Like anybody else, writers develop little tricks and ‘hacks’ to help them in their work. Perhaps nothing earth shattering, but things that make them more productive, efficient, or otherwise quickly solve a problem or snag. Here are a few of my little tricks that help me when I run into snags as I’m writing.

Character names: Stuck on what to name your main character or her plucky sidekick? Grab a phone book, a registry, a membership list or anything that lists names. Real life can provide names that you couldn’t think up in a million years. If you write historical fiction, try looking at old registries from the era in which your book takes place. It will give your story just that little bit more authenticity if you use a name that was prevalent back then. Also, pick up a couple of baby name books from the used bookstore or check online sites for them.

Insert comments so you don’t have to stop: When you’re writing and especially when you’re on a roll, there is nothing worse than having to stop, and make notes. Usually the notes file is a separate document and just hunting for that can take you out of the zone. Just click on the ‘insert’ menu and then click on ‘comment’ and insert your note right in the spot where you have to go back and add or change something. It takes two seconds and won’t disturb your flow.

Location, location, location: If your novel is set in a place that you’ve never been to or haven’t seen in a long time, there is no need to get your car keys or book a flight. Use the Google Map street view feature to ‘tour’ the area. I did that extensively while working on a mystery series that took place in and around L.A. Though I live in Los Angeles, I hadn’t been to some of the locations in a long time. A quick click on Google maps and I was there, looking at the current buildings, street configurations and local businesses. You’d be surprised by how much detail you can get just by arrowing around the area. Unfortunately, you can’t get the feel or smells from a Google view so try to visit the location in person if possible.

Background noise: Although many writers have specific playlists they use while writing, some writers get distracted by music. Personally, I like white noise, those background sounds that don’t really tug at your attention but also drown out the cat or neighbor kids screeching next door or your roommate stomping around in the living room. Try going to YouTube for white noise vids, or brain music, sites like Coffitivity, or invest in a sound machine that offers you crashing surf, wind, chimes, nature sounds, and or running creeks.

Best ideas come when walking: I don’t know about you, but I often have the best ideas while I’m walking the dog. So, I always carry my digital recorder with me. It’s small, works with one click, and I never have to keep repeating an idea to myself as I hurry home. Most phones have a recording function too and will do just as well.

Body language description: This one can be tough, even if you have a huge notebook of personal observations on people’s body language. Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of Body Language for Dummies, or visit one of many sites around the web that have diagrams and descriptions of body language.

Get into character: Some of your characters will be very different from you and, if so, you may need props to properly channel them while writing. If they are French, put on some Edith Piaf and pop on a beret. If they are cooks, put on an apron and run the cooking channel in the background. One simple thing might work or you might have to go full character but, either way, you’ll have fun and probably write a more authentic character if you walk a mile in their shoes. It’s worked for me.