Everybody has a different writing process. Some prefer having a pad of paper, wrapped in a blanket with a drink of choice, staring out the window. Others would rather have a screen in front of them, music blaring in their ears, typing away. Is writing on paper better than writing with technology? How does reading play into the writing process? Let’s explore it all, and you can decide.

Writing on paper can feel more satisfying and can be easier to connect aspects of your writing that would be harder to organize anywhere else. I use paper to draw complex diagrams and sort my thoughts that would take too much time to make on my computer. Writing on paper does have benefits, however writing long passages or stories seem easier with a keyboard.

Not only is typing a faster way to write (for me at least), but spellcheck software has made editing easier, and it's legible. My penmanship is terrible.

When it comes to reading, however, I am the opposite.

I love the idea of e-readers, having books on the go without having to carry around hefty paper copies. The downside is having to charge them. Being stranded with no way of charging your “book” would irritate me. I also dislike reading on screens for extended periods of time. My eyes start to water, I get headaches, and I like being able to detox from technology sometimes.

Something about holding a paper book is so soothing to me. Sitting down with a glass of white wine and reading a novel, feeling the paper in my hands as I flip the pages, feels more relaxing than being glued to another screen.

Both paper and technology have pros and cons, I like a little bit of both in my reading and writing lifestyle. Finding a suitable balance of what works for you is essential to be relaxed and enjoy literature.

Jenna Matchem is a second-year Professional Writing student at Algonquin College. In her spare time, she can be found listening to anything from country to metal, dancing around her kitchen, or playing video games. Jenna aspires to become an author of fantasy/teen novels by the time she turns 30.