Bottom line: The best choice for most people
Review: StyleWriter is what a 21st-century plain language editor should be and what other grammar checking software should aspire to be.
StyleWriter edits any Word document by scanning your document for common writing mistakes and suggesting better alternatives. StyleWriter finds jargon, clichés, complex words, passive verbs, foreign words, misused words, confused words, long sentences, wordy phrases, sexist writing, confused hyphens, overused words, and common grammar slips.
We tested around a dozen software titles on the same test documents. StyleWriter found the most flaws, made the most sensible suggestions, and returned the fewest "false positives" (errors that aren't really errors). Only 1 or 2 other software titles can compete with StyleWriter on the range and content of editorial suggestions.
Unlike some of its competitors, StyleWriter uses technology that does not let the software down. From a technical point of view, StyleWriter is 1 of only a few programs that returned no Run Time or other technical errors.
Unlike other software, StyleWriter is very easy to use.
StyleWriter makes immediate onscreen edits and suggestions rather than forcing you to copy and paste text:
StyleWriter lets you use Word's "track changes" feature so that you can review your edits again later; it handled our longest document (100 pages) quickly and easily.
StyleWriter also lets you code in your own patterns, which is very useful for implementing a house style.
When you combine the substance of StyleWriter's editorial suggestions with StyleWriter's technical ease and sophistication, StyleWriter is unsurpassed in its field.
StyleWriter's value is reflected in its price of $160, which is more than you pay for other plain language software. But, if you want the best, then the investment is worth it.
How to trial:
There are 2 main ways to trial StyleWriter:
(a) Order StyleWriter for $160 USD. Download it immediately. Try it for up to 30 days. If you're not happy with StyleWriter, EditorSoftware will give you a full refund within 30 days of purchase.
(b) Order the Software for Writers CD for $30. The CD will include a free 30-day trial of StyleWriter. If you then decide to buy StyleWriter, you will get your $30 back.
You can also order the Electronic Writing Course for $75 USD on CD, which comes with a 30-day trial of StyleWriter.