• WattPad
• Inkflow Plus
• Notepad Pro
• Simplemind
• Notability

The bottom line here is that many apps specialize in different purposes: sketching out visuals, mind mapping, giving you a place to organize your ideas, and to actually construct your story. Everyone has their favorite app, but be sure not to limit yourself. Many apps offer free trials or a limited free version that allows you to test how useful it would be to your needs.

Points of Discussion: What are some of the apps you use for your writing needs?

Write on, Write often, and Write to make a difference!
-Darren Kehrer

The Apple in Your Toolbox

By Darren Kehrer

One of the most important tools in the writer's toolbox is the technology we use to spin our tales, log our adventures, and record the journeys throughout everyday life. Our computers, tablets, and cell phones have replaced the ink and quill of writers in days of old.

We all have our favorite devices, brands, and systems that make up the devices in our well-rounded toolbox. Like lightsabers to Jedi Knights, these are the tools of our trade. For me, my toolbox seems to full of Apples, as in Apple products that is.

Regardless of the device, a few important practices can keep all of your "tools" in great shape. No matter the device, be sure to follow are part of your routines:

• Back up your devices: Computer, Tablet, or cell phone
• Use an external HD or online service.
• Use A/V or Malware software:
• Do your research. Use one that is reputable, not a CPU hog, and is routinely well supported and updated.
• Yes, MacOS can be vulnerable, but they are a tougher nut to crack. The bottom line is that Mac's need to be setup properly in order to be secure. Do not assume that, after powering up your new Mac, you are fully protected. I recommend Malwarebytes for Mac (which is FREE).
• The bottom line: users can be tricked into something malicious. Know how to use your technology in order to prevent issues.
• Don't use extremely outdated software or devices that access the Internet.
• Using outdated technology or software can open you up to issues that come in the form of incompatible software, bugs, and security issues.
• Technology is constantly evolving. The minimum requirements for software and security are always on the move.
• For major software updates, however, give yourself a week or so to make sure no major bugs found their way into the update that would result in hindering your product work flow.
• Keep a good array of apps to accomplish various tasks: 
• MS Word, Apple Pages, Scrivener, and Storyist are great writing apps.
• There are many other apps for drawing, logos, mind mapping, and image editors that all have a place to help you in your writing process.
• Keep up with technology news.
• Pick 3 sources to keep up with news about the devices and software you use. This is key to being alerted about issues, bugs, and updates.

Over the next several months, my posts will be focusing on best practices, great writing software, and a few pieces of software you may not even know about.

An Apple a day keeps your writing progress here to stay!

Just Browsing

By Darren Kehrer

Technology...we all love it when it works, but want to throw it out the window when it doesn't. It can make our lives better and it can complicate our lives beyond belief.

I would wager that all of us use the Internet every day, multiple times a day, and some of us every minute of every day. To that end, we all use Internet browsers to "surf" the web: Internet Explorer, Safari, Firefox, and Chrome seem to be the 4 most of us use on a regular basis. 

Website standards are always changing. Hackers are always trying to find another way into your computer through your browser. The technology powers that be are always updating their browsers to stay ahead of (or react to) those hackers and to make sure the websites you visit look and feel the way the designers intended.

Keeping your browser up to date is an easy defense against drive-by attacks (meaning your computer could possibly be compromised just by visiting a malicious website). Most browsers have a built-in update function to either manually update or automatically update once updates become available. This function either happens when your computer checks for updates (Apple Safari and Microsoft Internet Explorer) or there is a drop down menu button that allows you access to this function (Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox).

Everyone has a favorite browser. At times, I've found a website that only works with (or works better) with another browser; therefore, I keep 2 browsers on my computer to have a backup in case I need it.

It's safe to say that the computer you are using right now either came with Apple Safari or Microsoft Interenet Explorer as a default. I would suggest you either keep Firefox or Chrome as a secondary browser, should you run accross a website that requires a different browser than the one you are using.

As a side and final note, be sure to keep your installed plugins up to date as well (flash player, adobe reader, etc) as that is another avenue that malicious websites can use to access your computer or even plant something nasty).

Blog Away, Blog Away, Blog Away All....

By Darren Kehrer

So you have a blog, it's based on Blogger, and you have a smart phone. Guess what? There is a Blogger app available for most smart phones via your version of an "app store." I will, however, specifically be focusing on the version of the app that is available for Apple iOS.
It turns out that many people didn't know it even exists. Now you can blog on the fly, answer posts on other people's blogs, and check on your own blog at a moments notice while being mobile.

What else can you do:

• Compose a post that you can save as a draft or even publish immediately
• View a list of your saved and published posts
• You can switch accounts (for those of you that have multiple blogs).
• Upload pics from your phone
• Add labels to your posts
• Add location information to your posts (not always advisable)

....and all from your iPhone or iPad.

If you haven 't tried it, it is FREE.

You've Got the Power

I did something today I've never done before. I walked my 70-year old mother through her first on-line shopping experience. I'll spare you all the gory details, but just picture this: I have the computer; she has the need for new pants. We're on the phone together and she knows nothing about websites, on-line shopping, or the number of the specific Levi's she wants to purchase. So, as I try to find the perfect pair of pants for my gray-haired momma who is under 95 pounds and stands 5-foot, 1-inch, including her cow-lick, I’m also trying to help her understand the art of on-line shopping. We successfully found the jeans of her dreams and I got them for 25% off and free shipping. But I digress.

This experience prompted me to post about it on Facebook which elicited a rather interesting and lengthy conversation with some friends about the lack of techno- know-how of our aging parents.

 I thought about my own journey with technology. Before I graduated from high school 20 years ago, I learned to type on a typewriter. College afforded a little more technology but computers were basically fancy word processors, to use one you went and waited your turn in the lab, and I didn’t even have an email account.

 Since starting this journey of writing, I’ve learned to cut and paste—on a screen, not with art supplies, post a review, send a fax, create and update a blog, post a status update and a tweet, and a slew of other things that seem commonplace today.

 And I’ll likely learn new things, things that haven’t even been thought of yet. And I’ll do it because it is my job. Just as a surgeon needs to comprehend his instruments or a chef needs to know his recipes, I must make it my business to master my business.

 There are a few ways you can learn technology even when you feel like you’ve just stepped from the pages of Stone Age Today.

Ø  Read books, study on-line, or ask questions. Use the knowledge gained by others to your own advantage.

Ø  Take classes at the local community college, library, or computer store. Often they're free or inexpensive.

Ø  Ask a teenager. Chances are whatever new-fangled thing you need to learn, he or she already knows and will teach you in exchange for food.

 So, I’m curious. Are you letting lack of technology know-how hold you back or are you on the cutting edge of all things geek? What do you do when faced when learning something new? How do you stay current in this ever-changing world?

Nikki Studebaker Barcus

iPod as Teacher, Mentor, and Friend

In one of our past ACFW Indiana Chapter meetings, our guest speaker was Dr. Dennis Hensley. It was a GREAT meeting full of insights and lessons on how to create an awesome story. Reflecting back, however, I still can't believe Dr. Hensley didn't ask why UPS delivered a treadmill to the meeting room right before we ate dinner. In fact, he didn't even give me a second look as I got on the treadmill after the meal to work out why we listened to his awesome keynote address. No speaker has ever complained about me fast-walking around the room during one of their lectures either. Consequently, no one has ever noticed my exercise equipment at any of the past ACFW national meetings. Odd? Maybe, or maybe not...


Well, you might be thinking, "I don't remember seeing him do that" or, "He can't be serious." But, I was there, doing just what I said...only "attending" at a much later time than the original event. 


As you might have guessed by now, I was listening to these events on my iPod while performing other activities in the here an now. I purchased the last several years of ACFW conferences on CD or flash drive, imported them into iTunes (available for either Mac or PC), and then selectively transferred them to my iPod for listening, learning, and absorbing the information while walking on the treadmill, walking at the park, or just lounging around the house (yes I do lounge from time to time).


I also listen to podcasts of episodes from "In the Market with Janet Parshall," "Midday Connection," and many of the available ACFW conference courses that have been available to members.  Midday Connection does a podcast every year about the "Write to Publish" conference. Janet Parshall also interviews Christian authors on regular intervals.  Chris Fabry has some good podcasts as well. And, in case you didn't know, the ACFW classes are available in various media formats.


Just with the sources I mentioned above, I have plenty of material to listen to.  It's like travelling back in time to listen to everything while still being able to get something else done while attending that event.


It's really a great benefit of modern technology that you can make these types of events "portable" to learn (and listen) on the go.  If you find yourself short on time, or always busy, I encourage you to invest in an iPod (any version) and make use of this technology to improve your writing. Turn your jogging course at the park into a writing course.  iPods are available starting at $49.00. For those of you with iPhones, this feature is also available to you.

• Here is a link to Apple regarding iPods: http://www.apple.com/ipod/
• If you already own an iPod: http://www.apple.com/support/ipod/
• Here is a great reference book for anyone wanting to learn more about how to use their iPod: iPod: The Missing Manual

My Computer is Secure, or is it?

Besides “True” or “False,” you might have been thinking “always,” “never,” “sometimes” or some other colorful metaphor in response. Unless you write and submit your manuscripts by pen and paper, your computer is the means that allows you to “pen” your stories, articles, and blog posts. Your computer allows you to email your fellow ACFW members, update your facebook account, send tweets, and connect you to your readers. With all of these technological wonders at your disposal, you have the makings of a giant technological mountain to climb in order to keep your software up-to-date and secure.

Technology organizes your life, allows you to electronically communicate with others, and enables you to publish your stories. Writers depend on their computers, tablets, internet connections, wifi signals, and smartphones to accomplish all the tasks that writers perform. The personal computer is at the center of all of these devices. It is not a far stretch to say that your writing life revolves around your computer. But, as you probably well know, technology can also be very frustrating, difficult, and in some cases, dangerous. “Dangerous,” you might be thinking with an unbelieving look on your face. Yes. Unfortunately, there are people out there in cyberspace that count on users NOT keeping their computer (or other device) secure by not knowing how to do so. I hope that you have not been taken down that road. 

In an effort to streamline the security process, I have developed 10 quick-and-easy guideposts that can keep you from getting over burdened by all the actions you must take in order to keep your computer (or any tech device) secure and safe.

Knowing is half the battle:

1. Develop 5 sources of information on the internet where you routinely look for help and to keep up-to-date with security threats for your devices. These sources should always be the ones that are the most current. Why 5? Because there are TONS of resources on the internet. If you spend all of your time checking endless websites, you will never get any writing done. By having a few good specific sources to check, you maximize the time you spend searching and increase the chances of finding what you are looking for. TIP: the first place you should always look is the website of the company that made your device: Apple, Microsoft, Motorola, Nokia, AT&T, Verizon, etc. Look for knowledge base articles and a user support forum within these websites.
2. Develop some “go to” people that are familiar with your devices that do not mind you calling on them for help. As they help you understand your tech, make every effort to learn the how and why in regards to the issue and how to solve it. Take good notes and ask questions. Ask your teacher where they get their information from in order to start building your own sources. 
3. Find one or two good books on the subject of your technological device. There are endless books about X, Y and Z. Check Amazon to see what the pros and cons are of the book your looking at before investing. TIP: I recommend “The Missing Manual” series of books by O’Reilly (David Pogue). They have a book for almost everything and regularly update it.
4. Schedule time to learn about your device, explore the features, and become an efficient user of your technology. 
5. Don’t be afraid of it. Overcome the fear by learning. We tend to fear what we do not understand. Do not fall into the trap of “it can’t happen to me.” I know plenty of computer users that never backed up their data, fell victim to malware, or had their data hacked because they thought it could never happen to them. 

The next steps are geared towards making sure that the software behind your devices is up-to-date. Both Apple and Microsoft operating systems are updated on a regular basis, especially when a prominent security threat has been detected or reported. In fact, it becomes even more important to get your computer updated in this last case because it then becomes a publicized security threat.

Keeping up is NOT hard to do:

1. Both Mac and Windows operating systems have a software update function that can be set to automatically download and install updates, notify you of updates, or both. You minimize your security risk by keeping your software up-to-date. These updates also usually contain bug fixes for your software.
2. It is easy to forget, but 3rd Party apps also need updated. Your web browser uses Java and Flash Player. You view PDF files with Adobe Reader software. You might be using Firefox as your main web browser. All of these 3rd party applications get updated on a regular basis to fix security issues and add new features. The makers of each application are the best sources to get these updates, but you should also be able to use their built-in update function or automatic updates function mentioned earlier as well).
3. Make sure you have your firewall turned ON and that you update your Antivirus software definitions on a daily basis. Your AV software will also have an automatic update setting.
4. Make Backups of your data (or at least your most important documents, like your manuscripts). There are two kinds of people in the world: Those who back up their data, and those who will.
5. Passwords: do not use the same password for everything, password-protect your laptop if you travel, and be sure your in-house wifi network is password protected (including the wireless unit itself).

Taken collectively, this list can help keep your computers secure, save you the costly time and money needed for repairs, and keep you writing by avoiding the downtimes resulting from issues. I recommend that you keep a notebook to jot down notes about your tech. Keep a checklist to help you stay focused and organized to keep your use of time efficient. Always know where, when, and who to ask for help.

The Find and Replace Command for Writers

The FIND command in Microsoft Word is always a significant time-saver for me. Following are four helpful ways I use the FIND command on my WIP.

1. Name changes.
Have you ever completed the first rough draft and decided your character’s name or the spelling of his or her name needs changing? Maybe everyone isn’t aware that a writer doesn’t have to go through the entire manuscript and retype the new name for the character.

Instead, hold down the CONTROL key and press F. This brings up the FIND and REPLACE window. Click on the REPLACE tab, and depending on which version of Microsoft Word is on your computer, you may have to click on the MORE button near the bottom of the new window.

First type the character’s original name in the FIND window, and next type the new name in the REPLACE window. Click on the REPLACE ALL tab and instantly all 2,000 entries of your character’s old name is now replaced with the new name.

Keep in mind, this program recognizes spaces also. If you type a space after your first entry in the FIND window, and you do not type in a space after the name in the REPLACE window, you’ll end up with words running together—so use accordingly. Remember if you mess up, you can always use the UNDO command to return to your prvious setting(CONTROL Z). Even so, my suggestion is to save a backup copy of your work before you begin experimenting.

2. Overuse of my favorite words.
"Just" and "because" are two of the most overused words in my WIP. (I'm from the South). I use the FIND command to locate all uses of the offending word in my WIP, (for example just). I like to check the HIGHLIGHT ALL option before I click the FIND ALL. (This HIGHLIGHT ALL command highlights every use of the word for which I’m searching.)

As soon as I click FIND ALL the computer finds all entries of just and highlights them. At this time, before I click the mouse or type a letter, I press CONTROL B to bold all of the words I just highlighted. After doing this, I can review and evaluate each time the offending word is used and decide whether to keep it or not.

Another option is to hold down the CONTROL key and press PAGE DOWN. Doing this will take you to the next highlighted word in your FIND search.

Sometimes I’m looking for a certain scene or situation in my WIP and if I can’t find it, I might type in a word or phrase I know was used in that scene; such as handgun, boat, etc. Using the FIND command, and then holding CONTROL and pressing PAGE DOWN allows me to scroll through the WIP and find the exact paragraph for which I’m searching.

3. Expunge those nasty extra spaces at the end of a paragraph.
Sometimes at the end of the paragraph I press the spacebar after the period before I press enter (it’s a habit). I know it isn’t important, but we all want to send in a tidy MS. When I’m finished with the MS and I’m ready to polish it, I use the FIND and REPLACE command to find all periods, spaces, and paragraph marks, and I change them to eliminate the unwanted space after the period.

This is where that SPECIAL tab at the bottom of the screen comes in handy. When you open this tab it gives you a list of formatting characters you can use in your search, such as PARAGRAPH MARK.

4. Character speech tags.
The find command is great for improving a character’s consistency in speech patterns. For example, some of us say “all right”, while others use “okay”. Some say “perhaps” and others “maybe”. Using the find command, I can tighten up the speech patterns of my characters by searching these words and making sure my characters talk different.

Of course, we all need to occasionally check how many times we have a character; nod, shrug, eyes roll, etc. Somtimes I discover characters imitate bobble-headed dolls the way they nod and shake their heads all the time. The FIND command is a great help for this.

Perhaps you have other uses for the FIND command which you’d like to share. If any of this is interesting to you, but you're still confused, let me know and I'll break it down in layperson's terms.

Happy finding!

The Print Screen Command for Writers

A trick that has been valuable to me as a writer has been the PRINT SCREEN command. Many users aren’t aware this key is on their computer, but usually it is located at the top right of the keypad and has the letters PrtSc on the button. This button does only one job; it takes a picture of your computer screen. It functions like the COPY command, except it copies only the computer screen.

Of course, you have to use the PASTE command to see the new photo. Most often I use this command when I am researching the Internet and the Web site will not allow me to use the normal COPY and PASTE command.

At the Web site, I first press the PRINT SCREEN which takes a photograph of everything on my computer screen. Next I open a blank page in Microsoft Word, then I hold down CONTROL and press V to paste the photo--or I navigate to the EDIT menu and choose PASTE.

The new image should now appear as a photo on your Word document, which will allow you to resize. I have also discovered this tool is valuable when viewing a movie and I need a snapshot of a character, etc.

Once, I even used PRINT SCREEN to copy error messages that kept popping up on my computer screen (the phone tech didn't want to believe me). I then e-mailed the photo to the support site I was working with.

Need the names of cast of a movie as they fly by on the screen? Take a snapshot with PRINT SCREEN and paste it in Word.

Other uses for PRINT SCREEN;
When I’m in Windows Explorer (some of us call it "My Computer") and I need a copy of the names of my files, PRINT SCREEN is quick and easy.

PRINT SCREEN also works great to make a quick copy of the tracks on a music CD or playlist to insert in your CD album cover. No typing involved.

Sometimes I have a large file of photos I need to edit and PRINT SCREEN is an easy way to print a checklist so I can cross off the ones I’ve edited.

You get the idea.

Keyboard Shortcuts for the Busy Writer

Even though I’ve taught computer for ten years, I’m still surprised at the increasing skill level of students each semester. Every year I have to raise the bar and increase the workload for students because they continue to complete the projects before the semester is over. One of the most valuable strategies I use, which always seems valuable is the use of keyboard shortcuts for Microsoft Office programs.

Most of us know a few keyboard shortcuts; While you hold down the CONTROL key, press P and it brings up the PRINT window. Hold down the CONTROL key and press S and it saves your work. Hold down the CONTROL key and press O and the computer opens the open file location window.

But there are dozens of other useful shortcuts, which can be used as time-savers for writers. Below are a few favorites. Many of these also work in programs other than Microsoft Word. I hope you can find something you can use. Keep in mind that text must first be highlighted before applying the shortcut. (To highlight all text in the document; hold down the CONTROL key and press A )

CTRL+A Selects all words in document.
CTRL+B Make the highlighted text bold
CTRL+I Make highlighted text italic
CTRL+U Make highlighted text underline
CTRL+SHIFT+< Decrease the font size of the highlighted text
CTRL+SHIFT+> Increase the font size of the highlighted text
CTRL+C Copy the selected text or object
CTRL+X Cut the selected text or object
CTRL+V Paste text or an object
CTRL+Z Undo the last action (up to 40 moves backwards)
CTRL+Y Redo the last action (the opposite of above)
CTRL+N Create a new blank document
CTRL+W Close a document
CTRL+SHIFT+W Underline words but not spaces
CTRL+SHIFT+D Double-underline text
CTRL+SHIFT+K Format letters as small capitals
CTRL+1 Single-space lines
CTRL+2 Double-space lines
CTRL+5 Set 1.5-line spacing
CTRL+E Center a paragraph
CTRL+L Left align a paragraph
CTRL+R Right align a paragraph
LEFT ARROW or RIGHT ARROW Move one character to the left or right
SHIFT+LEFT ARROW Select or unselect one character to the left
SHIFT+RIGHT ARROW Select or unselect one character to the right
CTRL+BACKSPACE Delete one word to the left
CTRL+ENTER A page break
ALT+CTRL+C The copyright symbol
ALT+CTRL+R The registered trademark symbol
ALT+CTRL+T The trademark symbol
SHIFT+F3 Change the case of letters
F7 Choose the Spelling command (Tools menu)
F12 Choose the Save As command (File menu)
Shift + F7 Opens the thesaurus
ALT+F4 Quit Microsoft Word
F12 Opens the save as window
CTRL+LEFT ARROW Move one word to the left
CTRL+RIGHT ARROW Move one word to the right
CTRL+DELETE Delete one word to the right
CTRL+SHIFT+LEFT ARROW Select or unselect one word to the left
CTRL+SHIFT+RIGHT ARROW Select or unselect one word to the right
CTRL+END To the end of a document
CTRL+HOME To the beginning of a document

I'm Unpublished, Do I Need a Website?

Greetings everyone. I hope you are having a restful Sunday. Today’s post will be short, as I am typing one-handed. I had a minor wrist surgery last week that has proven a bit of an obstacle in typing, but the show must go on! If nothing more, I hope this will generate some good discussion via the ability to post comments below.

So, should an author with this status devote time, resources, or even funds into constructing a website? I believe the benefits of having a website are valid. Here are some of my reasons:

• You can establish an online presence.
• You create an easy connection point for your “potential readers.”
• You may have the option to create a blog on your site.
• When guest blogging, you can reference your own site.
• You can organize, collect, and focus your thoughts.
• You can let potential readers know what you are working on.

All of these are geared toward making your writing life accessible to your audience (aka potential readers), agents, and so on. You are laying the groundwork for that time when you are published and readers want to know more about you as an author: your likes and dislikes, your current writing projects, your recommendations, etc. You do not want to make your first deal, get published, and then realize that you suddenly do not have a website for readers to find out more about you. Why not have an address and content already in place? It’s the best way to avoid the “website scramble.”

There are many options for you to create a website. A trip to Google will reveal endless pages of possibilities; however, many ISP’s include that option as part of your Internet subscription package (I know Comcast does).

Your website may be basic at first, but as your writing grows and you become published (and thus may be able to devote more time to writing and not to your “other” job), you will have laid the groundwork for your website and will not have to start from scratch. You should make your website look as good as it can, but your financial situation may only allow you to take advantage or your ISP’s or other types of “free” services. But, make the best of what you have at your disposal. It will be good practice for future development.

Even being unpublished, a website (even a basic one) will help you build your audience by giving them a window into your writing room, a place to stop in and see what your working on, and solidify your place in Google’s never ending memory.

The Best Backup System for Writers

The students in my computer class think it’s cute when I tell them “Jesus saves, and so should you”. I don’t mean to be sacrilegious or denigrate the Savior, but I feel responsible to pound into their thick young skulls the importance of saving and backing up their files. But I’m not totally successful, because every semester at least one student loses a project—which they failed to back up. When it’s gone, it’s gone.

In truth, it is possible retrieve lost and deleted files as long as the user doesn’t add new data to the hard drive. But beyond the recycle bin, retrieving files is usually above the skill level of most of us. Yet, with a little foresight and discipline it shouldn’t be a problem to lose data.

Like most writers, I back up my WIP via a flash drive (memory stick). Actually, I use three flash drives, which I keep in three different locations; one in my briefcase, one at my writing chair, and one in my desk at work. I rarely need the backups, but when the magic fairies in my laptop get contrary, it’s a relief to know I’m safe. Maintaining current backups won’t solve all computer problems since computers by nature quit working on occasion—usually at the most inconvenient times.

Such was my case two weeks ago when I visited an Internet site about exercise for men over fifty. Within sixty seconds my virus protector flashed a warning and by the time I exited the site, a virus shut down my operating system. I restarted my laptop, but before the virus protector could find and quarantine the invader the system locked up again and shut down.

Fortunately, I had a current backup, but my computer was useless since it kept shutting down. My only solution was to erase my hard drive and do a new install, which would take several hours and require reactivating all software.

As you may know, software activation can be troublesome if you haven’t deactivated it first. The only alternative to call the software company and hope you can eventually talk to a real person who’s kind enough to help you. All of this takes a lot of time and if you’ve been there you know it gets frustrating.

The solution? Acronis True Image software ($49.00) http://www.acronis.com/ When I purchased my new computer fifteen months ago, I splurged the extra expense of Acronis True Image, along with a second matching hard drive, and a hard-drive tray that replaces my DVD drive when needed. In short, these three items allowed me to make a clone (mirror image) of my working hard drive.

When the virus hit, it took less than five minutes to remove my virus infested hard drive and insert the cloned hard drive. No need to reinstall operating systems or applications, no problems with the computer registry, no need to reactivate software.

The computer fairies were never aware I had switched the hard drive at shutdown. Everything worked fine. All I had to do was to install my most recent WIP update from a flash drive and I was one-hundred percent like I was before the virus hit. Of course, I haven’t always been this prepared, but through the years I have learned from failures.

To restate the process; I purchased and installed Acronis software on my hard drive while it was working correctly, next I removed my DVD drive and inserted a special hard-drive tray, which I purchased from the computer manufacture (sometimes you can find them on Ebay). This tray holds a second hard drive, which is typically used for additional storage. I purchased a hard drive exactly like the main hard drive in my laptop, but according to Acronis instructions, the backup drive can be any memory size, speed, or brand.

Once installed, the software offers the option to clone your main hard drive onto this added hard drive. It takes a about four mouse clicks and two hours for the operation to complete. Once it’s finished, I stored the copied hard drive in a safe place until it’s needed.

When I do need it, I simply remove one screw from the bottom of my laptop, pull out the main hard drive and replace it with the clone. I put the screw back in place and restart the computer. That’s all there is to it.

Later, after I verify everything is working correctly, I remove the DVD player, put the corrupt hard drive in the special tray and once again use Acronis to clone a new mirror image of my working hard drive onto the previously corrupt drive—so I’ll be prepared if this happens again. (Oops, did I say if it happens? I mean when it happens again.) It’s simple, it’s easy, and it actually works.

Be warned that it’s possible for a virus to jump from one hard drive to another, so in my case I actually reformatted my virus infested hard drive before I removed it from the computer just to be safe.

Of course, there are other ways to backup, and I’ve used them all. I’ve tried Norton Ghost and other software that promises cloning ability, but Acronis is the only software that has been successful for me. Downtime is minimal, and the total cost for the software, extra hard drive, and adapter to replace my DVD tray was under two-hundred dollars—expensive, but worth it. I should mention Acronis has numerous other features, also.

I have friends and students who’ve experienced these same problems and they usually spend one-hundred dollars to get a tech to fix their computer while their computer is in the shop for two days or longer. I feel like the time saving and security is worth the extra expense. In addition, I can use this system for years.

Maybe there’s a better virus protector, but I’ve tried most of them and no virus protector is perfect. But as I said, viruses aren’t the only computer problems a writer faces. Computers sometimes die without warning. I’ve had hard drives suddenly lock up and never work again. I’ve had computers suddenly show the blue screen of death without warning, and require a complete new install. Once I opened the passenger door of my vehicle and the computer slid out and dropped onto the concrete. The End.

Toys for the Novelist

One of the perks of being a writer is having the luxury to research anything that sparks an interest—all in the pursuit of developing the story, of course. I can’t help but take advantage of this privilege, since learning is an innate craving inside my brain—thus, the volumes of trivia and interesting facts which line my bookshelves.

Yet, there is a downside to having a head full of fun and interesting facts—it requires policing the urge to share this information with others. Although difficult for me to accept, it seems most people aren’t interested in the geeky information I have stored away in my head. (Do you know two rats can become the progenitors of 15,000 rats in less than one year?)

My latest fascination has been researching possibilities which will allow my antagonist to take advantage of the cell-phone boom. Too many stories I’ve read portray a heroine who forgets to charge her cell phone on the worst possible day of her life. And as incredible as it seems, her service provider always favors the antagonist. How is it the main character has cell-phone reception until the moment she’s in danger? Isn’t that considered cliché by now? We’ve all had bad experiences with service providers, but can you imagine AT&T possessing magical powers to know exactly when to cut your signal and leave you in danger?

Of course, as readers we suspend our disbelief for the story and accept characters with bad service providers and faulty batteries. But why not mix it up a bit? My latest research reveals more opportunities for the novelist than what most writers have are using.

For example, a lowly one-hundred-and fifty dollars will purchase the villain his own personal cell-phone jammer[1]. This little gadget looks like a cell phone, but when activated it blocks all cell-phone frequencies within thirty feet. If I had one of these in my classroom, students couldn’t text messages to the person across the room and perhaps learning would actually occur. But alas, they are illegal to use in public places.

Stay with me, because more money buys more evilness. At three-thousand dollars, I can purchase a jammer that will obliterate all cell-phone signals up to five-hundred feet. (Oops. I meant the villain can buy one of these). Can you imagine a quiet dinner at a restaurant without that leather-lunged person across the room sharing his or her phone call with everyone present? This would work great in a funeral parlor or a concert hall. This is what our minister needs when he’s about to make the altar call and somewhere in the congregation the loudest ring tone known to humankind breaks forth like a signal to begin recess.

One of my antagonists has a jammer hidden under the seat of his car, which he activates with a secret switch. His initial reasoning to install this device was to retain the full attention of prospects when they were in the car with him. He didn’t want his sales pitch interrupted by an untimely phone call to his customer. Later, this hidden jammer causes havoc for the heroine as the antagonist holds her hostage in his speeding car. The poor girl can not get a single bar of service as they speed for miles along the interstate around Boston, Massachusetts.

Finally, this one last morsel of evilness, which will make a novelist’ mouth water. According to The Forensic Examiner; The World’s Leading Forensic Magazine,[1] there are inexpensive softwares available, which an ill tempered person can use to remotely turn on your cell phone to listen to live conversations. This brings back childhood memories when we left the phone off the hook of our rotary-dial phone while we went to the other room and eavesdropped on the family conversation. (Sorry. Maybe you’re not old enough to have had the rotary dial phone experience.)

In addition, this software enables the perpetrator to listen from anywhere in the world. These softwares work by different methods, but my favorite is Vervata’s $49.95 FlexiSpy Pro Tap. To secretly install this software, the heroine receives a text message on her cell saying something like; “Call (317) 777-4321 to update your Verizon cell-phone software” or “Download free new ring tones and screen savers.” When the unsuspecting heroine calls to get the fake update, the digital eavesdropping device is installed on her phone. No burglary required. The antagonist can then turn on his victim’s phone any time he wants and eavesdrop on the conversation in the room or automobile—even if she is not using her cell phone. Wow!

Yes, this is real, and yes it is illegal (except for the cell phones which you purchase for your children who are minors). But when has an evil antagonist cared about legal matters? I love it because “this application installs itself without any kind of indication as to what it is…and completely hides itself from the user.” [2] Did I mention it will turn on your cell phone and allow the villain to hear your conversation—even when you haven’t answered your cell? This is almost unbelievable, but you can read it for yourself. The power of science in the hands of evil people is very scary.

So, the next time you need to raise the tension for your character, you don’t have to use the obligatory low battery or no service cliché. Your character is responsible enough to keep her cell phone charged, and she is savvy enough to choose a good service provider. But the antagonist has done his homework too, and he has a jammer in his pocket, or maybe he’s been inside her house and hidden a jammer above a ceiling tile. When things turn sour in the story it won’t be because the heroine has forgotten to charge her cell.

If you're willing to share, we'd all love to hear any other ideas you writers have come up with on how to keep the main character from using her cell phone when she's in danger.

Below is an online source for this information as well as a few other goodies I didn’t mention. Oh yeah, and don’t forget to call the number above to upload a new set of ring tones to your own cell phone—absolutely free. I’ll be listening in. Kenny Noble

The source for this blog is also available online at; http://www.theforensicexaminer.com/articles/news/24/15/Activity-Monitors-AKA-Cell-Phone-and-Computer-Eavesdroppers

[1] THE FORENSIC EXAMINERVolume 18, Number 2, Summer 2009 page 46, Author Louis L. Akin, LPI
[2] Page 48

[1] http://www.thesignaljammer.com/products/Cell-Phone-Blocker-Mini.html

Why I Like Writing Fiction on a Mac

Salt or sugar on your tomato? Do you say "Catsup" or "Ketchup"? Sweet or UnSweet Tea? Pen or pencil? Camaro or Mustang? Mac or a PC? What type of computer do you use to spin your tales of Christian romance, history, or suspense? That is today's pondering into the wide, wide world of the great technological continuum.

As writers, we have many avenues to script our stories into a form that others can see. But, no matter how you plot out your stories with pen and paper, sooner or later you must sit down at your computer (be it a desktop or laptop) to script the story playing in your imagination. Your computer becomes the doorway to get your thoughts into a readable form.

That said, I sit down to an Apple Macintosh computer, specifically, a laptop. Gone are the days where Macs were not compatible with rest of the computing world. With the invention of the iPod, iPhone, and now the iPad, Apple has made it's way into our lives in many different ways. iTunes seems to be a household name now. It's hard to find somebody these days who doesn't have an iPod or an iPhone (and now the iPad device is once again changing how we read and view our print media).

Progressively catching up in the last 10 years, Macs have caught up to Windows in the compatibility race. Out of the box, a Mac comes with an incredible amount of software built right into the operating system. Apple Mail provides you with an email client. iPhoto allows you to organize the pictures you have taken to research your book. Safari, Apple's web browser, will have you surfing the internet waves in no time. Did I mention wifi reception (Apple calls it "airport") is also built in as a standard. I'll admit they can be pricey, however, there are many entry level versions that can always be expanded later with additional software and hardware capabilities.

As a writer, I find the ease of writing on a Mac to be a "technologically sound" way to write my fiction. There are even several writing apps for Macs. Some are geared toward organizing your thoughts, facts, and flow of your story. Google keywords OmniOutliner, Omni Software, and WriteRoom for starters. Even the iPhone and iPad have software made for writers (these purchased through the iTunes store). In my previous posting, I talked about writing to music. The Mac comes equipped (via iTunes) to provide excellent sound via built in speakers, headphones, or you can even buy external speakers if you would really like to jam (so that everyone can hear). iTunes lets you purchase songs from the iTunes store. For me, this is all geared towards helping me create my adventures.

Most importantly for us, Microsoft Office exists for Mac with little or no difference in crossover when sending files between the PC version of Office and the Mac version. In fact, one thing I like about Macs is that you can turn anything into a PDF file (which you know will then be viewed by others and look identical to what you intended). Mac uses the zip format as well. Bottom Line: The Mac Operating is simple and easy to use and customize.

That brings me to my last thoughts: security, stability, and support.

• Apple does a great job at updating software via a very simple update process.
• There are no virus dangers for the most recent operating systems that Mac has used. To be honest, there is little to no malware for mac either. There are a handful of trojans out there, but you actually have to be fooled into installing those (and that means you must enter your password and then choose to install it).
• Apple has built in protection for the dangers that are out there specific to Mac computers.
• You can buy Applecare with a new mac also (gives you 3 years tech service and customer support). There is also a user run support forum on Apple's website.
• A hefty firewall built into the Operating System (currently called Snow Leopard by the way) keeps unwanted visitors out.

Just for the record, anti-virus software does exists for the Mac, but mostly to prevent any unwanted (and harmless to your Mac) Windows bugs from getting into your Mac (via email) and accidentally being passed along to your PC using friends. I recommend ClamXav for Mac (which is free) because it is simple and easy to use (and is not CPU hog).

We, as writers, cherish every moment of spinning our fiction, therefore, we need the devices we spin those tales on to work, be secure, be versatile, and fun to use. Our computers just need to work. We don't want to waste time trying to figure out if something is going bad, if you have a virus, or if it's "just dead, Jim."

Don't just take my word for it. Go check one out. No, I don't work for Apple nor do I own stock. But, I have been using them since the late 80's. I just enjoy writing on my Mac. In fact, as I write this post, I am listening to iTunes via earphones (Back to the Future soundtrack), chatting with other writers via Mac's built in iChat app, using Mac's built in word processing app, and sitting in my reclining chair infusing enough ice tea into my system to keep writing through the distant morning hours. Happy computing.

There's a Dragon in my Car

I finished college with the naïve idea that I would finally find time to write as much as I wanted. But I soon learned finding time was about as easy as finding twenty-dollar bills on the sidewalk—possible, but unlikely. If you’ve written very long, you know writers don’t find time to write, they make time to write.

Like a hungry dog who collects scraps any place and any time, my life is marked with index cards, sticky notes, and whiteboards. But outside of the laptop computer, the writing tool I appreciate the most is the speech-to-text software.

With my headset microphone and laptop computer, I salvage writing time otherwise unavailable in my busy workday. Whether driving to work or walking on the treadmill, the speech-to-text software allows me to brainstorm, make notes, and even create my first rough draft while doing something else—multitasking at its best.

Yet, speech-to-text software wasn’t always worth the effort. My first experience with speech-to-text was so error ridden, I gave up the first day. However, since the release of Dragon Naturally Speaking version 10, I have had great success with speech-to-text and my accuracy is limited only by my lazy speech habits.

Dragon claims ninety-nine percent accuracy, which I believe is a fair assessment. But technology is only as good as the user. When I articulate poorly, I get poor results, but when I focus on good speech habits, I obtain good results. I wouldn’t think sending an e-mail via speech to text, nor would I risk sending an unedited letter created by Dragon.

If you’ve ever played the game Mad Gab you understand the type of errors from poor articulation. For example, open heart surgery gets typed as woe pin arts her jury, and bare love monk ease might show up in your manuscript when you intended to type a barrel of monkeys.

In addition to user error, three other elements are paramount to speech-to-text accuracy. The free headset packaged with the software delivered poor to mediocre results. When I did my research and upgraded to the headset recommended by Dragon my accuracy improved significantly.

Second, I first used Dragon on an economy Gateway laptop and thought I was obtaining good results. But then my computer went on the blink and I upgraded to a new Thinkpad with a faster processor the results were even better.

Finally, should you try Dragon Naturally, I recommend completing the voice training immediately. We each have unique speech patterns, be it a southern drawl, a New York accent, or personal speech rhythms. Dragon tries to cope with speech idiosyncrasies by providing short stories for the user to read so the program can adapt to your personal speech style. Thirty minutes of training made a huge difference for me.

Occasionally, some words confuse the software, such as my fictional character’s first name, Zoe. Fortunately, Dragon allows the user to train specific words, and once the magic fairies inside the computer understand how to relate the particular sound to the typed word, it responds correctly from that point forward.

Dragon Naturally Speaking 10 isn’t perfect, but it does help my productivity. If you’re interested, the software is available from www.amazon.com and the microphone headset I use is Andrea NC-185. Total cost for both items is under one-hundred dollars.

Kenny Noble kennynoble@hotmail.com

Back-Up, Back-Up!

If I am the queen of anything, I am the queen of lost manuscripts. Three fried hard drives and one hacked e-mail account later, I have learned a cold hard fact about writing.

It's not just enough to save.

You've got to back up.

I'm a loser. I have lost two novels because of fried hard drives. Not one. Two. One of them I was able to rewrite and restore (and is my current work in progress). The other one exists only in my heart and mind now, waiting for me to one day put it on the page - again.

All of this could have been avoided if I had just backed things up. But I'm a busy, distracted Mom to kids with autism, a grandmother, teacher and pastor's wife. I don't have time to think about backing up, let alone do it. I thought it would be okay to simply e-mail works-in-progress to myself as a means of backing them up. Since I am constantly interrupted during my day, this method worked pretty well.

Until someone from Nigeria hacked into my e-mail account.

And e-mailed everyone in my account asking for money.

That's when google (Gmail) shut me down. I wasn't given a notice or any type of warning. One day I tried to log in and *poof* just like that, I wasn't allowed into my own account.

I lost everything. All the documents I stored on google documents, and all my e-mail contacts. When I tried to contact google to find out why, I learned that google had an automated restoration service. It just kept kicking me out. There wasn't anyone I could call because google doesn't use "real people" to solve technical issues.

For two weeks, I knew I was doomed. Finally, after I had posted a comment on a google blog that google wouldn't let me have my account back, someone from google contacted me via e-mail and helped me restore my account. I finally had my account restored, but only after I spent countless heart-wrenching hours trying to figure out all I had lost.

I have enjoyed using GMail since it started, and I continue to use it because it meets my needs the best. But the problem with using GMail is all the associated content. I have blogs, YouTube, Facebook and more associated with its log-in name and password. If I can't get into my Gmail account, I can't get into my other accounts. It was a huge problem for me when I was blocked. I lost my twitter account and had to start from scratch again. I was blocked from getting into my Facebook account because I couldn't confirm my e-mail address.

I don't know why I have to learn things the hard way, but learn I did. I knew I needed something more efficient at backing things up. I needed something automatic and reliable.

I now subscribe to Carbonite, an on-line back up service that automatically backs up every single thing on my computer. A friend of mine uses iDrive, and it will store 2 MB free.

I never have to worry about losing anything because Carbonite safely stores it on their server. I do recommend, however, that you store all your passwords on a hard copy and file it in a vault (okay, your filing cabinet) because if you can't remember your password, you won't be able to access your backed up files.

You could use USB memory sticks, but for me, that's just another thing for me to remember and to lose. For my life right now, automatic online back-ups work best.

Another thing I've learned is the importance of strong passwords.

When setting a password, don't use words. Words are easily detected by software created to hack into accounts. Instead of an actual word, use an acronym that you can remember. For example: "I make chocolate milk for my kids to drink." Would be "Imcm4mk2d." Including punctuation in passwords as well as upper and lower case letters and numbers makes a password harder to hack into.

People who hack into your accounts don't care that years of your life and hours of work are wrapped up in them. They are criminals. The only thing standing between them and your work is a strong password.

As for backing up, my computer tech said it best: "It's not a matter of if your hard drive will fry -- it's a matter of when."