The options available under Writing are:

1. Formatting – convert text emoticons to graphics and invalid XHTML can be corrected by WordPress

2. Default Post Category

3. Default Post Format

4. Post via Email – this is a specific ‘secret’ email that you set up with POP3 access and EVERYTHING sent to this email address will automatically be posted to your Blog.

5. Update Services – WordPress will automatically notify the site update services as listed, when a new post is published. These can be multiple service URLs.