Best Writing Tools for Authors

When it comes to writing a book, having the right tools can make the process smoother, more enjoyable, and even more productive. Whether you’re a plotter, a pantser, or somewhere in between, these writing tools are trusted by indie authors around the world.

✍️ This list is a companion to our Ultimate List of Tools for Indie Authors. Bookmark it, share it, and come back whenever you’re in need of a new writing ally.

🖋️ 1. Scrivener

Platform: Mac & WindowsBest for: Organizing complex writing projectsVisit Scrivener →

Scrivener is a powerhouse writing app designed specifically for long-form projects. Its corkboard, binder, and research tools make it ideal for novelists, screenwriters, and nonfiction authors alike.

📱 2. Ulysses

Platform: Mac, iPad, iPhoneBest for: Distraction-free writing in a minimalist interfaceVisit Ulysses →

Ulysses is beloved by Mac users for its elegant, focused writing environment. Its Markdown support and seamless publishing to WordPress and Medium make it a favorite for bloggers and indie authors.

🌐 3. Google Docs

Platform: Web, iOS, AndroidBest for: Real-time collaboration and cloud-based writingVisit Google Docs →

Great for co-authors and editors, Google Docs lets you collaborate in real time with tracked changes, comments, and easy file sharing. A must-have in your writing toolkit.

🔍 4. ProWritingAid

Platform: Web, Desktop, Browser ExtensionBest for: Grammar, style, and readability feedbackVisit ProWritingAid →

ProWritingAid is more than a grammar checker—it’s a full editorial assistant. It provides in-depth reports on everything from sentence variety to dialogue tags.

✨ 5. Grammarly

Platform: Web, Desktop App, Extension, MobileBest for: Fast, smart grammar suggestionsVisit Grammarly →

Grammarly offers real-time grammar and spelling feedback as you type. Great for quick drafts and blog posts, though it’s not as in-depth as ProWritingAid.

🧾 6. Atticus

Platform: Web-basedBest for: All-in-one writing and formattingVisit Atticus →

Atticus combines writing and book formatting in one sleek interface. It’s great for authors who want to keep everything in one place—from first draft to final layout.

✍️ 7. Reedsy Studio

Platform: Web-basedBest for: Clean writing and export-ready formattingVisit Reedsy Studio →

Reedsy’s free online writing tool is distraction-free and automatically formats your manuscript for print or ebook export. Bonus: you can collaborate with editors, too.

🎯 8. WordKeeperAlpha

Platform: WebBest for: Setting and tracking word count goals

Visit WordKeeperAlpha →

Perfect for NaNoWriMo or daily tracking, WordKeeperAlpha is a lightweight app that helps keep you accountable with charts, graphs, and custom targets.

📆 9. Pacemaker.press

Platform: Web

Best for: Customized writing schedules and motivation

Visit Pacemaker →

Create a writing schedule based on your own pace, word count, and deadline. Pacemaker’s flexibility makes it a favorite for writers working toward a publication date.

🧠 Final Thoughts

Writing software is personal—what works for one author may not work for another. Try a few, stick with what fits your workflow, and don’t be afraid to mix and match.