Being an author often comes with a tight budget, but the good news is there are plenty of free tools that can help you write, edit, market, and organize your book without spending a dime. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to streamline your process, these tools can give you a professional edge.
Here are the top five free tools every author should know about in 2025.
1. Canva
Best For: Creating Stunning Book Graphics
Canva is a versatile design tool that’s perfect for authors who want to create eye-catching book covers, promotional graphics, or social media posts. With its drag-and-drop interface and customizable templates, Canva makes it easy to create professional-looking visuals without needing a design background.
Why Authors Love It:
- Free templates for book covers, Instagram posts, and more.
- User-friendly interface.
- Access to a library of free stock photos and elements.
Pro Tip: Use Canva to create branded graphics for your book launch campaign.
2. Grammarly
Best For: Polishing Your Writing
Grammarly is a powerful editing tool that helps you catch grammar mistakes, spelling errors, and even stylistic issues. It works as a browser extension, standalone app, or integrated tool in platforms like Microsoft Word and Google Docs.
Why Authors Love It:
- Free grammar and spell-checking.
- Suggestions for improving clarity and tone.
- Works across multiple platforms.
Pro Tip: Use Grammarly’s tone detector to ensure your writing aligns with your intended audience.
3. Reedsy Book Editor
Best For: Formatting Your Manuscript
The Reedsy Book Editor is a free, user-friendly tool designed specifically for authors. It allows you to write, edit, and format your manuscript for publication, whether you’re planning to self-publish or submit to a traditional publisher.
Why Authors Love It:
- Clean, distraction-free writing interface.
- Automatic formatting for print and eBooks.
- Collaboration features for working with editors or co-authors.
Pro Tip: Export your manuscript as a professionally formatted PDF or ePub file for easy distribution.
4. Hive
Best For: Organizing Your Writing Process
Hive is a project management tool that helps authors stay organized throughout the writing and publishing journey. Use its collaborative features to plan your writing schedule, track deadlines, and manage tasks.
Why Authors Love It:
- Visual task management with drag-and-drop cards and Kanban boards.
- Built-in chat and collaboration features to communicate with team members.
- Integration with tools like Google Drive and Dropbox.
Pro Tip: Create a dedicated workspace in Hive to track your book project from brainstorming to publication.
Why Authors Love It:
- Visual task management with drag-and-drop cards.
- Ability to create to-do lists, add due dates, and set reminders.
- Integration with tools like Google Drive and Dropbox.
Pro Tip: Create a dedicated board for your book project to track progress from brainstorming to publication.
5. Kit
Best For: Building and Engaging Your Audience
Kit is an intuitive email marketing tool designed to help authors grow their email list and communicate directly with readers. Whether you’re promoting a book launch or sharing exclusive updates, Kit makes email marketing simple and effective.
Why Authors Love It:
- Free plan with essential email marketing features.
- Pre-designed templates for professional-looking emails.
- Easy-to-use tools for automating email campaigns.
Pro Tip: Use Kit to send free sample chapters or exclusive content as a lead magnet to engage and grow your reader base.
Final Thoughts: Tools to Empower Your Writing Journey
Being an author on a budget doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality. These free tools can help you create, organize, and market your book like a pro. Start exploring them today to see how they can streamline your process and amplify your impact.
Want more tips for marketing your book? Download our free guide, 10 Proven Strategies to Market Your Book on a Budget, and take the first step toward a successful launch.
Let’s build something original, together!
