Yes, the iPad is practical. After a month, I find myself leaving the laptop behind and using the iPad including doing some heavy IT work. The right applications make all the difference. Here is a list of my favorite iPad apps for the traveling writer.
Reading Software
Don’t forget to test your latest eBook in all the readers including iBooks (iTunes link,) Kindle for iPad, Stanza for iPhone, and B&N Reader (soon.) Make sure the contents page works and pictures look nice.
Pages
The iPad version of Pages has everything a writer needs. I love the lack of “bells and whistles” clutter seen in other word processors. It supports formatting options, pictures with text flow, headers and footers. Save the fancy layout for a page layout program like InDesign if print is necessary. Share documents with your desktop using mail, MobileMe, DropBox, or using GoodReader (below.) A Bluetooth keyboard allows faster typing. I paid $9.99 for Pages.
Dictionary.com
The Dictionary.com (iTunes link) dictionary and thesaurus based on Random House Unabridged Dictionary includes audio pronunciation, and stores recent queries. A free app.
GoodReader
Use GoodReader to read PDFs with flowing text, move office documents from your desktop computer to your iPad wirelessly, read the office documents, or open them in iWork using the new Document Sharing feature in iPhone OS. (See my last post.) I paid $0.99 for this app.
SketchBook Pro
Sketch latest ideas or produce cover artwork using Autodesk SketchBook Pro with or without a stylus. Layers support allows complex drawing or working from a pencil sketch template. I paid $7.99 for this app and purchased a Pogo Sketch stylus to go with it.
Advanced Tools
If you need to work on your home or office computer while away try Desktop Connect or iTap. Some network knowledge required. Non-techies may try LogMeIn service.
Other Considerations
- Evernote: Some like this; some don’t. Supports voice and other multimedia notes. Service in the cloud for access from other machines.
- PaperDesk: organize notes or doodle with a stylus.
How do you keep productive on your iPad?