ZenWriter Review

by Karla Y. Muñoz

Description

ZenWriter is foremost a productivity tool. It provides an open, clean, 'zen' environment for text writing/editing. It is the ideal typing environment for someone who enjoys minimalist note-taking environments. Alternative to 'traditional' programs such as Microsoft Office. Provides a few features instead of trying to provide every tool for every possible writing situation.

ZenWriter is a desktop application that sizes in at approximately 60mb. It was originally released in 2009. 

Access

• The app is Free, and may be downloaded straight from the Beenokle website. 
• The software is available for Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
• Version 1.43 

Sample Usage

The program opens full screen.

Once you begin typing the interface removes all clutter.

Spell Check

"Dark" version

Settings

What the Tool Does Well

• Removes distraction by opening in complete full screen
• Comes with a customizable 'zen' background typing images
• Re-sizeable textbox option 
• Customizable wordcount, page number, etc. See as much information or as little as you need
• Allows you to add or remove typing sounds
• Offers five background music tracks
• On demand spell check (not persistent)  
• Not dependent on an internet connection
• Makes good use of keyboard shortcuts, which allows the user to keep hands on keyboard continue typing

What it Does Poorly

• Only allows copy/paste with keyboard commands
• Only allows bold/italic/underline with keyboard shortcuts 
• Does not have a ctrl + f search function
• Limited to only five background music tracks. No customization.
• You can go around this by dropping your music choices into the program's music directory
• No undo option unless keyboard shortcut is used.
• Some complaints about quality of spell check
• Not a web application 
• Not the best application for non-fiction or research heavy writing

Additional Resources

• Alternative = Ommwriter
• Alternative = Dark Room