Lots of folks think that the most important thing about writing is having a laptop or a pen, or something. But the biggest part of the writing process is what you bring — you are the biggest tool! So, you should understand how you like to work. Otherwise, if you’re a screw driver, you might end up using yourself like a hammer. Which is frustrating. If you don’t understand how you like to work, you might be tempted to believe you can’t write. So, pay attention. Figure out what kind of tool you are. Here are some questions that might help you figure it out:

• When do you write best? Some people are morning people. I’m not. I like writing in the late afternoon. Actually, if I had my druthers, I’d write after 10 p.m..

• Where do you like to write? Some people like to write in restaurants. Some like to write in a super quiet place. Some like to write at home. Some like a window next to them with a gorgeous view of the mountains right in front of them (Oh wait, that’s me.). I have a favorite spot on the couch that I’ve nearly worn out from sitting there.

• What do you like to write with? Old-school: Pen and paper. Typewriter (some people actually do like typewriters still). Computer. I have a great computer I write with. It has keys that glow in the dark. Since I like to write at night, sometimes, the glowing keys mean I can turn the lights out in the room and type, which I enjoy. I have an awesome pen, too. If I go old school — pen and paper — a good pen is essential. Don’t skimp, eh. I also need cappuccino, or French press coffee, tea — some kind of warm beverage beside me. And chocolate never hurts, does it?