What Do I Actually Need?
Essential tools and resources for new writers—without the overwhelm. Start simple, upgrade when you're ready.
Less is More
You don't need expensive software or a dozen apps to write a book. Most successful indie authors started with the basics and added tools as they grew. Here's what actually matters—and what you can skip for now.
Tools for Writing
Where you'll actually write your book
Google Docs
FreeNo learning curve, works everywhere, saves automatically. Perfect for getting words on the page without fuss.
Why beginners love it:
• No learning curve • Works on any device • Auto-saves everything • Easy sharing with beta readers • Built-in commenting system
Best for:
First-time writers who want to focus on the story, not the software. Perfect for novels under 100,000 words.
Scrivener
$60Beloved by planners. Keeps your notes, outlines, and drafts all in one tab.
Why plotters love it:
• Powerful organization tools • Research storage • Character sheets • Scene-by-scene outlining • Compile to multiple formats
Best for:
Writers who like detailed planning, write series, or need to manage lots of research. Has a learning curve but worth it for serious writers.
Notion
Free/PaidWriting meets project management. Build your ideal workspace with templates and databases.
Why it's flexible:
• Customizable layouts • Writing + planning • Task tracking • Templates available • Works like a digital notebook
Best for:
Writers who want to track progress, manage multiple projects, and like customizing their workspace. Free plan works for most writers.
Reedsy Design Editor
FreeClean writing environment that formats your book professionally. Zero setup, beautiful results.
Why it's underrated:
• Beautiful formatting • Export-ready files • No setup required • Focuses on the writing • Professional layouts
Best for:
Writers who want their manuscript to look professional without learning formatting. Great for final drafts and publication prep.
Tools for Publishing
When you're ready to share your book with the world
Amazon KDP
FreeUpload your book, reach millions of readers worldwide within 24 hours. Handles ebooks and print-on-demand.
Why most indies start here:
• Largest book market • Easy setup • Free to use • Print-on-demand • Good royalty rates
Best for:
Every indie author. Even if you publish elsewhere too, you need to be on Amazon. Start here, expand later.
Canva
Free/ProBook covers and marketing graphics without design skills. Templates handle the hard part.
Why it's perfect for beginners:
• Book cover templates • No design experience needed • Free stock photos • Social media templates • Affordable pro version
Best for:
Authors on a budget who need covers and marketing graphics. Pro version ($120/year) adds premium elements and removes watermarks.
Vellum / Atticus
$200-400One-click professional formatting for ebooks and print. Worth the investment if you're planning multiple books.
Why professionals use them:
• One-click formatting • Professional layouts • Multiple export formats • Chapter styling • Worth the investment
Best for:
Authors planning multiple books or who want professional formatting without learning design. Investment pays for itself quickly.
Draft2Digital
FreeUpload once, distribute everywhere. Gets your book into Apple Books, Kobo, and 20+ other stores.
Why wide publishing matters:
• Reach more readers • Don't rely on one platform • Easy distribution • Good royalty rates • Helpful analytics
Best for:
Authors who want to sell everywhere, not just Amazon. Upload once, distribute to 20+ retailers. Consider after your first book.
Helpful Links & Guides
What's a Beta Reader?
Everything you need to know about finding and working with beta readers to improve your book before publication.
How to Edit Your Own Work
Practical strategies for self-editing your manuscript when you can't afford a professional editor yet.
Beginner's Marketing Toolkit
Coming soon - Simple, doable marketing strategies that don't require a huge social media following.
Fiction Writing Mechanics
Understanding the building blocks every story needs - plot, characters, conflict, and structure.
Free Tools I Recommend
A detailed breakdown of the best free writing tools, from Google Docs to Hemingway Editor.
Your First 30 Days
A gentle, week-by-week guide to building a sustainable writing practice that actually works.
Start Simple, Dream Big
Remember: every bestselling indie author started with basic tools and learned as they went. You don't need everything at once—just enough to begin. Start writing with what you have, then upgrade your tools as your skills (and income) grow.