When I submit to a publication, or get a response, I record it on my computer as well as on paper. The notebook does not hold detailed information but, rather, the date and number of submissions I currently have out.
The paper shows my progress at a glance without having to fire up the computer. I can see my accumulated progress easier. Currently, I have 41 submissions out.
I also keep a written copy of each year's acceptances. After the year is over, I trash the list and start anew. It allows me to focus on what I have accomplished instead of what hasn't worked. Besides, who doesn't like to see a list of all their (possible) publications?
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Do you keep lists on paper? Are they backups, or do they serve a different purpose?
I have arthritis, so writing legibly on paper is difficult for me. I miss it, though. There's something satisfying about paper lists. I use duotrope to track some submissions, and I like it because it's searchable and keeps me from sending the same story to the same venue more than once.
ReplyDeleteI'm impressed with how many pieces you've got out on submission right now. I'm not nearly this good about keeping my work in circulation looking for a home.
@mirymom1 from
Balancing Act
I didn't know you have arthritis. How severe and what type?
DeleteI am fortunate enough to not have arthritis in my hands. I have it many other places, though.
Duotrope is a nightmare for tracking poetry submissions (at least, when I used it last). It wants you to record each poem in each combination... ugh.
I'm glad it works for you! I didn't know you wrote shorter forms.