27 Best Apps for Writing a Book (From First Draft to Published)
So, you’ve got a story inside you.
Maybe it’s a novel, a memoir, or even that nonfiction book you’ve been thinking about for years—and you’re finally ready to write it down.
That’s exciting… and also a little overwhelming, right?
Writing a book is no small thing.
It takes focus, organization, and, let’s be real, the right tools to keep you moving from “idea” to “finished draft.”
The good news is, you don’t have to do it all with just a blank page and sheer willpower anymore.
Today, there are dozens of apps designed specifically to help authors brainstorm, draft, edit, and even publish their books.
Some are made for fiction writers, others for screenplays or nonfiction, and a few simply help you stay organized so you don’t lose track of your brilliant ideas.
In this guide, I’ve rounded up 27 of the very best apps for writing a book—from the first messy outline all the way to publishing.
1. Scrivener
If there’s one app writers swear by, it’s Scrivener.
Think of it as your all-in-one writing studio.
Instead of juggling separate documents, notes, and outlines, Scrivener lets you keep everything in one tidy place.
You can break your book into chapters and scenes, rearrange them with drag-and-drop, and even pin character notes or research right alongside your draft.
It’s especially loved by novelists and nonfiction authors who are working on big projects that need structure.
It does take a little time to learn, but once you get the hang of it, Scrivener feels like a toolbox built just for authors.
Available on Mac, Windows, and iOS.
Also Read: Best Planner Apps
2. Ulysses
Ulysses is all about simplicity and focus.
It’s a clean, distraction-free writing environment designed for Apple users.
Instead of overwhelming you with features, it keeps things minimal so you can just sit and write.
But don’t let that fool you—it’s still powerful.
You can organize your projects with folders, add notes, and export your work into polished formats (including ePub for self-publishing).
Writers love its seamless sync across Mac, iPad, and iPhone, which means you can pick up where you left off no matter which device you’re on.
If you like a calm, beautiful writing space that doesn’t get in your way, Ulysses might be your new best friend.
3. Novlr
Novlr was built by writers, for writers—and you can feel that when you use it.
It’s an online writing app that focuses on helping you stay consistent.
You’ll get writing stats, goal tracking, and even a “distraction-free” mode when you just need to focus on your words.
Since it’s cloud-based, your work saves automatically, and you can access it from anywhere (yes, even offline).
What makes Novlr stand out is its clean interface and smart tools like grammar checks, version control, and easy exports.
It’s a solid pick if you want something modern and simple without the steep learning curve of bigger apps like Scrivener.
Also Read: Best To-Do List Apps
4. LivingWriter
LivingWriter feels like Scrivener’s younger, easier-to-use cousin.
It’s a cloud-based app built with storytellers in mind—especially novelists.
What makes it shine is the way it helps with story structure.
You’ll find built-in templates for popular storytelling methods like the Hero’s Journey or the Three-Act Structure, so you’re never starting from scratch.
It also autosaves everything to the cloud and syncs across devices, which is great if you like switching between laptop and tablet.
The interface is clean and modern, and you can drag-and-drop chapters just like Scrivener.
If you’re a fiction writer who wants something powerful but less intimidating, LivingWriter is a fantastic choice.
5. yWriter
yWriter is a no-nonsense writing app created by an author who wanted something practical.
Instead of one giant document, yWriter breaks your book into scenes and chapters, making it easier to manage.
You can track word counts, character details, and plot points without needing fancy features.
It doesn’t look as polished as other tools, but it’s free to use and surprisingly effective for organizing big projects.
If you like things straightforward and don’t mind a more basic design, yWriter can help you stay organized without spending a dime.
It’s especially useful for writers who think in scenes rather than long, continuous drafts.
Also Read: Best AI Writing Apps for Content Creators
6. Storyist
If you’re an Apple user who loves the idea of Scrivener but wants something more streamlined, Storyist is worth checking out.
It’s a powerful writing and story development app available for Mac and iOS.
With Storyist, you can draft your manuscript, keep character and setting sheets handy, and even design storyboards with index cards.
It also supports exporting to standard publishing formats, so when you’re ready, you can move your manuscript straight into the publishing process.
Writers love how intuitive it feels while still offering the depth needed for serious projects.
If you’re writing on a Mac or iPad, Storyist is a great fit.
7. Dabble
Dabble calls itself the “easiest writing app” and honestly, it lives up to that.
It’s built for novelists who want simplicity without losing powerful features.
You can outline your story, rearrange chapters with a drag-and-drop plot grid, and sync your work across devices.
It even backs up everything automatically to the cloud, so you never have to worry about losing progress.
Another cool thing? Dabble has a focus mode that blocks out distractions and lets you just write.
If you’re serious about finishing your novel but don’t want complicated tools slowing you down, Dabble is a great pick.
8. Final Draft
If your dream is to write a screenplay instead of a traditional book, Final Draft is the gold standard.
Hollywood writers have been using it for decades because it formats scripts automatically, leaving you free to focus on dialogue and storytelling.
It includes collaboration tools, outlining features, and even speech-to-script so you can dictate scenes.
Final Draft isn’t cheap, but it’s packed with pro-level tools that make scriptwriting much easier.
Whether you’re aiming for Hollywood or just want to try your hand at screenwriting, this app is still the industry favorite.
9. Celtx
Celtx is another fantastic option for screenwriters, but it goes beyond just scripts.
It’s an all-in-one platform for pre-production, meaning you can plan, write, and even manage production elements from the same place.
The script editor itself is powerful, with auto-formatting and collaboration built in, making it easy to co-write with a partner.
Celtx is web-based, so you can work from anywhere, and it integrates nicely with other project tools.
If you’re not just writing but also planning to bring your script to life on screen, Celtx is a flexible and budget-friendly choice.
10. Google Docs
Google Docs is a classic for a reason. It’s free, simple, and works on any device with an internet connection.
The real magic is collaboration—if you’re co-authoring a book, working with an editor, or just want feedback, you can share your draft instantly and work together in real time.
It autosaves to the cloud, so you never have to worry about losing your progress, and with add-ons you can even extend its features.
While it doesn’t have advanced outlining tools like Scrivener, it’s one of the easiest ways to write and share a manuscript without any fuss.
11. Microsoft Word
Microsoft Word is basically the veteran of writing tools.
Almost every writer has used it at some point, and it still holds up today.
It’s reliable, works offline, and has all the formatting options you’ll ever need.
Plus, with OneDrive, you can save and sync across devices.
Many publishers and editors actually prefer Word files, which makes it especially handy if you’re planning to submit your book traditionally.
It may not be as modern-looking as some newer apps, but when it comes to drafting and formatting, Word remains a trusted choice for authors everywhere.
12. Evernote
Evernote is less about drafting your book and more about capturing all the pieces that go into it.
Think character ideas, snippets of dialogue, research articles, or even photos for inspiration—you can save everything here and organize it neatly with notebooks and tags.
The web clipper is great for grabbing online research, and since it syncs across devices, you always have your notes with you.
While it’s not a full manuscript editor, Evernote is an excellent companion app that keeps your creative chaos organized, so when it’s time to write, all your ideas are in one place.
13. Apple Notes
Apple Notes is one of the most underrated tools for writers.
If you’re in the Apple ecosystem, it’s already on your iPhone, iPad, and Mac—and it just works.
You can quickly jot down ideas, organize notes with folders and tags, and even add images or voice memos for inspiration.
Everything syncs seamlessly through iCloud, so your book ideas are always within reach.
It’s not built for full-length manuscripts, but as a lightweight place to brainstorm, draft scenes, or capture ideas on the go, Apple Notes is a gem that many writers overlook.
14. Notion
Notion is like a digital workspace that you can shape however you want.
Writers love it because you can build custom setups: chapter trackers, character databases, or even a full book planning dashboard.
It’s not just for writing—you can organize your entire project with timelines, notes, and checklists all in one place.
The collaborative features also make it great if you’re working with an editor or co-writer.
While it takes a little time to set up, once you build your system, Notion can become the command center for your entire writing life.
15. Obsidian
Obsidian is perfect if you’re the kind of writer who thinks in connections.
It’s a note-taking app that uses a “knowledge graph,” letting you link ideas, characters, and themes like a web.
This makes it especially powerful for world-building, nonfiction research, or complex storylines.
All your notes are stored as local Markdown files, so you fully own your work. Obsidian might feel technical at first, but once you get used to it, it’s incredibly flexible.
If you love exploring how ideas connect and want a tool that grows with your project, Obsidian is worth diving into.
16. OneNote
Microsoft OneNote is a fantastic option if you like keeping your book ideas organized in a digital notebook.
You can create different notebooks for characters, plot outlines, or research, and within each notebook, you can add pages and sections.
It feels very natural—like flipping through a binder, but digital.
OneNote also supports handwriting, images, and audio, which is perfect if you’re brainstorming on a tablet or want to record quick thoughts.
Since it syncs with your Microsoft account, everything is available across devices.
It’s flexible, easy to use, and works especially well if you’re already in the Microsoft ecosystem.
17. Grammarly
When it comes to polishing your writing, Grammarly is almost a must-have.
It goes way beyond just catching typos—it helps with grammar, style, tone, and even clarity.
The browser extension means you can use it while writing in Google Docs, Word, or other apps, and the desktop app works for longer drafts.
What’s really handy is that it explains corrections, so you actually learn while you edit.
The free version is solid, but the premium plan gives deeper feedback on readability and word choice.
If you want your manuscript to feel clean and professional, Grammarly is an excellent companion.
18. ProWritingAid
ProWritingAid is another editing powerhouse, but it digs even deeper than Grammarly.
It gives you detailed reports on your writing—things like sentence variety, overused words, pacing, and readability.
It’s like having an editor give you feedback while you write.
It also integrates with Scrivener, Word, and Google Docs, so you can use it wherever you’re drafting.
Some writers find it a bit overwhelming at first, but if you love data and want to really strengthen your craft, ProWritingAid can be a game changer.
It’s especially good for fiction writers who want help with flow and style.
19. Hemingway Editor
Hemingway Editor is all about making your writing bold and clear.
It highlights long, complicated sentences, passive voice, and unnecessary adverbs so you can simplify your text.
The interface is super minimal—you paste in your writing, and it gives you a readability score along with color-coded suggestions.
Many writers use it after finishing a draft to tighten things up. It’s not meant to replace an editor, but it’s a quick way to make your writing sharper and more reader-friendly.
If you tend to overwrite or want your prose to flow better, Hemingway is a fantastic tool.
20. QuillBot
QuillBot is known for its AI-powered paraphrasing tool, but it’s also handy for writers working on books.
Sometimes you need to rephrase a sentence, simplify your wording, or find a smoother way to express an idea—that’s where QuillBot shines.
It also includes a grammar checker, summarizer, and even a citation generator if you’re writing nonfiction.
The free version gives you basic paraphrasing, while the premium plan opens up more modes and options.
It’s not a drafting app on its own, but as a sidekick for rewriting and refining, QuillBot can be a real time-saver.
21. AutoCrit
AutoCrit is a unique editing tool built specifically for fiction writers.
It doesn’t just check grammar—it analyzes your writing style against bestselling books in your genre.
It highlights pacing, dialogue, word choice, and even repetition, so you can see exactly where your story slows down or feels clunky.
Many authors use it before submitting manuscripts or self-publishing to make sure their draft is polished.
The feedback can feel tough at times, but it pushes you to improve in ways that generic grammar checkers can’t.
If you’re serious about writing a novel, AutoCrit is like having a genre-savvy editor by your side.
22. Plottr
Plottr is like a visual planner for your book.
Instead of staring at a wall of text, you get a colorful timeline where you can map out your plot, characters, and settings.
It’s perfect if you like to “see” your story laid out before you write.
You can drag and drop scenes, create custom story templates, and even track subplots.
Many authors use it alongside Scrivener or Word—planning in Plottr and drafting elsewhere.
If you struggle with keeping your story organized or want a bird’s-eye view of your book, Plottr makes outlining fun and surprisingly easy.
23. Campfire
Campfire is a powerhouse for world-builders.
If you’re writing fantasy, sci-fi, or anything with complex characters and universes, this app is a gem.
It lets you build character sheets, track relationships, design maps, and organize timelines—all in one place.
It’s modular too, so you can add just the features you need.
While you can draft inside Campfire, most writers use it as a companion tool for organizing their story world.
If your book has a big cast or intricate lore, Campfire helps you keep everything consistent without drowning in sticky notes and spreadsheets.
24. MindMeister
Sometimes you need to brainstorm in a way that’s more free-flowing, and that’s where MindMeister comes in.
It’s a mind-mapping app that helps you capture ideas visually.
You can start with a single concept—like your book’s theme or main character—and branch out into plot points, conflicts, or subplots.
It’s especially useful in the early stages of writing when you’re still shaping your story.
MindMeister is cloud-based, so you can collaborate with others in real time if you want feedback.
If you’re a visual thinker who likes to see connections, this tool is a great way to untangle your ideas before drafting.
25. Milanote
Milanote is like a digital pinboard for writers who love to collect inspiration.
You can drag in images, notes, links, and even character sketches, then arrange them visually on boards.
It’s fantastic for mood-boarding your story world or keeping all your research in one creative space.
Many writers use it to build inspiration boards for characters, locations, or even book covers.
The drag-and-drop style feels very intuitive, almost like working on a physical corkboard, but with the flexibility of digital.
If you’re a highly visual author who wants to organize ideas in a creative way, Milanote is a perfect fit.
26. Trello
Trello is technically a project management app, but tons of authors use it to stay on top of their writing goals.
You can create boards for chapters, cards for scenes, and checklists for tasks like “edit draft” or “send to beta readers.”
The drag-and-drop kanban style makes progress tracking simple and motivating.
Since it works across devices, you can update your board anytime.
Trello is especially useful if you’re juggling multiple projects or working with an editor.
It’s not built for drafting, but as a tool to manage your writing process, it’s one of the best.
27. Reedsy Book Editor
Reedsy Book Editor is a free, web-based tool designed specifically for authors who are ready to draft and publish.
It combines distraction-free writing with professional-grade formatting.
You can write your entire manuscript here, then export it directly into industry-standard ePub or print-ready PDF files.
It also has collaboration features, so you can share with editors and proofreaders easily.
What makes it stand out is that it handles both writing and publishing needs in one clean package.
If you’re looking for a straightforward way to go from draft to polished book without spending money, Reedsy Book Editor is a must-try.
My Final Take
Writing a book is a marathon, not a sprint—and the right tools can make all the difference.
But here’s the thing: you don’t need all these apps to get your story out into the world.
What you really need is to find the ones that fit your style.
If you love structure, Scrivener or Plottr might be your best friends.
If you crave simplicity, Ulysses or Google Docs can take you far.
And when it’s time to polish, tools like Grammarly, ProWritingAid, or AutoCrit can help you sound like the pro you are.
At the end of the day, these apps are here to support you—but the words still have to come from you.
So pick one, start writing, and don’t overthink it.
Your book won’t write itself, but with the right app by your side, the journey will feel a whole lot smoother.
