Utilizing Your iPad for Articles

As a new iPad owner, I am learning as I go along. I was searching through the App Store and realized I could download some writing apps, plus Google Docs and Google Drive. I now have more versatility than I had with my laptop, and I thought that in itself was a big improvement.

I am super excited with my discovery! I can now take my writing with me more places than I ever did before. This has opened up new doors for me, and I know it will help you as well.

Have you ever sat in a waiting room with your iPad in hand, and simply played games or checked out Facebook? Now you can utilize your time and write. Who knows, you may write the next bestseller entirely on your iPad.

I know this article is aimed at using the apps for writing articles, but there's nothing wrong with taking it a step or two further, and writing a short story or even an entire novel. With Google Docs, you can write offline, then go online to save your work. That way, you won’t be using precious data. For many, data usage isn't an issue as there is wi-fi almost everywhere.

If you're like me and live in a rural area, unlimited internet may not be an option. Saving your documents in Google Drive doesn't take up much data, thus allowing you more flexibility. All you’ll need to do is create a title for your article or other work, then simply type as you would on your laptop. The nice thing is by laying your iPad horizontally, you have an easy access keyboard. I'm not a very fast typist, but I do have to say this way I am quicker than I am on the laptop. I'm not sure if it's because the keys are closer together, or because I can easily see the screen while I type. Plus, with the case I have, it slightly tilts the iPad which makes it easier for me to see the screen. No matter the reason, I’m pleased I can get the words out quicker.

Key features such as boldface, justification and word count are all easily accessible. Bullet points and numbered lists are also easily inserted. If you're familiar with Google Docs, then using it on your iPad or tablet will be a breeze. If not, it is easy to learn. It is very much like the word processor your PC comes with, whether it be MS Word or something else.

I must say, I was excited when I found the Pages app on my iPad, but it quickly turned to disappointment when I didn't see how I could move the documents from my iPad to my laptop for editing and publishing. Now that I have realized I can use Google Docs, I am set for articles, short stories, patterns and longer projects.

It has taken me less than a half hour to write over five hundred words, as I am able to type almost as quickly as the words come into my mind. I do have to say, this has opened up a whole new world for me, and it will for you as well. I do notice the occasional typo, but that’s because my fingers do slip. Plus, autocorrect likes to think it knows what I was going to say.

Making the time to write is key to your success as a writer. It is easy to put everything else first, but if you want to earn a solid income from your writing, persistence is key. And, stop procrastinating! Using any tools available to help you get where you want to be is a step in the right direction.

If you haven't tried using Google Docs on your iPad or other tablet yet, I suggest you do so. If it works as well as it does for me, your productivity should increase. I know mine will, because I’ll be able to take my projects with me in a much lighter case.

Learning how to transfer photos from my iPad to my computer (so I could add them to this Hub) took me a few minutes, but I did it. As with anything new, there is a learning curve. I must say, this is one of the easier things I have attempted.

What are your thoughts? Do you have any other programs that you have utilized?