Top 2 for Writing Style and Workflow: Atticus vs. Dabble Writer

“A word after a word after a word is power.” — Margaret Atwood

Every writer has their own unique writing style and workflow. The tools you use should support it, not fight against it. Some new indie authors thrive in a quiet, minimalist space where words flow without distraction. Others want a robust toolkit that not only handles the draft but also prepares their book for publication.

That’s the real difference between Atticus and Dabble Writer. Dabble is your creative sanctuary, designed to provide a distraction-free space for your ideas to flourish. Atticus, on the other hand, is your professional workshop, offering a comprehensive solution for drafting and publishing. The question isn’t which tool is “better,” but which one aligns with your writing style and workflow?

In this writer’s guide, we’ll explore the philosophy behind each tool, how they fit writing style and workflow, and why the right choice depends on your unique writing process.

The Philosophy Behind Writing Tools

Software is more than a tech tool. It can shape how you think and create.

• Atticus is built for authors who want an all-in-one solution. Its philosophy is to eliminate barriers between drafting and publishing.
• Dabble is designed for authors who seek a distraction-free creative space, empowering them to focus on the story, not the publishing details.

Think of it this way: Dabble is the art studio. Atticus is the production house.

The User Experience Compared

Distraction-Free Drafting (Dabble)

Dabble’s minimalist interface is designed to focus on your words, leaving everything else behind. Its Plot Grid and Story Notes make it easy to map storylines and track details. If your main goal is to get words on the page without friction, Dabble fits perfectly.

Formatting Without Fear (Atticus)

Atticus separates drafting and formatting into two clean workspaces. When you’re writing, it feels familiar and straightforward. When you’re ready to publish, it transforms into a powerful formatting engine. If your goal is to see your book finished and professional, Atticus delivers.

Plotters, Pantsers, and Hybrids

• Plotters (Planners): Dabble’s Plot Grid gives you the bird’s-eye view needed to manage subplots and character arcs.
• Pantsers (Discovery Writers): Atticus’s simple drafting flow allows you to maintain momentum while knowing that formatting will be handled later.
• Hybrids: Many authors combine both—using Dabble to structure early drafts, then moving into Atticus for polishing and publishing.

Your process matters. It’s not about which tool is objectively better, but about choosing the one that removes the most friction from your natural style. Consider your workflow, your goals, and your comfort. This will guide you to the tool that best supports your unique writing process.

Collaboration and Device Use

• Dabble: Offers real-time collaboration with co-authors and apps for mobile devices. Ideal for writing across desktops, tablets, and phones.
• Atticus: Works beautifully on desktops and via browsers on tablets, but there is no dedicated mobile app yet. Collaboration is planned but not live.

If you write on the go or with a partner, Dabble has the edge. If your process is solo and publishing-focused, Atticus is a stronger option.

Long-Term Investment vs. Creative Comfort

• Atticus: One-time $147 fee with unlimited updates. Best for career authors who want to build a catalog.
• Dabble: $10–20/month subscription, or $599 lifetime. Better if you want a lower upfront cost and prioritize a writing environment.

Your choice depends on whether you value long-term savings or creative comfort in the moment.

Find Your Fit for Writing Style and Workflow

If writing is your top priority and you’re looking for tools that support creativity and organization, Dabble is the perfect match. If you’re ready to self-publish and want to own the whole process, Atticus is the better fit.

You don’t have to choose just one. Many authors find that a combination of Dabble and Atticus works best for them. They draft in Dabble, enjoying its distraction-free environment, and then move to Atticus for formatting and publishing. The best tool is the one that fits your writing style and workflow today while supporting your publishing goals tomorrow.

Still on the Fence?

See our other writer’s guides in this series, starting with Atticus and Dabble Writer for New Indie Authors. Then start with a beginner-friendly breakdown or explore the self-publisher’s perspective. Wherever you are in your writing journey, there’s a tool designed to help you succeed.”

We hope you’ve found the writer’s guide strategies helpful and motivating. We hope they’ll equip you with the insights and tools needed to help you succeed as a new author. You might also enjoy AI Empowers New Indie Authors: 5 Best Hacks.

Writing is a journey of continuous learning and improvement. You don’t have to go it alone. We’re excited to continue the journey with you, providing guidance and encouragement every step of the way. Our goal is to provide essential insights and practical advice to help you navigate the writing world with increased confidence.

If you have a draft you want to publish and are wondering how AI can help, read it. Is Your Book Ready to Self-Publish? Lastly, for help writing a non-fiction book, read Write Your First Non-Fiction eBook: a 30-Day Workbook for Getting It Done.

Don’t wait. Start today!

How can we help? To let us know, please fill out our Contact form. Happy writing!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which tool is better for short stories or novellas?

Dabble is better for quick drafting and organization; Atticus is better if you plan to publish.

Can I switch between tools mid-project?

Yes. You can export from Dabble to Atticus seamlessly using DOCX files.

Do these tools support genre-specific workflows (like romance or fantasy)?

Atticus offers genre-based formatting templates. Dabble offers plotting templates for popular genres.

Which tool is better for collaboration with editors?

Dabble allows co-authoring and commenting. Atticus requires exporting to Word for editor feedback.

Do either of the tools help with marketing or promotion?

Neither handles marketing directly, though Atticus integrates with Book Brush for graphics. Marketing remains a separate step.