[Electric Speed] Digital tools and resources for writers

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Welcome to the newest installment of Electric Speed, my personal newsletter where I share digital tools and resources for authors. I am not paid to recommend or advertise any tools or services; in rare cases when I do receive compensation, it is clearly disclosed. Have feedback? Send me an email.

Don't like Google Forms? Try TellForm

Create online forms for any purpose your heart desires, personal or business, using TellForm, an open-source software. You can either install it on your own servers, or you can sign up for the hosted version. (If you get a "not safe" warning from your browser when signing up for the hosted version, I can attest to its safety; I have an account.)

Reading recommendation: The Pudding

The Pudding is a site that explains ideas debated in culture with visual essays. Who has the largest vocabulary in hip hop? What city is the microbrew capital of the US? What is the structure of stand-up comedy? (This last one may appeal to fans of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel—highly recommended if you haven't seen it yet, on Amazon Prime.) Subscribe to The Pudding newsletter (free) or browse.

Remove the background from any photo in five seconds (no fuss!)

It works exactly as advertised, no bait and switch, no giving up your email address, no frustrating run around. Try it.

Recording and transcribing interviews on the cheap (for article writing/reporting)

I always keep an eye on transcription services powered by AI, as the technology keeps improving. Dubbed the "Dropbox of voice recording," Otter is one of the better services I've noticed. It's ideal for capturing the basics of a voice conversation, to review later for article writing or reporting purposes. It includes up to 600 transcribed minutes free per month. Take a look.

On January 3: My annual seminar on how to land a book deal

If you want to get your book traditionally published in 2019—be it fiction, nonfiction, a children's book, or memoir—increase your chances by knowing how to evaluate the commercial potential of your work and best approach agents and publishers. My intensive 2-hour live, online class (in partnership with Writer's Digest) helps you avoid frustration and educates you on how the industry works. You'll better focus your time and energy, increase your chances of success, and learn to decipher the language of industry professionals. Learn more and register ($99).

Most popular blog post this month:
Story Planning Books: 3 Approaches to Consider

Have an excellent weekend!
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Jane

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The business education every writer needs

Library Journal starred review: “Friedman’s 20-plus years in the industry ... combine to create an invaluable compendium of practical advice with encouragement for aspiring and seasoned writers alike.”

Publishers Weekly: “A comprehensive and eminently readable guide that should be on every writer’s desk. ... Destined to become a staple reference book for writers and those interested in publishing careers.”

Start reading now at Amazon.

Where Jane Is Speaking Next

Masterclass: How to Get Published (Boyce, VA), Jan. 26
San Francisco Writers Conference, Feb. 14–17
UW-Madison's Writers' Institute (Madison, WI), April 4–7
Stockholm Writers Festival (Sweden), May 3–5

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