Editing Programs, Extensions, Apps and Methods Writers Prefer

by Cris Yeager | DIGITAL MEDIA GHOST | WRITING

Editing programs, editing browser extensions and apps, built-in editing features in writing programs, beta readers and paid editors are all weapons of choice to a writer and each writer uses what works for them best.

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Every writer knows their work isn’t going to be polished to perfection as a first draft. It’s going to need some editing, not just simple proofreading like spellcheck and grammar fixing. Sentences need restructuring, paragraphs moved around and even entire passages deleted. It’s normal. But, what editing programs, extensions, apps and methods do writers utilize to finish up and make their writing pristine?

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There are a plethora of options floating around to choose from! A few are built right into the writing programs like Google Docs and Microsoft Word. Novelists often use these or more sophisticated purchased programs. Grammarly, ProWritingAid and Scrivener are a few examples of apps that also provide browser extensions to aid with writing. Most of the apps have a minimal version that proofreads, checks misspellings and simple grammar mistakes for free - paid versions are more extensive and edit with more depth. 

What writers prefer
We asked the Ghostwriting for Profit Facebook group “Do you rely on an editing program or extension to polish your writing?” in the form of a poll and then we requested members to reply in the comments with more in-depth answers. We got some great responses! 

As you can see, I chose Grammarly and Google Docs as MY preferred methods.

The writers have spoken
The poll results revealed that Grammarly is the #1 choice of writers. Of course, using a program as a pass-over of a first draft is a no-brainer as a writer. Writers that dive into more extensive pieces, (novels, etc.) use beta readers and pay editors to help shape up their projects. I was so excited to gather data, I forgot about that aspect! Thankfully, a member reminded me! I quickly added those options.

One or more methods
Using more than one program when editing provides multiple benefits due to the individual features they each offer. Perhaps one is used for spelling mistakes and simple grammar placement and another for the overall flow of the piece. Whatever the reason, it works and helps the writer complete their work.

Whether a writer is creating blog posts (like me!) or crafting entire novels, more than one method is key! It makes sense to me since I wouldn’t want to hammer some stuff out on my keyboard without editing the simple stuff, sending it to an editor and embarrassing myself! But, that’s just me. 

Wrapping up
Editing programs, editing browser extensions and apps, built-in editing features in writing programs, beta readers and paid editors are all weapons of choice to a writer and each writer uses what works for them best.

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