A Beginner's Guide to AI Tools for Writers
Authors often ask me about AI tools: "Which one should I use? Grammarly or ChatGPT?" The truth is, both are powerful but suited for very different tasks. There are many AI tools for writers but there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Using ChatGPT for grammar is like using a Swiss Army knife to cut bread: it works, but there’s a better tool for the job. This guide will help you choose the right tool for your specific writing needs.
But First, What Are AI Tools for Writers?
AI tools are software programs designed to assist with different aspects of the writing process. Whether you’re crafting a novel, a memoir, or a self-help book, or you're polishing a blog post, or creating social media posts to promote your blog post, AI tools can make your life easier by improving efficiency, enhancing creativity, and eliminating repetitive tasks.
Popular AI Tools for Writers and What They Do
1. Grammarly vs. ProWritingAid
Best for: Grammar, punctuation, and style checks (Grammarly); Detailed editing and analysis (ProWritingAid).
While Grammarly offers real-time corrections for spelling, grammar, and clarity, I prefer ProWritingAid's deeper reports on readability, sentence structure, and pacing. For authors seeking a more comprehensive editing tool, choose ProWritingAid.
2. ChatGPT (by OpenAI)
Best for: Ideation, drafting, and brainstorming.
ChatGPT is a versatile tool that can generate content, suggest ideas, and even act as a writing coach. It’s especially useful for overcoming writer’s block or creating outlines. It can also help you plan your content. See my popular post:
How to use ChatGPT to plan, draft, and publish a blog post every week for a year
3. MS Word AI Tools
Best for: Integrated editing and formatting.
Microsoft Word’s AI features include grammar suggestions, stylistic improvements, and predictive text, making it a reliable choice for traditional editing.
4. Google Gemini
Best for: Advanced content creation and real-time collaboration.
When you open a Google Doc, you'll see Google Gemini appear to help you write. It offers real-time content suggestions, seamless collaboration, and integration with other Google Workspace tools, making it a strong option for sharing your work with a writing group, writing partner, or editor.
5. Fictionary
Best for: Structural editing in fiction and creative nonfiction like memoir.
Fictionary helps authors refine their story structure, character development, and plot coherence. It provides visual tools like story arc tracking and scene analysis, making it ideal for writers looking to strengthen their narrative through structural improvements.
How to Choose the Right Tool
- Define Your Goals: Do you want help with grammar, generating ideas, organizing your writing, outlining, planning, or structuring your book?
- Test Multiple Tools: Most AI tools offer free trials. Experiment with a few to see which ones suit your workflow.
- Start Small: Don’t try to use all the tools at once. Begin with one or two that address your immediate needs.
- Compare: See if you like Grammarly or ProWritingAid, ChatGPT or Claude, MS Word or Google Gemini.
A note for publishing pros
As an author assistant, social media marketer, or publishing consultant, you may want to try a tool like Jasper. Jasper costs $39-$59 per month but offers multiple AI models, advanced research tools, multiple brand voices, translation, and saveable tasks, and more, so you can work faster, more efficiently, and more effectively to serve your authors.
Best Practices for Using AI Tools
- Combine Human Skill with AI: AI tools are great assistants, but not perfect replacements for your own judgment.
- Focus on Your Voice: While AI can suggest improvements, ensure your unique writing style remains intact.
- Stay Ethical: Use AI to support your creativity, not replace it. For example, avoid just copying and pasting AI-generated content.
Final Thoughts
AI tools for writers can save you a lot of time, money, and frustration. Use it wisely and with integrity. Start with tools like ProWritingAid for polishing and ChatGPT for brainstorming. As you grow more comfortable, explore other options to streamline your writing process. Remember, these tools are here to enhance your work, not overshadow your creative voice.
Links
Some of these links are affiliate links. That means I get a small percentage of the sales, at no additional cost to you.
- ProWritingAid
- Grammarly
- Fictionary
- ChatGPT
- Google Gemini (web page, it also appears when you open a Google Doc)
