Today, most authors still use word processors like Microsoft Word or Apple Pages. More specialized editors include StoryMill and Storyist.
- Microsoft Word: generic word processor, currently the most commonly used tool. Ability to download book templates.
- Apple Pages: a good generic word processor with PDF and ePub export.
- StoryMill: a good tool to write a script, however, it lacks export to ePub functionality
- Storyist: a good tool to write a script with ePub export functionality, but no PDF export.
Pros and Cons of self-publishing.
Self-publishing can be very attractive if you are:
- first-time author
- addressing a narrow niche of interest
- have a strong following outside of the mainstream media
- limited budget
Publishing with a mainstream publishing house makes sense when:
- you are a bestselling author
- you write on main-stream topics e.g. romantic novels
- you need help with marketing, but you are not a good social marketer
- you want a recognition that comes with a hardcover edition of your book
- you want to publish a large “coffee table” format album
