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For all the authors out there, what app or website do you use to write your books?

I haven't been able to find anything that was specifically tailored to book writing.

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jose’s Answer

Hi, Atlas! Any text software is usually reliable for writing. I use to use Microsoft Word, but then I got a MacBook Pro and just use their version of that, which is called Pages. My editors have never had an issue with my written documents. There are software options if you're interested in doing something more formal, such as screenplay writing or manuscripts for the stage, but since you asked specifically for books, which I'm assuming prose- any text software is good, as long as whoever receives it can open it in their computer. I hope this makes sense, and moreover, I hope you keep writing.
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Kari’s Answer

I write my books on Google Docs since it comes free with my email, though it doesn't provide ease of transfer directly for print and I have to download my work before I can ship it off to be printed in the form of a pdf. This means, of course, I need to be sure of format of the pages as well as be certain to correct any mistakes prior to this.

I would suggest, however, if you have a form of Microsoft Word that you use that. Its format is one that is easy to ship off to publishers without any other steps needed.
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Victoria’s Answer

Atlas - I have written all of my books/manuscript (5) in Word. I would not be concerned about formatting your book until its is actually written. There are many steps that you will need to go through before the manuscript turns into a book. Most editors, proof readers, etc prefer a simple clear format to make edits or changes. Once all of that is done, then you can focus on how the pages are formatted. I hope this helps you and removes any roadblocks that you may have been experiencing.
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Bellarae’s Answer

Hi Atlas! As a writer, I recommend using Google Docs because it automatically saves past versions of your work, which is a lifesaver if you accidentally delete something. Also, try out other sites like Campfire or Reedsy. Reedsy has many handy tools, so be sure to explore them!
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Gregory’s Answer

I use word. Computers don’t write good fiction. Authors do. Don’t worry about your computer program. Write your book and submit it for publication
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Dr’s Answer

Hey Atlas!

That is a Great question—finding the right writing software can make a huge difference in productivity, organization, and formatting. Here is some options which may help you, ofcourse, depending on your needs. 😎

The Best Free & Simple Options Are:

Google Docs – Great for cloud storage, easy collaboration, and autosave, but limited in novel structuring.
Microsoft Word – Classic choice, widely used by publishers, but lacks advanced book-writing tools.

These are Best for: General writing, drafting, and easy access across devices.

Then there is theNovel-Specific Writing Tools, even my sister tried them. They are not free though I belive.

Scrivener which is One of the best for novelists! Helps with structuring, organizing chapters, and tracking notes. Has a learning curve but worth it.
Dabble is A simpler Scrivener alternative with cloud syncing and easy plotting tools.
LivingWriter– Designed specifically for fiction writers, with built-in templates for outlining and character development.

These are actually Best for Authors writing novels, especially if you like outlining & organizing scenes.

Then I would suggest Self-Publishing & Formatting areas.

Reedsy Book Editor (Free) – A fantastic free alternative to Scrivener, designed for writers who plan to self-publish.
Atticus ($) – If you’re self-publishing, this is an all-in-one tool for writing, editing, and formatting eBooks for Kindle & print.

So, Authors who plan to self-publish on Amazon KDP or other platforms these are best to be used.

Distraction-Free Writing
FocusWriter (Free) – Minimalist, full-screen writing tool to block distractions.
Hemingway Editor (Free & $) – Helps improve readability by highlighting complex sentences and passive voice.

Writers who get distracted easily or want to polish their writing style. This can be the best ones... My sister used Focus Writer during family visits.
Hope this helps—happy writing, Atlas! All the best mate! 🤗

Dr recommends the following next steps:

Try Google Docs or Scrivener if you want basic writing vs. structured novel writing.
Test Reedsy or Atticus if you’re considering self-publishing.
Use Hemingway or Grammarly to refine your writing before submission.
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Caitlyn’s Answer

None. You use a word processing program like Word or Word Perfect. There is software for this but it's very expensive and extremely complicated. But since you're not publishing technical manuals like software or hardware manuals, you don't need it. If you're curious and want to review authoring software anyway, check out MadCap Flare or FrameMaker.
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Kari’s Answer

I've always just used Google Docs for my books. What tool you use for your writing doesn't really affect the writing itself, only the way in which you might ship it off to a publisher.
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Ira Preston’s Answer

Atlas,

I use Google Docs to write books. It offers a striped-down word processor that doesn't get in the way of my work. It's important to have tools that are basic and don't offer distractions. For example, Google Docs doesn't have useless bells and whistles. You want to concentrate on the words. My second suggestion would be to find a good note program for your phone -- something simple. I've head good things about Evernote. Use it to jot down ideas you get during the day. Keep your ears open for interesting things people say and write them down to use in your work. I sometimes write down single words that give me ideas. Good luck.
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Harold’s Answer

Focus on finding a writing tool that suits you. While Word is widely used, it struggles with long novels (over 100,000 words). If you're open to learning a bit about exporting your work and prefer an index card-like setup, consider using Scrivener, which is affordable and effective.

Ultimately, the story is what counts. Your goal is to efficiently format your work for submission to an editor. Once you master this, the process becomes repeatable.
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