What can you use word processing software for

Word processing software helps you manipulate a text document and create or edit a text document.

A quality word processing software can also provide output options such as printing or exporting a text document into other formats.

Without word processing software, you would have difficulty processing paragraphs, pages, and even papers.

Not many people know that early word processing software was standalone devices, but word processors come as lightweight software that’s easy to install with technological advancements.

Another great advantage of word processing software is that it allows you to store documents electronically, display them across screens, or fully modify documents before printing them.

Even though word processing software isn’t complex to learn, it might take a bit of time to learn how to take full advantage of the software with so many functions.

Also, keep in mind that some word processing software comes from the office bundle that includes other processing software.

In this article, you’ll learn more about word processing software and see 15 of the best examples.

Whether you’re a writer, editor, or only need quality word processing software to prepare your documents pre-printing, at least one of these 15 software will be a good pick!

Even though most word processing software has similar features and offers similar benefits, the small but significant differences between these word processing software examples can make a huge difference for personal use.

1. Microsoft Word

The most known word processing software is Microsoft Word, and chances are high you’ve used it at least on one occasion to process or create text documents.

Word is the most known word processing software because the creator of Windows creates it and it often comes integrated with the Windows operating system.

However, Word is also known for the benefits it offers. Improved search and navigational experience combined with the ability to work with others simultaneously are just some of the benefits.

Along with that, Word gives you the ability to access, share, and work on your documents from almost anywhere.

With plenty of options to create, edit, and process text, Word also has additional visual effects, turning text into diagrams, and combining visual aspects into text documents.

Instant help when creating documents is another great integration that especially helps writers. Exporting and having document flexibility is helpful when producing specific documents for your studies or work, and it’s just one of many benefits of Word.

2. iWork Pages

iWork Pages is a must-have word processing software for Apple users. Even though Microsoft Word is available for macOS, iWork is a great native alternative that helps Apple users process, create, and work with word documents.

iWork Pages was previously known as AppleWorks, and it is part of the official Apple iWork suite.

Not only Pages can help you create documents, but they can also help you to collaborate with others efficiently, create animated documents from your data, and even build interactive charts from your text.

What’s great about Pages is that it comes with built-in help and sample formulas, so you don’t always have to create a document from scratch. Instead, you can use templates or benefit from function suggestions to improve the way you work.

With over 30 spreadsheet templates, you won’t have to create text documents from scratch unless you enjoy creating your work from scratch. Templates can help you spend less time formatting and creating the basics of your document and yet leave you with more time to focus on your text.

3. OpenOffice Writer

Among the paid word processing software, there are a couple of free gems such as OpenOffice.

OpenOffice is a free and open productivity suite that includes Writer, the perfect software for word processing.

Whether you’re trying to draft a quick letter or working on complex text documents (maybe even writing a book), the writer is a reliable and fully equipped word processing software to handle all needed tasks.

What’s great about Writer is that it is very easy to use, so you won’t have to spend hours learning the ins and outs of the software to take full advantage of it.

Instead, you will be able to focus on producing documents of all types and letting Writer help you along the way.

With built-in features such as AutoCorrect or AutoComplete, you can quickly write your documents without having to worry about making mistakes.

Along with these two features, OpenOffice Writer comes with a table of contents, references, multi-page display, and notes to help you annotate and review documents, as well as create well-structured text documents.

Lastly, exporting isn’t going to be a problem since Writer can help you export your text document into other formats such as HTML, PDF, or even .odt.

Also, keep in mind that OpenOffice provides templates you can download and use with Writer to make your drafts easier.

4. WordPerfect

WordPerfect is described as the Microsoft Office alternative. It is an all-in-one suite that focuses on productivity and efficiency when working with digital documents (especially text documents).

Inside the WordPerfect Office, you will have access to a neat and efficient word processor that can help you quickly draft new documents, create letters or brochures, write resumes, and even start writing a book.

What’s so special about WordPerfect is that it supports collaboration with about 60 file formats, so you can import and export documents from any third-party software.

With the help of Reveal Codes, WordPerfect provides seamless formatting after you import documents from any source.

And if you’re looking to “spice up” your text documents, you can do so easily with the help of built-in PDF forms into this powerful and versatile word processing software.

5. FocusWriter

If you spend a lot of time writing documents in your word processing software, and yet you find it hard to concentrate and focus on the words, FocusWriter is a great pick.

FocusWriter is a very simple word processing software that utilizes a versatile interface hidden away from the most important part of the software. This way, you can focus on the page and text, and whenever you need to use any integrated feature, all you have to do is swipe your cursor across the edges to open the hidden menu.

With integrated features such as timers, alarms, daily goals, fully customizable themes, and even the ability to use typewriter sound effects, this word processing software will help you stay on track and get things done.

Along with these features, FocusWriter has optional features such as live statistics, spell-checking, and even the ability to use FocusWriter in 20 different languages.

These features aim to improve the user experience and make word processing tasks fun and more productive since you can set your own goals.

This is a word processing software that adds improved features that aren’t very common among its competitors.

6. LibreOffice Writer

When you are a very organized person and need word processing software that will match this, LibreOffice Writer is worth trying.

LibreOffice Writer is a modern word processing software that ensures you can edit any document quickly with the help of integrated features.

Therefore, Writer is good enough for doing quick and simple edits. Still, it’s also more than enough to finish books, edit many content pages, add diagrams, and even feature indexes into your documents.

The user interface is very neat and even though there are many features they’re hidden away so you can focus on the most important aspect of word processing: the text.

7. AbiWord

When you require a very similar word processing software to Word, and yet you’re on a budget, AbiWord is a good choice.

AbiWord is compatible with the latest operating systems and interface-wise, it is very similar to Microsoft Word. Even though it’s not the “prettiest” word processing software, it has everything you might need to get the work done efficiently, and it won’t cost you a penny.

With compatibility to work with all standard text documents, AbiWord also allows you to share your documents with others easily or even merge your letters directly with your email.

Even though AbiWord might not have all features other word processing software include, AbiWord is built on the extensible plugin architecture, so you can always find plugins to include features you might be missing.

On top of that, I should mention that AbiWord is available in 30 different languages, and it is still getting updates so that you won’t be relying on an outdated version.

8. WPS Word

WPS offers a suite similar to Microsoft Office that includes three components: the Word, Excel, and Presentation.

Word is a word processing software that is highly compatible with almost all compatible document formats, and it is even compatible with all operations systems.

Creating documents from scratch with Word is very simple, and yet with standard formatting tools everyone is familiar with, editing documents is even easier.

On top of that, Word includes many extras that are rarely found in other word processing software, such as hundreds of document templates. Therefore, if you don’t feel like creating documents from scratch, basing your documents on pre-existing templates can save you a lot of time and work.

Combining media with text is highly possible, and viewing multiple documents simultaneously improves efficiency when working with multiple documents.

With collaboration tools, password protection for chosen documents, and automatic spell-checking tools, you can easily get your work done without worrying about accuracy.

9. Polaris Docs

Polaris Office is a combination of tools that includes Docs, a highly versatile version that’s very similar to a combination of Microsoft Word and Google Docs.

It’s a very versatile word processing software that allows you to work on your documents wherever you are.

Not only is it available as computer software, but it also has a dedicated web browser version and even the app version suitable for Android and iOS smartphones.

Collaboration is guaranteed with such versatility, and when it comes down to getting the work done, Polaris Docs supports all types of documents, including sheets, slides, and more.

Saved documents can be worked on in groups, meaning that more than one person can edit the document in real-time. And if you ever decide to collaborate on a document with someone, you can invite them with a link and keep the communication open with an integrated chat in the Polaris Docs.

Feature-wise, Polaris Docs is packed with the most standard features you would expect from a word processing software, and yet the main improvement is the way you can collaborate with others and work on the same document in real-time.

10. Writemonkey

If you search for a word processing document that will leave you on your own with your words and yet will hide all functionalities in a very minimalistic and simple interface, Writemonkey makes a great choice.

Writemonkey might look like a coding interface at first, but it is a stripped-down word processing software that helps you focus on your writing.

Of course, Writemonkey is also ideal for making quick edits and even reading.

This is probably one of the lightest and smallest word processing software that is very easy to install and even easier to get used to.

What’s also great is that you have full control over the interface to customize it to your needs. On top of that, you can set timed writing or even feature a visual progress bar to make your writing work feel like a breeze.

And if you ever end up missing something in Writemonkey, you can always introduce third-party upgrades to this word processing software via plugins.

11. Dropbox Paper

When you need a versatile, reliable, and quick word processing software that’s perhaps web-based, Dropbox Paper is worth considering.

Dropbox Paper is a lightweight web-based word processing software that allows simple editing and collaboration between teams.

With Dropbox Paper, you can create documents from scratch or import existing documents to easily track any edits or changes made by your team members. On top of that, with this light word processing software, you can keep everything organized, ensure feedback is properly given, and even improve your documents.

You can do almost everything in Dropbox Paper that you would do in other word processing software. However, Paper can also serve as a co-editing software.

Whether you’re trying to improve communication in your team, improve collaboration between team members, or you’re writing a book with your partner, Paper is the place to stay productive, organized, and efficient.

12. Scribus

If you require professional word processing software to handle your business/work documents or edit and prepare your book for publishing, Scribus is a great choice.

Even though it’s a bit different from standard word processing software, Scribus allows you to choose one of the designed layouts, set your typesetting, and even improve your written documents with professional-looking quality images.

With Scribus, you can also create animations that you can place directly inside your document, or you can turn your text documents into interactive PDF presentations.

On top of that, the creation of forms or questionnaires is very simple. With OpenType support, you can now edit your existing documents with advanced features such as advanced typography.

While Scribus is a great fit for simple editing and personal documents, it excels at creating magazine covers, newspaper front pages, preparing the books for publishing, and even manufacturing artwork.

It might not be the standard word processing software most people are looking for, but it will fit professional needs easily for a very fair price.

13. SoftMaker FreeOffice TextMaker

When you need a simple word processing software, SoftMaker FreeOffice is a great stepping stone that won’t cost you anything, and yet it includes almost everything you might need for personal or business use.

In the FreeOffice, you will get TextMaker included. TextMaker is a small but efficient word processing software that allows you to create all types of documents and edit existing documents that you can easily import.

What’s unique about TextMaker is that it doesn’t only focus on written documents. Instead, it also offers great features for processing words on graphics. Therefore, you can use TextMaker to create great text for your images, logos, or even banners.

With many different fonts, styles, and even wrapping options, TextMaker will make all your graphics look professional and attractive yet easy to read.

Since TextMaker can import almost all types of documents, you can also export your work in the most standard formats, such as Word DOC and DOCX. However, what’s also great about TextMaker is that it allows you to create PDF files from your documents.

You can even create an EPUB eBook with the help of TextMaker, which is a great feature, considering that SoftMaker provides the TextMaker for free.

14. Zoho Docs Writer

Zoho Docs Writer is a perfect example of an online word processing software that is easy to use and easy to access. Yet, in return, you will get very reliable and advanced features you can use on any of your documents.

The writer allows you to focus on your words in a distraction-free interface, yet you can work with others in an effortless document sharing.

With the most standard features, you would expect a word processing software packed in the interface you can access via the web browser and even get unlimited versions of your document.

These versions help you compare differences and find differences after collaboration with others.

One of the most advanced yet convenient features is publishing your documents directly (if you are a content creator).

If not, Zoho Docs Writer can help you electronically sign documents and even fill out PDF forms (or edit PDFs) without a problem.

15. Google Docs

Suppose you are not a fan of standalone word processing documents or don’t consider your computer reliable enough for your work. In that case, Google Docs is one of the most reliable web-based word processing software than most others in this space that you can get your hands on.

Along with the Sheets, Slides, and Forms, Docs allows you to not only create documents from scratch or import and edit existing documents, but it also allows you to store all your documents in the cloud for free.

You can easily access your documents from any device, as long as you’re signed in to your Google account, and yet you will easily get used to the functionality and features of the Docs.

On top of that, Docs is very flexible, so you can export them in many different formats just the way you can import documents. However, one thing to keep in mind is that you will need an internet connection at all times to access your documents or work on them.

Conclusion

Even though Microsoft Word is one of the most known word processing software globally, there is much other software that is as good and worth giving it a try.

One couldn’t do without quality word processing software, but you even get the chance to find the one that will fit your needs the most with so many choices.

Even though each one of these is similar, there are differences in the interface, functionality, and even features that the software provides.

With that being said, you can easily choose according to your needs and purpose, which I highly recommend!

Word processing software is designed so users can create, format, save and print text documents. Word processing is creating, editing, customizing, and printing documents using a word processor such as Microsoft Word or Google Docs.

In this guide, you will learn:

• How to define word processing and word processor
• How to create word processing documents using word-processing software
• How to compare two word documents using a word processing program
• And lot’s more

If you are ready, let’s explore the content.

What is word processing?

Word processing entails creating, editing, manipulating, storing, sharing, and printing of documents using dedicated software such as Zoho Writer.

It allows a user to create documents that look like the format and style of a typewriter. Word processing software can be used to save, share or print a physical copy of a document.

For example, a business Sales Rep could create a sales report in a Word Processing Program. The sales rep could edit it, save it to a drive, or share it over the internet with colleagues. A word processor can also be used to create a résumé, memo, letter, or invoice.  

In general, a word-processing application can produce a wide variety of documents rapidly and at a relatively low cost.

Word processing is one of the earliest and most commonly used types of computer software. In fact, word processing software is often cited as a major factor in the launch of the personal computer industry. This software did a great job of automating processes that had previously been performed by a typewriter. Word processors helped bring personal computers into the households of regular people, rather than just businesses.

What is a word processor?

A Word processor is a device or computer software that allows users to create, edit, and print documents. It has additional features other than a text processor, that enables you to write text, manipulate, store, and print it.

Word processors allow users to create a wide variety of documents with editing and formatting capabilities to demonstrate their power. It has additional features that allow contents such as a table, pictures, charts, and clipart to be added to a document.

In a word processor, text can be inserted, edited, moved, copied, or deleted within a document. You can use its formatting feature to modify the appearance of selected text in numerous ways. Most word processors also give you the ability to check your spelling and grammar with built-in dictionaries and other tools to assist you in your writing.

Today’s word processors reflect their history as digital typewriters. They display a sheet of paper on the screen, which captures user input from the keyboard. Unlike a manual typewriter, electronic word processing is much faster and more flexible.

What is a text processor?

A text processor is a device or computer program used in creating and manipulating text. Text processors are not as sophisticated as word processors; hence they are incapable of formatting texts. Text processors create sequences of texts which enable computers to easily extract and analyze sequences of texts for analysis.

Text processors are commonly used in computers to create computer commands. Examples include notepad and sublime which help in the creation and modification of electronic texts.

Text processing is the automation method that involves the creation and modification of texts. It is the process of analyzing and sorting unstructured text to gain valuable insights. Text processing deals with text processing utilities while word processing deals with text editing utilities.

Also, text processing operates on raw data and is more independent from proprietary techniques, unlike word processing. Therefore, text processing is done with the help of a shell command or a text editor such as TextEdit, Brackets, and Notepad++.

What is word processing software?

Word processing software is designed to allow users to create, edit, manipulate, save and print text. They provide features that will enable you to enter text by typing, copying, deleting, and performing various types of formatting. Some of the functions of word processing software include:

• Creating, editing, saving, and printing documents.
• Copying, cutting, pasting, and deleting text within documents.
• Formatting text using tools such as font type, bold, underline, or italics.
• Creating, editing, and formatting tables.
• Inserting elements from other software, such as illustrations or photographs.
• Correcting spelling and grammar.
• Sharing and collaboration with team members.

Word processing software also contains features to make it easier for you to perform repetitive tasks. Commands such as mail merge and macros will help you perform common repetitive tasks to save time. A typical word processing software example is OpenOffice Writer.

How to open a word processing file

How you open a word processing file depends on the type of word processor used to create the file. Many times, the type of word processor determines the file format used to save it.

For example, Microsoft Word processing program saves with the file formats: .doc and .docx. However, you can save word processed documents in different file formats such as pdf, odt, txt, and rtf.

Apple Pages saves its word-processed documents in .pages. However, it supports files in the following formats: .rtf, .txt, .doc, and .docx. Similarly, Google docs can create files in the following formats: .txt, .rtf, .odt, .docx, and .epub.

This means that popularly used word processors are capable of opening most word processor files. So, if you saved your file in any of the file formats, you can open it with OpenOffice or Google Docs.

Let’s illustrate how to open a word processing file. To open a word document, keywords.docx saved on your local drive, in Google Docs, do the following.

1. Visit Google Docs. (Note: You must have a Google account)
2. On the Start a new document window, select Blank.

1. On the New document window, select File and click on Open from the File menu. The Open dialog box appears.

1. On the Open dialog window, click on the Upload tab, and select the Select a file from your device button.
2. On the Browse dialog box, browse through your device and locate a file to upload.

1. Select the file [keywords.docx], and click the Open button. The file uploads to your Google Drive.
2. On the File menu, click Open.
3. On the Open dialog window, select the My Drive tab.

1. Locate the file in your drive and select it. Then click the Open button. The file opens in Google Docs.

Importance of word processing software

Why is word processing important? Why is it virtually in all household computers? Word processing offers a better alternative to handwriting and typewriter when creating documents. Let’s look at some of the benefits of word-processing software.

1. Word processing software is important because it easily detects and corrects typing errors as you type your document. It uses the autocorrect feature to identify and correct errors easily.
2. Word processing helps in the digitization of information. It makes the creation, storage, copying, sharing, and retrieval of information easy.
3. Word processors help users to work efficiently and accurately. You can easily create and organize a document by using spelling and grammar and other features to eliminate errors.
4. Today’s word processors allow you to save different versions of a document. They also allow you to compare them in the future so you can select your preferred version.
5. The features of word documents help us create standard and beautiful-looking documents. With formatting features, documents can look elegant and attractive, unlike a manual typewriter.
6. Electronic word processing software helps us save business supply costs. Instead of using up pens and paper daily, we can create and transmit documents electronically. This contributes to significant savings in overall business expenses.
7. Mail merge and macros help us automate some activities and make work faster and more efficient. Hence, productivity is enhanced using a word processor.

There’s quite a lot you can do with word processing software these days. But before the advent of word processing software, how did people create and edit documents? This will lead us to chapter 2.

The precursor to word processing

Word processing did not develop out of computer technology. It evolved from the needs of writers rather than those of mathematicians, but it later merged with the computer field. Word processing started with the gradual automation of the physical aspects of writing and editing. Later, technology was refined to make it available to individual and corporate users.

Historically, there are four (4) types of word processors namely; mechanical, electronic, standalone, and software. Word processors were designed by combining existing technologies with emerging ones to develop standalone equipment. Gradually, the concept of word processing, which evolved from data processing was integrated into the computer system.

Mechanical word processing

Before the advent of mechanical word processing, manual writing was the order of the day. People started using ink and paper to create documents way back in 2000BC. During this period, the Egyptians, Romans, Greeks, and Hebrews were using papyrus and parchment papers.

The first major advancement from manual writing to mechanical word processing was the invention of the typewriter. During this period, different versions of the typewriter were invented, some with success and some without success.

Henry Mill was the first to be credited with the invention of the typewriter in the 18^th century. However, his version of the typewriter was not successful. By 1867, Christopher Latham Scholes invented the first successful typewriter.

Scholes’s invention has a major drawback. Instead of printing on the upper side of the roller, it prints on the underside. The implication was that the typist could not see his work until he finishes. Acceptance of this typewriter was slow due to some drawbacks. But a series of improvements were made:

• The shift key was added in 1878. Typists can then type upper-case and lower-case letters with the same key.
• Printing on the upper side of the roller was made possible in 1880. Typists can see their work as they type rather than when they finish.
• The tab key was added in 1897. This made it possible for typists to set margins.

After these changes, the typewriter gained acceptance in the corporate world. By 1900, portable models were created, thus making typewriting available to both individuals and corporations.

Electronic word processing

To improve on the mechanical typewriter, the electric typewriter was invented. The first was patented by Thomas Edison in 1972. However, a workable model was introduced in the 1920s.

By the 1930s, IBM introduced the IBM Electromatic which improved typing speed and made word processing more efficient. Due to the great improvement, the machine gained wide acceptance in the business world.

A major step towards modern word processing came when the Schultz company introduced the repetitive typewriter. This typewriter was able to store information automatically for later retrieval. This made it possible to reproduce multiple identical copies of a document without the use of carbon papers or photocopiers.

In 1961 IBM introduced the Selectric typewriter, which replaced the standard movable carriage and individual type strikers with a revolving typeball. Also, IBM released the MT/ST (Magnetic Tape/Selectric Typewriter) in 1964. The MT/ST combined the features of the Selectric with a magnetic tape drive. Magnetic tape was the first reusable storage medium for typed information.

With the tape, information could be stored, replayed, corrected, and reprinted as many times as needed. You can also erase information on the tape and reuse it for other projects. This development marked the beginning of word processing as it is known today.

IBM first used the term word processing to market their MT/ST machine as a word processing machine. The term was coined by the IBM Engineer, Ulrich Steinhilper in the 1950s. He translated the term from the German word textverabeitung to define the act of typing. But IBM redefined it to describe electronic ways of handling a standard set of office activities. These activities include composing, revising, printing, and filing written documents.

Standalone word processing machines

In the 1970s, word processing shifted from typewriting to computer-based with CRT screens when IBM developed the floppy disks. The first was introduced in the 1970s by Linolex systems. The technology included a floppy disk, software, and a microprocessor.

Lexitron corporation also developed a word processing microcomputer with a CRT monitor and 5 ¼ floppy diskette. The diskette later became the standard for early personal computers. With the introduction of video display units, the text could be entered and corrected without having to produce a hard copy. This means that printing can be delayed until the writer is satisfied with the document.

In 1973, Vydec introduced the first text processor known as Vydec Word Processing System. The machine was the first to allow the creation and editing of multipage documents without changing storage receptacles.

Other standalone machines include the data secretary by Redactron corporation and a CRT-based system by Wang Laboratories. The Wang system has all the characteristics of today’s word processors and was affordable to organizations. It became the basis for other CRT-based word processors. Hence, word processors were referred to as CRT-based machines.

Word processing software

The invention of personal computers marked the beginning of the word-processing software. This was made possible by the advent of disk programs which enhanced the development packages for use with personal computers. Also, the separation of the software from the hardware opened up the field of word processing to individuals.

The first word processing program for personal computers was Electric Pencil, from Michael Shrayer Software. It went on sale in December 1976. By 1978, WordStar was introduced. Because of its many new features, it soon dominated the market. WordStar was written for the early CP/M (Control Program – Micro) operating system.

The era of MS-DOS saw the rise of WordPerfect and Microsoft Word. They replaced WordStar as the main word processing program during this era.

In the late 1980s, word processing shifted to the WYSIWYG (What-you-see-is-what-you-get) and GUI (Graphic User Interface) approach. These were pioneered by the Xerox Alto computer and Bravo word processing program, and Xerox PARC with the Gipsy word processor.

The true WYSIWYG made known to people came when Apple Macintosh and IBM PC were released in 1983 and 1984 respectively. Apple came with MacWrite and IBM PC came with Microsoft Word. Word processing is now one of the most common general applications for personal computers.

When Windows operating system became popular in the 1990s, Microsoft Word’s popularity also grew with it. Today, Microsoft Word has become synonymous with what is called a word processor or word processing software.

Today, there is different word processing program including desktop applications, mobile apps, and cloud-based word processors. These word processors have similar terms common to them. This will lead us to chapter three.

General terms

These are terms that are generally used in word processing. They are not commands but provide relevant information to computer users.

Application: Used in place of a program, hence, you can say a word processing application or a word processing program.

Caps lock: It is turned on when you want to type text in CAPITAL LETTERS or UPPER CASE. A light will appear on your keyboard when the caps lock is on. Press the Caps Lock key to turn it on or off.

Cursor: This is the insertion point of an item in a document. The cursor is a flashing vertical bar on the screen that indicates where entered text or objects will be placed in the document.

Dialog box: This is a boxed window that lists options. It usually appears when some specified commands such as SAVE AS, PAGE SETUP, etc., are issued.

Document: This is a file that contains text, image, table, etc., created using a word processing program. Files created with a word processor are referred to as a document.

Editing: This is the process of making changes or corrections in a document. It includes alterations to the text itself, moving or copying items to other locations, and applying formatting options to the document itself and items within it.

File extension: When a file is created with an application, it usually has two parts – the filename and the extension. The user adds the filename while the application adds the extension. The file extension is usually used to determine the program that creates a file. Examples of file extensions are .doc, .docx, .rtf, .page, etc.

Formatting: The process of formatting a document involves specifying how the document will look in its final form on the screen and when printed. Common formatting options include the font, font size, color, alignment, spacing, margins, and other properties.

Highlighting: Also called selecting. This is the act of choosing an item or group of text in a document. Before you can format an object or text, you need to first highlight such object or text. Changes to be made (deleting, formatting, etc) will only affect the selected items.

Menu bar: The menu bar appears at the top of some word processing application windows. It contains a listing of the main commands in the form of text. Menu items that are common among multiple applications include File, Edit, View, and Help. When you click on one of these items, additional options appear in a drop-down menu on the screen.

Paragraph: A new paragraph is created each time you press the ENTER key on the keyboard. A paragraph can be made up of several lines of text, a single item, or nothing.

Ribbon: Ribbon was introduced in Microsoft Word 2007 to replace the menu bar. The ribbon contains tabs and icons representing the commands to be executed in a document. These commands are handy and easier to use when compared with the menu bar.

Ruler: The rulers appear at the top and left side of a word document within the word processing window. They are used to show the position of margins, tabs, and the document.

Scroll bar: Sometimes you cannot see your entire document. The scroll bars are used to scroll up or down the screen or sideways. Scrolling is like moving a sheet of paper up or down so that you can see more of it. You can use the scroll arrows or the scroll bars on the right and bottom of your window.

Template: A template is a starting point for a document that contains initial formatting options, settings, colors, layout, and placeholders.

Toolbar: A toolbar consists of buttons that provide a shortcut way of performing a commonly used function. Microsoft Word 2007 introduced the concept of quick-access toolbar. You can customize the content of your toolbar.

Word wrap: Word wrap enables a word processor to create a multiline without you pressing the ENTER key. Whenever the cursor reaches the end of a margin it automatically jumps to the next line.

Editing terms

These are terms that relate to the commands for creating and editing documents in word processors.

Autocorrect: This feature is used to correct common typographic errors and misspelled words as you are typing. You can turn it on or off. You can also customize the words to be corrected.

Clipboard: The clipboard is a temporary holding area the computer uses for any item that has been copied or cut. When an item such as text is placed on the clipboard, it can then be pasted elsewhere in the document. Items will stay on the clipboard until they are deleted or erased.

Copy: Used to duplicate items in a document or in other documents. Copied items are placed on the clipboard until it is pasted.

Cut: This is used to move a text or object in the document or to other documents. Cut items are placed on the clipboard until it is pasted.

Find and replace: This allows you to search for a particular word or phrase and replace the same with a specified one.

Indentation: Indent is the space between the margin of the page and the text. Most word processors allow for both left and right indentation. A common use of indention is called “first line indent”. Here the first line of a paragraph is indented and the remaining lines of text lie directly against the left margin.

Paste: Copy or cut usually place the item on the clipboard. The paste is the process of taking the items on the clipboard and placing them in the current location of the insertion point.

Spelling and grammar: This utility is used to check for proper spelling and grammar as you create and edit a document. These utilities may run automatically and alert you to errors as you type using its built-in dictionaries. You can also run the spell check manually when you finished creating your document.

Tab stops: Tabs are used to control the placement of text on a page. Tab stops can be set within the ruler at the top of the word processing window. You can also set the type of the tab. Tab types include left, right, centered, and decimal. The tab type controls how the text will be aligned if it is forced to that tab stop. When the tab key is pressed on the keyboard, the cursor will move to the next tab stop location.

Table: A table is a collection of text, data, or other items that are arranged in columns and rows.

Undo and redo: Undo command is used to reverse the last action (or series of actions) that you have performed in a document. Redo does the reverse of undoing. When using the Undo and Redo commands, each item must be reversed sequentially.

Formatting terms

These are word-processing terms that help in manipulating and customizing the text in a word processing document.

Alignment: Alignment refers to the way text is arranged in the document between the margins. We have right, left, and center alignment. Justify is a type of alignment that flush the text both to the left and the right margins.

Font: A font is a set of letters and numbers of one particular typeface. The font includes not only the typeface but other characteristics such as font size and emphasis.

Footer: The footer is an area that appears at the bottom of every page in a document that can contain one or more lines of text. It is popularly used to insert the page number on each page.

Header: This is an area that appears at the top of every page in a document that can contain one or more lines of text. It can be used to insert a page number of document information.

Line spacing: Line spacing refers to the amount of white space between lines of text in a paragraph. You can choose any single, double, or 1.5 line spacing.

Margin: The margin is the white space between the edge of the page and where text or other items can be placed in your document. You can adjust the margin to increase or decrease it when working with a word processing application.

Orientation: This defines the layout of a document. A document could appear in a portrait or landscape orientation. Portrait orientation is where the height of the page is greater than the width. Landscape orientation has a greater width than height.

Page break: This is used to specify the point at which one page or section ends and another begins. You can manually insert a page break at a specific location.

Paper size: This is used to specify the page layout area or the workspace while working on a document. It is also used to determine the size of the paper a document will be printed on. There are different paper sizes in a word processor to be chosen from, including legal, letter, A4, etc.

Paragraph spacing: Paragraph spacing refers to the amount of white space that is left between paragraphs when the enter key is hit. Unlike line spacing, paragraph spacing does not affect the amount of space between lines of text, but instead, between one paragraph and the next. You can set the space before and after a paragraph.

Mailing terms

These are terms that relate to data and mailing automation in word processing.

Mail merge: Mail merge is a word processing automation that combines database software, word processors, and some e-mail programs. It is used to send the same email content to multiple recipients. Mail merge takes a standard form of e-mail and populates it with the personal information of the recipients.

Wizard: A wizard is an interactive feature in a word processor that will walk you step-by-step through a specialized process. A Wizard is specifically included in Microsoft Word for mail merging. The Mail Merge wizard provides assistance when creating letters and mailing labels from a list of names and addresses.

Printing terms

These are word processing terminology that defines the commands used to set up and print a document.

Page setup: A tool that allows you to customize the size and layout of your printable word document. The parameters to define include the paper size, margins, page orientation, and quality of print.

Print preview: Print Preview is a feature that shows you the prototype of your printed document on the screen. It displays how your document will look on a piece of paper if it were to be printed.

Print: Print is the command that enables you to print your finished document from a printer. There are features included in the print dialog box that will help you specify the print quality.

There are other terms that may not have been included in this terminology. You can encounter them in the course of using each of the word processing software. This leads us to chapter 4 where we will identify some word processing software examples.

Microsoft word

Microsoft Word is one of the most popular word-processing software examples in use today. It has a lot of features that made it the choice of many when it comes to creating and editing documents.

Microsoft word is developed by Microsoft corporation and has different versions for Mac, Windows, Android, and IOS devices. Also, you can subscribe to Microsoft 365 for the cloud version with OneDrive storage.

Microsoft Word has improved search and navigational experience. Also, you can easily collaborate with a team and work with others simultaneously are just some of the benefits. Along with that, Word gives you the ability to access, share, and work on your documents from almost anywhere.

Word also has additional visual effects, turning text into diagrams, and combining visual aspects into text documents. Some of the key features include:

• Provision of templates for resumes and forms.
• Reading documents with the read mode, PDF, letters, and scripts on your mobile device.
• It enables you to save a document as a PDF file.
• You can share your file with others and collaborate with your team.
• Supporting editing with rich formatting.
• Managing permission for documents
• Creating comments in the documents.

Price: Depends on the version. The cost for 1 pc is about $166.66. Microsoft 365 personal is about $64.28 per annum and $6.43 per month.

Google docs

Google Docs is an online application that helps you to create and edit documents. It is a free word processor that is part of the G-suite applications. You can use the software to create letters, memos, reports, and other documents.

Google docs has lots of free templates you can choose to create different types of word documents. It contains numerous fonts and images. You can use the application to create and make changes in files anywhere at any time. Some of its features are:

• Creating and editing word documents
• Lots of free templates
• You can share documents online using Google Drive
• You can convert Word docs to Google Docs
• Accessible from a Phone, tablet, or computer.
• You can make changes in the document in real time.
• It offers chat and comment in the capability.
• You can convert Google Doc files to Word files or vice versa.
• You can search quotes, text, and images in the Google Doc Android app.
• Supported platforms: Web, iOS, Android, and Mac.

Price: Free

Apple Pages

Apple pages is a word processing software developed by Apple computers. It is a word processor shipped with apple devices; it also allows users to create documents online.

Some of its features include:

• Beautiful and colorful photo card templates that allow you to create different documents.
• Mail merge feature for sending a batch mailing to multiple recipients.
• Screen view which makes it easier to view, read and edit documents on iPhone devices.
• Language translation is made easier within your document.
• Use scribble to turn handwritten words into text
• Play YouTube and Vimeo videos right in Pages, without the need to open a web browser. Simply add a link, and play your web video inside your document or book.
• Easily record, edit, and play audio directly on a page.
• Add elegance to your mathematical equations using LaTeX or MathML notation.
• Edit shared documents while offline, and your changes will automatically upload when your accounts are online again.

Price: Free

Corel Wordperfect

WordPerfect is one of the oldest word processing software. Developed by Corel, WordPerfect is a legendary word processor that so many uses to create documents, letters, brochures, resumes, and more. With the compatibility of over 60 file formats, including Microsoft, and powerful Reveal Codes, document control has never been easier.

The basic features of WordPerfect include:

• The WordPerfect eBook Publisher supports EPUB format which provides compatibility with eBook devices, such as Kobo, Nook, and Sony Reader.
• Includes Oxford concise dictionary for spelling check
• You can open, edit, and save the latest Microsoft Office file formats in each WordPerfect Office 2021 application.
• Have quick access to vital document statistics in WordPerfect, such as word count, character count, line count, and more.
• Improved file stability when working on a file, opening a file, or saving a file directly to a server.
• Import pdf files into the WordPerfect application and smoothly edit them with built-in pdf functionality.
• Perform multiple find-and-replace actions with ease.
• The Mail Merge Expert makes it simple to associate a data source and create mail for multiple recipients.

Price: WordPerfect Office Standard 2021 at $249.99

LibreOffice writer

LibreOffice is a powerful and free office suite. It is a successor to OpenOffice.org, used by millions of people around the world. It has a clean interface and feature-rich tools that help you unleash your creativity and enhance your productivity.

LibreOffice includes several applications that make it the most versatile Free and Open-Source office suite on the market. Its word processor is known as LibreOffice Writer. Writer has all the features you need from a modern, full-featured word processing and desktop publishing tool.

It’s simple enough for a quick memo, but powerful enough to create complete books with contents, diagrams, indexes, and more. It has the following features:

• It has full word processing features to allow you to create and edit different kinds of documents.
• It is compatible with a wide range of document formats such as Microsoft Word, Open Document Format, etc.
• You can export your document in pdf format
• It has extensions that allow you to get more features and document templates from its website.
• With an autocorrect dictionary, you can correct errors as you type.
• Use the mail merge wizard to easily create mail for multiple recipients.

Price: Free

Zoho writer

Zoho Writer is a free ad powerful cloud-based word processing software in use by many. Because it is cloud-based, it can be used across all devices. It can also be used to collaborate with teammates in real time.

With Zoho writer, you can create elegant, inspiring documents for free. Let’s consider some of its features.

• Easy to get started with any device. Simply visit Zoho writer and register with your email address.
• Write across all devices from every location.
• Write and edit documents with teammates in real time.
• Save your documents in pdf and MS Word document formats.
• Collaborate on content and post it directly to your WordPress or Blogger pages.
• Contextual grammar, readability, and style suggestions.
• Document automation and sign collection capabilities along with Zoho CRM integration.

Price: Free

WPS office writer

WPS Office writer is an example of word processing software that is available for all devices. You can download it for your PC, tablet, or mobile phone.

WPS Office enables you to edit and manage Writer, Presentation, Spreadsheet, and PDF with others at the same time. It is fully compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS and supports 47 file formats and 46 languages.

Key features of this productivity program:

• Work anywhere on any available device
• Available on multiple platforms including Mac, Windows, Linus, Android, and IOS
• WPS Office writer supports 15 file formats including .doc, .docx, and multiple languages.
• It also has cloud service for easy two-way document sync across all platforms and devices.
• Built-in applications provide you with superior features such as file format conversion, text extraction, long image output, watermark, and annotation.
• Thousands of free and premium templates to meet your document creation needs.
• Exclusive and excellent themes created by professional art designers to meet diverse aesthetic pursuits.

Price: Free for WPS standard. WPS premium starts at $29.99 per year.

Polaris docs

Polaris Office is a combination of tools that includes Polaris Docs. Polaris docs is a versatile word processor that is similar to the combination of Microsoft Word and Google Docs. It has versions for Windows, Mac, IOS, and Android.

The Polaris web office provides solutions to view and edit various document formats such as word, sheet, slides, and HWP. You can apply and deploy document viewer editing services easily with any server environment or technology.

Polaris docs is a very versatile word processing software that allows you to work on your documents wherever you are. These are some of its key features:

• It allows multiple users to access the document from different platforms, such as PCs or mobile clients.
• Can be used for real-time writing and editing and collaboration
• Provides support and collaborative editing for office documents such as Word, Sheet, and Slide documents
• Provides real-time document coediting with teammates. A URL link can be sent to the invitee for collaborative works and permission for editing granted.
• Unified communication channels such as email, instant chat, and phone. It helps to minimize cumbersome feedback and emailing while maximizing work efficiency.

Price: Free. Polaris Office Smart $39.99/ year; Polaris Office Pro $59.99/ year. Download for Mac and Windows for 1 Pc at $79.99. Download for IOS at $39.99.

Scribus

Scribus is a free and open-source desktop publishing software. It is specially designed for typesetting, layout, and presentation of files. This app can also create PDFs and forms.

Though it’s a bit different from standard word processing software, you can choose one of the designed layouts. You can also set up your page, and even improve your written documents with professional-looking quality images.

With Scribus, you can also create animations that you can place directly inside your document. You can also turn your text documents into interactive PDF presentations. Basic features include:

• Support for a user-friendly interface.
• Support publishing features like color management and PDF creation.
• Vector drawings capabilities
• Supports documentation creation tools like LaText, Lilypond, etc.
• You can import or export a huge number of files to Scribus.
• Supports platforms like Windows, Linux, Mac OS X, Solaris, PC-BSD, OpenBSD, NetBSD, and Haiku.

Price: Free

FocusWriter

FocusWriter is a simple, distraction-free writing environment. It utilizes a hide-away interface that you access by moving your mouse to the edges of the screen. With this feature, you can focus on the page and text. Whenever you need to use any integrated feature, simply swipe your cursor across the edges to open the hidden menu.

It’s available for Linux and Windows and has been translated into many different languages. Its key features are:

• TXT, basic RTF, and essential ODT file support
• Timers, alarms, and daily goals
• Fully customizable themes and sessions
• Has optional features like typewriter sound effects, live statistics, spell-checking, multi-document support, and a portable mode
• Can be translated into over 20 languages

Price: Free

There are other examples of word processing software that cannot be explicitly discussed in this guide. However, you can try apps like FreeOffice TextMaker, Dropbox Paper, Grammarly, ProWritingAid, Scrivener, etc., to create a document.

This leads us to chapter 5 where we shall illustrate how to create a document.

Examples of word processing documents

You can create different kinds of files using a word processor. For ease and elegance, you can use a built-in template in any of your selected word processor.

Examples of documents you can create with a word processing software include: memo, letter, newsletter, reports, brochure, resume, etc.

To create a document, you can start with a template or a blank document. Virtually all the cloud-based word processors have elegant templates to get started.

How to make a program in word

If you have an upcoming event, you can quickly create a program for such an event in a word processor. Depending on the nature of the program, you can use a template to speed up creation.

In this illustration, we shall use Microsoft Word template to make a program. Let’s begin with the following steps.

1. Open Microsoft Word in the backstage view and select New. (Please, ensure that you are connected to the internet)
2. On the search for templates box, type program, and press ENTER.

1. On the search result window, select any of the program templates and click on Create. The template will download. After downloading, it will open with the template.

1. On the open template, make every necessary changes you want.
2. After the necessary changes are made, share or print the document and share it with your audience.

Create a booklet in word

A booklet is a small book that has less than 50 pages. It is usually created like a book with a book cover and handles a topic or subject.

Let’s create a booklet in Microsoft Word. You can start with a blank word document or use a template. Using a template is usually easier than starting with a blank document. Follow these steps to create a booklet in Microsoft Word using a blank document.

1. Open Microsoft Word and select Blank document in the Backstage View.
2. In the Microsoft Word window, click the Layout tab and select Margins from the Page Setup group.

1. Select Custom Margins… from the Margins dropdown menu to open the Page Setup dialog box.

1. In the Page Setup dialog box, do the following:
   • Set the margins appropriately. The default can do it. However, add a few inches in the Gutter box. This will create binding space on the inside.
   • Under Pages, in the Multiple pages box, select Book fold item from the list.
   • Select the Paper tab and select A4 paper size. Then click OK.
2. Start entering text and images in the pages of your newly configured booklet document. When you are done with your writing and formatting, print your work.
3. To print your booklet, do the following:
   • Select Print from File, or press CTRL+P on the keyboard. The print dialog window appears.
   • Change Print One Sided to Manually Print on Both Sides.
   • Load paper to printer and test run the printing by printing a few pages then flip the sheets. If both sides of the sheets are printed correctly, then continue with your booklet printing.

1. Share or distribute your booklet to your audience.

Compare two word documents

You can compare two versions of a document to see how they differ. Though it might be tedious, especially for a long document. However, word processing software provides tools that make it easy and efficient.

In this section, I will show you how to compare two documents with Google Docs word processor.

1. Ensure that the two documents you want to compare are uploaded to your Google drive. (See how to upload a file from your local drive)
2. Open Google Docs and select one of the documents you want to compare in the Start a new document window.

1. In the Open Document window, select the Tools menu. From the dropdown list, select Compare Documents.

1. The compare documents dialog box opens.

1. In the compare documents window, under Select, the comparison document, select My Drive.
2. From the dialog that appears, select the second document you want to compare. Click the Compare button.
3. When Google Docs is done, a dialog box appears telling you that the Comparison is ready. Click the Open button to view the differences.

1. The comparison document opens with a suggestion box informing you on what to do. Accept the suggestion or reject it.

In Microsoft Word, you will select Review > Compare. Then, select the two documents to be compared in a dialog box that appears.

Review the two documents and track the changes made to the compared document.

Conclusion

I hope you found this word processing guide useful and easy to apply. Below are resources that will help you get started if you want to deepen your knowledge of Microsoft Word.

Before that, I will love to hear from you: which of the chapters do you appreciate most? Which of the word processing software most appeals to you? Looking at Microsoft Word alternatives, which one software among many would you prefer?

Whichever, please, let me know what you think by leaving a comment below.

Practice Resources

What is Microsoft Word: A Practical Overview

Creating Documents in MS Word

Paragraph Formatting in a Word Document

Inserting and Formatting Text in Word Document

Creating and Formatting Tables in Microsoft Word

The Page Layout: Microsoft Word Tutorials 3

Whether you want to create a letter, report, essay, or any other document, a word processor is one of the first tools you can use for that.

Word processors help you work with text documents such that you can create, edit, and print them, check spelling automatically, create tables and columns, and use a wide selection of templates among other things.

Most people use Microsoft Word as their default word processing software, but there are many other word processors available each with helpful features that will fit your needs.

You should find that most of these best word processing software examples can handle just about everything you need. Some of them are free while others come at a small fee with extra purchase add-ons for basic functionality and more.

If you’d rather do your writing online, we’ve also included some word processors that don’t require a download, and you can access them wherever you are provided you have an internet connection.

The options below are easy to use and provide a reliable platform you can work from whether you’re at home, at work, or in the office.

1. WPS Office Writer

Formerly Kingsoft Office, WPS Office is a word processor that looks and feels just like Microsoft Word, except that it’s completely free to use.

You get 1GB free cloud storage with OneDrive, pre-installed templates for different common types of documents, and you can create your own template too for bespoke tasks.

The software is compatible with current and legacy Microsoft Word versions from Office 97 or newer, and every text file format you can think of. Plus, it’s supported by discrete and barely noticeable ads, though you can upgrade to the paid-for version to remove these ads.

It’s very impressive, and comes with a free PDF to Word converter, which is a handy companion to the word processor. Its tabbed interface, uncluttered menu, and clean design make WPS Office Writer easy to use.

You can perform spell check automatically and toggle it on and off from the menu. You can also add custom dictionaries, create a table of contents or cover page, encrypt documents, and use the side pane to view all pages of a document.

Writer also supports dual page layout, full-screen mode, and has a hide menu option to prevent distractions when you’re writing. You can also use the view mode, which turns the background of the page into a greenish color to protect against eye damage.

You can use Writer with Windows, Mac, Linux, and mobile devices (Android or iPhone).

2. Google Docs

Google Docs is a free online word processor that also works similarly to Microsoft Word so you can create, edit, print, and collaborate on documents easily and quickly.

The software allows you to access your work wherever you are, and at any time you want. There are robust editing options that allow you to insert tables, images, comments, and special characters, bookmarks, headers and footers, and more.

You can also type documents with your voice. And if you want to share or edit the document with others, you can do that easily on Google Docs. It also allows you to track edits that other users make along with time stamps.

Besides creating your own documents online, Google Docs allows you to upload other documents from your computer like .docx files and work on them. You can use the cloud-based tool from multiple devices including your computer, tablet, or phone through the mobile app for Android and iOS devices.

The features and space may not be as many as those that other word processors provide and you need a Google account to use Google Docs. You also can’t import content from other Google apps, and if you try to, you’ll run into multiple formatting issues.

However, its features are all free to use once you’re all set up. It’s also one of the most obvious choices, with the advantage of automatic saving for all your work.

You can work offline if you’re using Google Docs on Chrome browser, and you won’t have to worry if your connection fails.

3. FocusWriter

FocusWriter is a portable word processor with a minimal interface. The software allows you to open and save documents to DOCX, RTF, ODT, TXT, and other popular formats you may be used to.

The program hides menus automatically along with other buttons so that you can write without distractions. You can also run FocusWriter in full-screen mode so that you focus only on the current program window.

You can use the usual basic formatting you’d find with other popular word processors like bold, underling, strikethrough, and text alignment. You can also edit page margins, line spacing, color, foreground, and background text to produce custom themes.

The software also comes with an alarm so you can set goals based on your typing needs. For example, you can type a specific number of words or type for a specific number of minutes per day. Another advantage of FocusWriter is that it’s regularly updated so you know you can get frequent security updates and new features as you need them.

FocusWriter is chock-full of intelligent features for maximizing your productivity without getting in the way of your writing.

It also has alerts that are triggered at specific times or whenever you hit a certain, predefined word count. This way, you won’t need to worry about checking a word counter as you would with other word processors.

Like other word processors, FocusWriter works with Windows, Mac, and Linux devices.

4. TextMaker from FreeOffice

TextMaker is a free word processor that’s part of the SoftMaker FreeOffice suite of office programs. The software comes with several handy templates, a good-looking interface, and a decent selection of features, though they may not be as extensive as some other word processors.

With the templates, you can create letters and other everyday documents, make new designs for future use, and save them in the TMV format.

You’ll find all the usual features of modern word processing software in TextMaker, like advanced formatting options, and a function for tracking changes on collaborative projects. You also get to create databases to manage your footnotes and bibliographies.

While you can’t save your work in the DOCX format, TextMaker still lets you open such files and edit them with no difficulty, but this feature is only part of the premium SoftMaker Office suite.

You can also open OpenDocument extensions and save them as PDFs, spell check in 58 languages, insert tables, drawings, and pictures, and create PDF files and ebooks in EPUB format directly in the app.

The first time you open the word processor, you can select a classic menu style or use a familiar ribbon menu, which is like what you’d find in Word or other popular word processors.

You also get a touch mode option that you can enable.

The menu options are logically organized and you can create chapters, footnotes, preview documents before opening them, insert comments, track changes, add objects, and use shapes, plus much more.

TextMaker opens a wide range of documents including plain text, OpenDocument files, WPD, WRI, SXW, PWD, and more. If you want to save your work, TextMaker exports to HTML, DOCX, TXT, and DOTX, specific file formats like TMD and TMDX, and more.

You can download TextMaker as part of FreeOffice, and then install either the word processor alone or the entire suite of programs.

TextMaker works with Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android operating systems, and is free for home and business use.

5. Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word has been used since 1983 when Microsoft first developed it. Since then, they’ve released many updated versions of the word processing software, each with more features and better technology than its predecessor.

Microsoft 365 is the most current web-based version of the program, but Microsoft Office 2019 – the software version – comes with MS Word 2019.

You can get Word in all MS Office application suites, along with others like Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and more.

With Word, you can do many things including creating simple documents with numbered and bulleted lists and choose from various pre-configured designs and styles for easier formatting. You can also insert videos and pictures from the web or your computer, draw shapes, and create different kinds of charts.

You can also set tabs and margins, insert page breaks, configure the spacing between lines, and create a table of contents too.

In Word, you can easily transform documents into web pages whether it’s a newsletter or other document you want to publish for others to see. Plus, you can get real-time translation in a single click and collaborate with others across the globe in non-native languages.

When you want to add dimension to your documents, Word allows you to get creative by inserting 3D models in your presentations, book reports, or other documents. And once you’re done, review and read your writing with ease using Word’s learning tools that elevate your reading comprehension.

You can read articles in the task pane, use the editor to check your spelling and grammar to write with confidence, and see how task management works to assign, manage, and complete tasks.

6. LibreOffice Writer

LibreOffice Writer is a word processor that helps you edit all kinds of documents to create impeccable work in a few clicks. You can work offline using this free and open-source word processor that handles all your writing-related tasks like Word and other word processors can.

The software runs on any computer and is a great option for in-depth functionality. You can get all the features you need to edit your documents on a simple and easy-to-use platform.

You can create documents like books or memos, add diagrams, use indexes, and more. And you don’t have to waste time trying to make the document look good – Writer does that for you so you’re free to focus on your message.

Your documents will look beautiful and you can select or apply fonts from your computer, customize styles for any part of the document, and trap any spelling mistakes or typos on the fly.

There’s an AutoCorrect dictionary available for you to check your spelling as you type and you can use different languages in your work too.

To help you through your document, LibreOffice Writer offers different wizards that take the stress out of producing letters, minutes, faxes, agendas, and other standard documents.

It also makes short work of mail merges and other more complex tasks.

By default, LibreOffice Writer ships with document templates so you don’t have to create complex documents because that feature is built-in just for you.

As a fork of Apache OpenOffice, LibreOffice offers similar word processing apps, but the latter has a livelier userbase and gets more frequent updates.

You can use LibreOffice Writer with your Windows, Mac, or Linux computer. It supports all popular file formats and you can export documents to PDF directly from LibreOffice Writer, so you won’t need a PDF converter or other additional software.

7. OpenOffice Writer

OpenOffice Writer is a free word processor that’s included as part of the OpenOffice Suite, which contains other programs like a database, presentation, and spreadsheet program.

With Writer, which is like Word for Microsoft 365, you can perform several things including spell check, using custom font styles, bookmarks, macros, native image gallery, and keyboard shortcuts.

The software also comes with a portable version, which you can use with a disc or flash drive if you don’t want to install it.

All the important features you expect to find in a word processor are included. You also get support for a wide range of popular file types, the ability to add side notes, and wizards that are easy to use when creating faxes, letters, and agendas.

In the side menu pane, you can switch between styles, editing page properties, and formatting to insert images from the gallery. You can also undock the pane settings to get more room to write with simple access to crucial features.

To get Writer, though, you need to download the entire OpenOffice Suite, even if you have the portable option.

Other features you get include opening Word files – DOC and DOCX files – without installing Word on your device. You can also record macros to automate tasks, access the thesaurus from the right-click context menu, use different zoom options for viewing the document, and more.

OpenOffice Writer works with Windows, Mac, and Linux devices. It may be a bit overwhelming to use the first time, but once you’re familiar with the menus and buttons, it’s easy to use.

8. WordGraph from SSuite Office

WordGraph is a word processor with many standard features that other word processors provide. However, it also has some unique tools that you may not get elsewhere.

Besides charts, graphics, tables, and illustrations, WordGraph can also create an index and table of contents, produce PDFs, and access files from Dropbox and OneDrive among other storage services.

You can spell-check your work using the software and quickly create great letters, books, or other documents complete with embedded illustrations, bibliographies, tables of contents, and indexes.

The software is powerful for creating, editing, and viewing different documents, and you can also create highly structured yet simple documents like tables, charts, graphics, and more.

If you want a fine degree of control over text formatting, document sections, pages, and entire documents, WordGraph provides all that. You can also save your work in various industry-standard formats and export it to BMP, PDF, JPG, GIF, PNG, and SSP – which is their own presentation format.

The software works with MS Office formats like TXT, DOC, SSP, and RTC. You can also create PDFs without any extra tools thanks to its native PDF capabilities that let you share work easily and with anyone.

Other features you find with WordGraph include thumbnail previews, tabbed document interfaces, direct online cloud access, multi-display compatibility, WordArt, Math Equations, and more.

WordGraph works on Windows, Mac, and Linux machines, and you can download the application on its own without downloading the entire SSuite Office software.

9. WriteMonkey

WriteMonkey centers its software around offering a distraction-free interface so you can focus on your work and nothing else.

The portable word processor offers menu options that are only displayed when you right-click your document and you can then open new documents, toggle focus mode, open dev tools, or copy text, and more.

You can maximize your output on WriteMonkey without fussing with the edit and format part of the software. It’s not built for creating CVs and letters, but is good for when you want to draft your early ideas and jot them down to flesh out later.

The program works with TXT files only (like Notepad), which means if you want to open a document, you need to convert it to TXT first.

The controls are hidden, meaning you’ll struggle to navigate, but you can use a collection of keyboard shortcuts or the right-click menu. These make it faster to use WriteMonkey than using tool-based word processors.

You can also lookup words in Wikipedia, Poetry.com, Answers.com, or Google Images, and many others without opening your browser manually.

There’s no need to install WriteMonkey because it’s portable – just extract the files to a cloud storage service or removable drive and run the .exe file to fire up the program.

10. Jarte

Jarte is a word processor that offers some features you wish you could get in the popular options. You can customize your document layout in different ways, set up the software to autosave every 20 minutes or so, open documents in a tabbed format, and use the portable option too.

The free word processor supports common file types and allows you to install spell check dictionaries as you set up the software on your device. You can configure it to open the last file you were using automatically when launching the software.

Jarte is fully compatible with Windows XP, Vista, 8/8.1, and 10. You can open DOCX, DOC, and RTF file extensions, use full touchscreen support with finger swipe scrolling, and automatic screen reader mode for screen reader programs.

You also get to link to or import existing spelling dictionaries, export to PDF or HTML, use Jarte with other programs via Hot Connect, send files via email, and get full drag-and-drop support plus much more.

When editing, you can insert images, page breaks, tables, hyperlinks, equations, and other embeddable objects. You also get standard clipboard functions, font and paragraph formatting, print functions, undo and redo, sorting, and more.

Wrapping Up

Word processors are handy programs you can use on your computer or mobile device for input, editing, formatting, and text output. They come with multiple features that let you create, edit, save, and print documents.

These 10 best word processing software examples can do all these things and more. You can download one or more and try each one to find the best one suited to your needs.

When you sit in on a virtual conference or when your boss starts firing off their favorite productivity tips, what do you do? You open a digital document and take notes. 📝

…probably with the same word processing software you’ve used since the ninth grade. 👀

Word processing software isn’t what it used to be—it’s better.

These tools have evolved beyond the boring blank screens we felt forced to use. Now, word processing can actually be fun!

Rich text editing, dynamic formatting, intuitive writing assistance, and collaboration features are some of the greatest benefits to using top word processing software. But the best part? It’s also incredibly affordable.

Follow along as we dive into every must-have word-processing feature and the 10 best word-processing software for every team, writing style, and use case! Complete with detailed feature comparisons, pros and cons, pricing, ratings, and more!

What is a Word Processing Software?

Word processing software is an application used to capture, format, and edit any form of writing—whether it be your general thoughts, meeting notes, SOPs, or email drafts. Your mind may immediately go to typewriters, but the benefits of word-processing software extend much further than that.

Thanks to the modern development of project management software, collaboration tools, and intuitive design, word processing software can do more than you ever thought possible! You can edit one document alongside your peers, arrange documents by category, share them via simple links, and flex your creativity with rich formatting. And these days, that’s just the bare minimum!

The thing is, there are a ton of word processing software to choose from these days.

In fact, we’d bet our bottom dollar that you can think of a few off the top of your head as we speak! You might even have a top three!

But with the number of new, flexible, and exciting features being added to word processing tools each day, it’s important to know what to look for in your go-to software in order to best serve your use case and to get the most bang for your buck.

What Should You Look for in Word Processing Software?

All this talk about advanced features makes you wonder—what does this functionality actually look like?

You don’t have to settle for the basic features we grew up struggling with. You also don’t have to fork over an arm and a leg to access powerful software that can take your documents so much further!

Here is a list of our favorite, must-have features to look for in your next word-processing software:

• Ease of use: Make sure your software is easy to learn, share with others, and efficiently supports your most-used functions
• Cloud-based and a reliable offline mode: Things happen! You might lose your wifi connection, need to switch devices, or be asked to share your documents on the spot. Cloud-based software and offline functionality ensure these hurdles won’t pose any real problem
• Collaboration features: These features make it possible for you to edit and develop documents in real-time with the team! With clarity and without overlap. And consider it a bonus if you can also tag your team or comment on your text
• Custom permissions and sharing: Especially if you often work with stakeholders, clients, or other departments, it’s important to have the ability to choose who can edit, view, or give access to your work
• Version history: This is your way of keeping a digital paper trail. Plus, if you make a mistake, you’ll have the power to go back and restore your text
• Integrations: The more integrations, the more information you can pull into your documents! Plus, it goes both ways, multiple integrations with your chosen word processing software means you can also access your documents from virtually anywhere and from any other tool

The 10 Best Word-Processing Software

There’s no reason why your word-processing software can’t be exciting, dynamic, or collaborative.

Digital editors and document sharing have come a long way in the past decade and we have tons of software to show for that growth! The challenge then becomes finding a tool that’s tailored to your unique needs and aligns with your work style.

So what do you do? You refer back to this list!

We’ve researched and tested the best word-processing software to bring you 10 of our favorites based on their best features, limitations, pricing, ratings, and more!

1. ClickUp

ClickUp is the ultimate all-in-one productivity tool for teams across industries to centralize their work into one collaborative platform. ClickUp is known for its rich set of fully customizable features, including a built-in document editor to create everything from simple to-do lists to detailed wikis, then connect them directly to your workflow.

With the ability to convert text into actionable tasks, embed data from virtually any other work tool, and collaborate on documents in real-time, ClickUp Docs is the ideal word processing tool for teams, students, and enterprise companies alike.

ClickUp best features

• Advanced word processing and work management features across every pricing plan, even Free Forever
• Embed media, tables, bookmarks, and even other documents into ClickUp Docs to bring more context and value into your roadmaps and knowledge bases
• Live detection in ClickUp Docs lets teams edit, contribute, and comment on the same document in real-time
• Link Docs to tasks and add widgets to automatically update workflows from your document editor
• Turn highlighted text into action items and delegate them to the team with threaded comments and @mentions
• Hundreds of templates for any use case, including several created specifically for ClickUp Docs
• Easy and secure sharing via URL for any guest, collaborator, or even public access
• Over 1,000 integrations to embed work into ClickUp Docs from virtually anywhere
• Nested pages and styling options to create visual hierarchies within every Doc

ClickUp cons

• There can be a bit of an adjustment period learning all of ClickUp’s advanced features
• Some views are not yet offered on the mobile app

ClickUp pricing

• Free Forever
• Unlimited: $5 per user, per month
• Business: $12 per user, per month
• Business Plus: $19 per user, per month
• Enterprise: Contact ClickUp for custom pricing

ClickUp ratings and reviews

• G2: 4.7/5 (5,680+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.7/5 (3,540+ reviews)

2. Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word is a powerful word processor for anyone to create Word documents, spreadsheets, emails, and more. It’s part of the Microsoft Office Suite, which makes it easy to integrate with other Microsoft products like Excel and PowerPoint.

Word offers various features to help you stay organized, such as template options for different types of formal documents and advanced editing tools. You can add images, tables, charts, hyperlinks, and other media to enhance the look of your MS Word documents. The program also provides many features to help make creating documents more efficient, such as a spellchecker, auto-corrector, and thesaurus. 

Microsoft Word best features

• OneDrive storage to save and access documents from anywhere
• Real-time collaboration to share and edit with others
• Spelling and grammar checker
• Mobile app

Microsoft Word limitations

• Functions on the toolbar are different from version to version
• Many features of Word forms don’t transfer and cause the format to break when printing documents

Microsoft Word pricing

• Microsoft Word is available as a standalone version for $159.99 or with a Microsoft 365 subscription

Microsoft Word ratings and reviews

• Capterra: 4.7/5 (1,600+ reviews)
• G2: 4.7/5 (1,000+ reviews)

3. Google Docs

Google Docs is an online word processor that makes it easy to create and edit professional documents. With real-time collaboration tools, Google Docs provides a platform for groups of people to collaborate on a single project, ensuring that everyone stays up-to-date with the document’s progress. Features like templated and automated formatting are also available to make your document look professional. 

With Google Docs, users can track changes, comments, and suggestions as they make revisions and edits. All of the documents you create in Google Docs are automatically saved in the cloud, so you can access them from any device at any time. So whether you’re on your desktop or mobile device, you can continue working!

Google Docs best features

• @Mentions to pull relevant people, files, and events
• Smart Compose helps you write faster with fewer errors
• Third-party applications with project management tools
• Comment replies from Gmail 

Google Docs limitations

• Limitations on document sizes
• Not suitable as a scalable knowledge base system 

Google Docs pricing

• Google Docs is free with a Google account

Google Docs ratings and reviews

• Capterra: 4.7/5 (27,000+ reviews)
• G2: N/A

4. Grammarly

Grammarly is an AI-powered writing assistant. It helps you identify and fix grammar, spelling, punctuation, and other writing errors quickly. Grammarly offers suggestions while you’re using desktop apps or websites, including Gmail, ClickUp, LinkedIn, Google Docs, and more!

With Grammarly, you get feedback on your writing in real-time so you can improve it instantly. Plus, with its deep understanding of grammar topics and linguistics, you can trust your next report or project will be polished and professional. Grammarly makes it easy to focus on what’s important—creating strong, compelling content.

Discover the top content collaboration software!

Grammarly best features

• Style Guide to capture voice and style for consistent documents
• Text snippets to insert sentences and paragraphs in all workflows
• Tone Detector for effective communication
• In-app editor to upload documents

Grammarly limitations

• Doesn’t work for all apps and websites
• Expensive monthly subscriptions

Grammarly pricing

• Free plan
• Premium: $12/month
• Business: $15/member per month

Grammarly ratings and reviews

• Capterra: 4.7/5 (6,000+ reviews)
• G2: 4.6/5 (1,200+ reviews)

5. WPS Office

WPS Office is a comprehensive office suite that provides you with the tools and features necessary to manage all your documents, files, and presentations efficiently. It supports popular file formats and is compatible with PC and mobile devices. With WPS Office, users can create and edit text documents, spreadsheets, and slide shows in an intuitive and user-friendly interface. 

It also includes powerful document management tools such as colorful themes, annotation, split PDF documents, and file format conversion. The software also has advanced collaboration capabilities that allow multiple users to work on the same file simultaneously. 

WPS Office best features

• 100,000+ templates organized by categories
• Multiple language support
• Text extraction 
• Watermark creation

WPS Office limitations

• Limited ability to handle different work styles and preferences
• A free plan is not available 

WPS Office pricing

• WPS Premium: $18.99 for 6 months or $29.99 for 1 year
• WPS Business (WPS Cloud Pro): Starts at $5.99/user per month

WPS Office ratings and reviews

• Capterra: 4.5/5 (1,200+ reviews)
• G2: 4.4/5 (200+ reviews)

6. Dropbox Paper

Dropbox Paper offers a simple way to start a project. The drag–and–drop feature allows users to break down complex tasks into easily manageable chunks. By inviting teammates to collaborate on projects, everyone can contribute to the conversation, comment on each other’s work, and brainstorm in real-time. 

The Master Doc feature allows anyone to create a hub for other docs. For complex or long-term projects, organizing documents from the start will boost productivity. It provides you with an efficient way to access and manage all the related documents by creating links to them. You don’t need to spend extra time searching for files. Search or navigate within the master document!

Dropbox Paper best features

• Search bar to find  publicly viewable docs associated with a team member’s email address
• Keyboard shortcuts to highlight specific text
• Custom templates to standard forms
• Auto-generated table of contents

Dropbox Paper limitations

• Limitations on file upload sizes in a Dropbox account
• Basic users can only be signed into three devices at a time

Dropbox Paper pricing

• Plus: $9.99/month for 1 user
• Family: $16.99/family per month for up to 6 users
• Professional: $16.58/month for 1 user
• Standard: $15/user per month for 3+ users
• Advanced: $24/user per month for 3+ users
• Enterprise: Contact Dropbox for pricing 

Dropbox Paper ratings and reviews

• Capterra: 4.4/5 (100+ reviews)
• G2: 4.1/5 (4,400+ reviews)

7. Notion

Notion is a document-based workspace for your notes, tasks, documents, and databases. It’s a versatile tool as a word processor to track any information, from project milestones and task reminders to travel plans and personal ideas. 

Notion’s operating system makes it easy to organize whatever you need to keep track of. With its intuitive drag-and-drop interface, you can quickly set up custom workspaces tailored to whatever type of project or goal. Plus, Notion allows you to link between different databases and notes, create checklists, embed media, and more.

Check out the best Notion alternatives!

Notion best features

• iOS, Windows, web browser, MacOS platforms
• Calendar, Kanban boards, lists, and gallery views
• Real-time collaboration
• Bidirectional linking

Notion limitations

• Pricey premium plans compared to other word processors on this list
• Limited project and task management features

Notion pricing

• Free plan
• Plus: $8/user per month, billed annually
• Business: $15/user per month, billed annually
• Enterprise: Contact Notion for pricing 

Notion ratings and reviews

• Capterra: 4.7/5 (1,100+ reviews)
• G2: 4.6/5 (1,000+ reviews)

8. Coda

Coda is a powerful document editor for creating and managing content. With Coda, you can create documents from scratch, edit existing ones, track changes, collaborate with others in real-time, and share them securely. The editor provides a range of tools to help you write fluently and quickly—including text formatting, image editing, tables, and hyperlinks. 

Coda also comes with built-in collaboration features, so you can invite people to join in on projects and discuss changes easily. With its easy-to-use interface and intuitive tools, Coda is a word processor solution for anyone looking to build professional documents!

Coda best features

• Building blocks to upgrade documents into boards
• Dashboards to view connected data
• Google Calendar and Slack integrations
• Drag-and-drop basic templates

Coda limitations

• Not scalable as a document database compared to other word processors
• Limited integrations with other apps 

Coda pricing

• Free plan
• Pro: $10/month per Doc Maker, billed annually
• Team: $30/month per Doc Maker, billed annually
• Enterprise: Contact Coda for pricing 

Coda ratings and reviews

• Capterra: 4.6/5 (40+ reviews)
• G2: 4.7/5 (300+ reviews)

Bonus: Compare Coda Vs. Airtable

9. Evernote

Evernote is an online note-taking application to help you be more productive and organized. With Evernote, you can store anything from text-based notes to images, videos, and audio recordings. You can even add reminders and read web pages offline. Evernote is available for various platforms, including mobile devices. Plus, it has a Web Clipper browser extension!

No matter what type of project you’re working on, Evernote makes managing the details easier. Whether it’s brainstorming new content ideas or planning a business meeting, Evernote gives you the freedom to capture, organize and sync all your information. With features like searchable tags and categories, you’ll have the tools to find what you need, when you need it.

Connect Evernote and ClickUp to manage your notes in one place!

Evernote best features

• Calendar view to connect schedules and notes
• Document scanner to go paperless
• Due dates and reminders functionality
• Google Calendar integration

Evernote limitations

• Limited number of saved templates on all plans
• Evernote Teams account has a shared 30 GB of uploads per month

Evernote pricing

• Free plan
• Personal: $6.67/month, billed annually
• Professional: $9.17/month, billed annually
• Teams: $14.99/month per user

Evernote ratings and reviews

• Capterra: 4.4/5 (7,700+ reviews)
• G2: 4.4/5 (1,900+ reviews)

10. LibreOffice

LibreOffice is a free open source office suite designed to make completing everyday tasks easier. It’s an open-source product, meaning that it’s free and available to all users. LibreOffice includes programs for word processing, presentation building, spreadsheet editing, database manipulation, formula editing, drawing, and more. 

Together these tools provide an intuitive user experience and help individuals create their best work. With LibreOffice, you can develop financial reports, spreadsheets, presentations, and more. If you want more functionality, extensions are available through the LibreOffice repository. 

LibreOffice best features

• Formula editor to insert mathematical and scientific formulas
• LanguageTool APIs for grammar checking
• OpenDocument Format (ODF) extensions
• Custom templates 

LibreOffice limitations

• Outdated interface compared to other free word processing programs
• Not scalable as a long-term document database 

LibreOffice pricing

• LibreOffice is free

LibreOffice ratings and reviews

• Capterra: 4.3/5 (1,600+ reviews)
• G2: 4.3/5 (200+ reviews)

ClickUp—More Than the Average Word Processor

It’s time to ask for more from your word processing software, ClickUp Docs will show you how. 🙂

Edit with the team, turn your thoughts into actionable tasks, and connect your documents directly to your workflow, all without leaving your editor! No other word processor can enhance the value of your documents like ClickUp can. But the best part? ClickUp does it all for free.

Access ClickUp Docs, unlimited tasks, tons of templates and resources, more than 1,000 integrations, and so much more when you sign up for ClickUp today.

In this article, we have compiled a list of the 10 best word processing software for Windows. All of us have been through days when we had to bury ourselves in the screens of our computers to write boring essays while ensuring we don’t end up copying all of them.

Writing essays and prose when asked to isn’t fun. However, it’s not bad when we enjoy the process. Writing long articles and essays can also be enjoyable using the right resources.

Yes, that’s right. Using a word processing software you’ve mastered entirely in the back of your head makes writing those articles and essays easier and much more fun. We’re not going to tell you how to gain expertise in word-processing software, but we can share some of the best software, making the task a tad easier for you.

Also Read: 7 Best Document Comparison Software for Windows

What Makes a Word-processing Software Great?

This is usually subjective, but the answers become apparent when you take a broad approach. Any word processing software that is greatly optimized, lightweight, has a tonne of customization features for all kinds of text, has a professional toolset, and comes with a user-friendly interface can be called an ideal word processing software.

There are many word processing software out there across the internet for all platforms, and finding the right one for yourself can be difficult. That is precisely why we’ll narrow down some of the best word-processing software in this article to save you the trouble of doing so yourself. So without any further delay, let’s begin. 

Also Read: 10 Best Free CAD 3D Software for Windows

We’ve based these selections on their ease of use, toolset, customizations, and overall functionality. Let’s not waste more time and learn about some of the best word-processing software. 

Also Read: 30 Best Bulk Image Downloader Software for Windows

1. Microsoft Word

Of course, Microsoft Word was going to make this list. It is the most popular word-processing application out there, after all. From the age of Windows XP to Windows 11, all Windows users are aware of Microsoft Word.

It is highly reliable and easily one of the best word-processing software. From providing templates for resumes and forms to being at your disposal for document accessibility needs, Microsoft Word provides massive functionality and has earned its name as one of the best word software of all time.

Also Read: 10 Best CSV to Graph Converter Software for Windows

2. Google Doc

If anything comes close to Microsoft Word regarding features and reliability, it’s Google Docs. A simple user interface, handy features, ease of use, close to no learning curve, and many other things make Google Docs a brilliant choice if you’re looking for word-processing software.

On top of that, it is free to use and takes up minimal space. You can add it as a chrome extension, and just like that, it’ll be at your service whenever you need it. 

Also Read: 8 Best Screen Resolution Changer For Windows

3. LibreOffice

LibreOffice should be one of your choices if you’re looking for a software package on par with MS Office. It brings numerous great features and word-processing software to the table.

With a user interface similar to Microsoft Word, you’ll have no trouble using LibreOffice as your primary choice if you’re looking for an alternative to Microsoft Word. LibreOffice provides a complete and brilliant set of software, among which the word processing software takes the most credit.

Also Read: 10 Best Auto Tune Software for Windows

4. WPS Office

WPS Office is another word processing software you can depend on to provide a great writing experience. With Android and IOS compatibility, features for editing, converting, and printing PDF files, cloud storage, etc.

WPS Office makes a name for itself as one of the most feature-packed word processing software available on the internet, and you should not miss out on it.

Also Read: 8 Best PGP Encryption Software for Windows

5. Dropbox Paper

Dropbox Paper should be on the list of software you’re willing to check out if you’re looking for free-to-use word-processing software that’ll cover most of your needs. It is entirely free and boasts a simple, user-friendly interface. It is an excellent tool for those looking for software to write, edit and share word documents quickly.

Also Read: 10 Best Free VNC Software For Windows

6. FocusWriter

FocusWriter is a brilliant choice if you’re searching for software that presents an easy-to-work user interface with a complete toolset and less distracting elements.

The nature of this software makes it ideal for composing texts, and it is entirely free to use. A simple interface makes this tool exceedingly viable and provides a fast yet lovely writing experience.

Also Read: 10 Best Pool Design Software for Windows

7. Apache OpenOffice 

You don’t need to look any further if you seek a word processing software with an impressive functionality-friendly user interface, trusted by countless users across the globe, and provides premium features for free.

Apache OpenOffice is an excellent choice if you want a capable word-processing software with all essential features. Moreover, you can also create spreadsheets, databases, graphics, and presentations using this software.

Also Read: 10 Best Remote Desktop Management Software for Windows

8. Polaris Office

Polaris Office is another widely popular software package that provides excellent value for money. The best part about Polaris Office is that its free version has sufficient functionality to cover the documentation needs of any individual.

The experience of working with Polaris Office is quite good. You can opt for its enterprise plan to increase the functionality even further. 

Also Read: 8 Best Driver Uninstaller Software for Windows

9. FreeOffice TextMaker

As the name may have already suggested, you can give FreeOffice TextMaker a try if you’re trying to stumble across a free-to-use word-processing software that you can rely on for your needs.

FreeOffice TextMaker brings several perks to the table, and the best of them include being lightweight and incredibly functional at the same time.

With support for all MS Office file formats and better compatibility, FreeOffice TextMaker is on the best free-to-use word processing software list.

Also Read: 7 Best Latency Checker Software for Windows

10. Zoho Writer

Zoho Writer is guaranteed to impress you with its neat and clean workspace that incorporates every essential feature a word processing software needs despite being free. You can create word documents and collaborate on them using this brilliant application.

Free writing assistant for grammar and readability suggestions, feedback review, WordPress, and CRM integration are some features Zoho Writer brings to make working with it a satisfactory experience.

Also Read: 8 Best Maze Maker Software for Windows [Maze Generators]

Conclusion: 

Creating word documents is a fundamental task. Despite numerous word processing software, only a handful take their purpose seriously and provide fully functional software to complete the job efficiently.

To help you find the right one for yourself easily, we shortlisted the best of the best word-processing software out there based on their features, compatibility, user-friendliness, and overall functionality. If you find yourself in a dilemma, you can check out the software mentioned in this article, and you’ll undoubtedly find the correct application that will bring out the best of you.

In the world of tech since 2015. I started writing about it in 2019. I have also expertise in food reviews, photography and travel blogs.