Inputlog-LibreOffice: An Extension to LibreOffice Writer for Keystroke-Based Observation of Writing Processes

Keystroke logging has become a widely adopted method in writing process research and translation studies, offering researchers detailed insights into the development of texts—particularly through the analysis of pauses and revisions. Currently, Inputlog is the most commonly used keystroke logging tool, recording all keystrokes and mouse activity, while adding a timestamp to each of these activities. While Inputlog was mainly designed to log writing in MS Word, we have now developed an add-on for LibreOffice, so called ‘Inputlog-LibreOffice’. This add-on enables unobtrusive observation of digital writing processes. It is a tool for registration of the writing process within a LibreOffice Writer document. The xml output files can be analysed either in the desktop Inputlog application or through other tools. As LibreOffice is an open-source platform, it offers greater control over the logging process compared to Microsoft Word. This enhanced transparency proves particularly valuable for conducting detailed and reliable revision analyses. The source code is publicly available.