Akshata Shanbhag
Freelance Writer
Original stories about working better, not doing more
People are tired of work and productivity content because it doesn't tell them anything new, or explain why the usual advice doesn't work for them. But the stories people remember — and share — come from original ideas, first-hand experience, and people who've actually done the work. Those are the stories I write.Hi, I'm Akshata, I write about productivity and the human side of work by testing ideas on myself, interviewing people, and uncovering perspectives and insights you won't find by stitching together what's already on the internet.
Testimonials
"It was always always a pleasure to see one of Akshata’s articles land in my editing queue. Editing her work was a breeze, thanks to her attention to detail, knowledge of Apple platforms, and clear writing style.As an editor, I could have confidence that any article Akshata authored would do the topic justice. She’s excellent at what she does, which makes the editor’s job straightforward."
~ Ben Stegner, Deputy Editor & Onboarding Manager at MakeUseOf
"I had the pleasure of working with Akshata during her time as a freelance writer at MUO, where she contributed to the Productivity section.Akshata is a quick learner with a keen eye for detail. She consistently delivered high-quality work, always meeting deadlines with minimal edits required. Her positive attitude and responsiveness to feedback made collaboration a seamless experience.Later at Make Tech Easier, Akshata showcased her skills in keyword research and handled tasks with reliability and ease. I highly recommend Akshata for her dedication, professionalism, and strong work ethic."
~ Christina Sieber Windows and Productivity Editor at MakeUseOf
"I’ve worked with Akshata for a better part of a decade and I can whole-heartedly vouch for her. She’s talented, dedicated, meticulous, savvy, and efficient. Over the years, we’ve implemented several workflows together and Akshata played a huge role in ensuring success. She’s a very driven person, and as a writer, editor, analyst or coordinator. Akshata can execute any role seamlessly. I’ve worked with her in every capacity and again, I fully vouch for her."
~ Jackson Chung, CEO at MakeUseOf | CTO at Time+Tide Watches
About
I've spent the past decade in online publishing, writing for sites like MakeUseOf and Lifewire, and helping shape content strategy at MakeTechEasier and Time and Tide Watches. Along the way, I’ve developed an instinct for finding fresh angles, shaping story ideas, and writing articles that work for both readers and publishers.I write feature articles and essays about:
- Productivity systems and workflows
- Tools, habits, and digital work culture
- Knowledge work and deep workMy work combines real-world experimentation, interviews, and original angles to deliver pieces that explore how people actually work, and how they can work better.When I’m not working, I'm usually going down an internet rabbit hole, browsing a market, or taking a nap. My party trick? Reciting the alphabet backwards.
Portfolio
- Find the Perfect Note-Taking App With This Checklist
- What Happens When You Quit Social Media? I Found Out
- The Irresistible Appeal of Old Technology: Why We Struggle to Let Go
- How to Use a Bullet Journal in Trello to Plan Your Day
- What Happened When I Went Completely Offline for a Week
- How to Use Your Journal App as the Perfect Productivity Planner
- 4 Ways To Take The Stress Out Of Productivity
Contact
I’m currently open to working with a small number of steady clients on ongoing editorial work. If you’re looking for original, experience-led productivity stories, I’d love to hear from you. Click the button below to send an email to [email protected].