Organizing a Home Office for Writing

Freelance writing is the ultimate portable job. You can work from anywhere, but sometimes it's nice to have a space to call your own. Here's a guide on organizing a home office for writers and freelancers.

Choose your writing space
Not every work at home freelance writer has an empty room to use as a writing office. If you do, that's great, but if not, even a small space will be enough. Try to find a space that you can block off with a screen, curtain, or partition, so that everyone at home will know you are working when you are in there.

Choose a writing space that is as far from the noise of family life as possible. Keep away from the television, the dishwasher and the washing machine, if possible.

Furnish your writing space
When choosing furniture for your freelance writing home office, there are a couple of essential items. The first is a chair. This should be ergonomic and as comfortable as you can afford. You will spend a lot of time in that chair, so splash out for some added comfort. Ideally, your chair should fit under your desk and you should be able to sit with your legs at 90 degrees.

The second is a desk. Some people like a wide desk with space for all computing accessories and everything they will need to work. My preference is for a small desk that can hold my computer and a few necessary items. Make sure that your desk has a keyboard shelf at the right height so you don't strain your wrists.

Computing essentials
As a freelance writer, you need a computer to do your job. Some people have a desktop computer that they share with other family members outside of working hours. Some have their own computer for writing work, which stays in their office space. This is useful in case you have a sudden deadline. Sharing a computer with your teenager could result in a turf war if there is some heavy gaming to be done.

Other freelance writers prefer to use a laptop, which is what I use. The advantage of a laptop is that you can work in other locations and have everything you need with you. I have often moved my laptop to the dining room when I need to keep an eye on my young child when I work.

If you choose the laptop option, consider getting a docking station so that you can save time on unplugging wires if you need to move. An external keyboard and mouse lets you type at the right angle and avoid tendonitis and related conditions. Consider getting a wrist rest and gel mouse pad too. Your fingers are your livelihood, so treat them well.

Make sure that your computer is Internet-ready, with a networking card or modem. It should have plenty of disk space for storing your writing files and should have as fast a processor as you can afford. You also need a printer just in case you need a paper copy of a document.

Accessories for writing
A notice board is another useful addition to the writer's home office. It's a great place to pin up reminders. Every freelance writer needs a way to take notes. This can be by using a pen and notepad or some form of digital recorder. If you get a recorder, then it's also useful for taking on the road. From time to time, freelance writers need to set up appointments. A phone is the finishing touch to your perfect home office.

Remember, your home office doesn't have to be a sterile space. Decorate it by including a couple of family photos or children's drawings so that it's the perfect place for you to work.