Most of us 40+ learned how to type letters and documents using a typewriter.
Word processing reigns as then new king of document creation, and most typewriters are relegated to attics, back rooms and antique shops.
However, the majority of computer users use their word processors (MS Word, Word Perfect, etc) like a typewriter.
The first rule to remember when using a word processor is to forget your typewriting rules.
When we sat down to our typewriters to create a document (whether a simple letter to Mom or a 100 page novelette), we had to have a clear picture in our head of what the document should look like. Otherwise, crumpled typing paper dominated our floors!
With word processing, the most efficient way to create a document is to enter all of your information first. Then go back and edit/change the look of your document. I coined the phrase:
Type first. Edit last.
Editing means changing text (such as font size, bold, underline, spelling, etc). After you have entered all of your text, you can go back and doctor up your document to make it look the way you want.
If you try to use these tools as you are typing in the text, you will become increasingly frustrated, slow down the flow of your ideas, and double the time it takes to create the final product.
Type first, edit last…learn it and live it when creating documents and you and your computer will be much happier companions.
I completely agree with this advice. It’s a great way to just get thoughts out and get some writing done.
Yep, that’s the one down side of computer word processors is that we hate seeing typos or words that we want to change. If a person “types first, and edits last”. More ideas with better flow will come out on the screen which can be easily edited later. Thanks for the comment!
Great advice! When I write, I use a method I call, “keyboardus vomitus.” I just dump everything I can out of my brain as quickly as possible, then go back and work through it — usually two or three times at least to get everything looking and reading right.
Sadly, I all too often use the first part of this method when I’m steamed about something and fire off a nasty email to someone. Then I generally hit the Send button before editing and regret doing so. That, I do NOT recommend!
Love that phrase Daniel…works for me. As for email, Google instituted a neat add-on for Gmail called Gmail Goggles which makes you answer a simple question or two after hitting send. Makes you consciously decide if sending the email is really a good idea.
Another great thing to do with editing afterward, is to find relevant links of value that you can provide to your users. Sometimes you can just create links with the text you have, and other times you’ll see that a link would fit in, but might require a sentence or two be added.
I remember taking a keyboarding class in the 7th grade on a real keyboard! (and I’m not even 40 yet!)
Rick – Great points on getting ideas out in the open, and putting procrastination to the side.
Daniel, I agree with the “Don’t apply this scenario to emails” always think carefully with emails, and take your time if the subject is heated.
Good point Matt…and also don’t forget about relevant links within your own site.
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