6 Best Online Tools for Writers

Imagine drafting a manuscript in the 19th and 20th centuries without a typewriter. Sounds stressful, right?

And yet, so many writers under-utilize today’s writing tools. The internet offers countless options to improve your writing abilities and processes. Here are some of Night Heron Media’s top writing tool picks!

1. Reedsy Book Editor
The Reedsy Book Editor is a free word processor. Like Scrivener, Reedsy formats your book as you write. Unlike Scrivener, it’s free! Reedsy works best as an organization tool, as it allows you to create a table of contents and split your manuscript into chapters. When you’re finished, you can download your work as an EPUB, MOBI, or PDF file.

2. Grammarly
Even if you don’t use Grammarly, you’re probably familiar with this free writing assistant. You can either download it into your browser (where the program picks up typos across all websites) or you can copy and paste your manuscript into their website. Many writers are prone to typos and grammatical errors, but short on time. Grammarly’s lightning-fast system will save you an exhaustive proofreading session.

3. HemingwayThe Hemingway App also assesses your writing. But while Grammarly checks for typos and errors, Hemingway evaluates your writing for clarity and readability. The editor will highlight complex sentences, passive voice usage, and adverbs. Hemingway then suggests how you can improve these syntactical weaknesses. With this advice, you’ll make these mistakes less in the future and save yourself even more editing time.

4. Evernote Have you ever been on the go, and you’re suddenly hit with a brilliant idea for your novel? Evernote ensures that you won’t forget your idea later on. This brilliant notetaking system provides structure for your most complex thoughts. First, install Evernote on all your devices for easy access at any time. Then take notes, write to-do lists, jot down ideas… even record audio notes! Your brain will thank you for the extra help.

5. ScappleIf you’re still in the early stages of planning your novel, use Scrapple to brainstorm and track your thoughts. The program’s interface allows you to make mind maps by writing out ideas in bubbles, which you can then connect or stack. If you’re a visual thinker, it might be worth a shot. While Scapple isn’t free, they do offer a 30-day free trial. After that, the app requires a one-time $15 fee.

6. NoisliWhile Noisli isn’t necessarily a writing tool, it can certainly benefit your daily writing life. Many writers struggle to listen to music or sit in complete silence while they work. With Noisli, users can mix and match sounds to create the ideal writing environment. Whether you prefer the sound of a bustling cafe or a thunderstorm, Noisli will help you write in peace.

Not all writers are created equal. Some may benefit from a writing tool, others may not. Pay attention to your own personal needs and remember that writing tools will only work if you want them to. So what are you waiting for? Get writing!

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By Krynn Hanold, Intern

Krynn is a recent graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay and holds a B.F.A. in Writing and Applied Arts. She enjoys reading literary and upmarket fiction, sci-fi, and narrative nonfiction. She's incredibly passionate about publishing, and looks to start a career in the field.