I’ve written nearly seventy novels, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that distractions can very quickly and easily take you out of your flow. Those distractions can come in many forms, from people to cluttered application interfaces to the dreaded internet.
Shrugging off those distractions can be a challenge unless you adopt a distraction-free writing tool. Such applications do a good job of helping you focus on one thing and one thing only: writing. But what are these magical apps for which I speak? Let me offer you a few options, from free to paid, so you can decide which might be your best option to help you shrug off distractions and get those words onto the page.
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Over the years, I’ve used each of these tools and found them all to be quite good at limiting distractions. I’ve found, however, that I have developed a laserlike focus when writing, so I no longer need to work with such applications. However, many writers do much better when using a distraction-free writer, and they swear by them.
1. Calmly Writer
One of the best features of Calmly Writer is that it highlights only the paragraph you are writing or editing. In other words, you take it one paragraph at a time via focus mode, and for some, that’s the perfect route to success. Calmly Writer also supports auto-save, word-count targets, theming (including dark mode), Word and PDF export, typewriter sounds, and customizable cursor colors. It removes formatting options so you focus solely on words — you can handle layout later. Don’t be fooled: it does include formatting tools, all of which can be mapped to keyboard shortcuts to make your writing even more efficient.
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Calmly Writer can be installed on Linux, MacOS, and Windows. You can test it for free, but you’ll be reminded to purchase a license, which costs $19 and covers up to three computers. There’s also a free online version at calmlywriter.com/online, which includes focus mode, smart punctuation, word count, typewriter sounds, and more. When you open it, you’ll see nothing but a blank page waiting for your words.
2. FocusWriter
FocusWriter, from Gott Code, uses a “hide-away” interface. When you open it, you see only a background image with a vertical rectangle in the center where you write. Hover at the top of the display, and a toolbar appears with formatting, theming, and more. FocusWriter lets you customize the font, colors, and background image, view on-the-fly stats, set daily goals, open more than one document per session, use spell-check, and resume where you left off.
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If you’re not a fan of full-screen mode — which is the point of distraction-free apps — press F11 to switch back to window mode.
FocusWriter is free, with optional tips, and available on Linux and Windows (sorry, MacOS users).
3. OmniWriter
OmniWriter brings you closer to nature with beautiful background images, music, and typefaces. The developers worked with a color-therapy expert and, through chromatherapy and the studied movement of color, provide a level of tranquility you don’t get with similar apps. One favorite feature is the audio tracks that create a peaceful, stimulating session. As you type, you hear subtle clicks with each letter, adding to the ambiance. It’s quite a magical experience. Try it with the OmniWriter experience test.
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OmniWriter is available for MacOS and Windows and can be purchased with a minimum offering of $10 (average $13). It’s gorgeous and does a brilliant job of keeping you focused.
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