Introduction
Content writing has become a very important part of digital marketing strategies. Whether you need blog posts, articles, web copy or other types of content, you’ll need the right tools to help with content planning, writing, editing and publishing. In this article, we’ll take a look at 5 of the best content writing tools that every content marketer should have in their toolkit.
Google Docs
Google Docs is one of the best free content writing tools available. As a cloud-based word processor, it allows for real-time collaboration which is perfect for teams. Multiple writers or an editor can work on the same document simultaneously. Changes are automatically saved and changes are tracked. Docs has basic formatting options like bold, italics, bullet points etc. and is compatible across devices.
The online interface makes it very accessible to work from anywhere. Documents can be shared easily via a link. Comments and suggestions from other collaborators show up right in the document for easy review. Version history allows rolling back to previous drafts. Docs integrates directly with Google Drive for centralized file storage and organization. It’s a very versatile tool for content writing teams.
Draftbot
For solo writers or small teams, Draftbot is an excellent writing tool. It takes content planning and organization to the next level with its unique outlining features. Key points, subheads and bullet points can be dragged and dropped to easily rearrange sections of a document. Color-coded labels help categorize different types of content.
The built-in timer helps stay focused on the writing task and track how long is spent on each section. Word count goals can be set to meet targets. Draftbot automatically saves continuously so there is no risk of losing work. Published outlines and drafts can be exported as beautiful HTML pages or downloaded as a word doc.
This tool streamlines the content creation process from initial brainstorming to final draft. It enforces structure in long-form writing. Draftbot is perfect for research-heavy articles, eBooks, guides and reports where organization is crucial. It makes revising and editing a breeze too with its flexible outline view.
Quillbot
For light editing, proofreading and rewriting tasks, Quillbot AI assistant is extremely useful. It can summarize, paraphrase or rewrite sentences and paragraphs with just a couple of clicks. This tool uses machine learning to analyze the context and meaning of text, allowing for natural rephrasing while maintaining the core information and style.
Key strengths include removing redundant words, simplifying complex language and fixing grammar or style inconsistencies. Quillbot is helpful for non-native English speakers or those who struggle with writing. It can reduce drafting time significantly for less experienced writers too. Before relying fully on rewrites, it’s best to skim any auto-generated text for accuracy.
The free version works well for light edits. Paid plans unlock additional grammar checks, higher character limits and premium features like customized AI models. Overall, Quillbot offers a clever way to enhance writing fluency and polish up existing content with minimal effort. It’s an essential tool for proofreaders and editing teams.
Hemingway Editor
For checking readability and improving writing style, Hemingway Editor is a must-have. It analyzes any pasted text and identifies passages that are complex, vague or include passive voice/clauses. Specific issues are highlighted right in the text with suggestions for how to simplify. An overall readability score from 0-100 helps determine grade level.
The intent is not to completely rewrite content, but to pinpoint areas that could be made clearer or more engaging for the target audience. Common issues flagged include long sentences, abstract phrases, unnecessary words and more. With a single click, simpler alternatives are offered without changing the core meaning.
Writers of all levels can benefit from getting an objective analysis of their work. Hemingway Editor trains focusing on concise, active language – essential for web copy, blogs, articles or any direct-to-consumer content. It takes guesswork out of editing for clarity and readability. While the suggestions aren’t always perfect, it’s still a highly useful tool for refinement.
Trello
For managing complex content campaigns or workflows, Trello is a flexible project management board. Lists, cards and checklists allow organizing content by stage – from brief to draft to review. Assign unique cards to team members directly within the interface. Attach relevant files, images, references or notes.
Custom backgrounds, labels and color-coding keeps related types of content grouped logically. Deadlines, milestones and automated email notifications prevent dropping balls. Cards can represent blog topics, articles, assets or any units of work. Comments and activity streams keep all stakeholders updated without email threads getting messy.
Team members without design skills can still create visually effective boards for tracking content needs, priorities and status. Trello integrates smoothly with Google Drive, Dropbox and Slack too. Even high-volume operations find it easy to streamline assignments, review cycles, assets management and publishing handoffs on a Trello board. Flexible automation through Webhooks &Zapier connects Trello to other systems as well. For any business with multiple stakeholders or large content calendars, Trello brings necessary structure and visibility.
Conclusion
This list covered some top choices for individual writers looking to streamline processes as well as teams needing to collaborate effectively on content projects. Google Docs enables real-time drafting. Draftbot focuses on outlining. Quillbot expedites editing tasks. Hemingway improves writing style. And Trello handles organizational requirements. With the right free or paid tools, content creation can become far more productive and consistent with quality in mind. Choosing versatile tools that suit your specific needs is key to success.
Andrew Stroud