But that’s for after workwe spoke with Adam to learn about his favorite work methods and gear.
What apps/software/tools can’t you live without?
Now that mostly happens in the cloud.
Evernote has mostly replaced the journals I used to keep notes, quotes, and clippings in.
Plus I don’t trust the artificial intelligence thing, frankly.
If the computer can make the connections, let the computer write the story.
Because I cover science I like to wade around in journal articles.
So now I’m wedded.
For phone interviews, I’m a fast enough typist to take notes with my computer.
But in person, I use a notepad.
You have to call them to order (but they’re very friendly).
Also, it’s not recycled paper.
I write in Word almost exclusively, though I hear the siren call ofScrivener.
I have two pairs of headphones.
What’s your workspace setup like?
Otherwise: repetitive stress pain in my elbow.
It looks… goofy.
Let’s be honest.
I have a desk at home, but that’s a big mess.
And I bring a Bluetooth keyboard.
What’s your best time-saving shortcut/life hack?
I really should get one of these.
What’s your favorite to-do list manager?
Besides your phone and computer, what gadget can’t you live without and why?
What everyday thing are you better at than everyone else?
What’s your secret?
I am a very, very fast reader.
What do you listen to while you work?
That’s when I wear the headphones.
So it’s a lot of techno and EDM, basically.
Music that sounds like it was written by computers for computers.
What are you currently reading?
I just finishedThe Golem and the Jinniby Helene Wecker andAncillary Justiceby Ann Leckie, both very good science fiction.
About to startFinite and Infinite Gamesby James P. Carse.
Greg Rucka’s comic bookLazarusis big for me right now, as is Brian K. Vaughan’sSaga.
Are you more of an introvert or an extrovert?
But I’ve been faking extroversion for a long time and now I’m pretty much in character.
What’s your sleep routine like?
Since having kids, my sleep routine is not mine to own.
Not gonna happen.
So I have a go at be in bed by 11.
If my sons don’t wake me up, the alarm clock does.
Fill in the blank: I’d love to see _________ answer these same questions.
Ben Blacker and Ben Acker, writers of theThrilling Adventure Hour.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
From my dad, after we watched the movieShane: “Remember: There’s always someone faster.
You just have to be more accurate.”
And then this, from my friendMatt Bai, on book-writing: No book sells.
Your book will not sell.
Is there anything else you’d like to add that might be interesting to readers/fans?
That doesn’t work.
Have someone you want to see featured, or questions you think we should ask?Email Andy.
Photo by Celine Mikahala Grouard.
