These days, writers have an endless amount of writing and editing tools online that they can use to simplify their work. In fact, the sheer volume of apps available to writers now can be overwhelming, especially if writers want to spend their time on the writing itself. To make it easier, we’ve prepared a list below of the top writing tools that all writers should look at using right away.
Writing Tools
1. Google Docs
Google Docs is now the go-to word processor for so many writers, replacing paid programs like Microsoft Word. Not only is it a great word processor tool but it’s also a fantastic option for collaborative documents between two writers or a writer and editing team. Different users can access the same document on different computers and see the changes the other person is making in real time.
Another great bonus is that everything you write is saved as you’re typing, so no more terrifying computer crashes or shutdowns that result in lost chunks of writing. With a large variety of templates to pick from, Google Docs also makes it really simple to create a PDF eBook, a popular option nowadays.
2. Draft
Draft is another word processor whose web-based presence is a great secondary option to Google Docs or Microsoft Word. It’s a good way to avoid distraction if you’re a writer who struggles with staying focused and it will let you know how many words you’re writing per day, as well as remind you by email if you’ve been slacking off in your writing goals.
Draft has great document sharing options and track changes, which comes in handy during editing time and is hard to find in a free word processor. Similarly to Google Docs, your writing on the Draft platform is all saved online so you can rest easy knowing you have a backup copy of your work.
3. Freemind
Freemind is the tool to use when you have a lot of thoughts and ideas circling in your head and you need to plot out a story line or make sense of your workflow. Rob Tully, a business blogger at Last Minute Writing and Writinity, explains that “the tool creates a diagram of your thoughts and displays it in different formats as a sort of mind map so you can work through complex thoughts and research.”
4. Hubspot’s Topic Generator
Hubspot is a fantastic place to go if you’re running out of ideas and you need to find some relevant topics to blog about. In just a few moments, you can get dozens of helpful ideas that will get the creative juices flowing. If you’re struggling with writers’ block right now, we can also recommend this great article which outlines the top 10 ideas to get rid of writers’ block.
Don’t forget to explore:
- Top 5 Modern and Effective Editing Tips for Diligent Bloggers
- Blogging Fundamentals Must Need To Know
Editing Tools
1. ProWritingAid
This is the perfect all-in-one editing tool which serves as an online editor, a writing coach, and a style guide. It will identify potential problems in your writing that most spellcheckers miss, including overused words, vague concepts, transitions, and more. It can also integrate with a lot of different software options like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Chrome, and more so you can edit your text in the original document.
2. Grammarly
Grammarly is another proofreading tool that focuses not only on typos and spelling mistakes but also awkward sentence structure and flow. You can download an app or a web extension, which will correct anything that you write online, including Facebook posts and emails. It shouldn’t be your only editing tool, but it’s definitely the right place to start!
3. Hemingway Editor
This editor works very well with the other two options on this list since it looks at the overall tone of the writing to make sure it’s clear and simple and the message gets across. It will calculate how readable a text is and also let you know if you’re using passive voice or dull and complicated terms. It’s a great tool that lets you learn while you write.
It’s clear that some writers shy away from the editing process much more than others. If you find that editing is less than strength, we also recommend that you take a look at this useful list of effective editing tips.
SQUIBLER
Squibler.io is an easy-to-use book writing software to store all your ideas, chapters, scenes, and notes. You can share your book with an editor, export via Kindle, PDF, or print.
Don’t forget to explore:
Productivity
1. Todoist
Todoist comes recommended by Janet Moore, a marketer at Draft Beyond and Research Papers UK, who says that “Todoist is a web application that helps you manage your tasks and to-do lists. You can create a custom schedule every day, add writing goals or recurring tasks, and set reminders.”
This also has its unique place in the top writing tools nowadays.
2. Freedom
Freedom is the app for you if you find yourself frequently distracted by everything around you. For a monthly or annual fee, this app lets you block other apps, social media, email, and any other alerts or websites that you choose. This can be applied for specific times or on a schedule.
Angela J. Bryant, a well-known writer, and editor at Lucky Assignments and Gum Essays, focuses on social media, business and job hunting. Her popular articles have helped countless people improve their personal and business profiles. She thrives in challenging environments and is constantly looking for the next big project.
