While the Palm OS was originally targeted at executives and other business people, it has grown into much more. A lot of people have started using Palm handhelds because they offer a mobile solution that's cheaper and more portable than most laptops. Students use them to take notes in class, while some writers replace their paper notebooks with handheld computers.

In this edition of my series on ebooks, I'm going to look into writing with your Palm OS device. While I am aware that this isn't strictly ebook-related, mobile writing was my first foray into the world of the Palm OS, and it was from this that my interest in ebooks grew. So, while the connection may not be clear, it does exist.

Is mobile writing right?
Using a Palm handheld in the writing process can greatly enhance the writing processes of many writers who are pressed for time or have the bad habit of getting the inspiration to write when they're away from their desks. However, Palm OS devices aren't right for everyone who writes. Palm OS devices aren't laptops. No matter what you do, they will probably never have the same kind of functionality that a laptop has. It's also important to realize and keep in mind that a Palm handheld is a tool that enhances the writing process; it doesn't create something that isn't there.

If you expect to write long pieces on your Palm OS device from draft to final, or if you expect to be able to function independently of your desktop for extended periods of time, you may be disappointed. If, on the other hand, you expect to draft or take notes on your Palm handheld, you'll probably be far more successful. The key to getting the most out of your Palm handheld is figuring out exactly what it will do for you and then modeling your usage patterns after its ability. This might not be the most enjoyable method, but it tends to be the most effective way to get things done.