Scrivener
Long-form writing software built around a binder, corkboard, outliner, and research folders. Steep learning curve, but still the default for complex novels and research-heavy non-fiction. Files live on your own computer,…
Visual outlining and series-bible software: drag-and-drop scene cards, timelines, structure templates, and character and place notes. Plottr is for planning rather than drafting, and most authors pair it with Scrivener, Word, or another editor. It advertises no AI features. The desktop app keeps files on your device, while Pro adds a browser app and cloud sync. Standard licences keep working after expiry (without updates), but Pro projects need an active plan.
Paid — Desktop Plottr US$60/year or US$150 lifetime; Plottr Pro (web app, cloud sync, real-time collaboration) US$9.99/month, US$99/year or US$599 lifetime; Pro + Community from US$14.99/month. 30-day free trial; no refunds after purchase.. Always confirm on the vendor site before buying; plans change.
UK, Global
Affiliate status: affiliate pending — we only add tracked links after joining a free programme.
Long-form writing software built around a binder, corkboard, outliner, and research folders. Steep learning curve, but still the default for complex novels and research-heavy non-fiction. Files live on your own computer,…
Cross-platform writing-plus-formatting app (browser/PWA) aimed at indie authors who want Vellum-like output without needing a Mac. Strong for fiction interiors and print/ebook export; writing features are lighter than Sc…
Free browser writing and formatting tool (formerly Reedsy Book Editor) with EPUB and print-ready PDF export, collaboration, and clean themes. Less customisation than Atticus or Vellum, but an excellent zero-cost starting…
Cloud novel-writing app with a Plot Grid, story notebook, word-count goals, and real-time co-authoring. Simpler to learn than Scrivener and works on desktop, browser, iOS, and Android with automatic sync. It has position…