Writing right

The tools you need – from a short blog to a long novel

Editorial $4.99 editorial-app.com

This is a text editor for the web age. Editorial has a number of features that make it perfect for writing, such as the ability to collapse sections of a document to keep them out of the way – but the killer features are its options for workflow. You can set up automated tasks to be run on your document with just a tap, performing checks as simple as scanning it to make sure brand names are correct, or as complex as finding, adding, and styling content found online based on triggers in your text – and much more beyond. You can find other users’ workflows online to easily add them to the app.

Pages $9.99, apple.com

Pages is fine for simple writing, but where it really shines is in page layout – in fact, there’s nothing better for it on iOS. You can create and style text boxes in various shapes and formats, wrap text around images, add charts from Numbers, and create a great-looking document for a report or newsletter in minutes. Integration with iCloud makes Pages ideal for using on multiple devices, and at a pinch your documents can be edited on Mac or even a PC at iCloud.com. The app is free with new devices.

Byword $5.99 metaclassy.com

For simple writing purposes – for the web, say, or just in a distraction-free environment – we love Byword. You can choose from a few appearance options, but it’s primarily designed to help you focus on getting the words down. It syncs with Dropbox or iCloud, and supports Markdown for web formatting – including the ability to publish directly to some blogging services from within the app.

Sc rivener $19.99 literature andlatte.com

If you’re planning some long-form writing, this is the app you need. Scrivener includes powerful features for planning outlines and storing notes, which are visible right alongside your writing. It makes it easy to work on your words in sections, with relevant information for each one of them attached. Whether you’re writing a novel or doing a dissertation, Scrivener will be your best friend.