Writing Desk Essentials

Every so often, I share a photo of my writing desk on Instagram. Those posts are typically check-ins or announcements about what I’ve been working on, but I thought I’d break down how I typically organize my desk while I’m writing. Here’s a quick tour, from left to right:

The Project

Each individual piece that I work on is usually part of a larger project—it may be a short story or essay that’s part of a collection, or a chapter of a novel. I don't want the manuscript pages to get out of order or distract myself with too many other ideas, so I'll keep the complete draft with its cover sheet (including a project description and to-do list) on one side of the desk. It's also useful to have nearby so I can reference it while I'm re-working a piece. 

The Piece

While I occasionally write on the computer, I generally work by hand, either drafting on legal pads or cutting and pasting revisions for the story or scene I'm working on. I focus on one specific task during the writing session, and end with a note on where to pick back up the next day.

Scene/Story Notes

I keep scrap paper nearby so I can jot down notes or reminders to myself about this specific scene--aspects that I hadn't considered about the plot or character, ideas to experiment with, articles or reading that might be related, etc. 

Meta/Craft Notes

During a writing session, I'll learn something new about craft or be reminded of different exercises. I have a separate notebook nearby to jot down any craft related ideas while I work. 

Other Desk Essentials:

My office is in the attic, separate from the rest of the house, so I make sure I keep a couple of things at my desk so I don't have to go downstairs while I'm working--chapstick, hair elastics, and a glass of water.

What are your workspace essentials? Let me know in the comments!