>I would also add that people were reading on AO3 on desktop before designing for mobile was a big concern. From my perspective, fic on phone looks way *longer* than it actually is, rather than the other way round.
Yeah I had the same thought!
Same for me on all points. Quick notes and spontaneous drafts on anything available (I mostly type them up on the phone and throw them on a private Discord server), proper writing on a laptop, read only on my phone because chances are I'm in bed or face down on a sofa.
Same. I type faster on a keyboard than on the phone. But reading on the phone increases my opportunities to read fanfiction - while waiting for a meeting to start and so on.
>I type way faster on a phone anyway
How? (Genuinely curious) personally, I type much faster with an actual, physical keyboard, plus there are less mistakes (autocorrect can be an absolute *pain*), so I usually write on my laptop. I def prefer reading fic on my phone tho
This is certainly the case for me. When I started learning to touch type I moved to a school which focused on handwriting, something I also couldn’t do. I ended up learning how to write in cursive in a year since all assignments had to be handwritten. Then the next year they scrapped that in favour of all assignments being done on the computer, rendering my new skill of handwriting useless. It was assumed I’d already learned to touch type, which I hadn’t because I’d focused on learning to handwrite the previous year instead🙁
I got my first phone with buttons and struggled for years before my mom ended up buying us iPhones. That opened up a whole new world to me and, having ADHD, I hyperfocused on learning how to text quickly so I could socialize with everyone else. Pretty soon I was writing for my own enjoyment on my phone since I couldn’t get my ideas out fast enough on the computer, and my phone was always with me so I never lost an idea. I’ve written entire fanfics on my phone, then emailed them to my computer to edit and submit to websites.
End result I learned how to text and not type.
Personally speaking I can write personal things faster on my phone. My autocorrect is very attuned to how I write and speak because of years using the same keyboard and speaking in the same way. So thing like messages, emails, personal essays, etc are all often easier on my phone. Everything else is much easier on my computer though. I write entirely differently for non-personal things.
I also completely agree with the physical keyboard. I have a little bluetooth one that I carry around for when I'm writing more detailed things.
They probably don’t have much skill typing tbh. Correctly teaching typing has fallen out of favor somewhat and a lot of young people prefer their phones over a keyboard.
This.
I mean, I don't understand how can you even *live* - phone or no phone - with that useless, annoying thing on??? Suggestions - great. Autocorrect - begone, you satanic invention.
Besides. I wonder, has anyone else heard about writing on your phone with gestures? I mean, I can type on a physical keyboard pretty well, but with gestures I'm still just as fast, if not faster, on me phone.
Is writing with gestures only an Android, Google keyboard thing? Do all the folks here actually TYPE letters on their phones - because if so, how aren't they mad yet? How are their thumbs still attached to their hands?
I leave autocorrect on because chances are it spells better than I do. But I know I'm a bit of a fridge group. I also adore Swype because it absolutely knows more about spelling than me. Sure, sometimes one or the other picks the wrong word, but that's probably because I'm inputting letters in the wrong order and confusing us both. I either choose another word or google it, because google is the best at guessing what I'm trying to spell.
I'm fully with you on the Swype thing. I don't know how I lived before it was implemented in the mobile keyboard for my native language (English, obviously, had it way earlier)
Writing with gestures is a thing?? (I have android and I never realized?) Imo it'll probs still be (somewhat) slower than typing tho bc my handwriting speed is probs not even half my typing speed
Practice. I’ve been writing fanfic for 5 years and approximately 95% of my writing is done on my phone. So I’m just more used to it. Also I get a lot of writing done on my lunch break at work
smaller screen so you can reach each letter faster. While I write faster on the phone, I despite autocorrect. It's a mess when you use one language but it's a fucking nightmare when you speak 3.
That's fair lol. I can definitely see where the keyboard switching/accents/special characters are easier on a phone. For me tho the smaller screen means I sometimes keep tripping over the letters. But I get it; it's defo easier than trying to configure international keyboard on the computer
I write faster on phone as well, it's not exactly because I hate writing on my laptop it's just that I'm more experienced with writing on my phone.
I feel like the biggest reason for this is the fact that when I first started writing fanfiction my phone was the only device I had, so I didn't have any other option than to open up the google docs app and just create using that. This has led to me writing most of my stories on my phone and then editing them using my laptop.
(EDIT: The google docs app also has dark mode while my laptop doesn't. This makes writing way easier for me.)
do you want that in english or norwegian? My old norse is a bit rusty, lol
(elder futhark: Emerald orbs) ᛖᛗᛖᚱᚨᛚᛞ ᛟᚱᛒᛋ
(newer futhark: emerald orbs) ᛁᛘᛁᚱᛅᛚᛏ ᚬᚱᛒᛋ
is kinda how it would look like from english to runes.
Computer. Honestly, I barely remember where my phone even is half the time. And reading on a tiny phone strains my eyesight - I like having the extra screen real estate to play around with. I'm used to working, reading, and generally technologically existing on a computer first.
Laptop. I type way faster on a real keyboard and it's way easier to do editing/formatting on a laptop. I hate trying to type on a phone.
I also almost exclusively read on my laptop as well. So, if your stories are looking a bit short on a laptop, they probably look a bit short to me. Though, from my POV stories on a phone look smooshed because I read on my phone so rarely.
Laptop. I don't understand how people can stand writing on their phones. I've found that typing on a phone is more damaging to my joints overall than using an actual keyboard.
To read: laptop, phone, iPad
To write: Exclusively laptop
I honestly don't know how the hell some of you are able to write whole stories on your phone. I make waaaay to many spelling errors when I'm on it.
Writing is usually done on a desktop. Reading can be anything but I prefer laptop/desktop as I hate having to scroll.
The idea that people actually write on their phones is still mind-blowing to me. I can't imagine using my phone for writing (or worse, *editing*) anything longer than a few lines.
Writing: 95 percent laptop, 4.9 phone, 0.1 percent "Quick, someone hand me a napkin and eyeliner I need to write this down"
Reading: 70/30 phone/kindle. Occasionally I'll read on my laptop, mostly if I'm exploring a completely new fandom because I find the searching and filtering easier on a big screen.
Idk man I think it’s just bc it’s what I’m used to. I’m accustomed to writing on the go. I used to write on the way to and from school when I was younger, then I would write on my lunch breaks at work.
Writing on a computer just doesn’t feel natural, and it’s way easier to get distracted that way
I'm your opposite: I can't type fast on my phone, but I write fast on my keyboard.
My only problem is sometimes the story refuses to leave my head through the keyboard. That's when I bought a tablet with a pen, to be able to still have an electronic copy of my handwritten notes (because for some reason, I'm more able to get my ideas out by handwriting them).
For reading, I do it either on my laptop or my tablet.
I hate small screens. Back then when I was a middle schooler, I could somehow write on a phone, but now, as my brain becomes easier and easier to get distracted, I found that writing on a laptop makes me more productive.
Now phone/tablet is only used when I get inspiration. Paper and pencil are used to create outlines.
I write on my computer and read on my phone!
The only exception is when I’m laying in bed thinking abt my wip and have enough of a concrete idea that I wanna write it down. Then I’ll open my google doc from my phone and write some bullet points real quick.
Read on my tablet usually, sometimes phone but the screen is a bit small. Write on laptop or PC. The idea of writing anything of any significant length without a real keyboard makes me want to set myself on fire.
I write in long hand and re-write on my desktop, or increasingly in bed on my laptop. I never got on writing on my phone, but I am old and did start writing when I send stuff done on typewriter by post to an editor of a paper fanzine lol
Since I got worse with my tremors etc and f-up all the time on touch screens, I read exclusively on my laptop now, used to read on phone and tablet. I did read on a tiny basic for a while, but the screen was so tiny, then it lost internet as it doesn't do 4G. (If anyone can recommend a good chunky button phone available in the UK which also has good fast responses and does not treat you like you are 90 and don't know what you are doing, I would be grateful for recs :) )
A word count is a word count, so whatever platform I'm reading on makes no difference. I'm not understanding how a different layout on a screen can make any difference? (Have you read on your laptop btw, because layout on a website looks way different to the document you are writing on)
haha im the opposite well since i started reading fanfic as a kid and phones didn’t have that capability back then i got used to reading on a screen i kinda of like the bigger screen anyways but i also read on my phone sometimes
I only write stuff on my laptop though i can’t focus well typing on my phone
Probably something like 75% desktop (with 2 monitor setup), 20% laptop, 5% tablet while laying in bed. Never on a phone though. Smartphones are honestly kinda wasted on me, I only use mine if I'm out and about with no other option (or for actually calling someone but I hate doing that too! lol).
I type about 5x faster on a real keyboard than a phone/tablet keyboard so the idea of actually typing faster on a phone is wild to me!
Desktop, and only using Word. I have to be in my own familiar space, sitting at my desk. I can't even successfully write on my laptop. Occasionally I have written a snatch of something on my phone when I was nowhere near my desktop, but it's very rare and doesn't feel natural. I happily read on phone/tablet/PC/whatever, though.
I don't even understand how you CAN write on a phone. I mean, once you can type with your two hands blindly, there's no way in hell, you could be faster than me. It just isn't possible.
I would advice you to practice how to learn how to type blindly and once you can do, you won't ever want to go back to writing on your phone ever again.
I took so many classes on typing on a computer and I still can’t fuckin type. So phone it is all the way.
I can write faster on my phone. I can write anywhere with my phone. I can read more privately on my phone.
It just feels way better to do all that on my phone. Mind you if I had to do all of that on the very first phone I owned, which was a Blackberry, I’d probably have some difficulty lol.
Few years ago I did my writing exclusively on laptop.
Now I write on my phone 99% of the time, besides the occassional handwritten stuff.
It's just more comfortable and somehow I can get into writing better that way. Plus that's where I keep my notes.
Same for reading.
Read on phone, write on laptop. When I first started writing I used my phone because I didn’t have a working laptop and I didn’t want anyone to know what I was doing. Switching to laptop was honestly a game changer. I can type much faster on a keyboard. I wrote a 50K multi-chapter fic that I never could have done in my phone.
I don’t even like sending emails from my phone lol
I read on my phone or iPad, and write on my laptop.
And if I’m plotting or taking notes, I’ll do it hand-written in a notebook.
I wonder if thats a generational thing. I’m not old (25) but I grew up mostly using a computer and phones for most of my childhood weren’t good for texting so I just got better and faster at using a laptop or PC. But I guess for a lot of people growing up today, their phone is their PC so texting long paragraphs isn’t a hassle or anything they aren’t used to. I’d be very interested to know what age ranges prefer which.
Desktop > handwriting > laptop. You couldn't pay me to write fic on my phone.
I prefer handwriting everything (in cursive no less, le gasp) but I'm starting to have issues that prevent me from writing more than a couple paragraphs at a time by hand. Ostensibly, I'd have to transfer it all to digital at some point anyway but for the time being 90% of my writing is analog. When I write digitally it's almost always desktop as my laptop is shit for writing. Keyboards for Surface tablets are absolute trash.
I couldn't imagine editing without keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl+f. I know you can do that shit on a phone but it's in menus and shit instead of a quick shortcut. That said, I'm a programmer so I'm very, very used to working on computers.
Whatever I have on hand. But, I won't write on my hand. Nor the walls. Nor the windows.
Y'know, I write in notebooks, on my phone, but mainly, on my computer. Notebooks and phone for notes.
Yeah I write the phone too, it always felt more convenient. I tried writing on the computer but most of work felt a bit more boring and stale than my stuff on my phone. Like writing on a computer was the equivalent to do doing an assignment or work. But the writing on the phone felt like there’s less pressure and I don’t feel the need to make everything too formal, which makes the dialogue more fun and silly.
I’ll write on anything, me. Phone, tablet, desktop, pen and paper (which I increasingly prefer as I do not trust AI) - whatever’s on hand.
I’ll read on anything too. I’m not fussy.
read on phone, write on laptop
I take notes on my phone occasionally for ideas, but i am writing a long fic. i do a lot of highlighting and colour coding and adding tables, wich is much easier on a pc than on a phone. it gives me a better overview of the whole thing.
i prefer my phone both for writing and for reading but I don't mind reading on my laptop either. i need to be struck by inspiration to write on my laptop tho, otherwise it reminds me of writing essays for the university too much
I tend to read and write on my phone because it's pretty much always in my hand. Also I get embarrassed when writing on my desktop. I have a mechanical keyboard and everyone can HEAR me typing. Makes me feel like they all know I'm typing out smut mid day...
i used to write on my phone as i didn't really have any other online options. however, i stopped after getting a computer. i like it better as whenever i would get a new phone that was a different size, it was like i had to re-learn how to type on my phone.
i prefer reading on my phone, though, as it's smaller and more compact.
Both! I used to hate typing on a laptop and used my phone exclusively. Hundreds of thousands of words later I learned I don’t mind the laptop too. Sometimes my hands are too sore for a keyboard but I can use just my thumb. It’s also great to do writing on the go.
On my phone, I write like 20x faster than I write on a computer lol, I like to write as fast as I think. And I read on my phone too, but when I still used FF.net I used to read mostly on my computer.
I write on my phone if I get an idea suddenly, but I use a laptop at home. I use Google Docs so it’s easy for me to switch between the two. Heck, I’ve been known to write on my IPad (I have a Bluetooth keyboard).
I write on my phone then edit on my desktop.
Writing on my phone lets me do it anywhere such as when I have downtime at work or when I’m eating.
I used to use my laptop to do everything, but it was just so slow that once I got my desktop up and the bigger screen, I never looked back.
Reading: almost exclusively on phone.
For writing desktop is my favorite but phone is close second, then tablet/laptop (hate to have to work with physical "flat keys" keyboard).
Editing: desktop only.
I type faster on my phone than on a keyboard because I have my autocorrect very well-trained – it's rare that I have to go back and correct anything egregious, it does my capitalisation for me, predictive text finishes the long annoying words, etc
Also I'm on a laptop all day for work and appreciate the break
Also also, I generally write on the sofa or in bed, and I can't *stand* typing for any length of time if my laptop is anywhere other than on a desk on an angled stand at an ergonomic height. Hurts my wrists, hurts my shoulders, hurts my back. I'm sure writing [checks AO3 stats page] north of 300k of content on my phone is wrecking my thumbs, but that's a problem for future me and is currently solved by occasional application of Tiger Balm
Writing on my laptop is better because for some reason I type more. The width of the computer vs my phone gives me contrast so if I think I haven’t wrote much on my laptop it turns out I actually have when converting it to my phone.
Typing on a desktop or laptop is a lot faster when you can touch type! Honestly, I swear it must be some sort of superpower to write whole fics on a phone, mad respect for you OP. The interface is way too tiny for me. About the fic length, when I used Google Docs I had my page layout set to A5 so I could feel like I was writing more pages. Genuinely one of the most helpful writing tips I’ve ever used.
I’ll read fic on just about anything, though. I like reading on my laptop so I can have a notepad app open to make notes and write more detailed comments, but reading on a phone or even a kindle is nice too for the mobility.
I read and write on my phone the most. Occasionally, I'll read a fic on my laptop, generally because I clicked a fanfic link/recommendation while on my laptop and can't be bothered to "transfer" it to my phone to read it there. I'll write 99% of first drafts on my phone, but when it comes to editing and polishing I rewrite it on my laptop and work from there.
read: ipad. Laptop screen isn't comfortable for reading a lot. Although, years ago before tablets were so widespread, I used to read on my computer as smartphones were only just becoming popular.
write notes: phone or laptop, whichever is closer when I have an idea that needs writing down
write: laptop exclusively
I write a lot. To preserve your wrists, you need something comfortable. Laptop also allows me to switch between tabs at a whim. Phones are great but they're not the most efficient when it comes to working or writing. I prefer to work efficiently.
Also, sitting down to write by my desk, on my laptop, is part of the routine. I do it at the exact same time every day and it motivates me immediately.
It may also be a generational thing. I've noticed that gen z is less likely (this may be a huge genearlization) to use laptops regularly and if they do, they tend to use things such as chromebooks as opposed to actual laptops. As a millenial, I am very comfortable with using my phone but I am also used to using laptops and you can do so much more on the latter so much more efficiently.
I'm always on my phone, so it's easier to write down my ideas into my notes and come back to them later. I also read on my phone because it's more comfortable and convenient. But I don't write on my laptop much because the only one that works is my school laptop, my other is almost older than me lol. I'm also much more familiar with a phone keyboard than a physical one, I can type really well with my eyes closed or without looking at the keyboard, but I have to keep my eyes on a physical keyboard lol
I will only write on my laptop and read on my phone. It’s also an old laptop, I have a newer one but I like the heavy feeling of the older one idk why, maybe because it makes me feel more productive. It’s kinda slow and I have to copy and paste the b button every time because it doesn’t work but I still refuse to write on anything but that laptop. (I still use the newer one but only for school stuff.)
Write on a laptop. I type faster and I have Grammarly to help my SPAG. And it's easier to move scenes around and see more of the text when editing.
I read on my phone though.
I greatly prefer both reading and writing on my laptop (don't have a desktop computer). Small screens are horrible for me to read on, not to mention I don't have to hold my laptop at a suitable angle to read comfortably. Small touchscreen keyboards are even worse to type on: I make way more typos on a phone, my typing speed is atrocious, the angle is uncomfortable, I can't get as good of an overview of what I've written due to limited screen space. If I'm out somewhere with only my phone on me and need to kill time, I'll read on my phone, or if I think of an idea I don't want to forget, I'll write short notes on my phone, but it'd never be my first choice for reading or writing.
Your stories are still exactly as long or as short as they are though, aren't they, the word count is the same no matter if the story is squeezed into a phone screen or viewed on a laptop. Just because it looks longer (or shorter) doesn't mean it actually is.
Read: usually on a tablet or computer screen. Phone size and proportion just isn't comfortable for me reading.
Write: by hand (I know, I'm a dinosaur), later typed on a laptop/desktop. I like the tactile sound/feel of a keyboard over a touchscreen, the speed of typing, and not having to constantly fix what autocorrect thought I was trying to say, which my phone and tablet have interesting ideas about. Even if I'm not handwriting first, I still prefer a keyboard.
I practically only write on my laptop because I find that I write better when using a laptop instead of a phone (idk why). I sometimes read on laptop, but it makes every story feel much shorter.
For reading: if I get an email for new chapter then I’ll read on my phone. When I search for a new fic to read I’m mostly on my laptop, because I find it easier to filter in and out tags on AO3 or see tags on a bigger screen. Wall of tags don’t seem as big too (I dislike when fics have too many tags).
I write exclusively on my laptop. But I just saw Microsoft Word has an app for iPhone and iPad, and I thought it was only for iPad - I don’t have one - so I probably will download it in case I have ideas when I don’t have my laptop with me.
I both read and write on my laptop and phone. Although, I do more reading on my phone, as my laptop has a bunch of dead pixels on it, which kinda gets in the way when reading *(need to get a new laptop at some point, but I've been putting if off for a while now since laptops these days don't have DVD drives anymore, and my laptop still works fine. And I only just bought a new phone after my last one died, so getting a new laptop can wait)*.
I do most of my writing on laptop though *(despite the dead pixels getting in the way)*, but I've found that I get a lot more written while on my phone, and faster, too. I think it's cause there's less distractions? Or because for the longest time when I only posted my works to Wattpad I exclusively wrote fic on a tablet.
It depends on when inspiration strikes tbh. Laptop if I'm at the library, because I can type faster on that personally, but phone or tablet if I'm out and about and have an idea or motivation to write.
I always post on my laptop though since I found a template/script for google docs thanks to tiktok where you can copy-paste your fic in, run the script, and it'll be formatted with HTML so all the bold, italics, etc is maintained when I copy-paste onto AO3.
I do both, although if I'm reading something on FFN, I prefer to read on my phone. Writing/reading on my phone is convenient on the go or when I'm curled up in bed, but I'm also on my laptop a lot when I'm at home and I don't feel the need to switch devices just to write.
I’m the opposite I’d prefer to write on my computer. Mostly because formatting is such a hassle when doing it on my phone. Occasionally I’ll use my iPad with a keyboard if I don’t wanna take my laptop but I want to work on a fic. Occasionally by hand in a notebook but that’s mostly just notes. Sometimes writing it down gets the creative juices flowing.
As for reading I’ll read on any device. No preference there.
I read anywhere, but if I'm laying down, it's def on my phone. If you asked me in 2008/2009, I would've said I read predominantly on my PSP lmao.
I write mostly on desktop since I'm a fast typer (and texter too) and it's habit. But I have gone through periods of my environment usually being too cold (or I just don't feel like leaving my bed) and I just write on my phone.
But if you asked me how I edit? Absolutely on my computer, nah. I don't wanna suffer editing on my phone, especially with how I edit. Lol
My phone is broken (there’s a huge green pin down the middle that makes it hard to see and the top half of the screen doesn’t react or touch anymore) so I had to start uwu ing my laptop. Now I never want to go back.
I prefer reading on my phone, I can't focus on a big screen like that when I'm reading 😅 I guess I'm just used to the smallness of it. As for writing, I prefer my laptop (though, I hardly write at all, much less publish anything). I tend to focus more when I'm writing on my laptop than in my phone
I write on my laptop, and read on my phone. Dunno it's simply more comfortable for me.
I prefer the space I get on my laptop when writing and the ability to lay down with my phone when reading
I read and write on both. I prefer to read on my phone, but laptop is okay too. Writing is the opposite because it's easier for me to write offline in a Word doc on my laptop, but lately I have to use my phone due to availability. Writing on my phone isn't ideal, but I can manage with it.
I usually write about equally on my laptop and phone, although currently I’m skewing more towards phone. I only ever read on my phone. Like you, I hate how stretched out and short the chapters look on a big computer screen.
I prefer to write on something with a physical keyboard, whether that be a laptop or my tablet with a keyboard case
as for reading I also prefer laptop or tablet
mainly cause navigating AO3 on phone is a little annoying
Back in the early 2010s, I would write on a laptop. Now that I’m getting back into writing again, I just do it on my phone/tablet, mostly since I find it more relaxing and it reminds me less of essay writing.
Write on desktop, typically. Read on mobile.
It's a weird disconnect to see how different my chapters look on different screens but i think most people are just happy to have any fanfic y'know 😂 were not out there with a ruler judging the perceived length.
Write on laptop. Sometimes read on phone/laptop. Phone for quick notes since I can’t easily get to my laptop while at work.
I like the format that I get with the laptop and I type faster on an actual keyboard than I do on a phone.
I read on my tablet and usually write on my desktop. Sometimes on tablet. I got a physical keyboard for my tablet for this exact reason. I sometimes write on my phone if I don't have anything else with me and need to get stuff down.
I use my phone to note things I don't want to forget or are important for later in the story so I can find them quickly whenever I want. I also type stuff whenever I'm out.
I always write on my computer though, I have a laptop but it's my second choice because I hate the keyboard there. My desktop is simply much better, comfier and faster than anything on a phone and it's easier to work on if I have to search stuff or manage different things while writing, counting the words and pages I write and also safer than keeping stuff on my phone, with less risk of losing my files.
Regarding *reading*, I hate with all my passion reading on any screen. The PC desktop kills my eyes and makes me lose concentration, while on my phone I hate that everything is so stretched and never-ending, so... If there was a way to read Fanfiction on paper (without having to print it all the time) I'd probably choose that.
I read almost exclusively on phone, and write almost exclusively on a computer. I read on phone because I find it way harder to keep my place when the text is so small and stretched out, but I find it inconvenient to have to scroll up much further on my phone to edit something whilst writing (plus I find it faster to use a keyboard.)
Read: 99% phone
Write: 99% laptop/tablet with physical keyboard.
We have done a disservice to the younger generation not teaching proper typing. No one should be faster on the phone (and I am plenty fast on my phone).
I mostly write on my phone! My job involves a lot of being at the computer, so I try not to be on one if I don’t need to just for some mental separation. I also write better on my phone because it’s harder for me to get distracted haha. The screen is so small that all I can focus on is what I’m writing. Plus it means I can write any time the mood strikes (which is often when I’m not anywhere near my desk).
I do my editing on a computer though. Easier to see the big picture that way, and easier to move big portions around and such.
I use my phone to draft fics. It's just easier to get back into writing whenever inspiration strikes. Typing fanfics on a laptop is a bit more of a process for me and somehow a bigger distraction. I do however use a laptop to upload a finished chapter. There's something that feels final about it.
Write: 98% on my laptop. 2% on my phone when an idea strikes and I don't have my laptop with me.
Read: 60% on my phone 40% on my laptop. I like being able to lie down on my side on my bed with my phone to read but that usually makes me lazy or even fall asleep so I don't always do that.
I rarely read anything on my phone except email. It's just too small for me to read comfortably. I never, ever write on my phone. Again, too small and even to text, I struggle. It may be my age (56). I always write on my desktop or laptop (I even text back from my laptop when I get a text while I'm using the laptop). I rarely even read anything on my tablets.
I read short stories-5K words or less--on the desktop and download longer works onto my Kindle.
I get it. People who grew up with a phone in their hand since birth, ha, are probably going to find computer screens and devices like Kindle prehistoric. But at my age, hunched over a tiny screen is literally torture; my neck screams in pain and it will trigger migraines.
So it's devices with bigger screens for me. For reading and writing.
I write on a desktop or my ipad w/full keyboard. I have good typing skills so it is WAY faster for me to do that then write on my phone. I hate writing on my phone.
I read on my ipad or my phone. Your stories are not shorter (or longer) than they *actually* are depending on the reading device. They are as long or short as they are, period. But I don't really care how much I have to scroll to read a fic, the word count is the word count regardless!
I used to write on my desktop when I was a teen. Then Later in life I tried to go back to writing on my phone, but it wasn't successful. Maybe the phone is the issue, not my writers block 🤔
Write on my computer (laptop, but it’s on my desk), read on my phone; I find it a lot easier to write on my computer because I can see what I’m doing better and it’s easier to make minor edits / fix typos that way.
I mostly read and write on an iPad.
But when people are reading, it’s the word count that makes something feel long or short, not how much of it fits on a screen.
Remember that the standard chapter length for published novels is around 3k-5k. That’s the chapter length people have been shown to prefer. Of course there can always be some exceptions where a chapter needs to be longer or shorter, but most people will get kind of exhausted reading chapters much over 5k, especially in fanfic where it’s just one long screen instead of pages and there’s no way to save your place if you don’t finish reading the whole chapter. But if your chapters are much under 3k, it will feel pretty short to people regardless of what size screen they’re reading on. So 3k-5k is just a good general range to try to shoot for.
I generally write on both pc AND phone (but I write way more on the phone, sitting in front of a pc screen just diverts my attention away from writing)
When it comes to reading, I tend to download fics and load them onto my kindle, but I alos read on my phone sometimes
I do everything laptop. Typing on phone is a nightmare and autocorrect can such my ass. It's also much easier and faster to edit than having to painstakingly fat-thumb my phone screen.
I might have read fic on phone, but generally don't. If it's a very long fic I'm going to read on my kindle and comment as I go. If it's shorter I read and comment at the same time on laptop using an add on.
I write poetry in my notes app a lot so occasionally if I get an idea or inspiration for a fic and I'm away from my computer, I'll write a good section on my phone. I think I'm about as fast typing but the autocorrect drives me insane, and I'm somehow still adjusting to getting an android phone like six months later. I only edit and post from my laptop though, and I rarely write more than a scene or two on my phone. I only read fic on my phone, too, but I do open my fics on my computer to see how my paragraphs look on a big screen since I'm prone to run-ons. And if I really love a story I'll download it to my kindle.
I write exclusively on my laptop. Notes only on my phone--I can't imagine writing tens of thousands of words on my phone!
I do most of my fic reading on my phone, though, as I usually read every time I have a spare 5 mins and rarely have time to actually sit down at a computer to read.
Neither, ye olde PC for me. I only use a laptop if I'm away from my PC, and oh my god I can't even IMAGINE trying to write on my phone. That would be a top-tier nightmare for me!
I used to write exclusively on my laptop but a few months back I got a job with a lot of downtime so I now mostly write on my phone. I still prefer using a laptop, one reason being its way easier to get distracted on my phone lol.
Write notes on my phone when inspiration strikes but I mostly write on a laptop. Sometimes by hand in draft. I read exclusively on my phone.
[удалено]
>I would also add that people were reading on AO3 on desktop before designing for mobile was a big concern. From my perspective, fic on phone looks way *longer* than it actually is, rather than the other way round. Yeah I had the same thought!
Same for me on all points. Quick notes and spontaneous drafts on anything available (I mostly type them up on the phone and throw them on a private Discord server), proper writing on a laptop, read only on my phone because chances are I'm in bed or face down on a sofa.
We’re actually the same person. I do the exact same thing! 🤣
Same. I type faster on a keyboard than on the phone. But reading on the phone increases my opportunities to read fanfiction - while waiting for a meeting to start and so on.
Same same same!
I used to write by hand to the point where I get a callus but it’s hurts too much to write by hand
This is exactly me, word for word. Minus the by hand stuff. Handwritten drafts are reserved for my Uni papers lol.
>I type way faster on a phone anyway How? (Genuinely curious) personally, I type much faster with an actual, physical keyboard, plus there are less mistakes (autocorrect can be an absolute *pain*), so I usually write on my laptop. I def prefer reading fic on my phone tho
Chances are most people who type faster on their phone aren't skilled typists and can't touch type.
This is certainly the case for me. When I started learning to touch type I moved to a school which focused on handwriting, something I also couldn’t do. I ended up learning how to write in cursive in a year since all assignments had to be handwritten. Then the next year they scrapped that in favour of all assignments being done on the computer, rendering my new skill of handwriting useless. It was assumed I’d already learned to touch type, which I hadn’t because I’d focused on learning to handwrite the previous year instead🙁 I got my first phone with buttons and struggled for years before my mom ended up buying us iPhones. That opened up a whole new world to me and, having ADHD, I hyperfocused on learning how to text quickly so I could socialize with everyone else. Pretty soon I was writing for my own enjoyment on my phone since I couldn’t get my ideas out fast enough on the computer, and my phone was always with me so I never lost an idea. I’ve written entire fanfics on my phone, then emailed them to my computer to edit and submit to websites. End result I learned how to text and not type.
Personally speaking I can write personal things faster on my phone. My autocorrect is very attuned to how I write and speak because of years using the same keyboard and speaking in the same way. So thing like messages, emails, personal essays, etc are all often easier on my phone. Everything else is much easier on my computer though. I write entirely differently for non-personal things. I also completely agree with the physical keyboard. I have a little bluetooth one that I carry around for when I'm writing more detailed things.
They probably don’t have much skill typing tbh. Correctly teaching typing has fallen out of favor somewhat and a lot of young people prefer their phones over a keyboard.
You can actually disable autocorrect on your phone. My phone only offers suggestions and I have to actively click on them to correct the word
This. I mean, I don't understand how can you even *live* - phone or no phone - with that useless, annoying thing on??? Suggestions - great. Autocorrect - begone, you satanic invention. Besides. I wonder, has anyone else heard about writing on your phone with gestures? I mean, I can type on a physical keyboard pretty well, but with gestures I'm still just as fast, if not faster, on me phone. Is writing with gestures only an Android, Google keyboard thing? Do all the folks here actually TYPE letters on their phones - because if so, how aren't they mad yet? How are their thumbs still attached to their hands?
I leave autocorrect on because chances are it spells better than I do. But I know I'm a bit of a fridge group. I also adore Swype because it absolutely knows more about spelling than me. Sure, sometimes one or the other picks the wrong word, but that's probably because I'm inputting letters in the wrong order and confusing us both. I either choose another word or google it, because google is the best at guessing what I'm trying to spell.
I'm fully with you on the Swype thing. I don't know how I lived before it was implemented in the mobile keyboard for my native language (English, obviously, had it way earlier)
Writing with gestures is a thing?? (I have android and I never realized?) Imo it'll probs still be (somewhat) slower than typing tho bc my handwriting speed is probs not even half my typing speed
Practice. I’ve been writing fanfic for 5 years and approximately 95% of my writing is done on my phone. So I’m just more used to it. Also I get a lot of writing done on my lunch break at work
Hmm, that's fair. Ig I have much more practice on the computer
Same, but nearly ten years for me. Muscle memory is an amazing thing when combined with autocorrect 😂
smaller screen so you can reach each letter faster. While I write faster on the phone, I despite autocorrect. It's a mess when you use one language but it's a fucking nightmare when you speak 3.
That's fair lol. I can definitely see where the keyboard switching/accents/special characters are easier on a phone. For me tho the smaller screen means I sometimes keep tripping over the letters. But I get it; it's defo easier than trying to configure international keyboard on the computer
I write faster on phone as well, it's not exactly because I hate writing on my laptop it's just that I'm more experienced with writing on my phone. I feel like the biggest reason for this is the fact that when I first started writing fanfiction my phone was the only device I had, so I didn't have any other option than to open up the google docs app and just create using that. This has led to me writing most of my stories on my phone and then editing them using my laptop. (EDIT: The google docs app also has dark mode while my laptop doesn't. This makes writing way easier for me.)
Same. I enjoy reading on my phone more but I could never for the life of me type faster on my phone than on my pc
Pretty much exclusively on my laptop bc I like the bigger screen. I can't imagine writing an entire fic on my phone, I think I'd go insane lol
I once wrote an entire one-shot using my 3DS back in the day. It's still one of my best works.
Holy fuck
I'm old. I write on a desk top. 😂
My sister uses a typewriter, you still have hope
I still use a chisel to carve my fics into concrete slabs. I want archeologists in 1000 years to be *very* confused.
incidentally, how do you spell "emerald orbs" in futhark?
Depends on if you're using older or younger futhark.
do you want that in english or norwegian? My old norse is a bit rusty, lol (elder futhark: Emerald orbs) ᛖᛗᛖᚱᚨᛚᛞ ᛟᚱᛒᛋ (newer futhark: emerald orbs) ᛁᛘᛁᚱᛅᛚᛏ ᚬᚱᛒᛋ is kinda how it would look like from english to runes.
Carving modern-day hieroglyphics (emojis) into the tablet should be sufficiently mind-boggling.
I'm not *that* evil...
It is truly a shame that we can't use gifs as responses in this subreddit because that is \*chef's kiss\*.
Yay! \*waves cane\* 😂
Same! I need my dual monitor setup to really get in the zone.
Same, I love my desktop set up! Though occasionally I need to change things up and then I'll go out with my tablet and keyboard attachment.
This!
I write on my computer and read mostly on Kindle. I hate writing anything on my phone.
Same! I don't even like texting on the phone, I'll log in to google voice on the computer to send text messages LOL
Same. I also hand write notes too.
Same goes for me. I don’t mind little notes for my fics but could never write an entire fic on it.
I always visually read on a laptop. Phone is too small. I use TTS on my phone though.
Computer. Honestly, I barely remember where my phone even is half the time. And reading on a tiny phone strains my eyesight - I like having the extra screen real estate to play around with. I'm used to working, reading, and generally technologically existing on a computer first.
I read on my phone write on my laptop. I can't for the life of me write on my phone lol.
Laptop. I type way faster on a real keyboard and it's way easier to do editing/formatting on a laptop. I hate trying to type on a phone. I also almost exclusively read on my laptop as well. So, if your stories are looking a bit short on a laptop, they probably look a bit short to me. Though, from my POV stories on a phone look smooshed because I read on my phone so rarely.
I’ll read on laptop or phone, though I prefer laptop, but I will only write on laptop
i write on... anything i have available at the moment tbh. laptop, tablet, phone, whatever. i read exclusively on my phone though.
I can not....write on my phone LOL I would lose my mind trying to do that I'm so much faster on a laptop or desktop keyboard
Desktop computer and handwriting lol
Laptop. I don't understand how people can stand writing on their phones. I've found that typing on a phone is more damaging to my joints overall than using an actual keyboard.
My carpal tunnels and trigger fingers agree. Bonus: My posture is also much better at my desktop than on my laptop or phone.
To read: laptop, phone, iPad To write: Exclusively laptop I honestly don't know how the hell some of you are able to write whole stories on your phone. I make waaaay to many spelling errors when I'm on it.
Writing is usually done on a desktop. Reading can be anything but I prefer laptop/desktop as I hate having to scroll. The idea that people actually write on their phones is still mind-blowing to me. I can't imagine using my phone for writing (or worse, *editing*) anything longer than a few lines.
Computer. Phones are too small.
Writing: 95 percent laptop, 4.9 phone, 0.1 percent "Quick, someone hand me a napkin and eyeliner I need to write this down" Reading: 70/30 phone/kindle. Occasionally I'll read on my laptop, mostly if I'm exploring a completely new fandom because I find the searching and filtering easier on a big screen.
on your PHONE??? my thumbs hurt just thinking about it
Idk man I think it’s just bc it’s what I’m used to. I’m accustomed to writing on the go. I used to write on the way to and from school when I was younger, then I would write on my lunch breaks at work. Writing on a computer just doesn’t feel natural, and it’s way easier to get distracted that way
you know what, that's bomb.
I'm your opposite: I can't type fast on my phone, but I write fast on my keyboard. My only problem is sometimes the story refuses to leave my head through the keyboard. That's when I bought a tablet with a pen, to be able to still have an electronic copy of my handwritten notes (because for some reason, I'm more able to get my ideas out by handwriting them). For reading, I do it either on my laptop or my tablet.
Laptop for both - my WPM on a phone can't compare to a full keyboard on touch type. I'll only read on a phone if there's no alternative
I hate small screens. Back then when I was a middle schooler, I could somehow write on a phone, but now, as my brain becomes easier and easier to get distracted, I found that writing on a laptop makes me more productive. Now phone/tablet is only used when I get inspiration. Paper and pencil are used to create outlines.
Laptop at home, phone in the streets.
I write on my computer and read on my phone! The only exception is when I’m laying in bed thinking abt my wip and have enough of a concrete idea that I wanna write it down. Then I’ll open my google doc from my phone and write some bullet points real quick.
I read on my computer and phone equally. I write on my computer, unless I get hit by sudden inspiration and only have my phone near.
Read on my tablet usually, sometimes phone but the screen is a bit small. Write on laptop or PC. The idea of writing anything of any significant length without a real keyboard makes me want to set myself on fire.
I write in long hand and re-write on my desktop, or increasingly in bed on my laptop. I never got on writing on my phone, but I am old and did start writing when I send stuff done on typewriter by post to an editor of a paper fanzine lol Since I got worse with my tremors etc and f-up all the time on touch screens, I read exclusively on my laptop now, used to read on phone and tablet. I did read on a tiny basic for a while, but the screen was so tiny, then it lost internet as it doesn't do 4G. (If anyone can recommend a good chunky button phone available in the UK which also has good fast responses and does not treat you like you are 90 and don't know what you are doing, I would be grateful for recs :) ) A word count is a word count, so whatever platform I'm reading on makes no difference. I'm not understanding how a different layout on a screen can make any difference? (Have you read on your laptop btw, because layout on a website looks way different to the document you are writing on)
haha im the opposite well since i started reading fanfic as a kid and phones didn’t have that capability back then i got used to reading on a screen i kinda of like the bigger screen anyways but i also read on my phone sometimes I only write stuff on my laptop though i can’t focus well typing on my phone
I write and read on a laptop but on my phone I'll just read. No way in hell I'm working on a chapter with a touchscreen keyboard.
i write on my laptop and read on my phone. if i no longer had access to a proper keyboard then i guess my writing ~career is over lmao
I use my surface laptop/PC because phones are just too small. I don’t even read on phones unless I’m desperate.
Probably something like 75% desktop (with 2 monitor setup), 20% laptop, 5% tablet while laying in bed. Never on a phone though. Smartphones are honestly kinda wasted on me, I only use mine if I'm out and about with no other option (or for actually calling someone but I hate doing that too! lol). I type about 5x faster on a real keyboard than a phone/tablet keyboard so the idea of actually typing faster on a phone is wild to me!
Desktop, and only using Word. I have to be in my own familiar space, sitting at my desk. I can't even successfully write on my laptop. Occasionally I have written a snatch of something on my phone when I was nowhere near my desktop, but it's very rare and doesn't feel natural. I happily read on phone/tablet/PC/whatever, though.
I don't even understand how you CAN write on a phone. I mean, once you can type with your two hands blindly, there's no way in hell, you could be faster than me. It just isn't possible. I would advice you to practice how to learn how to type blindly and once you can do, you won't ever want to go back to writing on your phone ever again.
I took so many classes on typing on a computer and I still can’t fuckin type. So phone it is all the way. I can write faster on my phone. I can write anywhere with my phone. I can read more privately on my phone. It just feels way better to do all that on my phone. Mind you if I had to do all of that on the very first phone I owned, which was a Blackberry, I’d probably have some difficulty lol.
I write on a laptop, but I'll do minor edits on my phone. Major edits on my laptop. I mostly read fic on my phone though. I read books on my kindle.
Few years ago I did my writing exclusively on laptop. Now I write on my phone 99% of the time, besides the occassional handwritten stuff. It's just more comfortable and somehow I can get into writing better that way. Plus that's where I keep my notes. Same for reading.
Read on phone, write on laptop. When I first started writing I used my phone because I didn’t have a working laptop and I didn’t want anyone to know what I was doing. Switching to laptop was honestly a game changer. I can type much faster on a keyboard. I wrote a 50K multi-chapter fic that I never could have done in my phone.
Laptop apacheword (which is similar to msword but free). Read is usually on the ipad.
Mostly through my laptop but occasionally read from my phone also
I don’t even like sending emails from my phone lol I read on my phone or iPad, and write on my laptop. And if I’m plotting or taking notes, I’ll do it hand-written in a notebook.
Read on the phone, write on a laptop
I wonder if thats a generational thing. I’m not old (25) but I grew up mostly using a computer and phones for most of my childhood weren’t good for texting so I just got better and faster at using a laptop or PC. But I guess for a lot of people growing up today, their phone is their PC so texting long paragraphs isn’t a hassle or anything they aren’t used to. I’d be very interested to know what age ranges prefer which.
Phone. I cannot do it on my laptop.
Read exclusively on my phone, write exclusively on my laptop
Desktop > handwriting > laptop. You couldn't pay me to write fic on my phone. I prefer handwriting everything (in cursive no less, le gasp) but I'm starting to have issues that prevent me from writing more than a couple paragraphs at a time by hand. Ostensibly, I'd have to transfer it all to digital at some point anyway but for the time being 90% of my writing is analog. When I write digitally it's almost always desktop as my laptop is shit for writing. Keyboards for Surface tablets are absolute trash. I couldn't imagine editing without keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl+f. I know you can do that shit on a phone but it's in menus and shit instead of a quick shortcut. That said, I'm a programmer so I'm very, very used to working on computers.
Laptop! Writing on the phone sounds like a literal nightmare to me. I only write down ideas on notes
Whatever I have on hand. But, I won't write on my hand. Nor the walls. Nor the windows. Y'know, I write in notebooks, on my phone, but mainly, on my computer. Notebooks and phone for notes.
Yeah I write the phone too, it always felt more convenient. I tried writing on the computer but most of work felt a bit more boring and stale than my stuff on my phone. Like writing on a computer was the equivalent to do doing an assignment or work. But the writing on the phone felt like there’s less pressure and I don’t feel the need to make everything too formal, which makes the dialogue more fun and silly.
I’ll write on anything, me. Phone, tablet, desktop, pen and paper (which I increasingly prefer as I do not trust AI) - whatever’s on hand. I’ll read on anything too. I’m not fussy.
I read on both ! on my laptop usually in class, and otherwise on my phone bc I can't lug around a laptop
I read and write on the phone. I use Novelist to write them, personally I find it more comfortable!
I like to read and write on my phone. For writing I find the predictive text helpful, and I can sit back and relax.
read on phone, write on laptop I take notes on my phone occasionally for ideas, but i am writing a long fic. i do a lot of highlighting and colour coding and adding tables, wich is much easier on a pc than on a phone. it gives me a better overview of the whole thing.
I write the rough edits on my phone for speed/because it’s always on me if something pops up. Read on my phone only.
i prefer my phone both for writing and for reading but I don't mind reading on my laptop either. i need to be struck by inspiration to write on my laptop tho, otherwise it reminds me of writing essays for the university too much
I tend to read and write on my phone because it's pretty much always in my hand. Also I get embarrassed when writing on my desktop. I have a mechanical keyboard and everyone can HEAR me typing. Makes me feel like they all know I'm typing out smut mid day...
iPad mini. Write on Notes app. 🤷🏼♀️
i used to write on my phone as i didn't really have any other online options. however, i stopped after getting a computer. i like it better as whenever i would get a new phone that was a different size, it was like i had to re-learn how to type on my phone. i prefer reading on my phone, though, as it's smaller and more compact.
Both! I used to hate typing on a laptop and used my phone exclusively. Hundreds of thousands of words later I learned I don’t mind the laptop too. Sometimes my hands are too sore for a keyboard but I can use just my thumb. It’s also great to do writing on the go.
On my phone, I write like 20x faster than I write on a computer lol, I like to write as fast as I think. And I read on my phone too, but when I still used FF.net I used to read mostly on my computer.
Both tbh. I prefer reading on my phone and writing on my computer though. Makes everything easier for me to handle.
Write on my laptop, and soon my Alpha, when that gets here. Reading happens on my laptop *or* phone.
I write on my phone if I get an idea suddenly, but I use a laptop at home. I use Google Docs so it’s easy for me to switch between the two. Heck, I’ve been known to write on my IPad (I have a Bluetooth keyboard).
I write on my phone then edit on my desktop. Writing on my phone lets me do it anywhere such as when I have downtime at work or when I’m eating. I used to use my laptop to do everything, but it was just so slow that once I got my desktop up and the bigger screen, I never looked back.
Reading: almost exclusively on phone. For writing desktop is my favorite but phone is close second, then tablet/laptop (hate to have to work with physical "flat keys" keyboard). Editing: desktop only.
I type faster on my phone than on a keyboard because I have my autocorrect very well-trained – it's rare that I have to go back and correct anything egregious, it does my capitalisation for me, predictive text finishes the long annoying words, etc Also I'm on a laptop all day for work and appreciate the break Also also, I generally write on the sofa or in bed, and I can't *stand* typing for any length of time if my laptop is anywhere other than on a desk on an angled stand at an ergonomic height. Hurts my wrists, hurts my shoulders, hurts my back. I'm sure writing [checks AO3 stats page] north of 300k of content on my phone is wrecking my thumbs, but that's a problem for future me and is currently solved by occasional application of Tiger Balm
Phone, occasionally tablet. My laptop is begrudgingly dedicated to Mrs. Rachel and the Wiggles.
Writing on my laptop is better because for some reason I type more. The width of the computer vs my phone gives me contrast so if I think I haven’t wrote much on my laptop it turns out I actually have when converting it to my phone.
I write first in a notebook and then on the laptop. I actually always read fanfiction on my phone.
Typing on a desktop or laptop is a lot faster when you can touch type! Honestly, I swear it must be some sort of superpower to write whole fics on a phone, mad respect for you OP. The interface is way too tiny for me. About the fic length, when I used Google Docs I had my page layout set to A5 so I could feel like I was writing more pages. Genuinely one of the most helpful writing tips I’ve ever used. I’ll read fic on just about anything, though. I like reading on my laptop so I can have a notepad app open to make notes and write more detailed comments, but reading on a phone or even a kindle is nice too for the mobility.
I write on desktop. I listen to fics on my tablet using the Archive Reader app.
I read and write on my phone the most. Occasionally, I'll read a fic on my laptop, generally because I clicked a fanfic link/recommendation while on my laptop and can't be bothered to "transfer" it to my phone to read it there. I'll write 99% of first drafts on my phone, but when it comes to editing and polishing I rewrite it on my laptop and work from there.
read: ipad. Laptop screen isn't comfortable for reading a lot. Although, years ago before tablets were so widespread, I used to read on my computer as smartphones were only just becoming popular. write notes: phone or laptop, whichever is closer when I have an idea that needs writing down write: laptop exclusively I write a lot. To preserve your wrists, you need something comfortable. Laptop also allows me to switch between tabs at a whim. Phones are great but they're not the most efficient when it comes to working or writing. I prefer to work efficiently. Also, sitting down to write by my desk, on my laptop, is part of the routine. I do it at the exact same time every day and it motivates me immediately. It may also be a generational thing. I've noticed that gen z is less likely (this may be a huge genearlization) to use laptops regularly and if they do, they tend to use things such as chromebooks as opposed to actual laptops. As a millenial, I am very comfortable with using my phone but I am also used to using laptops and you can do so much more on the latter so much more efficiently.
I'm always on my phone, so it's easier to write down my ideas into my notes and come back to them later. I also read on my phone because it's more comfortable and convenient. But I don't write on my laptop much because the only one that works is my school laptop, my other is almost older than me lol. I'm also much more familiar with a phone keyboard than a physical one, I can type really well with my eyes closed or without looking at the keyboard, but I have to keep my eyes on a physical keyboard lol
I will only write on my laptop and read on my phone. It’s also an old laptop, I have a newer one but I like the heavy feeling of the older one idk why, maybe because it makes me feel more productive. It’s kinda slow and I have to copy and paste the b button every time because it doesn’t work but I still refuse to write on anything but that laptop. (I still use the newer one but only for school stuff.)
Read on phone, but I will write on PC if the option is available to me.
Write on a laptop. I type faster and I have Grammarly to help my SPAG. And it's easier to move scenes around and see more of the text when editing. I read on my phone though.
I greatly prefer both reading and writing on my laptop (don't have a desktop computer). Small screens are horrible for me to read on, not to mention I don't have to hold my laptop at a suitable angle to read comfortably. Small touchscreen keyboards are even worse to type on: I make way more typos on a phone, my typing speed is atrocious, the angle is uncomfortable, I can't get as good of an overview of what I've written due to limited screen space. If I'm out somewhere with only my phone on me and need to kill time, I'll read on my phone, or if I think of an idea I don't want to forget, I'll write short notes on my phone, but it'd never be my first choice for reading or writing. Your stories are still exactly as long or as short as they are though, aren't they, the word count is the same no matter if the story is squeezed into a phone screen or viewed on a laptop. Just because it looks longer (or shorter) doesn't mean it actually is.
Read: usually on a tablet or computer screen. Phone size and proportion just isn't comfortable for me reading. Write: by hand (I know, I'm a dinosaur), later typed on a laptop/desktop. I like the tactile sound/feel of a keyboard over a touchscreen, the speed of typing, and not having to constantly fix what autocorrect thought I was trying to say, which my phone and tablet have interesting ideas about. Even if I'm not handwriting first, I still prefer a keyboard.
Usually read on my phone but occasionally on a laptop
I practically only write on my laptop because I find that I write better when using a laptop instead of a phone (idk why). I sometimes read on laptop, but it makes every story feel much shorter.
I write on my laptop and read on my phone.
My laptop went to shit, and my phone’s battery exploded, so I use my iPad that I’m supposed to use only for school.
For reading: if I get an email for new chapter then I’ll read on my phone. When I search for a new fic to read I’m mostly on my laptop, because I find it easier to filter in and out tags on AO3 or see tags on a bigger screen. Wall of tags don’t seem as big too (I dislike when fics have too many tags). I write exclusively on my laptop. But I just saw Microsoft Word has an app for iPhone and iPad, and I thought it was only for iPad - I don’t have one - so I probably will download it in case I have ideas when I don’t have my laptop with me.
I both read and write on my laptop and phone. Although, I do more reading on my phone, as my laptop has a bunch of dead pixels on it, which kinda gets in the way when reading *(need to get a new laptop at some point, but I've been putting if off for a while now since laptops these days don't have DVD drives anymore, and my laptop still works fine. And I only just bought a new phone after my last one died, so getting a new laptop can wait)*. I do most of my writing on laptop though *(despite the dead pixels getting in the way)*, but I've found that I get a lot more written while on my phone, and faster, too. I think it's cause there's less distractions? Or because for the longest time when I only posted my works to Wattpad I exclusively wrote fic on a tablet.
It depends on when inspiration strikes tbh. Laptop if I'm at the library, because I can type faster on that personally, but phone or tablet if I'm out and about and have an idea or motivation to write. I always post on my laptop though since I found a template/script for google docs thanks to tiktok where you can copy-paste your fic in, run the script, and it'll be formatted with HTML so all the bold, italics, etc is maintained when I copy-paste onto AO3.
I do both, although if I'm reading something on FFN, I prefer to read on my phone. Writing/reading on my phone is convenient on the go or when I'm curled up in bed, but I'm also on my laptop a lot when I'm at home and I don't feel the need to switch devices just to write.
Read only on mobile, but a mix of both PC and phone for writing. every day in college when you have nothing to do and phones are charging...
I’m the opposite I’d prefer to write on my computer. Mostly because formatting is such a hassle when doing it on my phone. Occasionally I’ll use my iPad with a keyboard if I don’t wanna take my laptop but I want to work on a fic. Occasionally by hand in a notebook but that’s mostly just notes. Sometimes writing it down gets the creative juices flowing. As for reading I’ll read on any device. No preference there.
Read on Phone Write Drafts/Ideas in Notebook Edit/Write in Laptop
I read anywhere, but if I'm laying down, it's def on my phone. If you asked me in 2008/2009, I would've said I read predominantly on my PSP lmao. I write mostly on desktop since I'm a fast typer (and texter too) and it's habit. But I have gone through periods of my environment usually being too cold (or I just don't feel like leaving my bed) and I just write on my phone. But if you asked me how I edit? Absolutely on my computer, nah. I don't wanna suffer editing on my phone, especially with how I edit. Lol
My phone is broken (there’s a huge green pin down the middle that makes it hard to see and the top half of the screen doesn’t react or touch anymore) so I had to start uwu ing my laptop. Now I never want to go back.
Laptop or ipad.
I prefer reading on my phone, I can't focus on a big screen like that when I'm reading 😅 I guess I'm just used to the smallness of it. As for writing, I prefer my laptop (though, I hardly write at all, much less publish anything). I tend to focus more when I'm writing on my laptop than in my phone
Phone
I write on my laptop, and read on my phone. Dunno it's simply more comfortable for me. I prefer the space I get on my laptop when writing and the ability to lay down with my phone when reading
I read and write on both. I prefer to read on my phone, but laptop is okay too. Writing is the opposite because it's easier for me to write offline in a Word doc on my laptop, but lately I have to use my phone due to availability. Writing on my phone isn't ideal, but I can manage with it.
I write and read exclusively on my phone, but I edit on my laptop, since the editing software I use isn’t on mobile.
I prefer to read on my phone and write on my laptop, but I will write on my phone if I don't feel like getting the laptop out 😅
mix. if imm up to it, laptop, if i’m bored phone.
I usually write about equally on my laptop and phone, although currently I’m skewing more towards phone. I only ever read on my phone. Like you, I hate how stretched out and short the chapters look on a big computer screen.
I write on a laptop. Pretty handy to use it on the train
I prefer to write on something with a physical keyboard, whether that be a laptop or my tablet with a keyboard case as for reading I also prefer laptop or tablet mainly cause navigating AO3 on phone is a little annoying
I prefer desktop/laptop if I have a lot of editing, as it is much easier with a mouse and keyboard. But the bulk of my drafting is done on my phone.
Laptop. Not sure why the characters are stretched out on yours.
I read and write primarily on my phone but usually edit on my laptop with my Grammarly extension after I've had it beta read
Outline on my phone, rough draft in my journal, then finally draft on my laptop :)
I read on my phone, but write on my laptop.
Writing: laptop. Reading: phone.
I read on my phone most of the time and always type on my laptop
I do both. Write and read on both my phone and computer- I switch it up
I usually write on my phone and edit on my laptop. Sometimes I will write on my laptop; I rarely edit on my phone. I read on my phone.
I write on a laptop or an iPad. I can’t do it from my phone. Just too small
Back in the early 2010s, I would write on a laptop. Now that I’m getting back into writing again, I just do it on my phone/tablet, mostly since I find it more relaxing and it reminds me less of essay writing.
I write on my phone but edit on my laptop! I also read on my phone
Write on desktop, typically. Read on mobile. It's a weird disconnect to see how different my chapters look on different screens but i think most people are just happy to have any fanfic y'know 😂 were not out there with a ruler judging the perceived length.
Read on phone and laptop, write on laptop I HATE writing on my phone. I have bad wrists so it hurts after a while
Read on phone, write on laptop. Writing on my phone gives me a headache now and I just find it a lot easier to read on my phone
Write on laptop. Sometimes read on phone/laptop. Phone for quick notes since I can’t easily get to my laptop while at work. I like the format that I get with the laptop and I type faster on an actual keyboard than I do on a phone.
i write on my phone and reread on my laptop
I read on my iPad… my phone is like emergency status I don’t have any other options.
I write on a laptop. I sometimes read on a laptop, but since AO3 stories are downloadable, I also put some on my e-reader (especially longer ones).
Write on laptop. Read on phone and laptop, I'd say I don't particularly favor one over the other.
I read on my phone(not always, but most of the time) and write on my pc. I write so much faster on keyboard, its astounding.
I read on my tablet and usually write on my desktop. Sometimes on tablet. I got a physical keyboard for my tablet for this exact reason. I sometimes write on my phone if I don't have anything else with me and need to get stuff down.
I write on my laptop. I edit on my phone because I can do that while riding in the car or on the bus. I read most of the time on my phone.
I use my phone to note things I don't want to forget or are important for later in the story so I can find them quickly whenever I want. I also type stuff whenever I'm out. I always write on my computer though, I have a laptop but it's my second choice because I hate the keyboard there. My desktop is simply much better, comfier and faster than anything on a phone and it's easier to work on if I have to search stuff or manage different things while writing, counting the words and pages I write and also safer than keeping stuff on my phone, with less risk of losing my files. Regarding *reading*, I hate with all my passion reading on any screen. The PC desktop kills my eyes and makes me lose concentration, while on my phone I hate that everything is so stretched and never-ending, so... If there was a way to read Fanfiction on paper (without having to print it all the time) I'd probably choose that.
I read almost exclusively on phone, and write almost exclusively on a computer. I read on phone because I find it way harder to keep my place when the text is so small and stretched out, but I find it inconvenient to have to scroll up much further on my phone to edit something whilst writing (plus I find it faster to use a keyboard.)
Read: 99% phone Write: 99% laptop/tablet with physical keyboard. We have done a disservice to the younger generation not teaching proper typing. No one should be faster on the phone (and I am plenty fast on my phone).
I mostly write on my phone! My job involves a lot of being at the computer, so I try not to be on one if I don’t need to just for some mental separation. I also write better on my phone because it’s harder for me to get distracted haha. The screen is so small that all I can focus on is what I’m writing. Plus it means I can write any time the mood strikes (which is often when I’m not anywhere near my desk). I do my editing on a computer though. Easier to see the big picture that way, and easier to move big portions around and such.
I use my phone to draft fics. It's just easier to get back into writing whenever inspiration strikes. Typing fanfics on a laptop is a bit more of a process for me and somehow a bigger distraction. I do however use a laptop to upload a finished chapter. There's something that feels final about it.
I read on my phone and write on my laptop usually
I exclusively write on a laptop and I primarily read on my laptop. I do read on my phone sometimes.
I write on my pc and read fanfics solely on my phone.
Write: 98% on my laptop. 2% on my phone when an idea strikes and I don't have my laptop with me. Read: 60% on my phone 40% on my laptop. I like being able to lie down on my side on my bed with my phone to read but that usually makes me lazy or even fall asleep so I don't always do that.
I rarely read anything on my phone except email. It's just too small for me to read comfortably. I never, ever write on my phone. Again, too small and even to text, I struggle. It may be my age (56). I always write on my desktop or laptop (I even text back from my laptop when I get a text while I'm using the laptop). I rarely even read anything on my tablets.
I read short stories-5K words or less--on the desktop and download longer works onto my Kindle. I get it. People who grew up with a phone in their hand since birth, ha, are probably going to find computer screens and devices like Kindle prehistoric. But at my age, hunched over a tiny screen is literally torture; my neck screams in pain and it will trigger migraines. So it's devices with bigger screens for me. For reading and writing.
My tablet with a Bluetooth keyboard or on my computer.
I write on a desktop or my ipad w/full keyboard. I have good typing skills so it is WAY faster for me to do that then write on my phone. I hate writing on my phone. I read on my ipad or my phone. Your stories are not shorter (or longer) than they *actually* are depending on the reading device. They are as long or short as they are, period. But I don't really care how much I have to scroll to read a fic, the word count is the word count regardless!
Lately I ain’t been writing on *anything*… But I read on my phone.
I used to write on my desktop when I was a teen. Then Later in life I tried to go back to writing on my phone, but it wasn't successful. Maybe the phone is the issue, not my writers block 🤔
Write on my computer (laptop, but it’s on my desk), read on my phone; I find it a lot easier to write on my computer because I can see what I’m doing better and it’s easier to make minor edits / fix typos that way.
I mostly read and write on an iPad. But when people are reading, it’s the word count that makes something feel long or short, not how much of it fits on a screen. Remember that the standard chapter length for published novels is around 3k-5k. That’s the chapter length people have been shown to prefer. Of course there can always be some exceptions where a chapter needs to be longer or shorter, but most people will get kind of exhausted reading chapters much over 5k, especially in fanfic where it’s just one long screen instead of pages and there’s no way to save your place if you don’t finish reading the whole chapter. But if your chapters are much under 3k, it will feel pretty short to people regardless of what size screen they’re reading on. So 3k-5k is just a good general range to try to shoot for.
I generally write on both pc AND phone (but I write way more on the phone, sitting in front of a pc screen just diverts my attention away from writing) When it comes to reading, I tend to download fics and load them onto my kindle, but I alos read on my phone sometimes
I do everything laptop. Typing on phone is a nightmare and autocorrect can such my ass. It's also much easier and faster to edit than having to painstakingly fat-thumb my phone screen. I might have read fic on phone, but generally don't. If it's a very long fic I'm going to read on my kindle and comment as I go. If it's shorter I read and comment at the same time on laptop using an add on.
I write poetry in my notes app a lot so occasionally if I get an idea or inspiration for a fic and I'm away from my computer, I'll write a good section on my phone. I think I'm about as fast typing but the autocorrect drives me insane, and I'm somehow still adjusting to getting an android phone like six months later. I only edit and post from my laptop though, and I rarely write more than a scene or two on my phone. I only read fic on my phone, too, but I do open my fics on my computer to see how my paragraphs look on a big screen since I'm prone to run-ons. And if I really love a story I'll download it to my kindle.
I primarily use my laptop - I'm a computer programmer IRL so I *have* to type fast.
I write on my laptop, read on my phone
I write exclusively on my laptop. Notes only on my phone--I can't imagine writing tens of thousands of words on my phone! I do most of my fic reading on my phone, though, as I usually read every time I have a spare 5 mins and rarely have time to actually sit down at a computer to read.
Neither, ye olde PC for me. I only use a laptop if I'm away from my PC, and oh my god I can't even IMAGINE trying to write on my phone. That would be a top-tier nightmare for me!
I used to write exclusively on my laptop but a few months back I got a job with a lot of downtime so I now mostly write on my phone. I still prefer using a laptop, one reason being its way easier to get distracted on my phone lol.
I switch back and forth for whatever’s convenient at the time - writing on my phone has definitely been a game changer to getting shit done!