Even the best writers make mistakes. Whether it’s a sneaky comma splice, a clunky sentence, or a passive voice overload — grammar errors can weaken your message, hurt your credibility, and frustrate your readers (and clients!).
Luckily, you don’t have to be a grammar nerd to write clean, polished content. There are plenty of powerful tools out there that can catch your mistakes, improve your style, and make you look like a pro.
Here are 10 grammar tools every freelance writer should have in their toolbox — whether you’re writing blog posts, emails, web copy, or anything in between.
1. Grammarly
What it does:
Grammarly checks spelling, grammar, punctuation, clarity, tone, and even word choice in real-time.
Why it’s great:
- Easy to use (works in Google Docs, email, browsers, etc.)
- Highlights issues and explains them
- Offers both free and premium versions
Best for: Everyday writing, editing, and catching common mistakes
2. Hemingway Editor
What it does:
Hemingway helps you write clearly and concisely by highlighting complex sentences, passive voice, and adverbs.
Why it’s great:
- Encourages simple, bold writing
- Shows a readability score
- Color-coded suggestions for easy editing
Best for: Blog posts, web copy, and improving readability
3. ProWritingAid
What it does:
A deep-dive grammar and style checker that goes beyond the basics — covering readability, sentence structure, consistency, and more.
Why it’s great:
- In-depth reports for serious editing
- Great for long-form content and manuscripts
- Offers browser extensions and integrations
Best for: Writers who want detailed feedback and style improvement
4. QuillBot
What it does:
An AI-powered paraphrasing tool that helps you rewrite sentences in a clearer or more concise way.
Why it’s great:
- Offers different writing modes (standard, formal, simple, etc.)
- Helps you avoid repetition or awkward phrasing
- Includes grammar and summarizer tools
Best for: Rewriting content, polishing awkward sentences
5. LanguageTool
What it does:
A multilingual grammar, style, and spell checker that works in over 20 languages.
Why it’s great:
- Good alternative to Grammarly
- Clean interface
- Catches typos and grammar errors effectively
Best for: Writers working in multiple languages or platforms
6. Google Docs Spell Check + Smart Compose
What it does:
Google Docs’ built-in grammar and spelling checker, plus smart suggestions as you write.
Why it’s great:
- Built right into your workflow
- Helpful suggestions appear as you type
- Clean and non-intrusive
Best for: Freelancers who write directly in Google Docs
7. Slick Write
What it does:
A fast, free tool that checks grammar, spelling, and sentence structure.
Why it’s great:
- Provides detailed stats like sentence length, adverb usage, and passive voice
- No sign-up required
- Lightweight and simple
Best for: Quick grammar scans with performance insights
8. Typely
What it does:
An online editor for professional writing with a focus on grammar, style, and readability.
Why it’s great:
- Minimalist interface
- Great for distraction-free editing
- Shows clean, focused results without being overwhelming
Best for: Writers who want a calm, distraction-free editing space
9. Microsoft Editor
What it does:
A grammar and style tool that’s built into Microsoft Word and available as a browser extension.
Why it’s great:
- Solid real-time suggestions
- Integrated with Microsoft 365
- Available for browser-based writing too
Best for: Writers using Word or Microsoft tools regularly
10. Ginger Software
What it does:
A grammar checker and sentence rephraser with multilingual support.
Why it’s great:
- Helps with translations and ESL writing
- Includes a text reader to hear your writing out loud
- Offers mobile and desktop apps
Best for: Writers who are non-native English speakers or want audio feedback
Bonus Tip: Don’t Rely 100% on Tools
These grammar checkers are powerful — but they’re still tools. They can suggest, but they can’t think like a human. Always:
- Double-check your tone
- Make sure suggestions fit your voice
- Trust your instincts (or ask another writer to review)
Final Thoughts: Your Secret Weapon for Professional Writing
Grammar tools aren’t just for catching typos — they help you write smarter, faster, and more confidently.
By combining your writing voice with these smart assistants, you can deliver clean, polished content that impresses clients and gets results.
Pick a few from this list, test them out, and build your personal editing workflow — because great writing isn’t just about the first draft. It’s about how well you polish it.
Mauricio Dutra is a freelance writer focused on helping others start and grow their careers in writing. At Kallynx, he shares practical tips and insights for aspiring writers who want to work independently and succeed online.
