Three Helpful Online Resources for Writers

Grammar and Punctuation Assistance

One important function as a writer is to be able to write clearly and informatively.  Another important function, probably THE most important, is to produce writing free of grammar and punctuation errors.

There are moments when I am working on an article, or any form of writing for that matter, and things are going well. The words seem to just flow from my head to my fingers, and then WHAM! I find myself stumped with a grammar issue. My weakness is numbers – should you spell numbers one though nine and write numbers from 10 on up?  

It is during these moments that I turn to the almighty power of the Internet to search for help. I found a wonderful website that not only explains how to write numbers, but covers a whole plethora of information relating to grammar and punctuation; another element that stumps me – don’t get me started on commas! Commas are my gremlins – they always pop up when I don’t need them, and they hide when I do. Anyway, I digress. I introduce you to Grammarbook.com, by Jane Straus. It is well worth taking a look if you are like me and get stumped on a few English rules.

What I was most impressed with at Grammarbook.com is the option to subscribe to a free eNewsletter that is loaded with tips and links. The site also offers quizzes for brushing up on grammar and punctuation, or refreshing the brain on the rules of English.  

The site is a must have resource!

The Public Library

What is always there when you need it, but often overlooked? The public library! Libraries have come a long way since the days of card catalogs.  Services are now offered through the Internet allowing cardholders the ability to search and reserve books, all in the comfort of home.

Don’t feel like making a trip to the library to see if they have the book you want? Not a problem! Simply visit your public library’s website and follow the directions for obtaining a pin. A library card number will be needed. Once logged in the ability to scan available titles and reserve books is as easy as clicking a few buttons. This is a great resource for any writer.

Refresher Typing Course

Typing was something I couldn’t quite master in school. To this day I still have difficulty locating keys. I know! A writer who has trouble typing?! I was so frustrated with myself that I decided to do some research to see if there were any helpful resources on the Internet. I found an AMAZING site; typeonline.co.uk.

After a few moments on this easy to navigate site I quickly learned I was making typing way more difficult than it had to be. Typeonline.co.uk offers simple explanations such as finger placement on keys . . . I never realized the ‘F’ and ‘J’ keys have bumps on them. This sure does make it easier when locating the right keys! After I figured where to put my fingers I am a lot more comfortable typing. I can finally manage to hit the right keys – and do it quickly!

Another aspect about this site that I like is the exercises after each lesson. It’s almost like playing a game. I was constantly trying to beat my best! Before I knew it I was typing with ease and grace. Typeonline.co.uk is a super site to have as a resource. 

Photo provided by Jodi Hughey. Copyright 2011.

Job Opportunities for Freelance Writers

I started following Freelance Writer Road since June 2010. I have found this site to be extremely effective in providing me with inspiration and helpful information. I stumbled on the site while researching sample resumes. I not only found a fabulous sample, but I also found a list encompassing over 125 job opportunities for freelance writers!

The site is full of articles that discuss the journey of freelance writer, Janis Bennett. From being hired to being fired, Janis shares her experiences with honesty and humor. In addition to sharing her expertise she has provided a List of Companies that Hire Freelance Writers. This page alone is priceless! Janis did the leg work of locating sites that pay and listing them on a page with a link to each site. All I had to do was click and read! If I was interested in the company I would apply, if not, I moved on to the next one.   

Happy Research (now made easy)!

Job Sites for Freelance Writers

Deciding to become a freelance writer is the easy part. The challenge is finding writing jobs. The Internet is a fantastic resource for finding jobs and there are several online sites that offer a list of jobs specifically for freelance writers. In my efforts to find work I have stumbled across a few sites that have been extremely beneficial to me. I offer this list to you with the hope that you, too, will find something of interest.

Online Writing Jobs

This site is simple to navigate and gets right to the point by offering over 45 job categories for freelance writers. Click on copywriting, blogging or any job category and POOF you are taken to a page containing ads that could eventually lead you to a great writing gig.

Freelance Job Openings

This site offers a straightforward approach. As soon as the page loads you are greeted with an assortment of job ads. The site features a tool that lets you choose your own job category so you don’t have to search every listing, only those that are appealing to your area of writing.

Craigslist

One of the nice features of this site is that you can pin-point the area in which you would like to find work. You have the capability to search for writing gigs in your own state and county or search abroad.

Jobs on Problogger

Searching for a blogging gig? This site is for you! A list of opportunities for bloggers is updated daily. The opportunities await you.

Freelance Writing Jobs

This site not only offers a list of writing gigs but also offers helpful articles that cover a wide range of freelance writing topics. Consider this site a two-for-one in that you receive job leads plus an education that will help to increase your writing and earning potential.

Telecommuting Jobs

This site will require some time to sort through the information but it is well worth your effort. In addition to job listings for writers the site offers special tools to enhance your chances of landing a writing gig. Check it out to see if it is something you can use.

Photo provided by Jodi Hughey. Copyright 2011.

Feature Blog: Get Paid to Write Online

I am ashamed to admit that it has been some time since my last post. I would like to make it up to you by featuring a link to a fantastic blog: Get Paid to Write Online.

I have been following this amazing blog, hosted by Sharon Hurley Hall, for the past six months and have found the site to be both inspirational and informative! Sharon has such a down-to-earth approach to explaining the pitfalls and privileges of being a freelance writer. She includes witty posts like Writing Business Lessons from the Guttering Guy; a unique perspective on how to get continued writing gigs, and Doing Writing Gigs for Fun; this one led me to another possible job opportunity.

I appreciate Sharon’s hard work at researching and writing on topics that appeal to the fledgling freelance writer, like me. I have come to rely on her for helpful advice, positive insights and links to writing opportunities.

I hope you find this site as valuable as I have!