Creating a Writing Workspace Checklist

Creating a writing workspace applies to both designing a workstation for the home as well as choosing a workstation at places like a café or the library. Even the smallest distraction can make for big consequences against your productivity and outcome of your writing sessions. Set yourself up for success by scrutinizing over the smallest details now so that you can write your best later.

Light

Having enough light is key when creating a writing workspace. You need enough light that will keep your eyes from straining as well as perk up your mood. Review these questions about lighting to make sure you picked the correct writing workspace:

• Is your writing workspace near plenty of natural sunlight?
• Do you benefit by being close or far from a window? Is the outside distracting?
• Do you have plenty of indoor lighting? Do you need to replace any light bulbs?

Color

Keep in mind when creating a writing workspace the impact of wall colors. Blues and greens are the most relaxing colors while reds and yellows can make an environment stressful. Ask yourself these questions when evaluating a potential workspace:

• Is the wall color/wallpaper distracting?
• Are there objects in the room with distracting colors?
• What colors do you find most soothing?

Chair

Investing in a good chair is one of the best decisions you can make when creating a writing workspace. Considering where to sit in at a café or library is also based on the type of chair pushed up to it. Avoid back pain and sitting distractions by evaluating the workstation chair.

• Is the chair comfortable to sit in for long periods of time?
• Can the chair recline for your writing needs?
• Can your chair push comfortably towards your writing surface?
• Is a sitting workstation right for you? Have you considered a standing workstation?

Computer

Writing on a computer is quickly becoming a necessity for more and more writers, so consider when creating a writing workspace what your computer station needs by answering these questions.

• Is your computer hooked up to a printer? Do you need it to be hooked up to a printer?
• Is your computer updated with the necessary software needed for your writing sessions to be successful?
• Have you performed virus checks on your computer?
• Do you need your computer to be connected to the Internet? Are you able to connect and disconnect easily from the Internet?
• Is writing on a computer best for you?

Cleanliness

Sticky surfaces and lots of clutter are never good when creating a writing workspace. You should be thinking about your writing when at your space, not about stench and messes.

• Is your writing workspace tidy?
• Has your writing workspace been recently cleaned with healthy cleaners?
• Is your trash bin empty?
• Are there any distracting smells? Are there any distracting textures?

Music

This is optional for you to consider when creating a writing workspace because some writers are distracted or unproductive with playing music. If music helps to get the creative juices flowing, then make sure you’ve covered the basics by asking yourself these questions:

• Are your speakers set up properly?
• Are your speakers not invasive to your space?
• What music genres/songs encourage productivity for you?
• Have you created a playlist specifically for your writing sessions?
• Is the music playing at a volume that is not distracting?
• Is your music distracting to others? Do you need to wear headphones?

It’s also important when creating a writing workspace to surround yourself with visuals, smells, and textures that inspire you. Keep in mind that factors on this list may not apply to your writing needs, so be aware of what works best for you and your writing.

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What suggestions do you have to creating a writing workspace? Share them below.