5 Writing Apps That Are Worth The Cost

These are some of the best subscription and full-purchase writing aids online.

Many writing software programs are moving to paid or subscription plans. However, not all of them offer enough features to justify their sticker price. The following five writing aids are the exception. Any one of the programs below is worth checking out and should have plenty to offer writers at any price point.

5. Pluot

Create characters, locations, and scenes from your Android phone or Chromebook. If you see something in your environment that inspires you, snap a picture or jot down some notes on a device you already keep with you all the time. Pluot isn’t just for quick inspiration, though. You can do some heavy planning and outlining in the app. It’s perfect for writing while on public transportation, in meetings, or waiting in grocery lines.  

Free version available. Subscriptions range from $2.99/mo. to  $29.99/yr.

Pros: It is as fast as a notebook when you want to capture ideas on the go.

Cons: Only available for Android and Chromebooks.

4. World Anvil

Initially designed for fantasy role-play gamers, World Anvil is a browser-based application that creates maps and terrains for fictional settings. With its paid subscription service, you can create entire continents, cultures, ecosystems, and more. I have used World Anvil for many stories based in the real world, so it’s not just for fantasy writers and enthusiasts.

Free account available. Subscriptions range from $76/yr. to $350/yr.

Pros: Immersive, fun, high-level of detail. It comes with a manuscript editor so that you can keep your story with your maps.

Cons: Expensive.  

3. Scapple

While its big brother Scrivener gets all the attention, few people notice that the folks at Literature & Latte also make another program worth adding to your desktop computer. Scapple is a flowchart and outlining program that uses basic shapes and connecting lines to help you brainstorm and organize ideas. Export your drawing to Scrivener, which will automatically modify your binder to incorporate your flowchart.

Free trial, educational discount for teachers and students, $20.99 one-time fee.

Pros: Relatively inexpensive, simple to use.

Cons: It does not always export to Scrivener the way I expect.

2. Freedom

Have you ever wanted to eliminate all distractions on your computer so that you could focus on typing? Freedom lets you restrict app and internet usage so that you can focus on your writing. You can set it for any duration or schedule it to automatically turn on during your writing hours.

Subscription plans and full-purchase options are available. They range from $3.33/mo. to $199 for a forever license.

Pros: Works as advertised. There is a phone app available, too.

Cons: Although I use Freedom and I like how it works, I could just as easily disconnect my internet for free by doing it manually.

1. Plottr

Do you want the organizing power of Scrivener without having to say goodbye to Word? Plottr may be the best middle ground for users who straddle the Scrivener/Word fence. It comes pre-loaded with a lot of templates to help you get started. They included the plot-point, snowflake, and three-act outlines. However, there are also outlines for poets as well.

Several purchasing options are available. On the low end, you could pay $15/mo. However, $199 will get you the full program, a lifetime subscription, and access to all future updates.

Pros: The templates are great. The drag-and-drop scene cards are easy to move around to make quick changes to your plot. There is a phone app that can hold all of your story notes. Great customer service.  

Cons: The full-time subscription is a bit pricey. However, it has been worth it for me.