News :: Blog

iPhone Apps for the Modern Copywriter

Bookmark and Share

As a copywriter, I used to be a traditionalist, scribbling everything down on pad and paper first, then filling out body copy clacking away on a keyboard later. Ever since I switched to the iPhone, however, I've seen the light...the soft, glowing light of a retina display.

With the iPhone comes an endless array of delicious apps to download — yes, some of which even help me do my job. Granted, I'll still jot down the occasional inspiration for a headline or tagline in the iOS default Notes program, but here are a few of the tools that I like to use when I need a little more oomph.

Tumblr
Tumblr, Twitter, WordPress, etc. (Free)
Micro-blogging on your favorite platform is a great way to keep the words flowing — work-related or not. I like to have all the options at my disposal, since I never know when I may have to ghost write for my clients and they all have a different preference. (If you pressed me though, I'd probably say Tumblr is my personal favorite. Plus, depending on who you follow, the Tumblr dashboard is great to cycle through when you need a creative kickstart.)
 

Evernote
Evernote (Free)
Evernote has about everything you could need in a note-taking app. Format text, add photos and tag notes for archiving to tackle almost any writing project you might have. Plus, whether you're conducting interviews or attending seminars, you can record the speaker while you also take notes freehand. (Even records in the background while power's off or other apps are running. Just remember to hit 'Save' before you start bouncing around with other notes. I lost a couple of great talks from SXSW last year. Bummer.)
 

Inspiro
Inspiro ($2.99)
Brainstorming by yourself? Check out Inspiro. It's an idea generator that allows you to string together unexpected combinations of adjectives, adverbs, nouns and verbs. Come across one you like, that has potential? You can save those key phrases for use in later projects. The great thing about Inspiro is that it brings you truly dynamic words and captivating imagery, such as "happy pecs," "imaginary airports," "buttery grouphugs on tiny tables" and the like. The next great tagline could be waiting!
 

Wikipanion
Wikipanion (Free)
The greatest research tool this side of Google. When I need to know about R-values or orthotics, all I have to do is enter it into the search field and Wikipanion pulls up Wikipedia pages in an iPhone-friendly format. Boom - instant expertise. (Well, instant working knowledge at the very least.)
 

Words With Friends
Words With Friends (Free / $2.99)
Okay, so it's not a productivity tool by any means. But when it comes to language, Words With Friends does keep your mind sharp and your vocabulary verbose. You may even be able to sneak something you see played into that newsletter article you're writing. (Although I don't envision ever fitting words like "XI" or "QAT" into copy any time soon.)
 

Honorable mentions include: WriteChain or WriMoDemon (haven't started using these yet, but they sound like great reminders for keeping you on task and meeting writing milestones); iCloud or Dropbox (essential for storing files & sharing across devices) and This American Life (simply storytelling at its finest). What are your favorite apps for writing — and inspiration about writing — while you're on the go?

Also, if design is more your thing, be sure check out Patrick's list of for iPad apps for graphic designers.

~Corey J., Ass't Director of Copywriting/Digital Media Writer

Comments

Post new comment

The content of this field is kept private and will not be shown publicly.

©2010 Sigler Companies | Contact Us | Privacy Policy | Be Green To Each Other