I spend over two hours a day in my car commuting. That is precious time I could be using for my novel. Certainly I can think up stuff while driving, and I can even pull over to take notes occasionally. That has helped a little, but now I need more time cranking out words.
So, I have tried an experiment. A week ago I placed an order for Dragon Naturally Speaking software (using a student discount, which helped a lot on price). It came in on Monday and I got it working on my laptop.
The last two days I have successfully dictated into my laptop while in my car. I have a power converter that lets me keep my battery charged from the cigarette lighter. On Tuesday I dictated 703 words, and this morning (Wednesday) I dictated 706 words. (Strange coincidence about the numbers, huh?)
I'm so pumped! After falling behind on my daily quota, this software is allowing me to catch up.
Yes, I do have a concern that I will let this distract me from my driving--just like the well-publicized cell phone issue. I've been pulling over so I can safely check my laptop screen to make sure things are working correctly and handling any problems that have arisen. I may start draping a cloth over the screen to reduce my desire to peek over at it. As I become more proficient using the software, I think I'll trust it more, use it more effectively, and not have to pull over as often to tinker with it.
What do y'all think of this technique, its potential, its risks?
Kelly
----------
Kelly Carter
2009 first-time NaNo
50k in 30 or DIE !!!
52,540 / 50,000
Nov 4, 2009 - 07 13
I think that's absolutely incredible! I've heard really good things about it. I've heard some people say that a fully trained program can really boost productivity. I know there's a thread for it in NaNo Technology, where you might be able to get some tips.
I do think you need to be extra careful while driving. It does reduce your attentiveness when you're doing something, but I think it's a little bit different than holding a conversation with someone. I think this is a great use of some empty time, and I bet by the end of the month you'll be getting some serious word count on that thing!
----------Heather Dudley
Forums Moderator
Liquid Story Binder, on sale for 50% off during November!
A Dragon Writes
29,248 / 50,000
Nov 4, 2009 - 07 15
Awesome! I'm thinking it sounds like you are taking great care to maintain safety while driving so it should be fine. plus, it's hands free, right?
I might have to check into that. sounds like i coud use it.
I use a NEO - Alphasmat. http://www.neo-direct.com/default.aspx
I still use my laptop and desktop, but the NEO's portability, long battery life, and no distration w/ emails while writing really appeal to me.
50,611 / 50,000
Nov 4, 2009 - 07 22
I love the idea of this, and I'm psyched it's working for you ...
----------The way it would work in MY car, however, would be something like: "Paragraph. It was a dark and stormy night, period. The novelist sat in his office with a glass of fine DUDE!! BLINKER!! ... Moron. A glass of fine sherry. No. Sherry's overdone. A glass of fine Oh Crap, I forgot I need gas. Ummmm ... right. The novelist ... no, I was past that ... OOH! Starbucks!"
*grin*
- gleefulpagan -
2007: Death's Daughter - Win! 2008: Dragon's Child - Win!
Blogging in the Dark
25,442 / 50,000
Nov 4, 2009 - 08 23
Thanks for the link to the NaNo Technology. I may add to that thread later to tell others about how it has been working for me.
----------Kelly
Kelly Carter
2009 first-time NaNo
50k in 30 or DIE !!!