6 Best Free Novel Writing Software in 2024

If you are interested in literature, namely its creative part, you probably want to have the best free novel writing software. Such a program allows you to monitor your progress, define goals, and most importantly, keep all your notes well-organized in one place. No need to constantly juggle with piles of papers and search for lost pieces.

Top 6 Free Novel Writing Software

  1. FocusWriter - With auto-save function
  2. yWriter6 - Drag and drop of chapters
  3. WriteMonkey - Distraction-free interface
  4. Bibisco - Analyze chapters' length
  5. LibreOffice Writer - Excellent format compatibility
  6. Papyrus Author - Sticky Notes feature

Knowing how difficult it can be to find perfect software, we decided to conduct our unbiased survey and managed to compile a list of 6 worthiest options. All programs described here let you stay organized and inspired to keep writing until you finish a novel.

1. FocusWriter - Our Choice

With auto-save function
  • All desktop operating systems
  • Typewriter mode
  • Attractive interface
  • Timers and alarms
  • No syntax highlighting

Verdict: A lot of people use Focus Writer to get their stories written down, and if you're one of them who's trying to figure out how to become a writer, then you should really give this program a try.

Focus Writer does everything that you would ever expect out of a good writing application - including the aforementioned auto-save feature, but also allows you to export your work to PDF and other file formats, so you can share it with your friends and loved ones.

focuswriter  interface

2. yWriter6

Drag and drop of chapters
  • Multiple characters per scene
  • Built-in scene chart
  • Back up to Google Drive
  • Storyboard view
  • Interface is outdated

Verdict: If you are looking for the best free novel writing software then check out yWriter6. This software is the latest and best in its class, giving you everything that you need to write a great book fast and easy.

If you're a newbie to writing, I recommend that you start with the yWriter6. It provides you with step by step instructions on how to use the software, in addition to other helpful tools and resources.

ywriter6 interface

3. WriteMonkey

Distraction-free interface
  • Supports markup
  • Handy keyboard shortcuts
  • Totally free
  • Only works with TXT files

Verdict: If you are a new writer and are trying to figure out what software to use in order to create your first book, you may be wondering what is WriteMonkey? This program allows you to easily create quality novels without the worry of being charged for every scene or every page that you write.

WriteMonkey has auto-save features unlike free typing software that will allow you to save each scene and then finish up the novel without worrying about losing work or re-writing. The best part about using this program is that it is completely free and with features that rival the top writers are using.

writemonkey free novel writing software interface

4. Bibisco

Analyze chapters' length
  • Creates locations
  • Creates detailed character biographies
  • Detailed character interview
  • Ability to add extensive details
  • Writing interface is strange

Verdict: Bibisco is one of the best-selling free screenwriting software on the market today. And that's not just because you can write a best-seller with it help. It's because of the features including the story line options, the characters designing and the timeline checking of each scene to craft award-winning ebook.

bibisco free novel writing software interface

5. LibreOffice Writer

Excellent format compatibility
  • Exports individual notes
  • Attaches audio to a note
  • Clean interface
  • No mobile format

Verdict: The first time I ever used LibreOffice Writer, I did not know what to expect from the software. This is a good thing, because before using this software, I had never even written a word before. What was so great about this software was that it auto-saves your work, so you do not have to worry about saving your work each time you write a new chapter.

This is an excellent feature, but I also liked that the software allows you to set chapters in which you will write your story step-by-step. You can choose to start with a short introduction, and then go on to write in more detail about each character's viewpoint. It is a very handy feature, which gives the reader a great start to enjoy the story you are telling. Then, you can use the Сompose content writing service to start earning money by fulfilling orders on the platform.

libreoffice writer free novel writing software interface

6. Papyrus Author

Sticky Notes feature
  • Automatic backups
  • It is available for business and personal
  • Notifications if backups fail
  • Multiple paper types
  • Weak functionality

Verdict: One of the best freeware tools out there for authors of books, short stories and articles is Papyrus Author. It is a great free novel writing software with a strong focus on developing solid character development in your stories, instead of just being good at writing interesting scenes.

The way Papyrus Author blends fiction and non-fiction that it is truly a remarkable product. You can write a scene using the context menu and then select chapters in the story as if you were simply creating a text document.

papyrus author free novel writing software interface
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