6 Helpful Programs for Authors in 2021
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Here is a list of 6 programs that can be helpful for authors. They range from help with writing to layouts for ebooks and print books to storing files. I lay out the pros, cons, price, and basic elements for each program. There are plenty of other programs available that are not covered here, which doesn't mean they aren't valuable. I also don’t get any sort of commission or benefit for recommending these programs.
Microsoft Word
Best for: writing and editing, this is the industry standard.
Cons: layout or exporting for ebooks and print
Cost: $6.99/month or $69.99/year for Office 365 (includes other Office apps and updates to the newest version) or $139.99 for a Word license on 1 computer of the current version
Features: writing, editing, revision, basic layout
Works on: Windows, Mac
Alternative: google docs (though the track changes functionality isn't great)
Find it here: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/p/microsoft-365-personal/cfq7ttc0k5bf?activetab=pivot%3aoverviewtab
Hemingway
Best for: sentence-level editing, and is built for creative writing
Cons: does not look at content, and it is a replacement for an editor
Cost: Free!
Features: checks for passive voice, complex sentence structures, use of adverbs, text can be copied and pasted or written directly into textbox
Works on: web browsers
Find it here: https://hemingwayapp.com/
Scrivener
Best for: planning, writing, and layout
Cons: working with others (can't both work together within Scrivener)
Cost: $49 for Mac/Windows, $19 iOS app
Features: write directly into the program or copy and paste, editing, layout, tools for outlining story
Works on: Windows and Mac
Find it here: https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener/overview
ProWritingAid
Best for: checking grammar and self-editing, is less expensive than Grammarly and built for creative writing
Cons: not a replacement for an editor
Cost: $20/month, $63.20/year, $399/lifetime
Features: writing reports, spell check, suggestions for grammar and clarity, resources for writers
Works on: Windows, Mac, iOS, (is an app)
Find it here: https://prowritingaid.com/
Vellum
Best for: layout for ebooks and print books
Cons: must import a manuscript, limited to mac
Cost: $249.99 for ebooks and paperbacks or $199.99 for ebooks (there is not a limit on the number of books)
Features: templates, ebook, and print setup
Works on: Mac
Find it here: https://vellum.pub/
DropBox
Best for: backing up files securely, storing files, accessing files across devices, and sharing files
Cons: can be difficult to navigate the advanced features, editing files collaboratively is less efficient than google docs
Cost: $11.99/month or $119.88/year for individuals
Features: backs up files, share files, remote access, syncs automatically with your computer
Works on: Windows, Mac, iOS; desktop app, website, and mobile app
Alternative: Google Drive (Free)
Find it here: https://www.dropbox.com/