Best Writing Apps for Writers: Tools to Boost Your Creativity

Finding the right writing app can make all the difference for writers, whether drafting a novel, working on an essay, or just keeping track of ideas. The ideal app should be intuitive, versatile, and packed with features that help you stay productive and organized.

1. Scrivener

Best for Novelists, Researchers, and Long-Form Writers

Scrivener is known as a go-to app for long-form writers, and for good reason. It’s incredibly versatile and offers impressive features that help writers tackle complex projects, whether it’s a novel, a thesis, or even a screenplay.

Key Features:

• Outlining and Research: Scrivener lets you break your project into sections, create outlines, and keep all your research in one place. You can store PDFs, images, and web pages directly within the project.
• Corkboard View: The virtual corkboard gives you a bird’s-eye view of your project. You can move around “index cards” to easily restructure your work.
• Distraction-Free Writing: Need to focus? Scrivener’s full-screen, distraction-free mode lets you dive into your writing without interruptions.
• Flexible Export Options: When it’s time to share or publish, Scrivener’s powerful export options let you format your work into ePub, PDF, Word, and more.
• Available on Multiple Devices: Scrivener is available on macOS, Windows, and iOS, meaning you can write on the go.

Why Writers Love It:

Writers love Scrivener for its ability to handle complex projects with ease. It’s beneficial for organizing significant works like novels or research papers, ensuring everything stays in order.

Pricing:

• $49.99 for macOS and Windows
• $19.99 for iOS (mobile app)

Learn more about Scrivener

2. Ulysses

Best for Bloggers, Article Writers, and Minimalist Writers

If you’re looking for a sleek, distraction-free writing app designed for simplicity, Ulysses might be the perfect fit. Ulysses blends a minimal interface with powerful features, making it ideal for anyone who wants to focus on their writing without the clutter.

Key Features:

• Markdown Support: Ulysses uses Markdown, allowing you to format your text easily while keeping your workflow smooth and uninterrupted.
• Organized Library: All your documents are stored in one place, with an intuitive library system that lets you manage multiple writing projects simultaneously.
• Distraction-Free Writing: The clean, minimal interface ensures you can focus entirely on your words.
• iCloud Sync: Seamlessly sync your work across your Mac, iPhone, and iPad so you can write wherever you are.
• Writing Goals: Set goals based on word count or time, helping you stay motivated and on track with your writing projects.

Why Writers Love It:

Ulysses is the perfect app for a clean, straightforward writing experience without sacrificing functionality. It’s great for bloggers, content creators, and anyone who prefers a distraction-free writing space.

Pricing:

• $5.99/month or $49.99/year via subscription (includes macOS and iOS)

Learn more about Ulysses

3. Other Notable Writing Apps

iA Writer

• Best for: Writers who want a no-frills, minimalist writing environment.
• Features: Markdown support, clean interface, focus mode, and seamless device syncing.
• Pricing: One-time purchase ($29.99 on macOS, $9.99 on iOS).

iA Writer is known for its simplicity and dedication to distraction-free writing. It’s perfect for writers who need a tool that keeps them focused on their text and nothing else.

Scroll

• Best for: Writers who visually plan and organize their ideas using outlines and mind maps.
• Features: Scroll makes creating outlines easy, helping writers break down their ideas and structure their projects. It’s perfect for those who love to plan and organize their work before diving into the writing.

Learn more about Scroll

Evernote

• Best for: Writers who need a powerful note-taking and organization tool.
• Features: Organize notes, clip web pages, sync across devices, and integrate with other apps.
• Pricing: Free basic plan, premium plans start at $7.99/month.

Evernote is more than just a writing tool—it’s a comprehensive workspace for all your research, notes, and ideas. It’s great for organizing everything in one place.

Hemingway Editor

• Best for: Writers who want to improve readability and clarity in their writing.
• Features: Highlights complex sentences, passive voice, and adverbs to help streamline and simplify your text.
• Pricing: Web version is free; desktop app is $19.99.

Hemingway Editor helps you write clear, concise prose, making it ideal for editing and improving your readability score.

Conclusion

The best writing app for you depends on what you’re looking for. Scrivener is a powerhouse for long-form writers who need organizational tools, while Ulysses is ideal for those who love a minimalist, distraction-free space. Scroll is a fantastic choice for writers who need to map out their ideas visually before writing, and iA Writer, Evernote, and Hemingway Editor all have unique features that cater to different writing needs.

Ultimately, the proper writing app can make the process smoother and more enjoyable, helping you stay organized and focused on what matters most—your writing.

Which app will you choose to boost your creativity and productivity?