100 Best Blogs for New Media Students

By Hannah Watson

New Media students are on the verge of an exciting and evolving field of study. With topics ranging from social networking to innovative art forms to gaming to Internet policy and politics falling under this umbrella, there is plenty for students to learn about and stay connected with. Adding these blogs to your favorite reader will help you keep current on all that is happening in the world of New Media.

Academic Blogs

These professors, researchers, and grad students offer their academic perspective on New Media.

1. Lessig Blog. Lawrence Lessig’s influential blog provides in-depth analysis and commentary on technology, freedom, and the law.
2. Center for History and New Media. This site is dedicated to preserving and relating history through digital media and technology.
3. Angela A Thomas. A professor in Australia, Dr. Thomas includes plenty of information about technology, especially as it pertains to education, in her blog.
4. Anne Helmond. Both a lecturer and a researcher in the field of new media, Anne shares her work on this blog.
5. MediaCommons. Scholarship and digital media meet on this blog.
6. Masters of Media. From the grad students at University of Amsterdam earning their Masters in New Media and offers an insightful world view of new media.
7. Confessions of an Aca-Fan. The former Director of the MIT Comparative Media Studies Program, Henry Jenkins provides his perspective on topics ranging from crowdsourcing to media literacy.
8. jill/txt. This professor in Norway discusses several aspects of social media on her blog.
9. Premediation. Richard Grusin blogs about the agents of new media’s relationship to the public’s perception of their future.
10. Virtualpolitik. Learn how social networking is shaping information filtered to the masses and the political and social implications of new media.
11. Augmented Social Cognition. This blog from Palo Alto Research Center looks at how groups work and think. Much of their research explores new media in this context.
12. Media at LSE. The Department of Media and Communication PhD students at London School of Economics and Political Science blog here.
13. TeleFrieden. Rob Frieden writes about current telecommunication issues and the law in this blog.
14. Posthegemony. This blog provides a study of cultures and civilizations after a period of oppression using current events and popular culture as a magnifying glass.
15. New Media Literacies Blog. This group studies new media and learning in an effort to make positive changes to the educational system.

Social Media

Find out what is happening in the world of social media with these blogs that discuss social networking, relationship building, culture, and more.

16. MediaShift. This PBS blog looks at blogging, Twitter, virtual worlds, and more.
17. Mashable. "The social media guide," Mashable provides readers with genuinely interesting and helpful information when it comes to all things social media.
18. Social Media Insider. Examining issues such as social media censorship, pricing models for social media, and relationship-building as a tool for social media marketing, this blog covers important issues of the field.
19. SmartMobs. Based on the book of the same name, this blog looks at the power of communications and computer connectivity on culture.
20. Alex Halavais. Halavais is a professor of interactive communications and his blog posts frequently focus on various aspects of social media.
21. Publishing 2.0. Take a look at what is going on in the world of online publishing, from blogging to web content.
22. Collaborative Thinking. Mike Gotta posts about connections and communication specifically as it has to do with social media.
23. Moving from Me to We. This blog focuses on ways to connect with others via social media to boost personal development.
24. Blog of Collective Intelligence. Explore the evolution of communities through collaboration, specifically through social networking, here.
25. Tiara.org. A PhD candidate studying social technology, Alice Marwick blogs about social media and culture.
26. Unit Structures. Facebook and Twitter usage feature highly on this blog about social networks and technology.
27. My PhD Blog. This Danish PhD candidate writes specifically about youth and their usage of social networks.

New Media Arts

These blog offer insight from the world of art with a technological twist.

28. reBlog. From Eyebeam, a non-profit supporting media arts and technology education, this blog features a wide range of posts–most with a visual element.
29. information aesthetics. Creativity meets technology meets visual arts in this blog.
30. Hypernarrative.com. Art, media, and technology are the subjects Wilbert Baan include on his blog.
31. New Media Initiatives. A blog of the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis, readers can find plenty about art and technology here.
32. Kevin Flanagan. This Irish artist uses this blog as a sort of sketch book of his works in progress as he explores the visual arts.
33. Ratchet Up. High tech digital art is the subject of John Schott’s blog.
34. Design with Intent. This blog examines the way things are designed in an attempt to shape behavior.
35. click opera imomus. Read Momus’ blog that covers everything from music to fiction to visual art.
36. Art21 Blog. This group promotes contemporary art through diverse media and their blog offers insight and trends.
37. we make money not art. The ironic title of this unusual blog is just the tip of the intriguing iceberg as you explore new media art news, opportunities, and more.
38. Rhizome. This group supports art that incorporates new technologies, and this blog invites you to participate as an observer or artist.

New Media and Culture

Read about the impact of New Media studies on culture worldwide with these blogs.

39. apophenia. Danah Boyd blogs about the ways people use the Internet for social connection and the implications of this use.
40. Rough Type. Nicholas Carr shares his insight on new media and its usage here.
41. The Great Seduction. This blog by Andrew Keen discusses the intersection of culture and the Internet.
42. mathewingram.com/work. Media, culture, and journalism are the focus of Mathew Ingram’s blog.
43. CyberJournalist.net. This site updates frequently with news, tips, and information about online journalism, citizen media, and digital storytelling.
44. E-Media Tidbits. From the Poynter Institute, this blog covers news about the online news business.
45. Dynamist Blog. Virginia Postrel writes about consumer variety, the business of glamour, organ donation, and other bits of culture and new media on her blog.

New Media Business Blogs

These blogs offer insight from those doing business in the field of New Media.

46. New Media Strategies Blog. The employees of this company each contribute a voice to this blog that covers trends and topics relevant to social media.
47. Concentric Sky. This web development company shares information about technology related to social media on its blog.
48. W3 Blog. W3 EDGE’s blog shares insight on how best to optimize your Internet usage for business.
49. Signal vs. Noise. From 37signals, this blog features a variety of information including interviews with experts in the field, news and updates about their products and what is happening at 37signals, and the business of new media.
50. Chris Garrett on New Media. This new media expert and consultant provides plenty of tips and resources for those looking to improve their blogging experience.
51. Socialmedia.biz. Find tons of social media strategies alongside social media news here.
52. Gravity7: Social Interaction Design by Adrian Chan. See what Adrian Chan has to say about topics such as ambient knowledge, social media metaphors, social media usage, and more.
53. All Facebook. Get news and analysis about Facebook as well as information about applications from this consultancy group.
54. Mythos Media Weblog. This media publishing group is all about breaking the mold and innovation.
55. Culture Blog. Engaging new audiences is the business of be+cause strategies, and this blog offers their experience.

Technology

Technology and New Media are the topics in these blogs.

56. I, Cringely. Robert X. Cringely has written professionally on technology since the mid-80s and shares his insight on his blog.
57. The Technology Liberation Front. Examine the legal and political side of current technology issues in this blog.
58. Alertbox. Updated once every two weeks, this blog from Dr. Jakob Nielsen examines web usability issues.
59. TechCrunch. Learn about Internet products and companies, as well as their comings and goings, on this blog.
60. TED Blog. Keep up with trends and hear from experts in a variety of fields when you watch the amazing videos posted on the TED blog.
61. MobileActive’s Blog. Find out how people are affecting social change through mobile technology on this blog.
62. Enterprise 2.0 Blog. The official blog of the Enterprise 2.0 Conference, you can find information about social tools and technologies to help businesses.
63. Kasper Souren a.k.a. Guaka. Social networks, wikis, and open source are often topics on this technology-centered blog.
64. Question Technology. Get commentary about technology and society on Kevin Arthur’s blog.
65. Technology360. Written by a former executive at NPR, this blog examines technology and social media.

Politics and Policy

These blogs are all about monitoring and shaping the politics and policy surrounding New Media.

66. Benton Foundation Digital Beat. The Benton Foundation works to create policy that will ensure that media and telecommunications works in the best interest of the people and share their view on communications policy on this blog.
67. P2P Foundation. This organization promotes peer-to-peer practices and serves to unite others with the same agenda.
68. Joris van Hoboken. Digital civil rights with a global perspective is the main feature on this blog.
69. The Googlization of Everything. Siva Vaidhyanathan explores the impact of Google on the way information is presented to the public and how they are going about doing what they do.
70. Open and Shut?. Richard Poynder examines the policies behind open access here.
71. Wikimedia Blog. This blog is written by the non-profit foundation that supports Wikipedias around the world and contains information about usability, open source, and more.
72. Public Knowledge Policy Blog. This blog is part of a public interest group working to defend users’ rights in the digital world.
73. Infocult: Information, Culture, Policy, Education. Explore the impact of new media information dissemination and policy with this blog.
74. Slashdot. Stay on top of news that affects your online rights with this blog.
75. Media and Communications Policy. This blog examines first amendment issues surrounding communications and media.
76. Tech Daily Dose. Keep up with the latest news about politics and policy in the tech world.
77. Bottom-up. Tim Lee writes about technology policy–specifically exploring the power held by large institutions and how to loosen their grip.

Media Censorship and Freedom Issues

Online censorship and freedom are discussed on these blogs.

78. michaelzimmer.org. Michael Zimmer examines ethics, privacy, censorship, and the Internet on his blog.
79. On the Media. Download the stories available here each week from NPR to stay current on news media with a focus on trends risking freedom of information and expression.
80. Freedom to Tinker. From Princeton’s Center for Information Technology Policy, this blog touches on censorship, open source, government transparency, and much more.
81. Nart Villeneuve. Internet censorship, both ruminations on the subject and actual examples, are the focus of this blog.
82. Infothought. Censorship with a particular eye on Google and Wikipedia is what Seth Finkelstein discusses here.

New Media Working for Social Change

From ecology to non-violent revolutions, these blogs work for social change through new media.

83. Worldchanging. Changing the world for the better through new media is the goal of this non-profit, and they blog about it here.
84. iRevolution. Learn how technology and new media can empower people to protect themselves as well as coordinate non-violent revolutions.
85. Mediacology. New media and ecology combine to make up the posts on this blog.

Gaming Technology

These aren’t your typical gaming blogs, with quality posts offering thoughtful and thought-provoking topics.

86. Futile. Ryan Lane’s video blog provides information about gaming and human interaction.
87. Terra Nova. This collaborative blog about virtual worlds is written by a first-rate team of academics and professionals.
88. Game Girl Advance. This blog explores the intersection of gaming, pop culture, and the perspective of the gamer.
89. Grand Text Auto. Gaming, game design, and the stories behind those who play and design games feature in this blog.
90. GameSetWatch. Get articles, interviews, and opinions about gaming here.
91. Wonderland. Keep up with the latest pop culture gaming news in this fun blog.
92. The Escapist: Featured Articles. Find high-quality content providing news and updates about gaming here.
93. The Brainy Gamer. Find "thoughtful conversation about video games" on this blog.
94. Rock, Paper, Shotgun. Four top gaming journalists from the UK write this blog that is all about PC gaming.
95. Gamasutra Expert Blogs. Read these insightful articles from the experts associated with Gamasutra.
96. Gamespace.nl. Gaming, online journalism, and presentations and talks on new media are the topics most visited on this blog from a PhD student in Amsterdam.

New Media News and Popular Culture

Stay on top of pop culture news and events with these blogs.

97. Valleywag. Get news on popular culture and new media stories on this blog updated frequently during the weekdays.
98. Underwire. Keep up with all the latest in popular culture with a visual media edge to it with this blog from Wired Magazine.
99. Too many topics, too little time. This blog covers music, video, and books as well as the copyright, freedom, and open source issues that surround them.
100. FBHive. Written by two 20-somethings with a passion for Facebook, this blog keeps you in the know with happenings at Facebook.

100 Twitter Feeds That Teach You History

By Rose Jensen

With all the buzz about Twitter being the latest source for breaking news, it may be easy to overlook the fact that Twitter is also a good place to look for information about the past. Whether you are studying history and want a little additional knowledge to support what you are learning in class or are just a history buff, then you will want to check out these Twitter feeds that offer all sorts of historical facts ranging from American history to European history to history of specific places or building to history of families to history in the making.

General History Feeds

These feeds offer a bit of history from several different eras and regions.

1. @historytweeter. From the Stone Age to Dickens, get interesting history tidbits here.
2. @Historyday. Learn what happened on this day in history (sometimes as recent as last year).
3. @WWHistory. Get "today in history" updates on this feed.
4. @worldhistory. This feed provides lots of historical facts from history around the world.
5. @history_is_cool. This literary publicist shares great history books alongside historical facts.
6. @history_geek. The feed from this history professor includes talk of academia as well as fun historical facts such as what Romans used for toilet paper.
7. @AnswersDotCom. Get birthday and death day anniversaries along with other interesting facts.
8. @HistoryTweet. From the anniversary of the first signal light to Nixon’s resignation, this feed offers lots of fun historical facts.
9. @Discovery_News. Among the science news updates here you will also find lots of science history facts.

History with an American Perspective

These Twitter feeds focus mainly on American history.

10. @kevindmccann. History of Tennessee, baseball, and the Civil War may all show up on this feed.
11. @HISTORY_Daily. The History Channel tweets about events in history as well as information about their TV station.
12. @JQAdams_MHS. The Massachusetts Historical Society is tweeting a line a day from John Quincy Adam’s private journal.
13. @dancohen. Find lots of links to digital archives documenting history on this feed.
14. @wceberly. Keep up with what happened today in American history with this feed.
15. @PineyCreekBytes. A chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, this Colorado group updates with historical facts from the American Revolutionary War.
16. @VHStudio. Get photos and art depicting important moments in American history.
17. @CAFMuseum. Find important dates in American history, especially as it pertains to air power.
18. @Presidentfacts. Learn unusual and interesting facts about the American presidents here.

History with a European Perspective

Don’t forget about the rich history of Europe–these Twitter feeds haven’t.

19. @HistoryTODAY. Get your European history with this feed from the editor of History Today magazine.
20. @TheHistoryWoman. This journalist’s feed focuses mostly on Germany and the UK, but includes facts from around the world.
21. @HistoryTimes. With a nice blend of history and its impact on today, this feed offers interesting information with a British accent.
22. @BBCHistoryMag. Find plenty of fascinating history facts here.

Regional History

These feeds look at the history of a specific geographic region.

23. @TampaBayHistory. Get a daily dose of Tampa Bay history from this feed.
24. @LucyDJones. Find interesting facts about Florida history here.
25. @AASLH. This organization interprets and records American state and local history.
26. @brooklynhistory. The Brooklyn Historical Society writes this feed all about Brooklyn.
27. @mightyby. This feed features Alabama history as well as aviation history.
28. @NZHistorydotnet. Learn about the history of New Zealand here.
29. @GreenerParks. The San Bernardino County Regional Parks not only give up-to-date information about the parks, but lots of history too.
30. @mnhs. Find photos and historical facts about Minnesota on this feed from the Minnesota Historical Society.

Museums and Libraries

Museums and libraries have plenty to offer when it comes to history, and their Twitter feeds provide a sampling.

31. @smithsonian. Keep up with the fun historical facts that this famous museum has to offer on their feed.
32. @airandspace. This branch of the Smithsonian shares history important to air and space.
33. @HMSF. The Historical Museum of Southern Florida posts about events at the museum as well as historical facts related to the area.
34. @TheWomensMuseum. This museum highlights women in history from 1500 to present day.
35. @amhistorymuseum. From light bulbs made out if Legos and Julia Child, follow this feed for American cultural history.
36. @GettyMuseum. Art history and other interesting facts are found in this feed.
37. @librarycongress. Take a peek at some of the collections available at the Library of Congress.
38. @fordstheatre. Find out what is happening at this historic theater with their feed.
39. @portableant. From the British Museum Portable Antiquities ICT advisor, this feed offers tons of links to photos and information.
40. @logcabinvillage. This log cabin village in Fort Worth, TX provides information about log cabins and life from that era.
41. @NYHistory. Learn about memoirs, exhibits, and more from this museum that features New York history.

History and Preservation of Structures

Old structures hold much history in them. These feeds share the history of buildings and other structures across the US.

42. @handsonhistory. This organization preserves historical buildings and shares their work on this feed.
43. @Historianizer. This feed features information about historical buildings and structures around the US.
44. @HistoricShed. This company offers advice and products to help preserve historic homes.
45. @OldHouseWeb. People who love old houses will find lots of fun facts here.
46. @ForgottenChi. Find links highlighting forgotten architect and structures around Chicago in this feed.
47. @tenementmuseum. Written from the perspective of this 5-story tenement built in 1863, this feed features historical facts relevant to the structure as well as current events happening there.

Cultural History

History doesn’t have to be only about battles and politics, as these feeds attest, but can also provide insight to popular trends and fun facts.

48. @HistoryOfAll. Find lots of entertaining historical tidbits such as when women started shaving under their arms and when stainless steel was invented.
49. @LemelsonCenter. Invention and innovation are the subjects mentioned here and frequently feature fun moments in the history of innovation.
50. @emailfwds. This feed provides lots of random information, much of it historical in nature, such as the fashion of drinking chocolate with your alcohol in the 17th century.
51. @trainstoday. This train-loving Twitter feed often features photos and other historical facts about trains, railroads, and bridges.
52. @auldmags. Famous quotes, sports history, and more will show up in this feed.
53. @dayinhistory. From the publication of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland to the death of Anton Chekhov, this feed provides lots of cultural history.
54. @johnabartram. This archeologist shares ancient history and archeology’s impact on today.
55. @historicaltweet. If famous historical figures could use Twitter, here is what they would be saying in 140 characters or less.
56. @nbclearn. This educational arm of NBC tweets fun historical facts here.
57. @history_book. Get information about history books on the day they are published with this feed.
58. @trexblog. Learn what this T-Rex has to share about popular history when you follow this fun feed.
59. @whatexactly. This feed provides interesting and odd facts, some historical and some not.
60. @oldnews. This feed relates old news stories from the 20th century.

K-12 History Teachers

What better place to learn about history than from those teaching it to youth in schools. Here is a sampling of their Twitter feeds.

61. @russeltarr. This history teacher posts historical facts along with teaching resources.
62. @ushistorysite. Both history facts and resources for history teachers are on this feed.
63. @ernieeaster. Find links to resources such as cartography maps and more.
64. @robcrawley. Get fun days in history facts with this American history teacher.
65. @activehistory. Find history facts and worksheets for history teachers.
66. @IanS1974. This British teacher shares lots of ideas when school is in session.
67. @bcondesso. History resources and current education policy both feature here.
68. @woodenmask. Teaching, parenting, and history are the subjects of this Twitter feed.
69. @a_armstrong. Find lots of resources for history teachers and learners here.
70. @Oralhistorybuff. History sites, social studies pages, and other helpful resources are posted on this teacher’s feed.
71. @AmerHistTeach. This teacher shares links to history resources, technology for the classroom, and much more.

Genealogy

Learn about the rich history hidden among each family’s ancestors with these feeds that provide resources and history for those interested in genealogy.

72. @FamilyStories. Genealogy and history get equal billing on this feed.
73. @benotforgot. Get genealogy resources as well as historical information here.
74. @rootstelevision. This feed is from RootsTelevision.com and offers great family history information.
75. @michaelhait. A professional genealogist, Michael Hait shares tips and resources for finding your family history.
76. @geneabloggers. This feed features information and stories about family history.
77. @genealogynews. Find genealogy resources as well as actual famous family trees here.
78. @genseek. Get tons of resources and news about genealogy with this feed.
79. @MyHeritage. This international company shares resources and more to help you find your family.
80. @lagenealogy. If you had or have family in Louisiana, then you will want to check out this genealogy feed.
81. @dickeastman. Updates from Eastman’s Online Genealogy Newsletter are features here.

Politics and History

Politics is an important part of history. Take a look at these feeds that touch on politics of the past as well as today.

82. @Micah24601. This political science student offers frequent historical facts, usually politically oriented.
83. @sklopfer. Civil rights and cold cases are the specialty here with some real-time politics mixed in too.
84. @executedtoday. This feed highlights famous executions throughout history along with current death penalty news.
85. @whitehouse. Follow this official Twitter feed from the White House to see what is happening in American politics.
86. @FreedomMuseum. Freedom and first amendment rights are the topics here with a few pieces of historical information thrown in as well.
87. @DrSeanForeman. This political science professor comments on politics with an aim to speak on Republican, Democrat, and Independent stances.
88. @prof_gabriele. This professor of medieval studies tweets about current politics.
89. @Klmarcus. Kenneth L. Marcus is a public affairs professor, constitutional lawyer, and anti-Semitism expert whose feed will keep you current with what is happening in the world of politics.
90. @SenJohnMcCain. Find out what the Republican senator and former presidential candidate has to say here.
91. @TheElders. This group of international leaders is headed by Nelson Mandela and posts about important global news and events.
92. @algore. Politics and climate change are the focus of Al Gore’s Twitter feed.
93. @ClintonNews. This unofficial feed provides news about the work being done by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

Historical Figures Tweeting

History is always in the making. Take advantage of the opportunity to hear from these famous people while they are alive and creating history.

94. @therealBuzz. Astronaut Buzz Aldrin tweets about space and what he is doing now on this feed.
95. @lancearmstrong. Follow this world-class athlete and cancer survivor as he makes history.
96. @StephenHawking. This feed posts quotes from Stephen Hawking, the famous physicist and mathematician.
97. @JohnCleese. The legendary British actor and comedian tweets with his trademark humor here.
98. @yokoono. Famous artist and wife of John Lennon, Yoko Ono tweets in this feed.
99. @zappos. Tony Hsieh, the CEO of Zappos, has become wildly famous for both his smart business practices as well as his customer relations and social media participation.
100. @drewbrees. This football quarterback is not only known for his amazing skill on the field, but also for the charitable activities he and his wife have supported.

100 Essential Tips & Tools for Writers of the Future

By Rose Jensen

Writers competing in today’s global market have had to adapt to all kinds of demands that they never used to think about, including outsourcing, personal branding, web marketing, blogging and project management. And while you may have taken some cutting edge courses in college, these writing tips and tools will prepare you for the real-world writing culture of the future. Read below for the essential tools you’ll need to survive in a technology-centric marketplace, even as a creative type.

Marketing and Branding

Learn how to market yourself and your writing just as business professionals do.

1. Know how to pick an agent: Find an agent with experience marketing your genre to top publishers.
2. Start a blog: Start a blog to extend your brand and reach more readers and industry people online.
3. Use LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a powerful networking tool for business professionals and writers.
4. Host a book signing: Ask for a book-signing table at a local bookstore or at a writing convention.
5. Post excerpts online: Post a teaser chapter or excerpt on your blog or other social media site.
6. Book interviews: Book yourself on TV and radio shows by pitching your book or your research expertise to producers.
7. Post your resume online: Put it on your website, blog, social media sites and niche job sites.
8. Twitter: Connect with potential readers build up a relationship with industry professionals on Twitter.
9. Do your own market research: Before you send out releases, do research on your target audience so that your pitches are more focused and effective.
10. Suite101.com: Write articles on this site to convince others you’re an expert and build a following.
11. Teach a class: Teach a class or host a presentation at your library to build your brand and bolster your reputation as an expert.
12. MOO: Design your own business cards with MOO to advertise your services on the fly.
13. Pinpoint your genre: What sets you apart? Your writing style, your personal voice or your mastery of a certain genre? Knowing this will help you market your writing.
14. Relate your work and yourself to current events: Bring up key catch words that are relevant to the economy, social trends and tech trends to show that you’re relevant.
15. BookMarketingNetwork.com: Visit this network to meet other writers, agents and more.
16. Set up a blog just for your book’s promotion: In addition to your personal blog, set up a site just for updates on your book tour, signings, interviews and questions from readers.
17. Never compromise on grammar, writing style, punctuation, etc.: Even when you post on forums or on blogs, never get sloppy. Your writing is your craft, and may be your only marketing tool in some cases.
18. Google Trends: Use this app to keep up with the conversation about your genre or expertise.
19. Don’t drift into the background: Even if you’ve hit a dry spell, keep your blog, social media accounts and resume updated and a part of the conversation.
20. Always be reliable: Never miss deadlines and make it a point to market yourself to editors and publishers as someone who is always reliable.

Organization and Project Management

Let these project and organization tips and tools prepare you for the demands of a crazy, chaotic freelance career.

21. Outline your goals often: Every couple of months, come up with a new plan to achieve long and short-term goals based on your current situation.
22. Use a master calendar: Use a master calendar for all of your upcoming deadlines.
23. Keep running to-do lists: Keep a running to-do list, plus daily task lists to stay on track.
24. ubernote: This handy web tool lets you organize notes, research, emails, social media accounts and more from your Firefox browser.
25. Organize your brainstorming ideas in one spot: Use a tool like Wridea to minimize mess and keep all of your ideas in one spot.
26. Use a smart, customizable writing platform: yWriter5 lets writers move around chapters and scenes for easy editing.
27. Get your own home office: An organized home office will minimize distractions.
28. Save your edits: Don’t trash edits until you’re completely finished with a project: you might need them to back up work, make changes or prove that something is your own.
29. Record everything: If your phone doesn’t have a place to keep notes, take a notepad with you everywhere so that you can record deadlines, appointments, contact information and story ideas immediately.
30. Evernote: Evernote is a very handy organization tool for anyone who works on the web. Save, clip and share images, notes, web pages and more.
31. Use mind mapping software: Organize your projects with a visual mind map.
32. Track your time: A time-tracking tool like Paymo helps with invoicing but also helps you stay on task.
33. Get dressed: If you work from home, staying in your pajamas may be tempting, but getting dressed can help you feel more focused and energized.
34. Use web-based tools: Try to use web-based tools when you can so that it’s easier for you to work remotely.
35. Set your own deadlines: Set personal deadlines as well as ones that your editors give you.
36. Communicate with editors and clients throughout the projet: Make sure your clients don’t have any changes and check to ensure that you’re satisfying their needs periodically instead of waiting until you’re finished with the project.
37. Tellico: Tellico is a collection manager that can hold your writings.
38. Basecamp: This heavy-duty collaboration and project management tool will help you keep up with edits, to-do lists, deadlines and more.
39. Document changes, edits and cancellations: Cover your tracks by saving any correspondence or requests to make edits, change a deadline or cancel a project.
40. Create a pre-writing routine: Tap into your creativity faster by creating a pre-writing routine like listening to a certain song or picturing your happy place.

Business and Career

This set of business tips and tools can help you manage your own career as if you’d gotten your MBA instead of your MFA.

41. Be practical: You can have lofty long-term goals, but if you want to achieve success, understand that small steps are necessary in the beginning.
42. Create your own spreadsheets: This article shows freelancers how to create a spreadsheet for DIY invoices.
43. Keep up with emails: Even if you don’t have time to cover a particular story or meet with a contact right away, send them an e-mail acknowledging their message to let them know you care.
44. Highrise: This tool is great for organizing your business tools, contacts and contracts.
45. Become a multi-tasker: The Internet has provided writers with all kinds of opportunities, as long as you’re not afraid to try new media. Write for blogs, news sites and community story boards.
46. PingMe: This interactive tool reminds you to stay on track via e-mail or text.
47. LessAccounting: This web-based invoicing tool also helps you manage your own budget.
48. Learn when to pass up an assignment: Once you’ve been freelancing for a while, you’ll know how much work you can take on at a given time. Learn when to say no when you get overwhelmed.
49. Fluttervoice: Invoice via e-mail with this tool that lets you use your own logo and allows clients to view payment history.
50. Maintain a work-life balance: As much as you can, set up a schedule that allows you to separate work from your personal life.

Collaboration

Writers and project managers in today’s economy may work remotely, but that doesn’t mean that they aren’t connected with researchers, vendors, clients and editors from around the world. Knowing how to work with a range of team members is a vital survival skill for freelancers, so use these tips and tools to keep everything straight.

51. Outsource: If you have the finances, outsource some of your work to become more effective.
52. Writeboard: Writeboard is a sharable writing tool that you can use for edits and brainstorming.
53. Get out and network: Network with team members, vendors and other writers by going to business lunches and other events.
54. Exchange links: Promote another writer’s work and have them do the same for you by exchanging links on a blogroll.
55. Set up a tight contract: Outline deadlines, payment, duties and promotion agreements.
56. WhosOff: Keep track of which of your contacts are on vacation with this tool.
57. WriteWith: This simple tool is for group writing projects. Upload documents, share tasks and chat online.
58. GoToMeeting: Hold virtual meetings from your home office with this tool.
59. eFax: With eFax, you can more easily send documents over the Internet.
60. Follow up with e-mail: Make sure you leave a paper trail covering your tracks and documenting what you talk about in chats or phone conversations.

Brainstorming

Here you’ll find tips and tools that help you tap into your creative center without sacrificing productivity.

61. Alter your process: Try writing and then brainstorming to mix things up and consider ideas from a different perspective.
62. Monitor your online time: Digital fiddling — playing on social media and shopping online — keep you from productive brainstorming, so limit your playtime.
63. Learn when you’re most creative: Everyone has a creative cycle: learn what time of day you’re most creative, and schedule your writing time around it.
64. Read blogs: Read blogs to find out what matters to the general public. Make sure to read the comments sections and community pages, too.
65. Start with a question: Start a paragraph or project by asking a question and then coming up with different ways to answer it.
66. Tap into the outside world: Get off your computer and experience real life for inspiration.
67. Pull from personal experiences: Web writers especially can better connect with readers by sharing personal stories.
68. LooseStitch: This sharable brainstorming tool lets you create outlines and organize ideas.
69. The Idea Lottery: With this tool, you can make connections between ideas and random words.
70. Random Picture Generator: This funny tool can help give your creativity a boost through visual association.

Finding Work

Learn how to compete globally by following these tips and maintaining a presence on these writer job sites.

71. Elance: This freelance web marketplace has postings for writing and translation, plus lots of web gigs.
72. 5 Quick Tips for Writer/Agent Negotiations: Learn how to defend yourself against a wily agent by checking out these tips.
73. Have references ready: If you’re pursuing a contract job or even a one-time gig, be ready with references from past editors and clients for your new employer.
74. Prove that you’re trustworthy: Don’t gossip online and always meet deadlines if you plan on cultivating a successful work-at-home career.
75. Keep up with editors: Follow up with editors you’ve worked with in the past so that you stay on their radar.
76. The Freelance Writing Jobs Network: Get writing job leads, learn business tips, job hunting tips and more from this network.
77. Ed2010: Editors and writers can find internships and jobs, principally in New York, on this site.
78. Update your portfolio: Keep your portfolio updated with pieces you write as writing samples to fill in the gaps. For instance, if you can write about sports but don’t have any published sports articles, write a piece and upload it onto your website to show editors.
79. Poe War: Find job postings plus lots of freelance and writing tips on Poe War.
80. Never stop networking: Network on social media sites, through friends, by following up with old clients and with local news or writing outlets to stay on everyone’s radar.
81. Go back to school: Take a class to stay current on all the news trends, tools and topics in your field.

Web Tips and Tutorials

For networking purposes and web writing gigs, you’ll need to have a basic understanding of the Internet and web development. These tutorials will teach you what you need to know.

82. WordPress tips for writers: Here you’ll learn how to use WordPress’ blogging tools for your portfolio.
83. Understand how to pick a theme: Your website’s design communicates a lot about your writing style, genre and professionalism, so choose one wisely.
84. The Bare Bones Guide to HTML: Some web writing gigs may prefer that you already know the basics of HTML coding, so use this guide as a reference.
85. Web Design Training and Certification: Go one step further by becoming a double threat: a writer who knows how to design web pages, too.
86. 50 Useful Twitter Tools for Writers and Researchers: This guide can help you use Twitter to its maximum marketing potential.
87. 10 Tips for Good Web Writing: This guide can help you learn how to write effectively for web audiences.
88. Blogging Tips for Writers: Learn how to reference your brand, writing style and goals through your blog.
89. From Print to Web: Tips for the Transitioning Writer: If you’re new to web writing, consider these tips.

Niche Writing

Writing for niche markets is a smart way to stand out from the crowd when you’re starting out and looking to earn some cash on the side. Here, you’ll find tips related to niche writing.

90. Personal bios: Write personal bios for business execs, newsletters, and anyone who has a website they’d like to market.
91. Become a known expert: If you’ve cornered a particular market, you can become an expert in the field and pitch yourself as a reference for media outlets.
92. Ads: Write copy for ad copy for firms and independent businesses.
93. Finding Your Writing Niche: This article will help you determine your niche.

Staying Cutting Edge

Whether the economy’s in good shape or tanking, you’ll need to compete with all the other writers out there working from home and trying their best to network to make it big. Here are tips for staying cutting edge throughout your career.

94. Fight for face time: Though it might seem outdated, face time is what will set you apart from all the other writers fighting for attention through e-mail.
95. Break the rules: If you want to become a more popular, more engaging writer, break a few rules for the sake of conversational, powerful writing.
96. Keep up with the industry: If you want to know how to get ahead in your niche, make sure you know all the names, trends and buzz words that are influencing the industry.
97. Keep your resume updated: Your resume should always be ready to sent out, and your writing samples should also be in order. You don’t want to blow an opportunity because you weren’t prepared.
98. Share something no one else can: Go out of your way to get the scoop that no one else has in order to prove yourself as an expert resource. You don’t have to be a gossip: just dig a little deeper to find a new angle.
99. Be honest: No one likes a writer who never has an opinion. Don’t just spit out press releases: give your honest, analytical opinion, and your readers will be grateful for showing them a side of something they hadn’t considered.
100. Be confident: Since you represent yourself, your writing and your networking skills have to show that you’re confident. Never second guess yourself in front of editors, agents, other writers, potential clients or even your readers.

How to Not Go Broke in College: 100 Tips, Tools, and Tricks

By Donna Scott

Everyone knows college students aren’t usually rolling in dough. It’s one thing to live frugally and something altogether different to get yourself into financial trouble. Check out this list of 100 tips, tools, and tricks to help you plan and save for college, learn about financial aid options, manage your money and credit, earn money, and save money in a variety of ways specific to your college experience.

Planning Ahead and Saving for College

Even if you are about to head off to school, you can still start planning ahead and saving. Get plenty of ideas here.

1. Do community service. Many scholarships go to those with a proven track-record of strong community service performance.
2. Learn about the cost of college. Learn what to expect when it comes time for paying for your education with this article and sites like onlinecolleges.net that provide information on college costs.
3. Start as soon as you can. Whether you a high school student just looking at college options or are already starting college, start investing now to give yourself time to build as much money as possible.
4. Save often. Put money back as frequently as you can to help build your college fund.
5. Get your finances in order. Make sure you have a good handle on your personal finances and spending habits before you start trying to save for college.
6. Ask for gifts. Ask friends and family to consider contributing to college expenses for birthday and holiday gifts.
7. Invest unexpected income. If you receive a large gift or otherwise come across unexpected money, put that money towards your education.
8. Learn to manage your time. The old adage "time is money" is true. Learn to manage your time so you do well in school and don’t have to repeat classes or drop any classes–both of which cost you money.
9. Get organized. Set up an organized system for papers and files so that you can keep everything straight. This gives you more time for other activities, such as working part-time jobs.
10. Keep an emergency fund. Even if it’s only one or two thousand dollars, this money can help keep you from going into debt if an emergency arises.

Financial Aid

Learn about ways to fund your college education with these tips and resources.

11. FAFSA. Complete your FAFSA online to determine your eligibility for scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities that can help pay for your education.
12. Federal Work Study Program. Learn about this opportunity to work part time through the federal government in order to earn funds for your education.
13. Nelnet. Get an understanding of the different financial aid options with this resource.
14. Learn how you can pay for college. Read articles like this one to help you understand ways you can find money to pay for college.
15. Research scholarships. There are many scholarships available for students attending accredited colleges, but you will need to do the research to find them.
16. Learn about specific types of scholarships. This blog post from Pay for College Blog offers suggestions on applying for specific college scholarships.
17. Beware of scholarship scams. Unfortunately, there are plenty of people with bad intentions who take advantage of students seeking financial help. Learn how to recognize scholarship scams.
18. Learn about grants. College grants are an excellent way to get money for school that doesn’t have to be repaid.
19. eStudentLoan. Learn about student loans and compare some of the major ones with this site.
20. GreenNote. Join this social lending network where members finance loans to individual students at low interest rates.
21. Zopa. Another social lending network, this one connects members who are seeking loans with credit unions who offer low-interest rates.

College Savings Tools and Calculators

Use these tools and calculators to find out how much you should save, what specific schools will cost, what type of investments to use for your college fund, and more.

22. College Savings Calculator. This calculator will help you determine how much you should save and ways to make the most of your saving.
23. School Affordability Analyzer. Find out how much the schools of your choice will cost you, how much aid they typically provide, and the best options for your specific situation.
24. College Funding Calculator. Enter information about your savings, how long you have to invest, and your annual contribution to determine how much you should be investing now to pay for college.
25. College Savings Plan Comparison Chart. This chart offers a break-down of various savings plans and how they are managed.
26. College Savings Calculator. This calculator takes into consideration such variables as the type of school, commuting vs. being on campus, and more when it comes to cost and savings.
27. How much can you save?. This tool helps you calculate how much money you can save over time.
28. Calculate how much you’ll need to save for college. Not only will this tool tell you how much you need to save, but it can offer suggestions for changes you can make to better meet those goals.
29. How Much Should You Save?. Use this worksheet to determine how much you will need to put back for college expenses.
30. Savings Calculator. Find out how much you can save to meet your goals with this tool.
31. Which college savings option is best for me?. Use this tool to help you decide the best type of investment for your college savings goals.

Manage Your Money and Credit Cards

Learn how to manage your money and credit cards with these tips and websites.

32. Have only one credit card–or none. Don’t have a credit card unless you really need one, then only keep one.
33. Manage credit cards wisely. Don’t use your credit card as an instant loan. Don’t charge anything on it you can’t afford to pay for already. Also, get in the habit of paying off your credit card every month.
34. Don’t fall prey to student credit card offers. These offers are an easy way to get yourself into too much debt and you can ruin your credit very quickly. Instead, consider having a pre-paid credit card.
35. Focus on paying off any debt you have before anything else. If you’ve already racked up some debt, focus on paying that off before buying new clothes, going out partying, or putting more expenses on a credit card.
36. Examine spending habits. Track your spending for a few months, then take a close look at where your money is going and determine if you are spending too much in any specific areas, such as eating out.
37. Avoid unnecessary fees. Bouncing checks and using ATMs out of your network can add up quickly. Avoid any fees associated with these activities.
38. Financial Literacy. Find tons of information and links to help you learn how to manage your money for college wisely.
39. Student Finance Domain. This site is dedicated to helping college students make smart financial choices.
40. BudgetTracker, Inc. Budgeting and money management is much easier when you use this tool that helps you get control of bills, bank accounts, and more.
41. mint. This popular personal finance management system connects all your finances to help you gain control.
42. Bank of America Financial Education and Tools. Learn about managing debt, saving for college, budgeting, and more at this site.
43. Wesabe. This social network helps you learn to manage your money while connecting with others.
44. Kiplinger.com. Manage your finances in this community with the tools, articles, quizzes, online forums, and more.

Earning Money

Use these ideas to earn extra money for school.

45. Get a part-time job. Find a part-time job that doesn’t take you away from your studies too much. Not only will you be too busy to spend, but your paycheck can go toward savings.
46. Become an RA. A residential advisor oversees the activities of those in the dorm and typically gets free room and board for their work.
47. Make money online. This article offers four ways to supplement your income online to pay for school expenses.
48. Tutor students. Whatever subject or subjects are your strong ones, use that ability to tutor students who need extra help. Tutoring usually pays top dollar.
49. Sell stuff. Clean out your living space and sell anything you aren’t using anymore. That iPod you replaced last year and the clothes hanging in the back of your closet can bring in some serious cash.
50. Get creative. Learn from other creative entrepreneurs to discover your own unusual ways to earn money.
51. Get a summer job. Find a job related to your field of study or just work in a local restaurant or coffee shop to gain work experience and save money over the summer.
52. Start your own business. The possibilities are endless for starting your own business. From walking dogs to yard care to house sitting to web design, settle on something, line up some references, and spread the word.
53. Get a government job for students. Studentjobs.gov offers an excellent way for students to get their foot in the door for government jobs.
54. Become a personal shopper. Help others shop for clothes, house decor, computers and technology, or anything else you know about.
55. Sell plasma. Plasma centers will buy your plasma, usually up to twice a week, and can be quite profitable.

Saving and Investing

Putting money back is an excellent way to insure you don’t go broke during college.

56. Investing for Broke College Students. Learn if investing is right for you now and, if so, how you can begin investing with less than $1000.
57. How to Save Money in College. This article offers some simple yet effective ways to save money while in college.
58. Join a student discount program. Programs like this one can help students save money on items they may already be purchasing.
59. Join a credit union. Do your banking at a credit union and usually you can save on bank fees, get lower interest rates on loans, and earn higher interest rates on investments.
60. SaveMoney.com. Join this group to get tons of help saving money.
61. How I Save Money.net. Find plenty of tips and tools to help save money here.
62. billeater.com. Learn how to save money and lower your bills with the tips and forums here.
63. Art of Saving. This personal finance network helps members reach their finance goals, such as saving for or getting through college.
64. My.WallSt.net. Beginners can learn about investing on this social site that helps you find out about stocks, trading, and more.
65. Tip’d. Tip’d offers news, tips, articles, and more to it’s members.

Saving Money on School-Related Items

From books to software, learn how you can save money with these tips.

66. Only buy used books. Used books are almost always available and are much less expensive. If no used books are available, see if an earlier edition of that book will suffice.
67. Sell your books. At the end of the semester, sell your books back. You may think you’ll refer back to these books, but chances are you won’t. Get the money instead.
68. Shop for books online. You can often get a better deal on text books online than at the campus bookstore.
69. Test out of classes. Testing out of classes before you start school leaves you with fewer classes you have to take, which reduces tuition, fee, and book costs.
70. Take the basics at a less expensive school. Sometimes you can take classes at schools with lower tuition and fees such as community colleges and online schools that will transfer to your school.
71. Live at home. You can save an average of $6,000 a year on room and board if you live at home rather than staying at the dorm or getting a place of your own.
72. Don’t buy research papers. Not only are these low quality and a waste of your money, you cheat yourself out of the reason you are at school–to learn.
73. Check for student discounts on computers. Some places offer student discounts on computers. Finding these can save you some serious cash.
74. Use open source software. You can download open source software that works as well as many of the expensive ones at absolutely no cost.
75. Keep your stuff secured. Laptops, text books, and other expensive school items can disappear quickly. Keep a close watch on your stuff and keep it locked up when you can’t. Buying replacements is expensive.

Saving Money on Food, Drink, and Entertainment

Food, coffee, alcohol, and more may be as much a part of school as classes, so use these suggestions to save money in these areas.

76. Pack a lunch. If you pay $7 a day for lunch, you can save over $500 a semester by packing a lunch instead.
77. Skip Starbucks. Another hidden expense that adds up fast, a $4 coffee every day of the year costs you $1460. Make your own at a fraction of the cost.
78. Eat vegetarian every few days. If you can’t go no-meat all the way, have healthy vegetarian meals one or two days a week and save on the expense of meat.
79. When eating out, drink water. Soda can add up quickly, has no nutritional value, and is also full of high fructose corn syrup and unhealthy chemicals.
80. Grocery shop wisely. Buy store brands, use coupons, and compare prices to ensure you are paying less for groceries.
81. Make a grocery list. Have a list of the necessities and stick to it. Buying off the list is expensive and unnecessary.
82. Have fun with inexpensive or free activities. Hiking, biking, hanging out with friends, or exploring the town where your school is located are all fun and very inexpensive.
83. Don’t join a gym. Most campuses have access to facilities such as weight rooms, running track, swimming pool, and often tennis, racquetball, and other courts.
84. Take advantage of on-campus activities. Many campuses have movie nights and other fun activities that are free of charge for students.
85. Watch free TV. Most networks will stream the latest episodes and entire seasons, and there are plenty of places on the Internet that offer TV shows, too. There is really no reason to pay for cable.
86. Listen to free music. Don’t buy music when you can enjoy it for free from places like Pandora and Last.fm.
87. Take advantage of beer and drink specials. If you want to spend an evening out with friends, plan around the many specials that bars around colleges usually have such as ladies’ night and college night.
88. Stay in with friends. Better yet, spend an evening in. A six-pack of beer is probably close to the price of one beer at a bar.

Saving Money on Clothing and Extras

Clothes, gifts, furnishings, trips, and more can add up quickly. Find out how to save with these tips.

89. Go vintage. Find clothes and footwear at second-hand and vintage stores. Not only will you have a one-of-a-kind, you will be spending much less money.
90. Make clothes. If you can’t sew, collaborate with a buddy who can (maybe he or she needs your design techniques) to make original clothes.
91. Go canvas. Canvas book bags are sturdy and last a long time. Pay less for these and skip the expensive leather or name-brand bags. Better yet, make your own from this pattern or from old blue jeans.
92. Buy on tax-free days. If your state has a tax-free weekend , wait until then to make big purchases.
93. Cancel magazine subscriptions. Your library will probably have all the latest editions of any magazine you are currently paying to get.
94. Make gifts. Gift-giving at holidays can add up quickly. Make presents instead of buying them. Your friends and family will enjoy getting unique gifts made just for them.
95. Take graduates’ stuff. At the end of the semester, especially in May, graduates frequently give away the furniture and other stuff they don’t want to move with. Take advantage of these freebies.
96. Skip the car. Especially if you live on or near campus, you don’t need the expense of a car. Use public transportation instead and save a bundle.
97. Be careful with Spring Break. Just because it seems everyone else is taking a great trip for Spring Break doesn’t give you a good reason for going into debt. Plan a reasonably-priced trip or stay behind and enjoy the quite with everyone gone.
98. Use student discounts for travel. If you just absolutely have to go somewhere for Spring Break, then use one of the many online resources for student travel discounts.
99. Plan dates with an eye to affordability. An inexpensive date doesn’t have to be cheap. Think creatively, look for ideas from others, and enjoy the time with your date rather than wasting money on extravagant meals.
100. Be aware of your cell phone plan. Make sure you know how many minutes you have to use each month and how many text messages are included in your package. Going over what’s already included can add up to hundreds of dollars each month.