Books and Resources to Start Strong
Reading about the craft and business of freelance writing will accelerate your learning curve and help you avoid common mistakes. These books cover everything from improving your writing skills to understanding how to pitch clients and manage your workflow as a solo operator.
On Writing Well by William Zinsser
This classic teaches you how to write clearly and honestly, which is exactly what clients pay for. Zinsser breaks down the mechanics of good writing in ways that apply to web copy, blog posts, articles, and marketing content. If you’re serious about the craft side of freelancing, this book belongs on your shelf.
Shop On Writing Well on Amazon →
The Business of Writing by Daniel Kahneman
Understanding how people make decisions directly impacts how you write marketing copy and pitch yourself to clients. This book gives you the psychological framework for persuasive writing that actually converts readers into paying customers or clients who hire you again.
Shop Thinking, Fast and Slow on Amazon →
The Freelancer’s Bible by Sara Horowitz
Written by the founder of the Freelancers Union, this book covers contracts, rates, taxes, health insurance, and the business side of freelancing that no one talks about. You’ll learn how to set your rates without underselling yourself and how to structure your business for actual profitability.
Shop The Freelancer’s Bible on Amazon →
Platform: Get Noticed in a Noisy World by Michael Hyatt
Building a platform as a freelance writer means potential clients can find you and see examples of your work. This book walks you through creating a simple website, building an email list, and using social media strategically—without spending every hour of your day on it.
Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon
This book reframes how you approach writing by studying other writers and understanding what makes their work effective. It’s about learning from the best without copying, which is essential when you’re developing your own voice and style as a freelancer.
Shop Steal Like an Artist on Amazon →
Equipment You Need
Freelance writing requires far less equipment than most businesses, but the right tools will make you faster, more professional, and more organized. Your core needs are simple: a reliable computer, internet connection, and software for writing and managing your business. Everything else is optional but can improve your workflow and productivity.
Computer and Peripherals
- Laptop or desktop computer: Your primary tool. A laptop with at least 8GB of RAM and an SSD will handle all writing tasks efficiently. Windows or Mac doesn’t matter—choose what you prefer.
- Keyboard: Mechanical keyboards reduce hand fatigue during long writing sessions. An external keyboard also improves posture if you’re working on a laptop.
- Monitor (optional): A second monitor lets you research on one screen while writing on another, significantly speeding up your workflow.
- Mouse or trackpad: An ergonomic mouse reduces wrist strain over time.
Shop mechanical keyboards on Amazon →
Internet and Connectivity
- Reliable broadband connection: Non-negotiable. Most clients expect you to be reachable during business hours. If your home internet is unreliable, budget for upgrading or finding a backup (mobile hotspot).
- Mobile hotspot device: A backup internet source costs $20–40 monthly and prevents missed deadlines during outages.
Writing and Productivity Software
- Microsoft Word or Google Docs: Most clients use these platforms. Google Docs is free and works everywhere; Word gives you more control over formatting.
- Grammar and spelling tool: Grammarly or similar catches errors before your client sees them. This directly protects your reputation and rates.
- Project management app: Asana, Notion, or even a spreadsheet tracks deadlines, assignments, and invoices. Free versions work fine when starting out.
- Note-taking app: OneNote, Evernote, or Obsidian stores research, client preferences, and writing ideas in one searchable place.
Shop grammar checking tools on Amazon →
Audio and Communication
- Headphones with microphone: You’ll have video calls with clients. Noise-canceling headphones reduce distractions during research and calls.
- Webcam (if not built-in): Some clients request video calls. A 1080p webcam looks professional without being expensive.
Shop noise-canceling headphones on Amazon →
Physical Office Setup
- Desk and chair: You’ll spend 30–50 hours per week sitting. A supportive chair and proper desk height prevent back and neck pain that reduces your productivity.
- Desk lamp: Good lighting reduces eye strain, especially if you work in the evening.
- Filing system or document storage: Physical or digital organization keeps client files, contracts, and invoices accessible.
Shop ergonomic office chairs on Amazon →
What to Buy First vs Later
Start with only what’s essential to take your first clients. Once you’re generating revenue, reinvest in upgrades that measurably improve your speed or professionalism.
- Buy first: Reliable computer, internet connection, and Grammarly. These three directly impact the quality of your work and your ability to meet deadlines.
- Buy second: External keyboard, second monitor, and project management software. These speed up your workflow after you’ve established a client base.
- Buy third: Standing desk converter, professional webcam, or upgraded chair. These are comfort investments that become worthwhile as your workload increases.
- Buy last or never: Expensive software subscriptions, premium project management plans, or fancy office furniture. The free or cheap versions work just as well when starting out.
New vs Used Equipment
Your computer is worth buying new. It’s your income-generating tool, and you can’t afford downtime from a used device failing. New computers come with warranties and support. A used or refurbished computer might save you $200–300, but one week of no work due to hardware failure costs far more.
Everything else can be used or refurbished. Office chairs, desks, monitors, and keyboards hold up well secondhand. Check Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or local office liquidation sales. You’ll find quality used office furniture for 40–60% less. For electronics like keyboards and mice, buy new (they’re inexpensive) unless you find something from a trusted seller with clear photos and a return policy.
Where to Buy
- Amazon: Fastest shipping for most items. Prime membership ($139/year) pays for itself in faster delivery if you buy office supplies regularly.
- Best Buy: Good for computers and electronics if you want to see items in person or need quick replacement support.
- Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist: Used furniture and office equipment, often locally available same-day.
- Office Depot or Staples: Office supplies, chairs, and desks. Price match Amazon if you find lower prices.
- Local liquidation sales: Search “[your city] office liquidation” for deals on gently used office furniture from companies closing or downsizing.
- Direct from software providers: Buy annual subscriptions directly (Microsoft Office, Grammarly) for sometimes better pricing than resellers.