Quoll Writer is a free, open-source writing software designed specifically for novelists and long-form writers. Built with the needs of fiction and non-fiction authors in mind, Quoll Writer provides a distraction-free, feature-rich environment that helps writers focus on their creative process without the limitations of general-purpose word processors.
Unlike traditional text editors, Quoll Writer structures writing around projects, chapters, and scenes, making it especially suited for novels, scripts, and long essays. The tool also supports character profiles, location tracking, and plot management, allowing authors to keep all their reference materials in one place as they write.
Quoll Writer is available as a desktop application for Windows and is actively being developed with the open-source community. It emphasizes writer productivity, data privacy, and long-term project organization—ideal for those working on large, complex manuscripts.
Features
Quoll Writer offers a variety of features tailored to meet the unique needs of creative writers and authors.
It provides a distraction-free full-screen mode to help writers concentrate on their text. Users can create and manage multiple writing projects, each of which can be broken down into chapters and scenes for better organization.
The software includes support for tracking characters, locations, items, and notes. This feature helps authors manage details about their story universe without leaving the writing environment.
A built-in planning mode allows writers to outline plot points and story arcs before or during the writing process.
Quoll Writer also features a problem finder that highlights common writing issues such as repeated words, sentence length, or overuse of adverbs. This allows writers to revise and improve their work as they go.
Daily word count goals and writing targets are integrated to help keep authors motivated and on schedule.
The software autosaves work regularly and backs up data to prevent loss. It also supports version tracking, enabling writers to revert to previous drafts if needed.
Customizable themes, fonts, and layout settings ensure the writing environment can be tailored to individual preferences.
These features combine to create a writing tool that is powerful yet non-intrusive, allowing the writer to stay in control of both their manuscript and creative process.
How It Works
Getting started with Quoll Writer is straightforward. Writers download the software from the official website and install it on their Windows machine.
Upon launching the app, users are prompted to create a new project. Each project acts as a container for all aspects of a manuscript, including text, notes, characters, and planning tools.
Chapters and scenes can be added and rearranged easily. The interface separates content clearly, giving users a bird’s-eye view of the entire manuscript while allowing them to zoom into specific parts for focused writing.
Writers can switch between writing mode and planning mode depending on their workflow. The sidebar provides quick access to character notes, scene outlines, and world-building details.
Editing tools such as the problem finder, spell checker, and style suggestions help improve the quality of writing during the drafting phase.
Users can set writing goals, such as daily word targets or project deadlines, which are displayed on-screen to keep motivation high.
All data is stored locally, giving users full control over their content without requiring internet access or cloud accounts.
This setup ensures a private, efficient, and distraction-free writing experience from start to finish.
Use Cases
Quoll Writer is ideal for several types of writing projects and users.
Fiction authors benefit from its scene-based structure and character tracking, which helps manage complex storylines and large casts.
Non-fiction writers use Quoll Writer for long essays, reports, and books that require clear organization and progressive drafts.
Screenwriters can structure their scripts using scenes while keeping notes and character backgrounds easily accessible.
Self-published authors appreciate the project-level organization and writing stats that support consistent progress toward publication goals.
Students writing dissertations or theses can use the tool to manage research content and write in structured sections.
Anyone looking for a focused, private, and feature-rich writing space without distractions or subscription fees will find Quoll Writer well suited to their needs.
Pricing
As of December 2025, Quoll Writer is completely free to use. It is open-source software, meaning users can download, install, and use it without any cost.
There are no paid tiers, subscriptions, or locked features. All capabilities are available to every user from the moment the application is installed.
The creator accepts donations through the official website to support ongoing development, but this is entirely optional.
This pricing model ensures that writers of all budgets can access a high-quality writing tool without financial barriers.
Strengths
Quoll Writer offers several key strengths that make it an attractive option for authors and serious writers.
Its project-based structure supports complex long-form writing with ease.
The distraction-free environment and rich customization options allow users to write in a way that suits their workflow.
Character, location, and item tracking is built in, reducing the need for external note-taking tools.
The problem finder helps improve writing quality by identifying style issues early in the drafting phase.
Offline functionality and local storage ensure full data control and privacy, which is a major advantage over cloud-only tools.
Being free and open-source, it also allows tech-savvy users to contribute or customize the software.
Drawbacks
While powerful, Quoll Writer has a few limitations.
It is currently only available for Windows. Mac and Linux users are unable to use the software unless they run Windows through a virtual machine or other workaround.
There is no mobile or web version, which limits its usability on the go.
It does not support real-time collaboration, making it less ideal for co-authored projects or teams.
The interface, while functional, may appear dated compared to modern commercial writing apps.
There are limited export and formatting options for final publishing, so additional tools may be required for manuscript submission or ebook formatting.
Despite these limitations, Quoll Writer remains an excellent choice for solo authors focused on drafting and planning long-form works.
Comparison with Other Tools
Quoll Writer is often compared to tools like Scrivener, yWriter, and FocusWriter.
Scrivener is a popular commercial tool that offers deep project management and export options. However, it comes with a steep price and steeper learning curve. Quoll Writer offers many similar features for free.
yWriter is another free writing tool that supports scene-based writing and project tracking. Quoll Writer has a more modern interface and built-in style analysis tools.
FocusWriter provides a clean, distraction-free writing space but lacks the structural tools needed for managing complex manuscripts.
Compared to mainstream word processors like Microsoft Word or Google Docs, Quoll Writer is purpose-built for long-form writing and offers features they lack.
For writers who want robust manuscript organization without paying for commercial software, Quoll Writer is a strong alternative.
Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Quoll Writer has a loyal user base that praises its depth and simplicity.
Writers on Reddit, personal blogs, and writing forums often describe it as a hidden gem among free writing tools.
Users appreciate the character tracking and planning features, which are rarely found in other free options.
Some note that the UI could use a design refresh, but they value function over aesthetics.
Others highlight the software’s privacy and offline capabilities, especially compared to cloud-based writing apps.
The open-source nature of the tool earns additional respect from users who appreciate transparency and community-driven development.
Although Quoll Writer may not be as well-known as Scrivener, those who use it often recommend it highly for its focus on real writing needs.
Conclusion
Quoll Writer is a powerful, distraction-free writing tool built specifically for authors working on long-form projects. Its structured approach, combined with features like character tracking, scene organization, and style analysis, makes it a standout choice for serious writers.
Unlike many alternatives, Quoll Writer is completely free and open-source, ensuring that writers can access professional-grade features without financial constraints.
Although limited to Windows and lacking real-time collaboration, it excels as a solo writing environment focused on creativity, organization, and progress.
For writers seeking a no-cost, full-featured writing solution tailored to novels and long-form work, Quoll Writer is a reliable and thoughtfully designed platform worth exploring.
