The Best Writing Tools for Fiction Writers in 2024 (Reviewed!)
If you’re a fiction writer, you know that writing well is essential to your success. Good writing tools can make the process easier and more productive – which is why I’ve compiled a list of the best writing tools for fiction writers in 2024.
When I first started writing, my options were limited to basic word processing software, such as MS Word, or old-fashioned pen and paper. I love that as a novelist and screenwriter, I have so many programs to choose from, ranging from being oriented to specific functions, such as editing or grammar, to overall writing and all it entails.
Here’s a list of the best writing tools for fiction writers to help make your job easier. From outlining and plotting to drafting and editing, I’ve got you covered!
$19 to $59/month (or $10 to $44/month if you pay yearly)
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Has a forever-free plan with limited words (Paid plans start at $30/month, or just $10/month if you pay yearly)
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$49.99 one-time-cost for either macOS or Windows; $19.99 for iOS
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What is it?:
An AI writing software program made specifically for creative writers. Can help with brainstorming ideas, creating rich, descriptive phrases, and with outlining your story or novel.
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What is it?:
Helps you edit and rewrite your stories with different tones and styles. Also checks your grammar and spelling, and helps you find repeated words.
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What is it?:
An organizational tool and word processor created for writers. It helps you keep track of everything story-related, from characters to plot points to worldbuilding facts.
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I’ve tried all of these tools, and I’m confident that they will make your writing process smoother and more efficient so you can focus on what’s important – creating great fiction. Use these writing tools to take your writing skills to the next level!
Check out our list of the best writing tools for fiction writers and start using them to help you create your next novel, short story, audiobook, or screenplay today!
Neil Chase Film is supported by its readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for your support!
What are the Best Tools for Fiction Writers?
Best AI Story Generator Tools
1. Sudowrite
Sudowrite is my top choice for AI writing assistance for fiction writers. This was the first AI writing tool developed just for creative writers, and it's still the best in my opinion!
I love its creative features, such as the brainstorming tool (great for coming up with character and story ideas), the describe function (which lets you 'show, not tell' with descriptive language), and the Story Bible that helps you organize and outline your story.
Sudowrite is an AI creative writing assistant that makes the novel writing process easier and faster. It works for fiction and non-fiction, acting as a “sparring partner” to help edit stories, create scenes, generate plot ideas, and suggest story elements.
Plus, with its NLP and machine learning capabilities, it can understand what your story is about and offer advice like it was a co-writer. Use Sudowrite as a brainstorming tool when writing novels to produce a rough draft or develop character arcs – it even helps with writing poetry!
Sudowrite even has a Chrome extension that works in Google Docs, making it very easy to use in your existing online writing tools!
2. Jasper
As a writer, I’m always looking for new ways to develop story ideas and get over writer’s block. I’ve tried everything from traditional brainstorming techniques to creative methods like free writing and mind mapping. Recently, I came across a new tool that I think has the potential to help writers generate story ideas: Jasper.
Jasper is an artificial intelligence program that uses natural language processing to generate story ideas based on user input.
To use Jasper, you simply type in a few keywords related to the kind of story you’re looking to write. Then, Jasper will spit out a list of possible plot points and story elements that you can use to get your creative juices flowing. If you’re looking for a new way to generate story ideas, I highly recommend trying Jasper!
3. Rytr
Rytr is a writing tool that uses AI to help writers create stories. It offers a variety of features that make it easy to get your writing projects started, including a topic generator and an outline creator. Rytr also includes several resources writers can use to improve their craft, including a thesaurus and a style guide.
In addition, Rytr provides a great community of writers who can offer feedback and support. Overall, Rytr is an excellent option for writers looking for online AI writing tools to help them create better stories, especially if they are on a budget!
Best Book Writing Software Tools
1. Scrivener
For many new writers, starting a new project can be intimidating. Where do you start? What should your first steps be?
This is where Scrivener can be helpful. Scrivener is a powerful book-writing software tool that helps writers get their ideas down on paper (or screen, as the case may be). It provides a clear and concise structure for writers to work within while allowing them to move around and rearrange sections as needed. In addition, Scrivener includes a wealth of features specifically designed to make writing more manageable and efficient.
For example, it has a built-in research tool that allows writers to access and organize their notes and sources. It also has a distraction-free mode that allows writers to focus on their work without being interrupted by email notifications or social media alerts. In short, Scrivener is an essential writing tool for writers looking to take their writing habits to the next level.
2. Google Docs
If you’re like most writers, you’re always on the lookout for ways to improve your craft and be a good writer. And while there’s no one perfect way to write a book, there are certainly some writing tools that can make the process easier. One of those online writing tools is Google Docs.
Google Docs is a free online word processor that offers a variety of features that can be helpful for writers. For example, you can easily collaborate with fellow writers on a project, share your work with beta readers or editors, and even publish your work directly on the web.
In addition, Google Docs offers a handy outline tool to help you organize your thoughts and keep track of your progress. Best of all, since it’s an online tool, you can access Google Docs from anywhere in the world, which is perfect for when inspiration strikes while you’re on the go.
So if you’re looking for ways to streamline your writing, give Google Docs a try. It just might be the best book-writing software tool for you.
3. NovelPad
For any writer, having the best book-writing software is essential to getting the job done right. After all, the writing process is much more than just putting words on a page – it’s about crafting a story that captivates and engages readers.
And while several different software programs can help with this, NovelPad is one of the most popular and widely used. That’s because NovelPad offers many features that make it ideal for writers looking to create a novel-length work.
In addition to quickly creating and organizing your chapters, NovelPad also includes many built-in templates that can be used to flesh out your characters and plot.
Best of all, NovelPad is incredibly user-friendly, meaning you won’t spend hours figuring out how to use the program – you can just jump in and start writing. So if you’re looking for the best book-writing tool on the market, check out NovelPad.
Best Book Editing Software Tools
1. ProWritingAid
ProWritingAid is the best editing and grammar-checking software for creative writers!
It checks for all the usual grammar and spelling errors, and it can also help you re-write your text to adjust for tone of voice or style, and can look for overused words in your writing (and will suggest alternatives!).
It also gives you one AI critique of a chapter or text each day (Beta mode).
ProWritingAid is the best writing editor software available on the market.
With its advanced AI-driven capabilities, ProWritingAid can help you quickly and accurately identify errors, typos, and other common mistakes in your writing (such as the passive voice!). It’s incredibly user-friendly and even offers personalized advice for improving your work.
Plus, it includes many features such as style guides, grammar checkers, and automated synonym finders that ensure your writing is always professional and coherent.
2. Scrivener
As any writer knows, the editing process can be essential to the success of a book. But with so many different software tools available, it can be challenging to know which one to use. For many writers, Scrivener is the best book editing software tool available. Here’s why:
Scrivener is designed specifically for writers and all of their writing projects. It includes all the features you need to easily organize your ideas and manuscript and then export it into a readable format. Unlike some other tools, Scrivener makes it easy to keep track of your research and notes.
Scrivener is also very affordable, especially compared to other professional book editing software tools. And it’s available for both Mac and Windows computers.
If you’re looking for the best software-based writing tool for writers, check out Scrivener!
3. Hemingway App
For any writer, editing is a crucial step in the creative process. Not only does it help to improve the quality of your work, but it also allows you to catch errors and make changes before your work is published.
If you want to streamline your editing process, consider using Hemingway App or Hemingway Editor. This writing tool makes it easy to spot errors and make corrections with just a few clicks.
In addition, Hemingway Editor offers a variety of helpful features, such as a word counter, the ability to create word count goals and readability scores. Whether you are a new writer or a seasoned author, Hemingway Editor can help you produce your best work.
4. Atticus
For any writer, editing is essential to creating a polished final product. But with so many different book editing software tools on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you.
If you’re looking for a tool to streamline your editing process and help you create a more professional-looking book, Atticus is a great option. With its powerful search and replace features, Atticus makes it easy to find and correct errors in your text. And its built-in thesaurus ensures that your books always sound fresh and new.
Best of all, Atticus integrates seamlessly with Microsoft Word, making it easy to get started using the software right away. So if you’re looking for an editing tool that will save you time and help you create a more polished final product, Atticus is definitely worth checking out.
Best Grammar & Spell Check Tools
1. Grammarly
For writers, grammar is essential. It is the foundation of your work and can make or break a piece. There are many grammar checker tools, but Grammarly is one of the best. It is an AI-powered writing assistant that can help you with everything from catching typos to fixing complex grammatical errors and passive voice sentences.
Grammarly is available as a Chrome extension, desktop program, and mobile app, so you can use it wherever you write. And because it uses AI, this grammar checker gets smarter the more you use it. So whether you’re a seasoned author or just starting out, Grammarly is a great online writing tool to help you hit the ground running.
2. ProWritingAid
For any writer, grammar is an essential tool. After all, it is the foundation of communication. The message is lost if a reader can’t understand what a writer is trying to say.
That’s why ProWritingAid is such an invaluable tool for writers. Not only does it help to identify and correct grammar and spelling mistakes and passive voice sentences, but it also provides detailed explanations of why specific errors are made. As a result, writers can learn from their mistakes and become better communicators.
In addition, ProWritingAid offers a wide range of features that can help to improve writing style, including a thesaurus, dictionary, and style guide. Whether you’re a seasoned author or a new writer, ProWritingAid is the perfect writing tool for helping you hone your craft.
3. Readable
When improving your writing, few things are more effective than using the best grammar tools available. Readable is one such tool. It’s a site that provides instant feedback on your writing, including grammar, readability, and even style.
Simply paste your text into the site and hit the analyze button. You’ll have a report detailing where your writing can be improved in just a few seconds. Readable is an invaluable resource if you’re looking to tighten up your prose or eliminate errors. So why not give it a try today? You may be surprised at how much it can help improve your sentence structure and writing.
Best Screenwriting Software Tools
1. Celtx
Celtx is one of the best screenwriting software tools for screenwriters. It offers many features to help you plan, write, and format your screenplay, script synopsis, and script treatment.
With Celtx, you can create characters, locations, and scenes. You can also track changes to your script, so you can always go back and make revisions. Celtx also allows you to share your screenplay with others and collaborate on projects. Whether you’re a novice screenwriter or a seasoned pro, Celtx is a great writing tool in your arsenal.
2. StudioBinder
There are a lot of different screenwriting software tools out there, and it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. If you’re looking for a powerful and versatile tool that can help you with everything from brainstorming to outputting final drafts, then StudioBinder is an excellent option to consider.
This software is designed to help screenwriters at all experience levels, from beginners to professionals. It offers many features, including storyboarding, scriptwriting, and collaboration tools.
One thing that sets StudioBinder apart from other screenwriting software is its focus on visual storytelling. It’s easy to drag and drop images into your script, and you can even add video clips if you want. This can be a great way to bring your script to life and give yourself a better sense of what the finished product will look like.
Whether you’re just starting out or an experienced screenwriter looking for a new tool to try, StudioBinder is worth checking out.
3. Final Draft
If you’re serious about screenwriting, you need the right tools to help you get the job done. And when it comes to screenwriting software, there’s no doubt that Final Draft is the industry standard. Used by Hollywood professionals and aspiring writers alike, Final Draft is packed with features to make your writing process more manageable.
From its intuitive interface to its powerful outlining and collaboration tools, Final Draft is the perfect tool for any screenwriter. Best of all, it’s available on both Mac and PC, so you can use it regardless of your platform of choice. So if you’re looking for the best screenwriting software around, be sure to give Final Draft a try.
Best Productivity Tools for Writers
1. Freedom
Freedom app is one of the best productivity tools for writers because it allows you to block distractions and focus on your novel, short story, or blog posts! With Freedom, you can block specific websites and apps, set timers, and even schedule work sessions in advance. This means that you can create a distraction-free environment to get your best work done.
In addition, Freedom offers a variety of features that help you stay on-task, such as the ability to export your work to different formats, assign tasks, and track your progress over time. As a result, Freedom is the perfect tool for writers who want to increase their productivity and get more done. And if you are wondering, “what does Freedom cost?” the answer is less than $2.50 per month if you pay yearly!
2. Ommwriter
Any writer will tell you that the most challenging part of the job is simply sitting down and getting started. Once the words start flowing, the rest is easy. But getting over that initial hump can be daunting.
That’s where Ommwriter comes in. This program is designed to help you create a distraction-free writing environment, so you can focus on the task at hand. By dimming the lights and playing calming music, Ommwriter creates an atmosphere conducive to creative thinking. It also features several helpful tools, such as a word counter and a goal-setting tool.
Whether you’re struggling to start your latest novel or just looking for a way to increase your productivity, Ommwriter is well worth checking out!
3. Marinara Timer
For any writer, time management is key to being productive. After all, there are only so many hours in the day, and if you want to get a lot of writing done, you need to use your time wisely!
That’s where the Marinara Timer comes in. This simple tool can help you break down your writing goals into manageable chunks of time, and it can also help you stay on track by ringing a bell at the end of each timed session. It uses the Pomodoro technique, where a 5-minute break follows a standard period of time (25 minutes). After every fourth Pomodoro session, you’ll get a 15-minute break.
Whether you’re working on a novel, an article, or a blog post, the Marinara Timer can help you make the most of your writing time. So if you’re looking for a way to boost your productivity, be sure to give the Pomodoro technique and this writing tool a try.
Best Organizational Tools for Writers
1. Evernote
Like most writers, you probably have a love-hate relationship with organization and order. On the one hand, it’s essential for keeping your ideas straight and preventing your work from devolving into chaos. On the other hand, it can be a drag to keep track of everything in a rigid, step-by-step fashion. Enter Evernote, the best organizational tool for writers I’ve ever seen.
Evernote is an electronic notebook that you can use to store all your ideas, research, and notes in one place. But what makes it powerful is its flexibility. You can create simple text notes or complex multimedia notes with images, web links, and file attachments. You can also tag and search your notes so you can always find what you’re looking for.
Best of all, Evernote syncs across your devices, so you can access your notes anywhere, anytime. If you’re looking for an easy way to boost your productivity and get your work organized, Evernote is the perfect solution.
2. To Doist
Great organizational tools for writers are vital to being productive and efficient. Many options are available, but one of the best is To Doist. This app allows users to create customized to-do lists and set reminders for tasks that must be completed. It also makes it easy to assign tasks, track progress and see where time is being spent.
In addition, To Doist integrates with other productivity apps such as Evernote and Slack, making it a powerful tool for every writer who wants to be organized and efficient. It also has a fantastic free version, which is likely all that most writers will need.
To Doist is an excellent option for writers seeking an easy-to-use free productivity app to help them get more done.
3. Marlowe Pro
Marlowe Pro is one of the best organizational tools for writers. It keeps track of your ideas, notes, and characters so you can focus on writing your story. It has a sleek interface that is easy to use and will even compare your book-in-progress to already-published works!
Marlowe Pro also helps you stay organized by allowing you to tag and filter your ideas, notes, and characters. This way, you can quickly find what you need when needed. And if you ever get stuck, Marlowe Pro’s built-in writing coach can offer suggestions and advice.
Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, Marlowe Pro is the best tool for keeping your writing projects organized and on track.
Best Laptops for Writers
1. Apple Macbook Air
- Fantastic battery life
- Comes safely packaged
- The keyboard is backlit
- Speaker sound is high-quality
- Great Apple quality and features
- Expensive (buy the 2020 version for a great deal!)
2. Asus VivoBook Go15
- Very affordable for all of its features
- The keyboard is backlit (great for writers!)
- Windows-based (not a Chromebook)
- Very light and portable
- The camera is pretty good for the cost
- Doesn't have much RAM as other laptops - may need to add more
- Battery life could be better
3. Acer Chromebook Spin 311
- It's a great lightweight Chromebook!
- Can stand upright and be a screen, or be a laptop
- Good battery life
- Has a touchscreen
- The keyboard is backlit
- Only 4 GB of RAM memory
Best Keyboards for Writers
1. 7KEYS Retro Typewriter Keyboard
- Has custom-colored backlit letters!
- Retro typewriter style
- 'Clicky' blue-switch mechanical keys
- Wireless connection to most devices
- Has hidden volume knob on the side
- Needs wired connection to a desktop PC
- 'Clicky' sounds can be loud in meetings!
2. Logitech MX Keys Advanced Wireless Illuminated Keyboard
3. Logitech K380 Pebble Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard
- Super budget-friendly!
- Many different color choices
- Has a long-lasting battery
- Light and easily portable
- Connects to multiple devices using Bluetooth
- Keyboard is not backlit
- Buttons are not as strong as more expensive ones
Best Digital Pens and Notebooks
1. Livescribe Symphony Smartpen Digital Pen
For the technologically-advanced writer, consider the Livescribe Symphony Smartpen Digital Pen. This The Livescribe Symphony Smartpen is the perfect gift for writers who want to take their notes to the next level. This digital pen captures both audio and written notes, allowing writers to easily review their ideas later. The built-in microphone ensures that all recordings are clear, and the smartpen can even transcribe recordings into text.
In addition, the Livescribe Symphony Smartpen comes with a free app that makes it easy to share notes and recordings with others. With its mix of features, the Livescribe Symphony Smartpen is an ideal gift for writers who want to improve their note-taking abilities.
The Livescribe Symphony Smartpen Digital Pen is one of the best digital pens for writers. It captures your handwritten notes and drawings in digital format, so you can access them anytime, anywhere. The pen also records audio, so you can capture lectures, meetings, or even to-do lists along with your notes! And if you ever need to review something, simply tap on your notes, and the recording will play back.
The Livescribe Symphony Smartpen is a great writing tool for those who want to capture their ideas in digital format and have them available on any device at any time!
2. Rocketbook Notebooks
Rocketbook notebooks are the perfect gift for any writer. They are reusable, so you can write in ink on the unique pages and then send your work to Dropbox, Google Drive, or another file-sharing service. Wipe the pages clean with the included cloth when you're finished.
Rocketbook writing books are available in various sizes and styles so that you can find the perfect one for your needs. And best of all, they're affordable, so you can give them as gifts without breaking the bank. So if you're looking for a unique and practical gift for a writer, look no further than Rocketbook notebooks!
This innovative product allows you to quickly and easily transfer your notes and ideas from paper to digital format, making it the perfect tool for writers who want to go paperless. The Rocketbook app makes organizing and searching your notes easy, and you can even share them with others via email or social media.
Best of all, the Rocketbook is reusable, so you’ll never need to buy another notebook again. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just getting started, the Rocketbook is a great idea for anyone who wants to take their writing to the next level.
3. Rocketbook Panda Planner
If you’re a writer, you know that staying organized is key to productivity. But with so many different things to keep track of – story ideas, deadlines, meetings with editors – it can be tough to stay on top of it all. That’s where a digital planner comes in.
The Rocketbook Panda Planner is one of the best digital planners for writers out there. It helps you keep track of your ideas, deadlines, and meetings all in one place. And because it’s digital, you can access it from anywhere – your laptop, your tablet, or your phone. Plus, it’s easy to use and comes with a helpful app that makes staying organized a breeze.
So if you’re looking for a digital planner to help you stay on top of your writing projects, the Rocketbook Panda Planner is the way to go.
Best Gifts for Writers
1. Blue Light Blocking Glasses
If you're a writer, blue light-blocking glasses are a must-have accessory. Whether you're working on a screenplay or novel, blue light from your computer screen can cause eye strain and headaches.
But, blue light blocking glasses can help to reduce these symptoms. By filtering out blue light, they allow your eyes to rest and recover. And thanks to the increased comfort, you'll be able to work for longer periods of time without feeling the effects of eye strain.
As any writer knows, the creative process can be a delicate one. Ideas come and go, and it can be easy to get lost in the midst of a project. But there are ways to make the writing process a little easier – and one of the best gifts you can give a writer is a pair of blue-light-blocking glasses.
Blue light has been shown to interfere with sleep, making it hard to focus during the day. The blue-light-blocking glasses help reduce eye strain and fatigue, making staying focused on the task easier. And for writers who work on computers, the blue light blocking glasses can also help to prevent headaches and migraines.
2. Lap Desk for Writers
A lap desk is essential for anyone who likes to write on the go. And this lap desk is just perfect for creative writers. It's ultra-lightweight and portable, so it's easy to take with you wherever you go. But it's also sturdy and well-made, with a comfortable wrist rest and enough room to accommodate laptops up to 15.6 inches. It has a handy storage pocket for pens, paper, or other small items.
So if you're looking for the perfect lap desk or laptop stand for writers, this is it!
A lap desk is a perfect gift for the writer on the go. This great writing tool allows you to work on your laptop while seated in any comfortable position. Whether you’re curled up on the couch or stretched out in a recliner, a lap desk provides a stable surface for your computer. And with its built-in mouse pad and storage compartment, it’s sure to become your new favorite writing companion.
3. The Writing Manifesto Framed Print
For the writer in your life, one of the better gifts you can give is a framed print of The Writing Manifesto. This powerful statement of purpose and passion for writing will inspire and motivate them to pursue their writing goals.
The strong imagery and bold statements in the manifesto will also make an excellent addition to their writing space, reminding them constantly of why they love writing.
The writing manifesto is a simple but powerful statement of belief for all writers. It’s a reminder that we are all connected by the act of writing and that our words have the power to change the world.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, having the proper writing tools can make your writing process easier and more productive.
In this article, we’ve shared some of our favorite writing tools and editing tools for new writers and fiction authors. These writing tools will help you stay organized, productive, and creative as you write your next masterpiece. We hope you find them helpful in your own writing journey!
Looking for more tools for writers? Check out these other helpful articles!
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Just visiting from Writers Helping Writers – have you looked into One Stop for Writers? https://onestopforwriters.com/