Writing a book or novel can be daunting, but the right software can make the process smoother. This article explores 16 of the best desktop writing apps (Mac/Windows) designed to help you craft your story. Whether you're looking for distraction-free writing environments like Campfire, AI-powered assistance like Smart Writer, or a platform with comprehensive features like Inkspired, there's an app here to suit your needs and writing style. We've included everything from powerful word processors to specialized tools for outlining, editing, and even publishing.
Top app for writing a book
1. Campfire
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Forget about clunky word processors and scattered notes! Campfire is a mobile writing app that's designed for storytellers, worldbuilders, and anyone who wants to get their creative juices flowing. It's way better than other apps because it makes writing and worldbuilding super easy with its interconnected tools and modules. I picked it because it helps me stay organized with over 12 different modules to keep all my ideas and notes together. Since I started using it, my writing has improved and I can now create a complex world without getting lost!
Key Features:
- Organize characters, locations, and items
- Create story outlines and timelines
- Collaborate with other writers in real-time
✨ Read more: app for learning to write letters
2. Smart Writer
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Smart Writer is more than just a writing app - it's your personal AI writing assistant. It's packed with features that go beyond spell-check and grammar correction, like helping you structure your writing, crafting catchy headlines, and even generating ideas. Unlike other apps that just point out mistakes, Smart Writer actively suggests improvements, making your writing stronger and more engaging. With over 90% user satisfaction and a 4.7-star rating on the App Store, Smart Writer has proven its worth as the ultimate tool for anyone who wants to write better, faster.
Key Features:
- AI-powered grammar and spell check
- Generates creative and engaging content
- Improves writing clarity and conciseness
✨ Read more: app for essay
3. Inkspired
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Inkspired is the writing app that lets you unleash your inner author, no matter your skill level. Forget about clunky word processors or confusing formatting - Inkspired is designed specifically for stories, with features that help you craft engaging narratives. Unlike other apps, Inkspired boasts a massive community of readers and writers, providing valuable feedback and support as you hone your craft. With over 500,000 stories already published, Inkspired is a vibrant hub for creativity, making it the perfect platform for your next literary adventure.
Key Features:
- Create and publish stories for free
- Collaborate with other writers in a community
- Edit, format, and track your writing progress
✨ Read more: app for book lovers
4. Pure Writer
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Cost: Free Plan (Free), Premium Plan ($1.99/month)
Pure Writer is the writing app I swear by for my phone. Forget clunky apps that lag and crash - this one is lightning fast, which is a lifesaver when inspiration strikes. It's all about the words, with zero distractions and a smooth markdown interface. I've tried countless other apps, but Pure Writer consistently wins out for its speed, reliability, and ease of use. It has over 1.7 million downloads and counting, proving that it's the best choice for writers who want to focus on what truly matters: getting their ideas down on paper.
Key Features:
- Super-fast plain text editor
- History record & automatic backup
- Supports Markdown and code highlighting
✨ Read more: app to read
5. LivingWriter
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LivingWriter is a writing app that makes it easy to write on your phone or tablet. It’s way better than other writing apps because it’s specifically designed for writers, not just for taking notes. LivingWriter has tons of awesome features, like outlining tools to keep your story organized, and it lets you write in different formats, like blog posts and poems. Plus, you can access your work from anywhere, so you can keep writing no matter where you are. It’s really popular with writers of all levels, and they say it helps them be more productive and write better.
Key Features:
- Offline writing with cloud sync
- Organize your writing with projects
- Track progress with word count & timer
Other writing app
- Stary Writing
- Wattpad
- Fortelling
- Pluot | story writing planner
- MyStory.today
- JotterPad
- Lite Writer
- Story Plotter
- Novelist
- Writer Journal
- Inkitt
The most important factors when choosing a writing app
- Distraction-free writing environment: This is crucial to focus and maintain flow.
- Organization and outlining tools: A good app will help you structure your story and keep track of your ideas.
- Editing and revision features: You need tools to refine your writing and ensure clarity and consistency.
- Export and publishing options: Your app should allow you to easily share your work in various formats, including ebooks and print-ready files.