Many writers believe they need expensive software before they can start writing professionally. That is not true. Today, there are dozens of free tools that can help writers draft books, edit manuscripts, design covers, research topics, and even promote their work online.
This guide lists 30 free tools Nigerian writers can use right now. Every tool listed here has a free version that writers can start with immediately.
If you are building your writing journey, you can also write regularly on WritertainCreatives.ink. Writers who publish consistently there earn WoCrens which can later be used for services like book cover design, editing, or publishing support within the Writertain ecosystem.
Writing and Drafting Tools
1. Google Docs
Google Docs is one of the most popular writing tools in the world. It allows writers to create documents online, collaborate with editors, and automatically save their work in the cloud.
Why writers use it:
- Autosaves every few seconds
- Works on phone and laptop
- Easy collaboration with editors
Access it here:
https://docs.google.com
Google Docs is completely free for anyone with a Google account. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
2. LibreOffice Writer
LibreOffice Writer is a powerful free alternative to Microsoft Word. It works offline and supports .docx and other major document formats.
Best for:
- Writers who prefer working offline
- Book manuscript writing
- Formatting long documents
Download:
https://www.libreoffice.org/download/download/
LibreOffice is an open-source office suite that includes a full word processor and several productivity tools. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
3. FocusWriter
FocusWriter is a distraction-free writing app designed for deep writing sessions.
Features:
- Full screen writing mode
- Daily word count goals
- Session timers
Download:
https://gottcode.org/focuswriter/
FocusWriter helps writers block distractions and focus completely on writing. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
4. Reedsy Book Editor
The Reedsy Book Editor is a free online tool designed specifically for authors writing novels or nonfiction books.
Features:
- Professional book formatting
- Export to EPUB or PDF
- Clean writing interface
Use it here:
https://reedsy.com/write-a-book
5. Notion
Notion is an all-in-one workspace where writers can store ideas, outlines, research, and writing projects.
Best for:
- Organizing novel plots
- Content calendars
- Story planning
Access:
https://www.notion.so
Notion allows writers to manage notes, writing boards, and project workflows in one place. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Editing and Grammar Tools
6. Grammarly (Free Version)
Grammarly is a writing assistant that checks grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Free features:
- Grammar corrections
- Spelling suggestions
- Basic writing clarity feedback
Use here:
https://www.grammarly.com
Grammarly helps writers detect grammar errors and improve writing clarity. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
7. Hemingway Editor
Hemingway Editor helps writers simplify sentences and improve readability.
Highlights:
- Complex sentences
- Passive voice
- Adverbs
Use online:
https://hemingwayapp.com
It highlights sentences that are difficult to read and encourages simpler writing. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
8. LanguageTool
LanguageTool is a free open-source grammar and spell checker used by writers worldwide.
Features:
- Grammar correction
- Spell checking
- Style suggestions
Access:
https://languagetool.org
LanguageTool is a free and open-source grammar checking tool used across many writing platforms. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
9. Microsoft Editor (Free Browser Extension)
Microsoft Editor is a grammar and spelling assistant available as a free browser extension.
Install:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/microsoft-editor
The tool provides spelling and grammar suggestions in more than 100 languages. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Research Tools for Writers
10. Google Scholar
Used for academic research and credible sources.
11. Google Trends
Shows trending topics people are searching online.
12. AnswerThePublic
Generates topic ideas based on what people search for online.
These tools help writers discover topics and keywords audiences are interested in. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Productivity Tools
13. Trello
A visual task manager used to track writing projects.
14. Evernote
A note-taking tool for storing ideas, drafts, and research.
15. Google Keep
Simple note-taking tool for capturing quick ideas.
Design Tools for Writers
16. Canva
Canva allows writers to design book covers, blog graphics, and social media posts.
Canva allows users to create graphics using templates even without design experience. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
17. Unsplash
Free high-quality images writers can use in blog posts.
18. Pexels
Another free stock image library.
Platforms Where Writers Can Publish
19. Medium
20. Substack
21. Wattpad
Community and Growth Tools
22. WritertainCreatives
Writertain allows Nigerian writers to publish articles and stories while building a portfolio.
Active writers earn WoCrens which can later be exchanged for services such as:
- Book cover design
- Editing services
- Publishing support
23. Reddit Writing Communities
Communities like r/writers allow writers to share tips, tools, and feedback.
“Google docs. That’s all.” — writer on Reddit discussing free writing tools
:contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
More Useful Free Tools
24. WordCounter
25. Thesaurus
26. QuillBot (Free Mode)
27. Otter.ai (Free Transcription)
28. Feedly
29. Buffer (Free Plan)
30. Yoast SEO (Free Plugin)
Final Thoughts
You do not need expensive tools to become a serious writer. Many professional writers use simple tools like Google Docs, Grammarly, and Trello to produce books, blog posts, and scripts.
The most important thing is consistency. Write often. Publish regularly. Join writing communities.
If you want to start building your writing portfolio immediately, publish your work on WritertainCreatives.ink and begin earning WoCrens as you grow.
