There’s an important question not too many writers ask themselves: “Am I organized?” Some of them are, with notes sorted by characters, plot, research, setting, etc. Some, however, aren’t. There are pens and pencils strewn across their desk, half-empty mugs of coffee everywhere, loose pages and snack wrappers in the drawers of their desks.

Sometimes it’s flipped. A writer can seem organized on the outside, but on their computer there are folders inside folders, all titled “untitled” with few variations. I find a mess on my desk (or in my computer) reflects into my writing, turning it all into incoherent jumbles. If this sounds anything like you, read on, dear writer. Maybe your writer's block can be broken by a clean workspace.

If you’re reading this. . . you aren’t writing. So, I’ll start with some motivation. Gather up your mugs, clean them, and make yourself a fresh pot of coffee (tea or hot chocolate work too). Feeling better already? Now take those pens and put them in something; a cheap holder, a jar, one of those clean mugs, just get them out of your way. Beautiful. Those snack wrappers need to go, that one seems easy enough, you know what to do. Finally, those loose papers will take some time. If they’re important, file them this instant. There’s no point in losing important documents. If the paper is blank, put them to good use. Make some origami, or write more notes. Just be careful they don’t pile up again!

Now that you have a clean writing space, does your mind feel clear? Mine would. Let’s get down to the tough part. Go into your writing folders. Are they a mess? Do your folders and documents look like you’ve simply slapped your keyboard and hoped for the best? Then you’ve got some work to do. This part is harder to coach from the internet. It depends on your preference, organization style, and how in-depth you want everything. I like going by projects. One big folder for the project and all the drafts, and a few small folders inside for planning documents such as character sheets and setting descriptions.

I promise: once you have these places organized it’ll be like a big breath of fresh air. No more searching for a clean mug or for the description of your character’s house that you just can’t remember where you put.

Now, all you must do is write! Best of luck!

As a kid, Alyssa liked to dream of dragons taking over the world. Now that she’s grown up, she just writes about them. As well as writing fantasy and sci-fi, she’s a dedicated musician who also loves journals and colourful pens.