I have gone without an iPad for 3-6 months all because of unforeseen circumstances. I was the proud owner of an iPad Mini. Before that, I owned an iPad 2.
But, I never would’ve thought that I would be the proud owner of an iPad 2 once again. The excitement I felt to finally get one was like that of when I bought an iPad for the first time. I was most excited because I would finally be able to begin work on some illustration projects that I have held back on for a long period of time.
We’re talking comics, concept art, sketches and so forth and so on. And then we can’t forget about the fact that I can finally bring an iPad to church. Can you say “Bible App!”
All of that being said, here are 3 reasons why the iPad is essential for me and you:
1) Notes! Notes! Notes!
If you’re a news and politics junkie like myself, you may remember the moment that the late Tim Russert on NBC News during the 2000 election coverage held up a board where he wrote on it three times, “FLORIDA, FLORIDA, FLORIDA.”
So, what’s the point!?
Take note that it’s about the notes! Point noted, right?!
With the advent of Evernote and other amazing apps, the iPad serves as an excellent tool for keeping notes and information for projects, business, special occasions, academic affairs and ministry.
2) Immediate Creative Expression with Digital Resources
It’s not that you can’t be creative with a regular piece of paper and a pencil.
In fact, I love taking it old school every single day with my trusty pencil and pad on hand.
But to have an iPad means to have the capability of taking that work and digitizing it with accuracy, precision and alacrity. And, with the apps that exist, you can do it with beauty, brilliance and color.
3) E-Books
I love reading. I REALLY love reading. I have several books that I downloaded using Apple’s book app. While it is nice to have it on my iPhone I have to admit that I barely read on my phone.
And who does that!? Okay, maybe you do, and that’s fine. No judging here!
But there is something special about being able to read on a much larger screen while you kick back on your couch.
But, what if you do not own an iPad? What if you’re among the faithful few that have decided not to go all “tablet” on the digital world?
Well, you’re still one of the cool ones. And you should be fine with that. Just know if you decide to join the iPad party, you’ll likely won’t regret it.
Simon L Smith says
I agree with all three, but would add this:
In addition to just notes (and yea, I take a LOT of notes, ideas, brainstorm, etc.) I also get a LOT of first drafts (or almost complete first drafts) done quickly. (Writing more than drawing)
For me, my iPad is *amazing* for consumption and *ok* for production. Since, at least for me, production is often clunky, it allows me to get down a first draft with little editing. I can actually get it down on the proverbial paper all at once. Then, once I am in front of my laptop, start the editing process.
I know it sounds simple, and maybe even silly, but if I try to write a first draft on my Mac, I stop to edit, review, revise, etc.
Using my iPad actually helps me write my first draft faster, since it is harder for me to edit.
🙂
Eric Dye says
I like this addition. Tablets get a bad wrap for not being productive, but they are! Just like how you’ve outlined. 😀
Kendall Lyons says
Thank to you both!! Totally agree with what you’re both saying. The productivity factor is HUGE.
Chris Wilson says
I am all with you here Kendal. I love my iPad. The size of the device, compatibility with my other Apple gear and the ability to use it in class, e.g. air playing material to the Interactive whiteboard or doing a quick sketch which I can then show the rest of the class make it a must have for me.
The only things that hold me back from using it for EVERYTHING are some web interface stuff, pro level image editing and the slightly smaller screen size.
Kendall Lyons says
Oh absolutely!!! Certainly the iPad can serve us but certainly can’t take the place of pro level work that would be normally created on a iMac or PC. Great thought though brother Chris.