Seriously…THAT’S How You Use THAT?

Screwdriver
Originally uploaded by axle_13

“Mom, what in the world are you doing?”

Obviously my son never saw someone trying to use a nail file as a screwdriver. But then, he also has never watched MacGyver. Good thing too.

He watched me a moment as I very tediously removed the tiny screw and eased open the back of the toy that needed batteries replaced. “Why didn’t you just get a screwdriver?”

The question was a fair one, the answer somewhere along the lines of, “I didn’t know where one was and didn’t want to take the time to look.” The uncomfortable feeling following that thought hinted that perhaps it would have taken me less time to find the right tool for the job and use it than it had to use a nail file for the same task.

Tools were designed for a specific purpose. Sometimes we come up with other uses (think Duct tape) but for the most part, using the right tool, properly, saves time in the long run. Something I should have realized with my nail file endeavors.

Writing works the same way. Recently I’ve picked up a book on how to use Word properly and I am completely and utterly amazed.

Now before you think I’m new to computers, I’m not. I’ve been using Word faithfully for years. What I never realized is that all over this program is a wealth of buttons and shortcuts I never knew existed. Keyboard shortcuts have left me in awe. And the click of a button on the page sets me up for tracking changes? Who knew?

Before I get too sidetracked on the wonder of Word I’d like to make my point. Knowing how to properly use your tools cuts down time when it comes to getting your work done. This is time that can be spent polishing a few more words before bed or writing an extra page or two before picking up the kids from school.

So take a little time to learn how to not just USE your tools as a writer, but to MASTER them. The library is full of books on computing. And honestly, the time spent learning how to really put your program to work for you, will really pay off in the end.

What tools have you mastered for the sake of your craft?