#Create professional PDF

[ispeedapps]

How to Make a Professional PDF with Property Photos

Whether you're a real estate agent preparing a listing presentation, a homeowner selling privately, or a photographer creating a portfolio of properties, a sleek, organized PDF can make all the difference.

A well-made property photo PDF helps you communicate clearly, build trust, and leave a lasting impression. So, how do you make it?

6 Steps to Create Professional Real-Estate PDFs

Here's a simple step-by-step guide to help you create a polished PDF featuring your property photos:

Step 1: Gather Your Best Photos

Start by collecting high-resolution images of the property. Include shots of:

Exterior (front and back)

Living room, kitchen, bedrooms, bathrooms

Special features like pools, views, or renovations

Make sure your photos are sharp, well-lit, and in landscape orientation, if possible. Use editing tools (like Lightroom or Snapseed) to correct lighting or crop out distractions. However, if you are using a premium image-to-PDF tool like iSpeedPix2PDF, you don't have to do anything.

Step 2: Organize the Photo Order

Your PDF should look like a walkthrough. You want it to feel like a natural flow through the house. A good sequence might look like this:

Cover photo (often the best exterior shot)

Entryway and living spaces

Kitchen and dining

Bedrooms

Bathrooms

Backyard or balcony

Any special amenities (home gym, garage, etc.)

Name your files in order (e.g., 01_front.jpg, 02_livingroom.jpg, etc.) so they stay in sequence during upload.

Step 3: Add Descriptions

You can add brief captions below or next to photos to highlight features:

"Open-concept kitchen with quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances."

"Primary bedroom with ensuite and walk-in closet."

Descriptions help potential buyers or renters understand better. Keep it short—one or two lines per photo.

Step 4: Use iSpeedPix2PDF to Convert and Compile

Now, it's time to turn those images into a crisp, professional-looking PDF. For this, you can use iSpeedPix2PDF. It is a fast and user-friendly tool built specifically for real estate professionals. It lets you generate a polished PDF in seconds with high quality. It's FREE, so anybody can use it. Also, for a more advanced and ad-free experience, you just have to pay a one-time fee for lifetime use. YES, no annoying subscriptions!

Step 5: Add a Title Page

To give your PDF an even more professional look, consider adding a title page with:

Property address

Agent or owner name

Logo or contact info

A standout photo

Step 6: Save and Share

Once your PDF is ready, review it on your computer and mobile to make sure everything looks right. Then you're ready to share:

Email it to potential buyers or renters

Upload it to your website or MLS

Print it for open houses or listing packets

Final Thoughts

A clean, organized property photo PDF is a small step that can make a big impact. It shows you care about presentation—and in real estate, that often translates directly to interest and offers.

If you want to save time and get consistently beautiful results, iSpeedPix2PDF is worth a try. It's free to start and designed for professionals. Get the free premium trial now!

Download: iOS | Android

[themandylion]

Hi, professional book typesetter/desktop publisher/graphic designer here! I've designed more than a few book covers for print publishing companies in my time and have a few tips/things to add.

Resolution. If you are making book covers for print (or, really, anything, for print), you're going to want your images to be high resolution. The go-to resolution for items like book covers is 300 dpi (dots per inch, sometimes called ppi—pixels per inch). Anything lower and you start to lose quality. (A lot of people are posting images at hella-high dpi as screen resolutions improve and they want their art to look good. This makes it so much easier for unsavory people to steal your art, slap it on a shirt, and have unsuspecting customers buy it without realizing it's super-duper stolen. So. Something to think about, maybe. :) )

Color Mode. Most people creating digital art for display on the web are doing it in RGB (red-green-blue) files. This is also, usually, the color mode for most digital cameras and thus the mode of any photos taken with them. It looks great on a screen because it's specifically how light mixes. If you're designing a cover for print, however, it's best to do it in CMYK (cyan-magenta-yellow-black), since those are how ink mixes. You can change this usually under something like... Image > Mode > CMYK; terms/location may vary from program to program. If you don't do this, when you print out your cover it is going to look dull and sad and not as bright and vibrant as what you designed in RGB.

Photopea.com is an amazing free in-browser graphics program that is very similar to Photoshop. A few of the tools are simpler/have to be approached at a different angle than Photoshop, but as someone who has been using paint programs for 35+ years and Photoshop for 25+ years, it's now my go-to when I don't want to boot up my old computer that has Photoshop installed. (I tried GIMP originally and while I didn't find it difficult to install, I found it a pain to work with and had to fight it every step of the way.)

In addition to those sites shared in the OP, a good place you to find free and Creative Commons images is Flickr. That link specifically goes to the advanced search page because you're going to want to mess with the Search filters—click that, scroll down and change Any license to Commercial use & mods allowed. A lot of U.S. government agencies (like FWS and NPS) have Flickr accounts where they post amazing photos. Any photo taken by a U.S. federal employee in the course of their duty is in public domain however this does not cover photos of people (you need photo releases for those).

When using Flickr to find images, it's always a good idea to check the description (especially if it's not a government account)—Flickr's default when you upload is to put all images under CC2.0 and that isn't always the intention of the photographer. :\ This is really important to keep in mind when using Wikimedia Commons (suggested by in the article linked in the OP) because some of the pictures on Wikimedia Commons were picked up from Flickr by a bot and the Flickr OP has since realized they originally posted with the wrong license and subsequently changed it. If you use Wikimedia Commons for CC pictures, always click back to the original source and double-check the license if it was picked up by a bot.

Too many writers are using generative 'AI' to make their book covers, so I've written a guide on how to make your own cover for free or cheap without turning to a machine.

If you can't afford to pay an artist, you CAN make your own!

I hope this is a helpful overview that covers the basics and points to some free resources.

[resumeera-xyz]

Title: Resume Format PDF: The Easy Way to Create a Professional CV

Title: Resume Format PDF: The Easy Way to Create a Professional CV

Introduction

In today’s competitive job market, having a professional resume is key to making a lasting impression on employers. One of the most convenient and widely accepted formats for resumes is PDF. Whether you're applying for a job in a corporate office or a creative industry, a PDF resume offers a sleek, polished look that is easy to share and universally accessible. In this article, we'll guide you through creating a professional resume in PDF format, from choosing the right layout to tips for improving your content.

Table of Contents

What is a Resume Format PDF?

Why Choose a Resume Format PDF?

How to Create a Resume in PDF Format

Professional Resume Layouts for Different Industries

Key Sections of a Resume

Resume Writing Tips for Success

Best Tools to Create a Resume in PDF

Key Takeaways

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is a Resume Format PDF?

A resume format PDF is a file format that retains your resume's layout, font, and design choices, regardless of where it is opened. PDF stands for "Portable Document Format," and it ensures that your resume looks the same on any device. This consistency is important when applying for jobs, as it ensures your resume will be presented in the best possible way, even if the employer is viewing it on different devices or software.

2. Why Choose a Resume Format PDF?

There are several compelling reasons to choose a PDF format for your resume:

Universal Compatibility: PDF files can be opened on any operating system without losing formatting, unlike word processing formats like .docx.

Professional Presentation: PDFs ensure your resume looks polished and professional, with no chance of accidental editing.

Smaller File Size: PDFs can be compressed without compromising quality, making it easier to email or upload during the application process.

Security Features: PDF documents can be password-protected or encrypted to prevent unauthorized edits.

Quote: "A well-formatted resume in PDF can set you apart in a sea of applicants. Consistency, professionalism, and security are key factors that make it the preferred format." - Career Expert

3. How to Create a Resume in PDF Format

Creating a resume in PDF format is simple and can be done through a variety of tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Choose Your Resume Builder: There are many online tools like Canva, Zety, or Novoresume that allow you to create a professional resume and export it as a PDF. Alternatively, you can use Microsoft Word or Google Docs to create your resume and then save it as a PDF.

Select a Template: Depending on your industry, you may want to choose a template that fits your career. For example, creative professionals may opt for a visually appealing design, while corporate professionals may prefer a simple, clean format.

Fill in Your Information: Add the essential components of your resume (e.g., contact information, work experience, skills, education).

Export to PDF: Once you’re satisfied with your resume, use the “Save As” or “Export” function to save it as a PDF.

Tip: Double-check the spacing and font choices before saving as a PDF to ensure everything looks well-aligned.

4. Professional Resume Layouts for Different Industries

Your resume layout should align with the expectations of the industry you're applying to. Here are some tips:

Corporate/Business Resumes: Focus on clean lines, professional fonts (like Arial or Times New Roman), and a minimalistic layout. Avoid using flashy graphics or too many colors.

Creative Resumes: Incorporate color, custom fonts, and visuals that reflect your creative skills. Make sure the design is unique but still easy to read.

Technical Resumes: Stick with a structured, organized layout that emphasizes your technical skills and experience. Keep the design simple but clear.

5. Key Sections of a Resume

A well-structured resume typically includes the following sections:

Section

Purpose

Contact Information

Name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn profile

Summary/Objective

A brief introduction or career objective tailored to the role

Work Experience

A detailed list of previous roles, achievements, and dates

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant training

Skills

Specific skills, both hard and soft, relevant to the position

Certifications & Awards

Any professional certifications or industry-related honors

Volunteer Experience

Optional but can showcase leadership and community involvement

6. Resume Writing Tips for Success

Use Action Verbs: Start each bullet point with an action verb (e.g., “led,” “designed,” “developed”) to show initiative.

Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers to show the impact of your work (e.g., “Increased sales by 20%”).

Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume for each job application by highlighting relevant skills and experience.

Proofread: Ensure your resume is free of spelling and grammatical errors before submitting.

7. Best Tools to Create a Resume in PDF

Creating a PDF resume doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Here are some of the best tools to help you create your professional resume:

Canva: Offers free, customizable templates with drag-and-drop functionality.

Zety: Provides professional templates and guides for writing each section of your resume.

Novoresume: Another tool that helps create visually appealing resumes with industry-specific templates.

Microsoft Word: While not as visually advanced, Word allows for easy formatting and export to PDF.

Google Docs: Free, accessible, and can be easily exported to PDF.

8. Key Takeaways

PDF format is the best choice for a professional resume due to its universal compatibility and polished presentation.

Tailor your resume for each job application by customizing your skills and experience.

Pay attention to detail by proofreading and ensuring a clean, professional layout.

Use online tools like Canva or Microsoft Word to create your resume, and save it as a PDF to ensure formatting consistency.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How can I make sure my PDF resume looks professional?

Keep the design simple, use standard fonts, and avoid excessive colors or graphics. Make sure your contact information is clear, and organize sections logically.

2. Is it necessary to have a photo on my resume?

It depends on the industry and location. In many Western countries, photos are typically avoided, while in other regions, it may be common. Research industry standards before including a photo.

3. What size should my PDF resume be?

Keep the file size under 1MB if possible. Large files may be difficult to email or upload.

4. Can I edit my resume after saving it as a PDF?

While PDFs are not easily editable, you can always create a new version of your resume in your word processor and re-export it as a PDF when necessary.

Conclusion

Creating a professional resume in PDF format is a simple yet effective way to make a strong impression on potential employers. By using a clean, tailored layout and focusing on content that showcases your skills and achievements, you'll stand out in the competitive job market. Remember to choose the right tool for your needs and always proofread before submitting. With these tips, you’ll be on your way to landing your next opportunity with a standout resume!

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Writing Notes: Traumatic Stress

Common Reactions and Responses to Trauma

How people react and respond to trauma can vary, according to the National Center for PTSD.

Following a traumatic event, people frequently feel stunned, disoriented, or unable to integrate distressing information.

Once these initial reactions subside, people can experience a variety of thoughts and behaviors.

Common responses can be:

Intense or unpredictable feelings. You may be anxious, nervous, overwhelmed, or grief-stricken. You may also feel more irritable or moody than usual.

Changes to thoughts and behavior patterns. You might have repeated and vivid memories of the event. These memories may occur for no apparent reason and may lead to physical reactions such as rapid heartbeat or sweating. It may be difficult to concentrate or make decisions. Sleep and eating patterns also can be disrupted—some people may overeat and oversleep, while others experience a loss of sleep and loss of appetite.

Sensitivity to environmental factors. Sirens, loud noises, or other environmental sensations may stimulate memories of the disaster creating heightened anxiety. These “triggers” may be accompanied by fears that the stressful event will be repeated.

Strained interpersonal relationships. Increased conflict, such as more frequent disagreements with family members and coworkers, can occur. You might also become withdrawn, isolated, or disengaged from your usual social activities.

Stress-related physical symptoms. Headaches, nausea, and chest pain may occur and could require medical attention. Preexisting medical conditions could be affected by disaster-related stress.

Coping with Traumatic Stress

The good news is that there are very effective ways to cope with and treat the stressful effects of trauma. Psychologists and other researchers have found that these actions can help:

Lean on your loved ones. Identify friends or family members for support. If you feel ready to discuss the traumatic event, you might talk to them about your experience and your feelings. You can also ask loved ones to help you with household tasks or other obligations to relieve some of your daily stress.

Prioritize self-care. Do your best to eat nutritious meals, get regular physical activity, and get a good night’s sleep. And seek out other healthy coping strategies such as art, music, meditation, relaxation, and spending time in nature.

Be patient. It’s normal to want to avoid thinking about a traumatic event. But not leaving the house, sleeping excessively, isolating yourself from loved ones, and using substances to escape reminders are not healthy ways to cope over time. Though avoidance is normal, too much of it can prolong your stress and keep you from healing. Gradually, try to ease back into a normal routine. Support from loved ones or a mental health professional can help a lot as you get back in the groove.

Source ⚜ More: Notes & References ⚜ Writing Resources PDFs

[cozycottagetarot]

How You'll Know They're The One

🌸 Notes:

This reading focuses on how you'll recognize that your person is "the one". I tried to think of different ways people influence our lives to create this layout and settled on the below.

💐 Reading Contents:

The Energy of Your Connection

The Signs You'll Recognise

The Role They'll Play In Your Life (Extended)

Who You'll Become (Extended)

A Major Shift That Will Happen (Extended)

A pile in this reading does touch base on mental health. Please note that it is not meant to act as or substitute professional help or advice of any kind. Also keep in mind that this reading is based off of current energies and can change as you progress on your individual journey through life. Finally, this reading is for entertainment purposes only, please take only what resonates be it some, all or none.

LINKS: Reading Masterlist | Dividers | Ko-Fi

Personal Readings: Classic | $10 and Under - OPEN

Pile 1

The Energy of Your Connection

Cards: Two of Wands, Page of Swords, Knight of Swords, Four of Sword, The World

Your connection with your person or who you’ll consider the one will make you feel like you finally know what fulfillment is. You’ll no longer feel the need to keep chasing 'something more' constantly. You’ll finally be able to see your achievements and the beauty in who you are, who you’ve become and all that you have done. Your connection will feel like finally you’ve got a chance to rest. It’s a restorative connection, one in which you can finally find a sense of peace. But while you won’t feel the need to keep chasing something more, there’s still an energy of expansion, but this time out of a place of curiosity for what life has to offer. It’ll be a connection that not only fuels new ideas, but also gives you the courage to pursue them. It’s a whole new world has been unlocked for you.

The Signs You’ll Recognize

Cards: The World rev, Five of Cups,m The Star, Eight of Pentacles, The Moon

You could feel like you have unfinished business with this person, even if you’ve only known each other for a short while. It could feel like you’re meant to be a part of each other’s story. They might be holding onto a past experience in which you can see their sorrow. It could also be that they feel stuck or have a tendency to self-sabotage. But don’t take that as someone who is destructive and risk ‘destroying’ you. This person is also hopeful about the future and work towards it, even if their path isn’t linear. They might brighten your world— when life seems bleak, they’re the light that helps you find your way again. They are someone who is dedicated to what they do and I heard dedicated to you as well. Whatever they do, you can see they put effort into it. You might also recognize them intuitively, like there’s this nudge or inner knowing that they’re the one. They may be intuitive themselves or they could be someone who is mysterious… not intentionally but they have that energy to them.

Thank you for reading! 🫶 Curious about the role they'll play in your life, the person you'll grow into after meeting them, and the major shift their presence will spark? 🌟 Dive deeper with the extended version of this post, available in my Ko-Fi Shop as a keepsake, downloadable 15-page PDF. Explore all three piles in full detail and uncover the clues await you!

Pile 2

This pile mentions themes of mental health/well-being and could nod to physical ailments as well (specifically in the extended version). It was very difficult to read and interpret the messages, so this pile requires additional discernment on your end. 🙏

The Energy of Your Connection

Cards: The Chariot, King of Pentacles, Ten of Pentacles rev, Two of Cups, Knight of Pentacles

You and your person or the one are a good match, but not without effort. When you're cooking or baking, and you try to mix a fat or oil-based ingredient with a water-based liquid, they tend to separate. But when you emulsify them, you create a smooth, cohesive mixture that lasts longer until more ingredients are added or you emulsify again. You and your person are a bit like that. At first, it might seem like you wouldn’t go together, but with a effort and the right additions to the relationship, you can make it work. You both have to figure out how to balance and flow with each other in order to move forward. You may not have the ideal, picture-perfect, lovey-dovey relationship, but what you do have is something reliable—a stable foundation that grows stronger when you build on it. The effort it takes, brings you into sync with one another. It may require constant work, but the willingness from both sides to put in that effort is what makes it work.

The Signs You’ll Recognize

Cards: The Chariot, Seven of Pentacles, Three of Cups, Eight of Swords, Ace of Cups

You two could start off as friends or focus on friendship in your relationship. They’ll be patient but also persistent in getting to know you. Even when something might come up that makes you think, "Oh, we’re opposites" they’ll look past that to get to know you at your core and what you value, not just surface-level interest. They’ll be willing to try things you’re into and support you through your highs and your lows. They’re someone who is very loving and compassionate, emotionally open. I think you’ll recognize them by how they make you and others feel like the center of attention. *Post reading edit: I think you'll also recognize them by how they support you and give you unconditional love. It might be difficult for people to get to know you but this person sticks around and patient waits for you to open up.

Thank you for reading! 🫶 Curious about the role they'll play in your life, the person you'll grow into after meeting them, and the major shift their presence will spark? 🌟 Dive deeper with the extended version of this post, available in my Ko-Fi Shop as a keepsake, downloadable 15-page PDF. Explore all three piles in full detail and uncover the clues await you!

Pile 3

The Energy of Your Connection

Cards: The Fool, The Hierophant, The High Priestess, Judgement, The Lovers

You and your person are very intuitive and can understand and connect with each other on a subconscious level. You two have the type of connection where you’re always learning from one another. You two could have similar values, shared beliefs or generally just have a similar mindset or view on life. Your connection with your person is one that has an element of playfulness to it too. You’ll find that you can always laugh and joke around with each other. There’s also a lot of curiosity towards each other and life together. It feels like you’ll both feel like the connection marks a new beginning in your lives. You two could also have soulmate energy which by my definition is the strong feeling that two people were meant to be together. This connection also gives you a sense of purpose whether it's individually or together. You two may also inspire each other, cultivate a deeper awareness of yourselves and hold each other accountable for your intentions and actions. It very much feels like shifting into your ‘best’ or ‘higher’ selves together.

The Signs You’ll Recognize

Cards: Nine of Swords, Eight of Pentacles, Ace of Swords, The Hierophant, The Empress

They could be prone to overthinking or generally worry a lot. They may also be someone who struggles to sleep at night. A scenario I’m getting is someone who starts spouting all these “what ifs” in the middle of the night and you just have to tell them to stop worrying and go to sleep because during the day they’re not like that at all. You’ll recognize them as someone who is such a hard worker. It doesn’t matter how repetitive or mundane the work may be, they’ll put in the effort. They’re someone who you can see they’ll be successful if they continue to put in the work at the rate they do. I don’t think they’re all hard work though. They know how to pause, give thanks for and enjoy what they’ve achieved and what exists around them in the present. They could also be someone who’s always got a new idea for a project or concept, or consuming new ideas and information. Once again, they share similar values, beliefs or mindsets to you. Finally your person or “the one” is very nurturing or creative.

Thank you for reading! 🫶 Curious about the role they'll play in your life, the person you'll grow into after meeting them, and the major shift their presence will spark? 🌟 Dive deeper with the extended version of this post, available in my Ko-Fi Shop as a keepsake, downloadable 15-page PDF. Explore all three piles in full detail and uncover the clues await you!

[indianabonez]

accommodations i’ve had approved as an autistic college student

helloooo today i finally had a meeting with the disability office and have accommodations after 2 years of being in college without them. im autistic and have cptsd/dissociative issues and had a hard time finding what was even available to me to request for accommodations so i wanted to make a list to help anyone else who might be having trouble.

• Priority registration

i get to register for classes earlier each term to make sure i can create schedules that’ll work for my routine

• Extended time on assignments

self explanatory i think? was also offered extended time on tests or a separate room to take them but testing isnt where i struggle

• Flexible attendance

as long as i email beforehand i dont have to stick as strictly to professors attendance policies

• Alternative formats

if i buy a physical textbook i can request the ebook/pdf/audiobook for free to have multiple methods of studying depending on what works for me on a given day

• Note taking

allowed to audio record class and send to a service called messenger pigeon who will give me a transcript of the class and professional notes based on it

• Access to lecture notes

able to access professors lecture notes prior to class/instruction

• Devices

allowed to have phone/ipad/laptop for social buffering and notes in classes that may have policies against electronics

• Flexible participation

no cold calling, option to work alone for group projects/assignments, not required to present in front of class

if anyone has any questions lmk these are just what i have been able to get at my school so far! hope it helps

edit: this is blowing up so fellow autistics, students, language nerds, etc pls be my mutual i want friends lol my dms are also open any time !!

[dedalvs]

Kopikon II Presenters: Jessie Peterson

Kopikon II is about three months away, so I'm presenting each speaker in the order they’ll be presenting on October 10th at the University of Edinburgh. This year our headliner is none other than Jessie Peterson.

Jessie's been conlanging her whole life, and now makes a living as a professional conlanger. Working with me she's created languages for Freeform's Motherland: Fort Salem, Peacock's Vampire Academy, Pixar's Elemental, Legendary's Dune, and, premiering today, the Kryptonian language Suh Ankripton in Warner Bros.' Suerpman!

Additionally, Jessie has always been invested in putting together resources for conlangers. She created the Conlang Year project, to help conlangers build a language by doing a small piece of work each day; the massive Conlang-Venture .pdf, which is a choose-your-own-adventure that guides you through naturalistic conlanging; and the conlang GramBank spreadsheet, to help conlangers share their work more effectively. This year, though, she's come out with her biggest and best resource to date.

Coming out this October, Cambridge University is publishing Jessie's brand new conlang textbook How to Create a Language: The Conlang Guide:

If you ever wanted to read a book that went into more depth than The Art of Language Invention and with greater clarity, this is that book. Weighing in at nearly 500 pages, you can pre-order the book now, or wait until Kopikon when we'll have copies on hand for sale!

Jessie will be closing things up at Kopikon II at 4:10 p.m. at the University of Edinburgh (George Square), October 10th, 2025. To register, go here. The full schedule is listed below:

1:00 p.m. Opening remarks by David & Jessie

1:10 p.m. Keras Saryan

1:50 p.m. Jake Penny

2:30 p.m. Biblaridion

3:10 p.m. Intermission (20 minutes)

3:30 p.m. David Peterson

4:10 p.m. Jessie Peterson

4:50 p.m. Closing remarks by David & Jessie

We hope to see you at Kopikon II! It will be a day to remember. <3

[9151967]

Hey, don't cry. 5 Della Van Hise fics in PDF form, saved by the WayBack, all available for download ♡

DVH notoriously had her fics pulled from AO3 and she never uploaded them again. Outside of purchasing the zines she wrote for and created—and given her 14 confirmed pseuds, good luck tracking down everything—finding the odd scan of a zine online or the occasional working archived link from her AO3 is not easy.

(All of these works are linked on Fanlore on the fic's individual pages, but as it always goes with Fanlore, organization is not the best and DVH's main page links to an older version of her site before she offered these stories for free; this is to just get the awareness out and ramble on my blog about it, tiny though it is. As my friend put it went I sent these to her, "This is like Christmas in May!")

For those of us who can't afford to drop $40+ on a zine (average cost; we've all seen higher), lack the space for keeping old zines, or are afraid of opening the door of Buying All The Zines, may this find you well ♡

Front and back cover artwork from Hise's zine Styx and Stones. Left image by Marilyn Cole, served as the inspiration for the fic Styx and Stones; Right image by Jackie Zoost

On Wings of Ice (1987)

"Stranded on a frozen planet when their shuttlecraft is sabotaged, Kirk and Spock share love as they wait for death." [More on Fanlore]; originally published in KSX #1 My 2 cents: I cried with this one and it was worth it. There's phrasing in this one that has me rending my garments.

Collaboration (1987)

"When Kirk points out that their relationship may have become complacent, he and Spock put their heads together to see what can be done to breathe life back into the bedroom. But of course, nothing is ever as straightforward as it seems… A twisted little K/S tale." [More on Fanlore]; originally published in Styx and Stones My 2 cents: One part fic, one part meta about K/S and why fans create (yes, really! She pulled it off beautifully), all fluffy feelings.

Styx and Stones (1987)

"Spock awakens in a new land after dying and waits for Jim, who is in a coma following a shuttle crash." [More on Fanlore]; originally published in Styx and Stones My 2 cents: I wish I knew what it was like to read this before On Wings of Ice. I'm not saying this was bad or boring - far from it! Hise used a lot of poetic creativity in her depictions - but my brain kept thinking back to On Wings of Ice and that does this story a disservice.

Someone to Watch Over Thee (1988)

"Spock, Kirk, and an ambassador are given aphrodisiacs by the leader of a hedonistic society and itʼs up to the security men to make sure they get who and what they need." [More on Fanlore]; originally published in Naked Times #18 CW: rape/noncon elements (your mileage my vary on this, however, I'm noting it out of an abundance of caution) My 2 cents: it's Aliens Made Them Do It but told from the perspective of a Redshirt.

The Gol Letters (1988)

"Apart, Kirk and Spock each write letters to each other, each believing that the other will never read them." [More on Fanlore]; originally published in Naked Times #18 My 2 cents: I personally felt like a pumpkin with its innards scooped out but then became a ball of fluff. Heed that as you will.

More about DVH:

She's both a pillar of the fandom for her prolific work as the publisher and editor for the Pon Farr Press (and its many zines) and for her many works of poetry and fanfic, be they short stories, novellas, or novels. In the professional realm, Hise is perhaps best known for the (in)famous Killing Time. (Really, read the link for (in)famous. DVH certainly got screwed over by that contract, although highlight the text here and she's banking on the reputation of it, lol. DVH, I can never hate you. And peep the other link too for a surprise ♡)

She passed away on March 3, 2021 and is survived by her partner Natasha Solten. (Her AO3 for anyone who wants that directly. The bulk of her Star Trek fics are locked to registered users-only.)

[rileyfilm]

"no therapist would recommend proshipping" expect they do all the time. fiction of ANY kind is recommended as a coping skill often. there's studies (including studies done by universities like HARVARD.) showing how it improved empathy and social skills and memory, helps process trauma, and creating parasocial relationships with fictional characters can literally lead ppl out of depression. there's sooooo many benefits to engaging with all kinds of fiction. is it for everyone? no, definitely not, but then again, there's no coping skill in the entire world that'll help every single person ever.

https://www.google.com/amp/s/jfpenn.com/dark-fiction-j-thorn/amp/

https://phys.org/news/2024-02-teens-benefit-disturbing.amp

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7018408/

https://scholars.unh.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1677&context=honors

https://www.diva-portal.org/smash/get/diva2:1634579/FULLTEXT02.pdf

https://www.aetonline.org/images/MEMBER_CENTER_Section/Journal_Docs/2017/38-2/05_ThePowerOfLiteraryFictionForSupportingEmotionalWell-BeingAndSocial-EmotionalLiteracy_SherryLCramer.pdf

and finally, id recommend giving this a read. very educational:

https://academicworks.cuny.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1309&context=jj_etds

1) emotional empathy cannot be learnt. 2) glorifying or positively framing unhealthy, abusive and illegal relationships can encourage harmful behaviour or re traumatize the patient, and therapists have a hard "no harm" duty. 3) I never said therapists didn't encourage writing to cope??? Proshipping isn't about writing??? 4) no. Not all kinds of fiction are good, that's basic common sense I fear. https://authordominicmcgreal.com/what-is-the-criticism-of-dark-romance/, https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/hunger-artist/201809/consuming-fictions-reading-and-eating-disorders, https://editingresearch.byu.edu/tag/love-hurts-identifying-abuse-in-the-virgin-beast-trope-of-popular-romantic-fiction/. 5) now, I assume you do not have a therapist whatsoever because if you even talked about proshipping to them they'd asked if you're ok or if you're doing it yourself.

Then, for the links. https://www.google.com/amp/s/jfpenn.com/dark-fiction-j-thorn/amp/ -> none of the people mentioned here are professional therapists and this site isn't a scientific website so it's not peer reviewed so I shouldn't even talk about it but I am going to do so anyway. The article talks about dark fiction, things such as horror, occult etc. so not proshipping. So off topic.

https://phys.org/news/2024-02-teens-benefit-disturbing.amp the link doesn't work. And the website is about physics, not psychology or therapy. So again, I shouldn't even talk about it.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7018408/ ah! Already better! This one is peer reviewed! But... It talks about reading fiction and doesn't mention proshipping at all!

https://scholars.unh.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1677&context=honors link doesn't work. And it seems to talk about horror anyway, not proshipping.

https://www.diva-portal.org /smash/get/diva2:1634579/FULLTEXT02.pdf not peer reviewed but it's a place for students before being peer reviewed. But... Not about therapy or psychology or proshipping at all! It's about language and learning them!

"https://www.aetonline.org/images/MEMBER_CENTER_Section/Journal_Docs/2017/38-2/05_ThePowerOfLiterary Fiction ForSupporting EmotionalWell-BeingAndSocial-Emotional Literacy_SherryLCramer.pdf" ??? I don't know what ya gave me but I didn't find anything. This time it's peer reviewed but from the name it clearly doesn't talk about proshipping at all.

https://academicworks.cuny.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1309&context=jj_etds doesn't work.

[secretsnowclub]

This is the Berserk TTRPG You Need!

The purpose of a tabletop roleplaying game book is to make you want to play it. That’s rule number one. All else can go out the window for all I care. Forget layout, forget gimmicks, forget ad-copy, forget poetry. I don’t care how you accomplish it. The book should ache to be played. If its claws aren’t pulling me from the pdf to a discord group chat and forcing me at gunpoint to type “hey, is anyone free for a game soon?” then I’m afraid it’s not doing its job.

I had to sell all the pretty things on my shelves several years ago to avoid losing my home, and at the moment I sold a beautifully destroyed copy of Berserk Issue 1, I stopped giving a damn about having something cute to put on my shelf. I desire that which demands play.

It’s rare in the realm of one hundred plus page books to find something that does that. Too often you’re inundated with blocks of text describing to you the thing you’re reading. Entire pages detailing the promise of the book instead of, you know, the actual contents of the book. Waxing and waning about hypotheticals. “This book does blank. This game creates blank.” But rarely does the book do either of those things, it just promises you that it will.

Whip pan to Rookie Jet Studio’s “Red Giant.”

Expletive, expletive, expletive. This book makes me feel alive.

It’s fitting as I’m rereading Berserk right now (slowly buying the beautiful, black-leather omnibus editions as a way of healing, I think). Reading Red Giant made me think back to that beat up copy of Berserk, and to the used bookstore I sold it to, and the power of that made me want to buy a physical copy of Red Giant on the spot. If only it wasn’t print-on-demand. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, but I believe the book deserves better.

The layout done by Emanuele Galletto features many deep blacks and cursed reds. It’s clean and elegant, framed perfectly by Juwan Yi’s brutal illustrations. There’s not a chance that Drive Thru could do the colors justice. This is a book that demands. And for printing it demands a professional printer. It demands its own black leather. It demands an embossed red moon on the cover. It demands Corey Burns name in foil on the spine for the excellent world building and mechanic’s-driven writing. Even if he decided to put snobbish philosophy quotes throughout.

Even in that regard, the ones Burns chose to feature within the one hundred and twenty pages add to the bleak sobriety of the world. You’re diving head first into Castlevania territory. You get quotes from Baldwin, Nietzsche, and Sartre. It gave me hints of Kingdom Death and the blood-filled streets of Yarnham. This is a world where deep-voiced narrators talk about hopelessness and nihilism. It’s an edgy, gothic nightmare. The kind of anime you’d love if you were fourteen again.

The system is where the game hooked me though. It’s where this worldbuilding shines through—not in lengthy blocks of lore text, but in the character creation itself. It’s a simple, four-stat system. The kind you’d be familiar with if you’ve played any other game (video, board, or ttrpg). Along with Health, Spirit (mana), and Sanity (which functions more like Insight from Bloodborne than it does, say, sanity in Call of Cthulhu).

The archetypes are where this takes shape. Stats are assigned to you based on your archetype, and each one comes with its own special skills, much like any dungeon crawler. But it’s the packaging of these things together and the limiting of skills that makes these feel truly special. Harkening to the role-infused Troika! backgrounds, Red Giant prescribes you a piece of the world with each archetype. Simple yet evocative names that range from the kick-ass-driven Slayer to the strange-and-mystical Aegis. You might get the ability to sing a song that controls the weather, or early access to the keyword-based magic system.

Regardless of which you choose, it feels like you’re reaching into a grab bag of Red Giant’s influences and pulling out the silhouette of a legendary character. It ditches the vagueness present in a lot of modern, anime-inspired games and trades it in for specificity. And in that specificity, the world blooms.

Afterward comes my favorite section of the text: the Exchanges. These are bite-sized special traits, like feats or class abilities, that you can choose from. Each one framed as something you can just do. Without rolling! Or any other outside influence on your success! However, each one has its titular exchange. Trading abilities for health, sanity, or spirit. Some limit your exposure to daylight. One turns you into Guts Berserk himself in the fatal heat of combat.

I’m jealous of the Exchanges. I wish I wrote them. It’s a Good Idea. It is the answer to the premise the game promises you. Crafting a strange, devilish world through mechanics. Even if the first few pages tell me what an RPG is and how to roleplay and what Red Giant is, the character creation alone backs it up. It walks the walk where the intro talks the talk.

I can’t continue to only praise the game though. There are several Exchanges where their mechanical ties are weaker or missing entirely. These are easy fixes but still fixes that hold a good idea back from being perfectly executed. The character advancement feels tacked on, and the text even suggests tossing it out the window, which, if that’s the case, then it should have been tossed out the window and not left in the book.

There are several moments where the text struggles with strong language and opts for weak sentences that mosey around ideas instead of making definitive statements. The advantage and disadvantage mechanics feel like a vestigial limb, added simply because the same thing worked in other games. And over all, the rest of the mechanics outside the character creation feel like cobbled together bits from other OSR-adjacent games the writer liked. Which, if that’s the worst thing I can say? Then you’re doing a helluva job. We are a tapestry of our influences.

I need to take a moment to give a nod to the game’s use of Sanity too. It suggests you “roleplay the effects” of your depleting Sanity, but it doesn’t specify negative consequences. And in that there’s a cartoonish respect. In other games that try to use Sanity as a measure for horror, you’re often confronted with ableist language and outright disgusting mockery. But Red Giant uses it as another health pool that depletes dramatically as you face Horrors and replenishes slowly afterward. Despite any negative connotations in labeling it “Sanity”, I’m willing to forgive it for the sake of atmosphere when it doesn’t turn its nose down at me.

If you’re picking this game up, you’d be able to run it tonight. It comes with two adventures (called Scenarios) that are at least serviceable, though I would love to see a more fleshed out version of a Red Giant adventure. A Castlevania-esque dungeon crawl, perhaps. And the book boasts plenty of wonderfully horrific monsters for you to pluck out and throw at your weird, little adventurers.

Overall, Red Giant is a good example of what one writer and a very small team can do. Rookie Jet Studio funded this as their second project on kickstarter, raising thirty-thousand dollars. To its benefit, it seems like the book deserved it, and maybe even more.

You can find Red Giant here.

To support writing like this, there’s my patreon or my substack (where you’re reading this). I’m on bluesky as well, for less-words and more-posts.

[trans-axolotl]

this is a shortened works cited from my thesis, pulling out the sources about American intersex history and activism from the past 30 years. i have pdfs for most of the sources there, if there's something that isn't linked send me a message and i can try to find it!

just thought i'd try to put a lot of intersex history sources in one place.

Works Cited: 

Amato, Viola. “The Intersex Movement of the 1990s: Speaking Out Against Medical and Narrative Violence.” In Intersex Narratives: Shifts in the Representation of Intersex Lives in North American Literature and Popular Culture, 55–102. Transcript Verlag, 2016. http://www.jstor.org/stable/j.ctv1xxrsz.6.

Bauer, Markus, Daniela Truffer and Daniela Crocetti. “Intersex Human Rights.” The International Journal of Human Rights. 24, no.6. (2020):724-749.https://doi.org/10.1080/13642987.2019.1671354 

Brown, Lydia X.Z., Erickson, Loree, da Silva Gorman, Rachel, Lewis, Talila A., McLeod, Lateef, and Mingus, Mia.  “Radical Disability Politics.” In Routledge Handbook of Radical Politics, edited by A.J. Withers and Liat Ben-Moshe, 178-193. Routledge, 2019. 

Cameron, David. “Hermaphrodites With Attitude.” Newsletter. 1994. https://isna.org/library/hwa/ 

Carpenter, Morgan. “Fixing bodies and shaping narratives: Epistemic injustice and the responses of medicine and bioethics to intersex human rights demands.” Clinical Ethics. 2024;19, no. 1. (2024) :3-17. doi:10.1177/14777509231180412

Chase, Cheryl. “Hermaphrodites with Attitude: Mapping the Emergence of Intersex Political Activism.” Journal of Lesbian and Gay Studies. 4, no.2, (1998): 189-211. 

---, Hermaphrodites Speak! 1997; Rohnert Park: Intersex Society of North America. Video tape. 

Cohen, Julie, dir. Every Body. 2023; United States: Focus Features, DVD.

Denny, Dallas.  "Chrysalis Quarterly, Vol. 2 No. 5 (Fall, 1997 / Winter, 1998)."  Periodical.  1998.  Digital Transgender Archive,  https://www.digitaltransgenderarchive.net/files/7s75dc39s  (accessed April 08, 2024).

Davis, Georgiann. “Introduction: Normalizing Intersex: The Transformative Power of Stories.”  in Voices: Personal Stories from the Pages of Narrative Inquiry in Bioethics: Normalizing Intersex, edited by James DuBois and Ana Iltis. 1-4. John Hopkins University Press, 2016. 

Dreger, Alice. “Rejecting the Tranquilizing Drug of Gradualism in Intersex Care.” Alice Dreger (blog). November 2015. Accessed April 9, 2024. https://alicedreger.com/dsd_human_rights/ 

Dreger, Alice and April Herndon. “Progress and Politics in the Intersex Rights Movement: Feminist Theory in Action.” Journal of Lesbian and Gay Studies. 15, no. 2. (2009): 199-224.

Fausto-Sterling, Ane. Sexing the Body: Gender Politics and the Construction of Sexuality. New York: Basic Books. 2000. 

“A Framework for Intersex Justice.” Intersex Justice Project. 2021. Accessed April 8, 2024. https://www.intersexjusticeproject.org/intersex-justice-framework.html 

"FTM Newsletter #37."  Periodical.  1997.  Digital Transgender Archive,  https://www.digitaltransgenderarchive.net/files/kd17cs89j  (accessed April 08, 2024).

Hegarty, Peter, Marta Prandelli, Trove Lundberg, Lih-Mei Liao, Sarah Creighton, and Katrina Roen.”Drawing the Line Between Essential and Nonessential Interventions on Intersex Characteristics With European Health Care Professionals.” Review of General Psychology. 25, no 1. (2020): 101-114. 

Hermaphrodites With Attitude.  "Hey AAP! Get Your Scalpels Off Our Bodies! Flyer."  Ephemera.  1990.  Digital Transgender Archive,  https://www.digitaltransgenderarchive.net/files/qj72p712h  (accessed April 08, 2024). 

“Hermaphrodites With Attitude,” Intersex Society of North America. 2006. Accessed April 8, 2024. https://isna.org/library/hwa/ 

“How To: Organize an #EndIntersexSurgery Protest in your hometown--a toolkit created by Intersex Justice Project (IJP.” Intersex Justice Project. 2019. Accessed April 8, 2024. https://webarchive.loc.gov/all/20191111232744/https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EgYy2jfSO04HF_FGv-8RXYEgWW422L-RB7oxMOaIiBc/edit 

Hughes, Ieuan, Christopher Houk, Syed Faisal Ahmed, Peter Lee, and LWPES1/ESPE2 Consensus Group. “Consensus Statement on Management of intersex disorders.” Disease in Childhood. 91, no.7. (2006): 554-563. doi: 10.1136/adc.2006.098319

“I Want to Be Like Nature Made Me: Medically Unnecessary Surgeries on Intersex Children in the US.” Human Rights Watch. InterACT. July 2017, accessed April 8, 2024. https://www.hrw.org/sites/default/files/report_pdf/lgbtintersex0717_web_0.pdf 

“InterACT Statement on Intersex Terminology.” InterACT: Advocates for Intersex Youth. 2015. Accessed April 8, 2024. https://interactadvocates.org/interact-statement-on-intersex-terminology/#:~:text=interACT's%20use%20of%20terminology%20and,of%20the%20term%20%E2%80%9Cintersex%E2%80%9D. 

Lindhal, Hans. “Is PCOS an Intersex Condition? Here’s 5 Reasons Why Some Say Yes.” HansLindhal.Com (Blog). February 2023, Accessed April 7, 2024. https://hanslindahl.com/blog/is-pcos-an-intersex-condition 

---., “9 Young People on How They Found Out They Are Intersex.” Teen Vogue. October 2019. Accessed April 10, 2024. https://www.teenvogue.com/gallery/young-people-on-how-they-found-out-they-are-intersex 

“M.C v. Aaronson.” Southern Poverty Law Center. 2017. Accessed April 8, 2024. https://www.splcenter.org/seeking-justice/case-docket/mc-v-aaronson

Merrick, Ten. “From ‘Intersex’ to ‘DSD’: A Case of Epistemic Injustice.” Synthese 196, no. 11 (2019): 4429–47. http://www.jstor.org/stable/45220035.

Orr, Celeste. Cripping Intersex. University of British Columbia Press, 2022. 

Pagonis, Pidgeon. “#EndIntersexSurgery Protest At Lurie Children’s Hospital Recap + 5 Ways To Get Involved.” Intersex Justice Project. 2018. Accessed April 8, 2024. https://www.intersexjusticeproject.org/blog/endintersexsurgery-protest-at-lurie-childrens-hospital-recap 

Pagonis, Pidgeon and Sean Saifa Wall. “Open Letter to AIS-DSD Support Group.” EndIntersexSurgery. Intersex Justice Project. February 2018. Accessed April 8, 2024.  http://www.endintersexsurgery.org/ 

Redick, Alison. “What Happened at Hopkins: The Creation of the Intersex Management Protocols.  Cardozo Journal of  Law & Gender. 12 (2005): 289-296 

Reid, Graeme, and Minky Worden. “Caster Semenya Won Her Case, But Not the Right to Compete.” Human Rights Watch. July 2023. Accessed April 10, 2024. https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/07/18/caster-semenya-won-her-case-not-right-compete  

Reis, Elizabeth. Bodies in Doubt: An American History of Intersex. John Hopkins Press, 2021.

---, “Did Bioethics Matter? A HIstory of Autonomy, Consent, and Intersex Genital Surgery. Medical Law review. 27, no.4, (2019):658-674. https://doi.org/10.1093/medlaw/fwz007 

Rios-Espinosa, Carlos, Koomah, Syrus Marcus Ware, and Sean Saifa Wall. “Liberating All Bodies: Disability Justice & Intersex Justice In Conversation.” Webinar at the Crip Camp Impact Team and Human Rights Watch Film Festival, United States, October 2020.  

Rubin, David, Michelle Wolff and Amanda Lock Swarr. “Creating Intersex Justice: Interview with Sean Saifa Wall and Pidgeon Pagonis of the Intersex Justice Project.”  Transgender Studies Quarterly. 9, no. 2. (2022): 187-195. https://doi.org/10.1215/23289252-9612823 

Sharman, Zena. “Intersex Justice and the Care We Deserve: ‘I Want People to Feel at Home in Their Bodies Again.’” Ms. Magazine. 2022. Accessed April 8, 2024. https://msmagazine.com/2022/02/03/intersex-justice-the-care-we-dream-of-queer-trans-healthcare/  

Sharpe, Sam. “No one-size-fits all: Myths and Misconceptions about PCOS.” InterACT: Advocates for Intersex Youth. Advocates for Informed Choice. October 2022. Accessed on April 7, 2024. https://interactadvocates.org/no-one-size-fits-all-myths-and-misconceptions-about-pcos/ 

Spurgas, Alyson. “(Un)Queering Identity: The Biosocial Production of Intersex/DSD.” in Critical Intersex edited by Morgan Holmes. 97-122. Ashgate Publishing, 2009. 

Tamar-Matis, Anne. “ Advocates for Informed Choice, Newsletter Fall 2007.” Newsletter. 2007. AIC Legal .https://aiclegal.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/fall-07-newsletter-final.pdf

---. “Advocates for Informed Choice: Newsletter Spring 2008.” Newsletter. 2008. AIC Legal.https://aiclegal.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/spring-08-final.pdf

---. “Advocates for Informed Choice: Newsletter Summer 2009.” Newsletter. 2009. AIC Legal.https://aiclegal.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/aic-2009-summer-newsletter-pdf.pdf

---. “Advocates for Informed Choice: Spring 2010 Newsletter.” Newsletter. 2010. AIC Legal.https://us1.campaign-archive.com/?u=f8291560ebb2dafc25097480f&id=5803ec8c71

---., “June 2011: Promoting the Civil Rights of Children Born With Variations of Sex Anatomy.” Newsletter. 2011. AIC Legal. https://us1.campaign-archive.com/?u=f8291560ebb2dafc25097480f&id=cec68ddac 

---.. “June 2012: Promoting the Civil Rights of Children Born With Variations of Sex Anatomy.” Newsletter. 2012. AIC Legal. https://us1.campaign-archive.com/?u=f8291560ebb2dafc25097480f&id=b4d4dd90cf

---. “ 2012 Annual Report.” Newsletter. 2012. Advocates for Informed Choice. https://interactadvocates.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/AIC-2012-Annual-Report.pdf 

---. “2013 Annual Report. “ Newsletter. 2012. Advocates for Informed Choice. https://interactadvocates.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/2013-annual-report-FIN1.pdf  

“US: Anti-Trans Bills Also Harm Intersex Children.” Human Rights Watch. October 22. Accessed April 10, 2024. https://www.hrw.org/news/2022/10/26/us-anti-trans-bills-also-harm-intersex-children 

Vecchietti, Valentino. “A Journey to the Intersex-Inclusive Pride Flag.” Global Inclusive Pride Flag. Intersex Equality Rights. 2021. Accessed April 7, 2024. https://www.globalinclusiveprideflag.com/ 

Wilchins, Riki Anne.  "In Your Face No. 5 (Spring 1998)."  Newsletter.  1998.  Digital Transgender Archive,  https://www.digitaltransgenderarchive.net/files/vq27zn45k  (accessed April 08, 2024).

Withers, AJ. Disability Politics and Theory. Fernwood Publishing, 2012. 

Woo, Elaine. “David Reimer, 38; After Botched Surgery, He was Raised as a Girl in Gender Experiment.: Los Angeles Times. May 2004. Accessed April 8, 2024. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2004-may-13-me-reimer13-story.html 

[talenlee]

Game Pile: Ironsworn

First up, this is a free game, and you can go get it. For free. I can’t repeat this enough. This game asks zero dollars of you and you should grab it and check it out right now because don’t kid around here, you’re probably going to buy something on the steam sales you don’t need and aren’t going to get around to play. Ironsworn is, no matter what else I have to say about it, interesting.

Ironsworn is an easily accessible, well-laid out and approachable RPG which is suited for multiple ongoing sessions to construct a campaign with an ongoing narrative. In an indie TTRPG space that is overwhelmingly dominated by single session, highly specifically flavoured game systems about campaigns with niche experiences and sometimes ambiguously structured mechanics, Ironsworn sets itself apart. It is presented in a single pdf, it is made to be printable easily and conveniently, and while it does have some need for dice you might not already have kicking around the house, they’re d10s, so it’s not like you need particularly special dice or commercially centralised ones.

Everything else I think about it aside: Ironsworn is a good, free and convenient RPG for you to pick up and go for if you’re looking for professionally presented high-quality material. You can just go grab the pdf right now and check it out, for free.

Ironsworn guides you through how to follow its process, it has a degree of success and failure system, it even uses its dice choices to create a little bit of the ole theatre. It’s a dice system that mathematically shakes out to be generally uncertain, and that means there’s always a chance you can fail at something you’re good at and always a small chance you can succeed at a long shot. There are no overwhelming opportunities for success and excellence, because the dice are set up so if there’s no reason to roll, you shouldn’t roll, and if you should roll, there’s always a chance the dice kick you in the pants.

This is a very functional game, it has no meaningful problems on that front, and while I have beef with it in its presentation (why did you spend eight pages on table of contents that’s what the index is for), it is easily one of the best of its type I’ve ever seen. Because of its easy availability and quality execution, I don’t intend to do a lot to talk about Ironsworn as a system or give you its special hallmarks and signifiers or even dig deep into the mechanical structures of it.

Still, even with those caveats, it isn’t really what I’d consider a perfect Decemberween game, though, and that’s because I can’t imagine showing up at a family gathering with some paper and pencils and go: hey everyone, I’m gunna drag this group of us into another room and we’re going to go have an adventure telling a story together, because the story that Ironsworn seems to want to set up is not exactly… party vibes.

It’s hard to talk about what Ironsworn is for or whom, because with just the text, I don’t have access to the author. When I talk about what this game is for, what it offers, I have to base it on the text present, and the only source I have for inspiration or framing in the start of the book is referencing its mechanical forebears: Apocalypse World, City of Judas, Dungeon World, Fate, and Mythic. That is to say, the first Powered by the Apocalypse game, a dark fantasy hack for it, a fantasy dungeon crawler hack for it, a universal roleplaying system, and a popular solo RPG system. This is good sourcing, but it also speaks to a particular space of inspiration and mechanical relationships. Based on that, at its heart, Ironsworn feels like its defining mechanical provenance is ‘more Powered by the Apocalypse.’

I want to say it reminds me of 13th Warrior, or The Northman or Beowulf, but none of those really capture everything going on here, because those are short, abrupt narratives about highly deadly scenarios and also they’re very homogenised culture spaces. Maybe Samurai drama, recontextualised away from an Orientalist lens? I can’t point to a particular piece of fiction and say ‘that kind of thing.’ I can’t point to an existing game space and say ‘Ironsworn is like that.’ By no means is any of this that Ironsworn is bad. It’s actually really impressive that Ironsworn is so singular in its identity that it resists any useful or reasonable reference frame.

Ironsworn is its own identity, it has its own structure, and while that is by no means bad it does mean that there’s no immediate, convenient on-ramp to get a friend into it. It feels like it’s a game system that is in conversation against things, rather than with them. That is to say, it feels like it’s for constructing gritty, lossy, despair-tinged stories of warriors setting themselves up for potential tragedy or desperate success in pursuit of potentially conflicting dramatic needs.

It feels, and I say this without it being an insult, it feels like someone was repelled by Dungeons & Dragons, then appreciated the comparative gritty lethality of OSR games, but found some reason to not produce in that space, and instead took those ideas and concepts to work in the Powered by the Apocalypse space, resulting in something that is itself, very new. Which is to say, I don’t feel like I can present Ironsworn to someone going ‘hey, this game lets us tell and play stories like these common signifiers,’ but instead, ‘hey, do you know how those common signifiers are bad? What if they were instead-‘

It is a good game that I checked out because someone asked me to check out Ironsworn. It is by no means a game I would recommend checking out for its theme or the stories it lets you tell. It is a game that I recommend because hey, get a load of how well presented and unique this thing is. Excellently constructed, mechanically coherent, well delivered and just… missing a hook that I understand.

I really think at some point in the new year I need to dedicate some time to finding someone who can run or show me Powered by the Apocalypse being run because it really looks at this stage like a system that’s perfect for just absolutely impeding an otherwise really good creative writing exercise with the besties.

Check it out on PRESS.exe to see it with images and links!

[resumeera-xyz]

Create a Winning Resume in Minutes with Resume Format PDFs

Creating a standout resume is crucial in today’s competitive job market. But for many of us, writing a resume from scratch can feel daunting. The good news is that you can now create a winning resume in minutes with easy-to-use resume format PDFs. In this guide, I’ll show you how to create a professional and compelling resume using downloadable templates from ResumeEra.xyz and offer tips to improve your chances of landing the job of your dreams!

Table of Contents

Why a Resume Format PDF is the Best Choice

Key Sections of a Resume

Contact Information

Career Objective

Education

Skills

Work Experience

Certifications & Achievements

Hobbies & Interests

How to Download Resume Format PDFs from ResumeEra.xyz

Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Your Resume

Tips for Writing a Perfect Resume

Mistakes to Avoid in Your Resume

FAQs

Conclusion

Key Takeaways

1. Why a Resume Format PDF is the Best Choice

When it comes to creating a resume, the format matters just as much as the content. Resume format PDFs offer a lot of benefits, especially for freshers or anyone looking to create a quick and professional resume. Here’s why you should choose a PDF format for your resume:

Professional Look: PDFs are universally accepted by employers and are often considered the standard format for resumes.

Preserved Formatting: Unlike Word documents, PDFs preserve the formatting across all devices, ensuring your resume looks exactly the way you intended.

Easy to Share: PDFs are smaller in file size and can be easily attached to emails or uploaded on job portals.

Secure: Unlike other formats, PDFs are harder to alter, which means your resume remains intact and professional.

By downloading a resume format PDF from ResumeEra.xyz, you’ll get a ready-to-use template, which you can quickly customize with your information.

2. Key Sections of a Resume

A strong resume includes several key sections. Let’s break them down to make sure you know what to include in your resume format PDF:

Contact Information

This section is essential! It’s where employers will look to get in touch with you.

Full Name

Phone Number

Email Address

LinkedIn Profile (optional, but highly recommended)

Portfolio/Website (optional)

Example:

John Doe 

Phone: +1 (234) 567-890 

Email: john.doe@email.com 

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johndoe 

Portfolio: johndoeportfolio.com 

Career Objective

Your career objective should be a brief, clear statement outlining your goals and aspirations. Tailor it to each job you apply for.

Example: "A highly motivated marketing graduate with a passion for digital marketing, seeking an opportunity to apply my skills in content strategy and social media marketing at a growing company."

Education

If you’re a fresher, your educational background will be the most important section. Be sure to include your degree, institution, and graduation year.

Example:

Bachelor of Science in Marketing 

XYZ University, City, Country 

Graduation: May 2023 

Skills

Here, list your technical and soft skills. Focus on the ones that are relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Example:

Digital Marketing

Social Media Management

Content Creation

Problem Solving

Communication Skills

Work Experience

If you have previous work experience, list it here. For freshers, internships and part-time jobs count as work experience too!

Example:

Digital Marketing Intern 

ABC Company, City, Country 

June 2022 – August 2022 

- Managed social media campaigns, increasing engagement by 30%. 

- Assisted in SEO optimization for the company website. 

Certifications & Achievements

Mention any relevant certifications or achievements that would give you an edge over other candidates.

Example:

Google Analytics Certified

Awarded “Best Intern” for outstanding contributions to the marketing team

Hobbies & Interests

This section is optional but can help employers see that you’re a well-rounded person. Include hobbies that align with the job you're applying for.

Example:

Blogging about marketing trends

Traveling and exploring new cultures

Volunteering at local charity events

3. How to Download Resume Format PDFs from ResumeEra.xyz

Downloading a resume format PDF from ResumeEra.xyz is simple and quick! Here’s how you can get started:

Visit ResumeEra.xyz.

Browse the collection of free and customizable resume templates designed for different job industries.

Choose a template that suits your style and career goals.

Click on the "Download" button to get your resume format PDF.

Open the file and start editing it with your personal information.

By using these pre-designed templates, you can ensure that your resume looks polished and professional without having to worry about formatting.

4. Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Your Resume

Now that you have your resume format PDF template, let’s dive into how to customize it:

Step 1: Start with the Basics

Open your resume format PDF and fill in your contact information. This is the first thing employers will see, so make sure it’s up-to-date and error-free.

Step 2: Tailor Your Career Objective

Write a concise career objective that aligns with the job you’re applying for. Don’t forget to include keywords from the job description.

Step 3: List Your Education & Experience

Start with your most recent education or work experience and work backward. Don’t forget to use action words and focus on measurable achievements.

Step 4: Highlight Skills and Certifications

Be sure to include technical skills (like proficiency in Microsoft Office or SEO) as well as soft skills (like communication or time management).

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

Review your resume for any errors and make sure the design is clean and professional. Customize your resume for each job application to increase your chances of success.

5. Tips for Writing a Perfect Resume

Use Action Verbs: Start bullet points with strong action verbs like “Managed,” “Created,” or “Led” to make your resume stand out.

Quantify Achievements: Numbers are powerful! Use metrics like “increased sales by 25%” to showcase your impact.

Keep it Concise: Aim for one page for less than 5 years of experience. Keep it focused and relevant to the job you want.

Choose the Right Template: Make sure your resume template matches the industry you're applying to. Creative fields may benefit from a more dynamic design, while traditional industries prefer a clean, professional layout.

6. Mistakes to Avoid in Your Resume

Creating a resume is a delicate balance. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

Using an Unprofessional Email: Make sure your email is professional (preferably your name).

Overloading with Information: Stick to relevant experiences and skills.

Poor Formatting: Avoid cluttered layouts. Choose clean, easy-to-read fonts.

Spelling & Grammar Mistakes: Double-check for errors, as even one mistake can harm your chances.

7. FAQs

Q1: How long should my resume be?

For freshers, a one-page resume is ideal. Keep it concise and relevant, showcasing your skills and accomplishments in a straightforward manner.

Q2: How do I create a resume without experience?

Focus on your education, skills, internships, volunteer work, and projects. These can help show that you have the capabilities to perform well in the role.

Q3: Should I include a photo in my resume?

In most cases, a resume photo is unnecessary unless requested by the employer. Focus on the content instead.

Q4: Can I use a resume template?

Yes, using a template is a great way to ensure your resume looks professional. Visit ResumeEra.xyz for free, high-quality templates.

Q5: Should I list my references on the resume?

It’s not necessary unless specifically requested. You can add a simple note saying, “References available upon request.”

8. Conclusion

Creating a resume doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right approach, a solid resume format PDF can save you time and help you create a professional document that will catch the attention of hiring managers. By using templates from ResumeEra.xyz, you can easily customize a resume that highlights your strengths and qualifications.

9. Key Takeaways

Choose the right format: PDF is the most professional and universally accepted format for resumes.

Tailor your resume: Customize your resume for each job application to stand out.

Download templates from ResumeEra.xyz: Use free, customizable templates to make the process easier.

Avoid common mistakes: Proofread your resume and avoid unnecessary details.

This article provides a comprehensive guide for freshers and experienced professionals alike, ensuring they can create a standout resume using resume format PDFs. The use of internal links, tips, and FAQs will improve SEO and user experience while promoting ResumeEra.xyz effectively.

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Writing Notes: Anxiety & Sleep

Anxiety - an emotional condition characterized by extreme worry, fear, or discomfort.

Some anxiety is triggered by circumstantial stress, while chronic anxiety disorders may link to long-term mental health issues.

Symptoms may include increased breathing and heart rate, gastrointestinal distress, panic attacks, and sleep disruption.

Potential Effects of Interrupted Sleep

The lack of sleep that comes from interrupted sleep can make it harder for you to function during the day and can have harmful health ramifications in the long term. Common effects of interrupted sleep include:

Drowsiness: Excessive daytime fatigue, which feels similar to jet lag, can decrease mental acuity and memory retention.

Immune system impairment: Normal sleep can strengthen your immune system, and disturbed sleep can weaken your body’s ability to fight infection.

Mood swings: A person overcome by sleepiness may be cranky and irritable, and they may also experience headaches that further sour their mood.

Microsleep: In addition to general drowsiness, a person running on very little sleep can experience microsleep—very short bursts of unconsciousness that feel like blacking out.

Medical conditions: Chronic insomnia can exacerbate medical conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes and lead to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

How Anxiety Affects Sleep

Chronic anxiety can affect your circadian rhythm and lead to poor sleep quality.

Sleep disorders caused by anxiety can include insomnia and sleep apnea.

A generalized anxiety disorder brought on by mental health conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), may lead to elevated sleep disturbances like nocturnal panic attacks and night terrors.

To address anxiety-induced sleep problems, seek advice and treatment options from a medical professional.

Tips for Reducing Stress at Bedtime

Maintaining a regular nighttime routine and practicing sleep hygiene habits can lead to a good night’s sleep. Follow these tips to relax before bedtime:

Develop a bedtime routine. Ritual can lead to better sleep. Try doing the same thing at bedtime every night. This might involve taking a bath, drinking hot tea, or listening to relaxing music. You can train your body to associate bedtime rituals with sleep onset.

Lower the temperature of your bedroom. A nighttime room temperature of 60 to 67 degrees Fahrenheit is optimal for sleep. A lower room temperature leads to a lower body temperature, which signals to your brain that it’s time to sleep.

Play relaxing sounds. Try calming your nervous system by playing tranquil sounds such as soft music or nature sounds in the leadup to bedtime, and use white noise to block outside sounds that might disturb your sleep.

Try aromatherapy. Aromatherapy, the use of aromatic plant extracts and essential oils to promote wellbeing, can lead to feelings of relaxation, which in turn can lead to drowsiness and sleep.

Practice mindful relaxation techniques. A bedtime ritual of deep breathing exercises and slow exhales can promote progressive muscle relaxation. Add to these breathing techniques by visualizing a relaxing scene. Mindfulness and visualization can eliminate tension while allowing the body to drift from wakefulness into unconsciousness.

Consider natural sleep aids. Natural sleep aids such as melatonin are available as an over-the-counter medication in most drug stores. Taking melatonin can hasten the onset of sleep without interfering with the natural processes of REM sleep and non-REM sleep.

Invest in your sleep environment. Create a dark, cool, comfortable space for yourself. You might want to invest in quality sheets, cooling pillows, or even blackout curtains.

Source ⚜ More: Writing Notes & References ⚜ Writing Resources PDFs

[prokopetz]

Hi, Mr Prokopetz, I'm a big fan. Apologies if you've answered this before, but I was wondering what software you use to create the pdf and epub layouts of your ttrpgs, and whether you'd recommend it to a hobbyist who wants to try putting together something more professional than a gdoc for their own ttrpg?

My workflow is unfortunately not terribly accessible unless you have a fair amount of technical know-how.

In brief, I write all of my games in Notepad++ as HTML documents, taking care to use only the subset of HTML5 tags which are supported by most popular EPUB readers. I then use Calibre (or, more, precisely, the command-line utility that comes with Calibre, though you can get mostly the same results via the GUI) to bundle the HTML document as an EPUB3 file. I typically distribute both the HTML and EPUB versions (the former in a zipfile with all of the fonts and images and such) because web browsers tend to have much better screen-reader support than EPUB apps do.

The PDF, meanwhile, is generated from the same master HTML document using CSS paged media extensions – the layout is all generated automatically based on rules specified in a big, gnarly CSS file, and is never touched by human hands. There are a number of software packages which can do this sort of CSS-driven HTML-to-PDF conversion, some of them free or open source; I use a commercial product called Prince because, to the best of my knowledge, it's the only such software which has out-of-the-box support for PDF/UA semantic tagging (i.e., the stuff you need to do in order to make your PDFs screen-reader friendly), but you have more options if you're willing to tag your PDFs manually. (I am not.)

As for whether I'd recommend doing it this way? Like I said, unless you're a proper gearhead, not really; it's super efficient once you get it all set up – the only version of the game I actually maintain is the master HTML document, and generating updated versions of all the other formats is a one-click affair – but it's really only feasible for me because I already knew how to all that workflow automation stuff for unrelated reasons. I can't imagine teaching yourself all that from scratch just to write elfgames!

[sophieinwonderland]

The trusted medical articles about DID are confidential and aren’t on google, only doctors have access to them. You shouldn’t trust in the info you’re actually believing such as tulpas and some DID symptoms.

"You can't trust anything you see on Google because all the real information is super top secret and confidential."

How do sysmeds keep coming up with these increasingly absurd takes?

So yes, some trustworthy peer reviewed works are locked tightly behind paywalls. And this makes finding a lot of information a pain sometimes. But there are workarounds to this. I downloaded a PDF copy of Transgender Mental Health, the book published by the American Psychiatric Association that references how you can be plural without trauma or a disorder, from a dropbox link.

Other paywalled papers can be access through Sci-Hub, although various governments are trying to get that shutdown.

But a lot of trustworthy peer reviewed information from professionals is also available on the internet for free, such as Varieties of Tulpa Experiences, which was peer reviewed and published in a book by Oxford University Press. (Which yes, is a very reputable source.)

And its author is a psychiatry professor at McGill University. The idea that this isn't a valid source because you can find it on Google is stupid.

Moreover, if this was true that all the information on DID and plurality was confidential and only available to doctors, it would create a situation in science akin to the Christian Church pre-reformation, where knowledge of the Bible was essentially restricted to priests, and lay people could only learn through the priests.

Thank the gods that a lot of science doesn't work that way, and even if some is locked behind paywalls, there is a lot that is free and open to the public!

I've been researching and learning more about plurality for three years, and Google Scholar has been an incredible resource on this journey, as has Sci-Hub for when I have ran across an article I just couldn't otherwise access.

There is plenty of trustworthy research out here on the internet that you can access for free if you know how!