I used to write on a notebook (where papers are bound together) with a pen while sipping a cup of coffee on my other hand. Using paper allowed me not only to write on it, but also to draw flowchart on it to outline to content I want to.

I gradually used my notebook computer to write the rough draft, and even so, I used paper notebook more often for flowcharting. Drawing diagram helped me structure and layout the content to be presented.

As I get used to writing with word processor, I write even the first draft of writing in my notebook. My new notebook's battery lasts more that 3 1/2 hours, so once I start writing with it, I can finish up the first and second drafts.

That even trained me to print less to proofread my drafts. Even while notebook is on, I do writing and proofreading, and sometimes finish up the writing.

3 hours for each session is usually long enough, and I became rely on notebook for writing after getting new notebook. My old notebook's battery lasts 1 1/2 hours, and with that one I couldn't develop such dependency.

Technology of notebook has come to a practical point where battery life is less a problem to carry on. If notebook can be made lighter, that will be the ideal solution to carry.

Drawbacks of using word processor for draft writing are, I can't trace my hadnwriting at all, and sketches can't be spiced with the draft. Skimming through old notebooks, I feel the different handwritings of past and wonder at my scribbles. Part of my past is purely reserved there. And occasionally, I draw cartoon or sketches while jotting down ideas, and with writing on notebook, I can't do that with the writing.

Even with such drawbacks, using wordprocessor saves me time significantly and helps me tighten the structure. Time goes on, and the attitudes must change according to the times.

(November 10, 2002)