The Best Apps for Writing

Writing can be challenging, especially when distractions abound. Here are some apps and tools to boost your productivity and focus.

Cold Turkey (Windows) / Freedom (Mac)

These apps allow you to block distracting websites for set periods, helping you stay focused on your writing. Example: Block social media sites from 9 AM to 12 PM daily to create a distraction-free writing window.

RescueTime

This browser plugin monitors your computer activity, providing reports to help you understand and improve your productivity. Example: Discover that you spend 2 hours daily on social media, prompting you to set limits and increase writing time.

Scrivener

A comprehensive writing software that helps you organize research, plan chapters, and write your book from start to finish. Example: Use the cork board feature to outline your novel's plot points visually.

Evernote

Perfect for storing and syncing notes across devices, allowing you to capture ideas on the go. Example: Jot down a character description on your phone while commuting, then access it later on your computer.

QuietWrite

A Chrome plugin that opens a distraction-free writing tab with a single click. Example: Quickly capture a scene idea while researching without switching between apps.

Write or Die

Offers various incentive-based writing environments, including consequences for not meeting goals. Example: Set a goal to write 500 words in 30 minutes, with the consequence of your text being deleted if you pause too long.

Written? Kitten!

A fun alternative to Write or Die, rewarding you with cute kitten pictures as you write. Example: Receive a new kitten picture for every 100 words written, motivating you to reach your word count goal.

Scrawl

A target-driven writing tool with visual word count and optional "Taskmaster" feature. Example: Set a daily goal of 2000 words and watch the progress bar fill as you write.

750 Words

An online platform that encourages daily writing by awarding points for reaching word count goals. Example: Build a writing streak by consistently writing 750 words each day for a month.

OmmWriter

A zen-like writing environment with customizable backgrounds and ambient sounds. Example: Write in a calm, distraction-free space with soothing background music and nature scenes.

Grammarly

An AI-powered writing assistant that helps improve grammar, spelling, and style as you write. Example: Catch and correct passive voice usage in your manuscript as you type.

Hemingway Editor

Highlights complex sentences and common errors to help you write more clearly and concisely. Example: Identify and simplify a long, convoluted paragraph in your essay for better readability.

Forest

A unique productivity app that gamifies focus time by growing virtual trees while you work. Example: Plant a tree for a 25-minute focused writing session, building a forest as you complete your novel.

Todoist

A powerful task management app to help you organize your writing projects and deadlines. Example: Create a project for your book with subtasks for each chapter, setting due dates to keep you on track.

FocusWriter

A distraction-free writing environment with customizable themes and goal-setting features. Example: Set a daily writing goal of 1000 words and track your progress with the built-in goal tracker.

Writing Apps

With these powerful tools at your disposal, you can transform your writing process and boost your productivity. Whether you need help staying focused, organizing your thoughts, or meeting your word count goals, there's an app or software solution to support your writing journey. Experiment with different options to find the perfect combination that works for you, and watch your writing flourish. Remember, the best tool is the one you'll actually use consistently, so choose the apps that resonate with your writing style and workflow.