The #500words Writing Model

I’ve been posting quite a bit about the #500words writing/editing model on Twitter, and I have been receiving private messages and DMs about it. I have found it to be a useful way to prioritize my own writing even while it sometimes feels like the world is burning (personally, politically, etc.) around me. Note: I did not create the model, and I have adapted it for my use.

The premise is this: write #500words each day that you work (as taking breaks from work makes us more productive— e.g. here, here, and here). These words will ideally  go toward your most current project, which benefit you and your career (rather than the work we do for others, such as encyclopedia entries, book reviews, etc.). Other writing that you are doing should happen after these #500words. I recognize this isn’t always possible, especially with deadlines, so prioritize as you need. This is something that should work for you, not make your life and writing more stressful.

If you are at the editing stage, follow the 500 words = 5 pages of editing equivalent, even if you are cutting words. Footnotes/Endnotes count towards these words as well.

Of course, as with all things, having a Writing Accountability Buddy (or Group) can help with your accountability. More on the Accountability Buddy soon!