IWSG: The Ultimate Writing Machine

~ J.S. Pailly

Hello, friends!  Welcome to this month’s meeting of the Insecure Writer’s Support Group, a blog hop created by Alex J. Cavanaugh and cohosted this month by Rebecca Douglass, Pat Garcia, Louise-Fundy Blue, Natalie Aguirre, and J.S. Pailly (hey wait a minute, that’s me!!!).  If you’re a writer and if you feel insecure about your writing life, click here to learn more about this amazingly supportive group, or click here to check out the IWSG Facebook page.

Each month, IWSG asks us an optional question.  It is totally optional!  IWSG members do not have to answer the question if they don’t want to, or if there’s something else they need to talk about instead.  This month’s optional question is:

What are your favorite writing processing (e.g. Word, Scrivner, yWriter, Dabble), writing apps, software, and tools?  Why do you recommend them?  And which one is your all time favorite that you cannot live without and use daily or at least whenever you write?

As you know, I love space, and I love science.  Based on those two statements, you might expect that I’d also love technology, or that I’d at least feel somewhat comfortable using technology.  But no.  There’s something about sitting in front of a computer screen that makes the creative side of my brain switch off.  Ergo, I don’t use writing software or writing apps much.  I do almost all of my writing the old fashioned way, with pen and paper.

Now I’m not trying to be a hipster about this.  I don’t want to wax poetic about the magical sound of a pen scratching on crisp, white paper.  Writing by hand is not—absolutely not—a better, more sophisticated, more intellectually proper way to write.  It is simply that I cannot “good words do” (as Patrick Rothfuss once described writing) when I’m staring at a computer screen, so writing by hand is my only option.

I do use a computer (obviously!), but only at the very end of my writing process.  Once I have a fully finished draft written out by hand, I take it to my computer, go into a fugue state, and mindlessly transcribe whatever I wrote into a word processor.  Which word processor?  It doesn’t matter.  I don’t have strong feelings about these things.  But I do have strong feelings about pens.  So let me tell you about the Pilot Precise V5 Rolling Ball Pen.

Pilot Precise Rolling Ball pens are marketed as “the ultimate writing machine.”  They’re ballpoint pens with super fine, almost needle-like tips.  According to the marketing copy, these pens use a “unique ink formula” and an “advanced ink feed system for smooth, skip free writing.”  That sounds like marketing B.S., but this is one of the rare cases where the marketing B.S. is actually true.

When I’m in the zone, deep in the flow state of writing, totally lost in my own imaginary world, I don’t want to worry about having any sort of trouble with my pen.  And with Pilot Precise pens, I never do.  Just as words flow from my mind, ink flows smoothly and consistently from my pen onto the page.  It’s such a satisfying writing experience.  And given how incredible these pens are, they’re surprisingly affordable.  Depending on where you shop for office supplies, you can usually get a pack of twelve pens for under $20.

The pens come in two sizes: the V7 and the V5.  I prefer the V5.  The V7 makes a slightly thicker, slightly heavier line.  Nothing wrong with that, but the V5’s slightly thinner, slightly finer line feels more elegant and graceful.  The pens also come in a wide variety of colors, which helps me color code different projects, or keep track of different drafts of the same project.  The first draft of this blog post was written in green.  The second draft was pink, and the third draft was purple.  This made it easy for me to see, at a glance, which pages needed to be transcribed into the computer and which ones didn’t.

So I can’t offer any recommendations for writing apps or writing software.  I barely use a computer at all in my writing process.  But for those of you who write using pen and paper, I can recommend the Pilot Precise V5 Rolling Ball Pen.  And try out the multicolor variety packs, if you see them in stores!  These are the only pens I use for writing.  They really are the ultimate writing machines (and nobody’s paying me to say that).

P.S.: This is my first time cohosting IWSG.  I’m super excited to be doing this today, and (fingers crossed) I hope I do a good job.

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Published by J.S. Pailly

72 thoughts on “IWSG: The Ultimate Writing Machine”

  1. Brilliant James – I love this! The experience of writing by hand has the impact of slowing me down, and I do find interesting results as a consequence so I tend to use this for journaling. But my writing deteriorates to such an extent that it is only just readable for half a page, and then a total mess thereafter. Nevertheless, I have a lovely selection of fountain pens and a selection of coloured inks which I enjoy using when I can.

    Thanks for co-hosting and I do hope you really enjoy it 🙂

    Debs posting today from Fiction Can Be Fun
    Also found at Debs Despatches

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    1. Thanks, friend! I’m sure writing by hand does slow me down, but at the same time, if I tried to write on the computer, nothing would happen. So that would slow me down even more. We each have to do what works best for ourselves.

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  3. I love this post! I didn’t expect to read about pens, but I found it very interesting. I sometimes take to writing on paper, too, when taking my laptop isn’t feasible (outside, sunlight keeping me from seeing the screen, even in the shade, for example).

    I tried Rocketbook in hopes of saving me time with transcribing (it uploads your handwriting and converts it to text), but my hand got tired of writing on the slick, reusable pages. Even when I printed paper ones, I still had to edit the upload, the worst part: backspacing to connect every line (it doesn’t automatically wrap text). I decided it wasn’t saving me any real time.

    I do love Rocketbook’s Frixion pens, though. They come in many colors, and they are erasable!

    Thanks for co-hosting. 🙂

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  4. I actually started to develop an interest in writing after my dad bought me a laptop a couple of years ago when I were 9 or something. I had to type something and started typing my poems and stories. I think it had a negative influence in a teeny tiny bit when I was given a pen and paper to write(I hated my handwriting). I totally agree with you. Pen and paper is much more than whatever it was to me back then.

    Thank you for co hosting.

    Have a great day:)

    Señorida Anastasia from

    spotforyoubyme.blogspot.com

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    1. I suspect the reason I don’t feel comfortable with computers is that I didn’t have one growing up. My family didn’t get a computer until my late teens, and my access to it was limited. So I never got comfortable using the thing, and I still don’t feel super comfortable with computers today.

      So good on your dad for getting you that laptop, especially since that’s what got you into writing.

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    1. Thanks! I’m glad you got something out of it. A mix of writing by hand and writing on the computer is probably good. I wish I could do that. I’d probably get stuff done a little bit quicker.

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    1. Thanks! Yeah, writing by hand does seem to be a bit of a rarity these days. I wish I could do more of my writing on the computer. It seems like it would be faster. But my brain works the way it does, for whatever reason, so I do what works.

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  8. Thanks to you and the others for co-hosting!

    I’m kind of the same way when it comes to writing by pen and writing by word processors. Except I actually like the word processing technology being the science fiction writer I am of stories involving futuristic computer technology and since my day job involves working with IT.

    However, I prefer writing my fiction rough drafts with pen and paper and then after annotating revisions on the first draft I’ll turn to the word processing software to type everything in.

    So far, Papermate and Bic pens have worked pretty well for me with the exceptions of extreme cold seasons and extreme hot summers (like now). During those times the ink seems to dry too much or in some cases (especially during the summer) leaks. However, I’m very willing to try the Pilot pens you mentioned and so think I’ll buy a pack soon. Thanks for the recommendation!

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    1. I hope you like them! I think they’re really great pens.

      I feel like such a Luddite sometimes, writing everything by hand, and I feel really self-conscious about that too, given that I write about so much futuristic Sci-Fi technology. But for whatever reason, writing on the computer is way too hard for me. If I don’t do my writing by hand, it will never get done. That’s just how it works for me.

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  9. Hi,

    I like the fact that you still write by hand. I am so use to typing that it would be difficult for me to adjust to writing by hand.

    Have a happy Fourth of July, and thank you for co-hosting.

    Shalom shalom

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    1. Oh no! I have a very mild case of carpal tunnel, but I’m told I’m nowhere near the point of needing surgery. At least not yet. Hopefully it never comes to that, because I’d hate to give up my pens.

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  11. I have steno pads full of word I haven’t looked at for years. I keep them though. It would be a shame to throw them out. hehehe

    Don’t like to type, try speech to text. There’s an app for phones since the mic already installed then just email it to yourself. That should keep you off the ‘puter for a bit longer. hehehe

    Anna from elements of emaginette

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  12. I was intrigued by your discussion of Pilot Precise V5 Rolling Ball Pen (0.5mm). I’ve used Uni-Ball Deluxe Micro Point (0.5mm) for years.I asked AI to compare uni-ball Deluxe Micro Point Roller Ball Pen to Pilot Precise V5 Rolling Ball Pen and arrange answer in table format.Here’s my conclusion: Their features are nearly the same. Here are the small differences I could find:Uni-ball Deluxe Micro Point (0.5mm) The Uni-ball Deluxe creates precise, thin lines suitable for detailed notes or intricate drawings. Sleek, professional look Water-resistant and fade-resistant inkPilot Precise V5 Extra Fine (0.5mm) The Pilot Precise V5 produces an even finer line, ideal for intricate writing or fine details. Transparent barrel to monitor ink levels Airplane-safe to prevent leaksWe live in Mexico, so I searched Amazon Mexico. The price for Pilot Precise V5 Rolling Ball Pen, 12 assorted colors is $566 MXN ($32 USD)I’ve used Uni-Ball Deluxe Micro Point (0.5mm) for years. Apparently, they are only sold in the USA.

    Thanks for co-hosting our July IWSG Blog Hop.

    https://la-vita.us/insecure-writers-support-group/

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    1. I know I’ve used Uni-ball pens before, too. I remember them being really good pens. I’m not really sure why Pilot Precise won my customer loyalty over Uni-ball. Maybe it’s just that they’re easier to find where I live. I don’t know.

      I would not spend that much money on a set of twelve pens. That’s a rip off.

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  13. Early in my career I drafted longhand, and felt for a time like it was the best way. But it is physically hard on me, and I have evolved to draft on the computer (I type a lot faster than I write, so there’s that). I still use pen and paper for a lot, though, and I love a smooth pen (if it scratches, it’s out). I’ll check out your favorites!

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    1. I wish I could do a little more of my writing on the computer. It definitely seems like it would speed up the process.

      The pens do make a little bit of a scratch sound. I have misophonia, so little sounds like that can get on my nerves really easily, but I’ve never had an issue with these pens.

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  14. Thanks for co-hosting – and a very helpful piece.

    Space is another place, we can all go there, especially with writers like you. Zero carbon too.

    The pens though … I have a problem. Far too often, even I can’t read my own writing.

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  15. When I was younger, I couldn’t write at a computer either. Working in IT somewhat mitigated that, but not completely. As laptops got lighter and more mobile, I discovered that my real issue was writing at a desk. It’s much easier for me to write if I’m sitting somewhere comfortably with my feet up, as I typically did with a pen and notebook. Most of my blog posts get written on an ultraportable laptop, not to mention any fiction I manage to work on.

    Of course, light but useful laptops aren’t cheap, particularly if you like a decent sized screen. And pens are far cheaper if that approach works for you.

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    1. You may be on to something. I have a pretty light laptop now, and it is a little easier for me to write using that than it was when I had to sit at a desk. But writing by hand is still way easier for me.

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  16. Love Pilot pens! I tend to write by hand too, either little notes I jot down in my notebook or full first drafts that I later type up and edit. I did buy a Rocket Book a few months ago, but I lost the freaking pen 😭 so I haven’t tried it out yet

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    1. I’ve seen a few people talking about Rocket Books today. It sounds like an interesting tool for writing, but that’s awful that you lost the pen! I hope you find it soon and get some good use out of it.

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    1. Someone else said something similar, except with carpal tunnel. We all have to do whatever works. I already have a mild case of carpal tunnel. If it ever gets to the point that I can’t write by hand anymore, I’ll learn to do it with a computer. Or voice to text. Whatever I need to do to keep writing.

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  19. I use a really good quality pen–a Skilcraft–that is easy to use, dependable, feels good writing. They’re a bit expensive, but worth it. I also just bought a tactical pen that is a great quality pen with the added ability to break car windows with the tip (long story behind that. That’s $20-30 so much more. I hope the ink lasts a long time.

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    1. No need to explain about the car window thing. I have a tool that does that, too. It’s a safety thing everybody should have.

      I never heard of Skilcraft before. I’m very attached to my Pilot pens, but I’m glad to know about other good brands that are out there.

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  20. LOL. In my hand is Pilot Precise Roller Ball pen. Pens are really a thing for me- I either love them or throw them out. Like after one word i can tell. This brand has stayed the test of time. But writing my manuscript all by hand? Probablay not- but it is neat to see someone that does! Not everything has to be electronic.

    Thanks for hosting!

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    1. Thanks for saying something. Looks like a few comments got caught in the spam filter for some reason. Sorry about that. This is a relatively new blog, so I may not have everything set up right.

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  22. Thanks for cohosting! I have to say, that’s pretty impressive that you write everything by hand. I wouldn’t be able to do that.

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  23. I never knew that pens could be different, and some are better than others. But then, I don’t use pens much. I’m a computer person, so for me, your post was educational as well as fascinating.

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  24. It’s physically painful for me to write by hand, so I don’t do anything with a pen or pencil that I can do with a keyboard.

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  25. Happy belated IWSG Day! I used to write everything by hand and still do scenes or smaller scrawlings in notebooks I constantly carry with me. You never know when inspiration might strike! But I do write the bulk of my books in front of a computer these days. You’re right on with finding the magic pens though! I still do old school written comments while grading papers for my college classes. Finding the right pens for grading is crucial!

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    1. That’s true: you never know when inspiration might strike. You’ve got to be ready!

      I wouldn’t know much about grading papers, but when I’m editing my work, I use the same Pilot pens I use for writing. They do come in red!

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  26. Thanks so much for hosting this month! I write mostly on the computer, but the Pilot Precise V5 (blue) is my favorite pen for anything that requires one (note-taking, journaling, brainstorming… whatever). They’re excellent pens!

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  27. Congratulations on your first co-hosting at IWSG. You did an excellent job. Bravo! Now, I can’t use a pen to write a whole novel. I get severe writers’ cramp. And I can never use any type of roller-ball pens. What a mess I would create. Do you have a lot of cross outs when you write by hand? I’m always revising as I write.

    Have a great day!

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    1. Oh yes, I end up crossing out a lot of stuff. And I have bits of scrap paper on hand so I can try writing something two or three different ways before putting it down “officially” in the notebook. If I did my writing on the computer, I imagine these things would be so much simpler. But my process is what it is, so I’ve found ways to make it work.

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  29. While I could not write a whole book by hand, I take copious notes, both for my own WIPS and for my book reviewing. We might be in different countries and brands may be unfamiliar but I do not go with ballpoints at all. (Controversial, I know) I use the Artline 200 ultra-thin marker pen. Blue. O.4. Very thin. Ballpoints glide, the Artlines have a slightly scratchy feel, like I’m carving out my thoughts on wood, not paper. Love the feel. Once down on paper, I collect them all into my Open-source thumb-my-nose-at-the-corporate-monoliths word processing program and go to town on stories or verses. But materials matter. I recently posted a poem on how the smell like that of coloured pencils conjured up the memories magic of childhood drawing.

    Materials matter.

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    1. I’m not familiar with Artline, but after googling it, it sounds a bit like the Micron brand pens I use for drawing. I guess I do like the way ballpoint pens glide when I’m writing, but not for drawing.

      As you said, materials matter. Personal preferences matter, too, and once you find the materials you feel most comfortable with, keep using them!

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    1. Actually, there was a time I wrote in pencil, too, because I could erase stuff if I needed to. But even though I *could* erase, a lot of times I ended up crossing things out anyway. That led me to transition to writing in pen, and pretty soon I discovered how much I loved Pilot Precise pens.

      I kind of forgot about that step in my writing journey. Thanks for this comment. I enjoyed remembering that.

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  31. This was delightful! The very last tool I’d ever expect anyone to suggest happens to be one of my greatest needs. See, my penmanship stinks. It always has. And, no, it’s nothing to do with being left-handed 😉 I absolutely need and positively love my computer and (almost) every quirky tool available. But you’ve sold me on the Pilot Pens. Thanks for sharing – and for co-hosting!

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  32. I’m glad writing out your first draft works for you. I like to revise as I go too much to do that anymore. Though I remember the days before computers when I had to handwrite everything as an attorney and have my secretary type my letters and pleadings. Thanks for co-hosting with me.

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  33. That used to be my favorite type of pen, too! Then I couldn’t find them for a while, so I switched to Pentel Energel .7mm pens and never went back (I still have trouble finding the first one).

    This is Shannon @ The Warrior Muse (I only have a WordPress account for my podcast, so that’s how it signs me in.)

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    1. Pentel… now that’s a name I haven’t heard in a long, long time. I used to use their markers for my art. But then I moved, and I can’t find Pentel products anywhere where I live now.

      I actually never knew they made writing pens. I only ever knew them for their art markers.

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  35. I will definitely check out the pen. I don’t handwrite too much except for writing down ideas, but I’m particular with my pens and their points. Great blog post, by the way

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    1. Thank you! I’m particular about the points of pens, too, and I really like the needle-like tip on these pens.

      Sorry for the super late response to your comment. I haven’t been in good health, but I’m starting to recover and catch up.

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