Beginner writers can benefit from various software tools to enhance their writing process, improve productivity, and organise their work. Aside from pen and paper, here’s a list of software that you may find useful:
Writing and Editing Software
Microsoft Word or Google Docs:
Standard word processing tools for writing and basic document formatting.
Scrivener
A powerful writing tool that helps with organising and structuring long documents, such as novels or screenplays.
Ulysses
A minimalist and distraction-free writing app for Mac and iOS devices, suitable for various writing projects.
Planning and Organisation
As a beginner writer tackling a new writing project you might find the below software for world building, character development and general planning and organisation of your novel useful:
Campfire Pro
Software for novelists that assists in world-building, character development and plotting.
Trello
A project management tool that uses boards and cards to help writers organise and visualise their writing process. Helpful for visualising plot elements.
Notion
Note-taking application, similar to OneNote. Create tables, checklists, toggle lists, databases, kanban boards and more. Get your free wide reading list Notion template and keep track of your reading goals.
Obsidian
Similar to Notion and OneNote. To see some of Obsidian’s features, check out this video by LegendFiction.
Evernote
A versatile note-taking app for capturing ideas, research and organising thoughts across devices.
OneNote
Microsoft’s note-taking app, useful for organising research, character profiles, and plot outlines.
Screenwriting Software
Beginner writers might find the below screenwriting software helpful:
Final Draft
Industry-standard software for screenwriting, providing specialized tools for formatting scripts.
Celtx
A comprehensive tool for scriptwriting, including features for collaboration and pre-production planning.
Looking for world building software?
Check out our blog post here for map-making tools and recommendations.