Author Resources
Our Favorite Resources for Authors
There are a multitude of resources out there for authors, but how do you decided what’s best for you?
In order to help authors like you, we have compiled our top picks in a variety of categories. Take a look below for help in finding your next editor, software, course, or general resource for your author career.
*Keep in mind that some of the suggestions below contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission should you choose to purchase something; however, we would never recommend a resource that we did not think was worth the investment. We have personally used each service, project, and resource recommended in this list.
Category 1: Planning and Drafting
Option One: Scrivener
In terms of outlining and drafting programs, there are A LOT of options out there. However, there is one program that nearly always rises to the top: Scrivener.
Scrivener is used by new and established authors alike. It allows users to store all book-related information in one place, including outlines, chapters, and even those random little free-writes that keep you inspired. It moves beyond the Microsoft Word and Google Doc word processing features, as it is designed for writers and not for the general public.
The only downsides to Scrivener are the learning curve and the price. Yes, it will take you some time to learn to use it, but once you do, it shouldn’t give you any trouble. And no, it isn’t free like Google Docs, but it will give you many more features that are made for authors. Plus, if you participate in NaNoWriMo, you can often get a discount code!
Cost: $49 for Mac or Windows or $80 for a bundle.
Check out Scrivener by clicking here. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
Option Two: Campfire
Cost: $49.99 for the Pro Version or $74.98 for the Pro Version + Worldbuilding.
Category 2: Self-Editing
It goes without saying, but I’m going to say it anyway. Before you hire an editor, it is absolutely essential that you do some self-editing. Self-editing can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in editor fees. Plus, you editor will thank you for cleaning up your manuscript before sending it to them. Yes, they are there to help you edit your book, but without some self-editing first, big mistakes can get lost in the see of red squiggly lines on your manuscript.
Here are a few option for self-editing:
Option One: Grammerly
If you are a writer who watches YouTube videos, you’ve probably seen a Grammerly ad or twelve. Grammerly offer both free and pro accounts to help you polish your writing. You can use the Google Extension for free, or even download the add-on for Microsoft Word.
There are some limitations to the free account, so if Grammerly is something you think you’ll use a lot, perhaps consider the upgrade to the pro version.
Cost: $11.66 per month for a Pro Account
Check out Grammerly by clicking here.
Option Two: ProWritingAid
ProWritingAid is similar to Grammerly in that it provides feedback beyond the basic spell check. In my experience, I’ve found it to be a bit more effective than Grammerly, since it teaches you as you edit, but they both have their strong suits. In fact, I put my latest book through both Grammerly and ProWritingAid before sending it to my editor, and was very please with the results.
Like Grammerly, there is a free version, but it has its limitations. Upgrade to a Premium account for full access.
Cost: $20 per month or $79 per year. Students can also get 20% off!
Check out ProWritingAid by clicking here.
Option Three: Self-Editing Courses
A while ago, I started following an editor named Victoria Griffin on Twitter. When I checked out her website, I found that she teaches online courses on self-editing in addition to her editing services. She also provides free resources to get you started with editing and querying (if you’re going the traditional route).
If you want to learn self-editing from a full-time editor, I’d recommend checking her site out. Her prices are super reasonable, and I am always a supporter of more education!
Cost for Editing 101: $47
Check out Victoria Griffin’s courses by clicking here.