Hemingway mode […] [I need to disable editing while I type]

English
#1

I’m using LOw to write a book. However, I need to disable editing while I type, otherwise I’m constantly correcting my spelling and grammar (which are distinctively different brain functions than creative writing).

So, is there a way to disable the various editing options? I’m thinking about disabling the backspace, delete, arrow keys, as well as the right click menu. I just want to prevent myself from editing, while I’m busy being creative.

Is there something I can do or an extension I could install, which would allow me to turn this on and off at will?

Sorry, about the “+15 characters” in the topic title, it wouldn’t otherwise accept my topic title.

#2

Edited by LeroyG.

#3
#4

Spell checking can be disabled. But I don’t understand the question about keyboard keys. The keys you mention are so deeply rooted in computer usage that disabling them would probably lead to unmanageable problems.

One easy solution is: don’t press them.

However, if you fear to press them unexpectedly, have a try with Tools>Customize, Keyboard tab. Avoid disabling Return because you’ll then be in really big trouble to create paragraphs.

The right-clicks can probably be disabled in tab Context Menus but you need to customise each menu separately.

I suggest you avoid this kind of manipulation because you’ll have difficulty to revert to standard assignments.

PS: always mention OS name, exact LO version and file save format (when relevant). The first two bits of information are important in your question because you want to tweak fundamental aspects/configuration in LO.

#5

I tried FocusWriter, it deadlocked on my computer after two paragraphs; too buggy for me.

#6

There’s a nice quote, I’m not certain who was the source: “Write drunk; edit sober.” This should get the basic idea across. I don’t want to get that opportunity to edit while writing, otherwise it’ll shatter my creative flow state.

I was hoping for an extension to do this (as not everybody uses LOw for creative writing) which would simply provide a button to turn said functionality off and on.

#7

Write plain text, edit with LibreOffice.

2 Likes
#8

Not a LO-solution, but bear with me :pray:

As I read the request, it is one of avoiding interrupts. Specifically, the “flow of consciousness” that manifests itself through your writing should not be interrupted by “I made a mistake” or “I could have phrased that differently”. Temporarily removing the arrow/backspace functionality is expected to reduce the temptation to yield to such interrupts.

I submit that this is better solved by a kind of mindfulness. If you make a mistake, allow it to exist! You are not perfect. Allow your own imperfections. The mistake will not go away; you can revisit it at a later time, when you are in “proofing mode”. And by all means, disable the visual clues from spellcheck!

It takes practice, but if you don’t put your mind to it I believe your flow will still be derailed, no matter which tools are available or not.

If we could only ask Ernest …

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