Use novelWriter as a plain-text editor designed for novels and larger projects made up of smaller plain-text documents.
ZenPen
ZenPen provides a minimal text editor with save options for Markdown, HTML, and plain text, designed to keep attention on writing.
About ZenPen
ZenPen is a web-based minimal text editor designed to reduce distraction while writing. The interface presents a blank writing space with the heading "Minimal Distraction, Maximum Zen," keeping attention on getting words down. It is listed as a writing productivity tool for use in the browser.
You can write and format text using on-screen controls for options such as bold, italic, and quote, and set a target word count for a session. When finished, you can select a save format for Markdown, HTML, or plain text. You can also select a format and press Ctrl+C on Windows or Cmd+C on Mac to copy the text.
It suits writers, students, and anyone who wants a simple space for drafts, notes, or focused writing sessions without extra menus or tools. It is useful when you need a clear page for first drafts before moving text to another editor.
Key features
- Minimal web-based text editor for focused writing
- Set a target word count for writing sessions
- Save text as Markdown, HTML, or plain text
- Copy text by format with Ctrl+C or Cmd+C
- Basic formatting controls for bold, italic, and quotes
Best for: Writers who want a distraction-free space for drafts with word-count and plain export options.
Good for
- Clean, distraction-free writing interface
- Choice of Markdown, HTML, and plain text output
- Target word count supports focused sessions
- Copy shortcut works on Windows and Mac
ZenPen at a glance
- Website
- zenpen.io
- Category
- Productivity › Writing Apps
- Type
- Online tool
- Pricing
- Not confirmed. Check the site
- Platforms
- Web
- Open source
- Not stated
- Last checked
- Oct 5, 2026 · Online when checked
- Listed
- Oct 5, 2026
ZenPen alternatives
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ZenPen FAQ
What is ZenPen?
ZenPen is a minimal web-based text editor designed to stay out of the way while you write.
What export formats does ZenPen support?
ZenPen lets you select Markdown, HTML, or plain text when saving or copying your work.
Does ZenPen have a word count goal?
Yes, ZenPen includes a target word count option to track progress during a writing session.
How do I copy text from ZenPen?
Select a save format, then press Ctrl+C on Windows or Cmd+C on Mac to copy the text.
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