Top Five FREE Apps For Writers

     So my computer finally bought the farm. It was a sad day, especially since we had been together since the eighth grade. What was not sad about it was that it gave me an excuse to buy an iPad mini. I can still use my family's computer for printing and all other things that require a bigger hard drive, but this iPad is light, portable, and completely adorable. The only major problem I have is the lack of Microsoft Word. So I did some research into the best free writing apps out there.

5. DraftPad

     What this app should be used for is exactly what it says in the title: drafts. There's no fancy formatting and for some reason the email feature puts all the text in the subject line. But if you're just planning on typing away at the beginning of your writing process, this is an excellent app. Copy the text and email it to yourself for future editing and check your history to find previous drafts.

4. Notebook +

     Basically the same features as DraftPad, only with a notebook-themed design and easier access to multiple documents. And you can draw and add pictures from your photo library. Unfortunately, I don't have a stylus yet, which is what would really add to this app. Use the notebooks to hold your stories, poetry, or whatever or do some creative brainstorming complete with visual aids.

3. Google Drive

     Okay, so the Google Drive/Doc website has its fair share of issues (although recently I believe that it's gotten a lot better.) However, the  app for iPad is effective and allows you to share your documents on your iPad/iPhone with your computer.

2. Werdsmith

     I have no idea what the mustache has to do with anything but this app allows you to view multiple documents, set projects with word goals, and create your own profile for online access. On second thought, the mustaches do make the app very aesthetically pleasing.

1. A Novel Idea

     This is probably my favorite app on the iPhone or iPad, period. It offers you the ability to save every detail of that story bouncing around in your head. Create profiles of novels, characters, scenes, and general ideas. And it's password protected. Your musings are completely safe.

P.S. The Tale of the Tulips: A Heartbreaking Story of Pride, Passion, and Petals, coming to a book store near you.

P. P. S. None of these apps have a tab function, so pro tip: five spaces equals one tab.