Best script writing software for Mac in 2025 [Used by pros]

Content creation starts with writing a script. Here, bloggers consistently face the same challenges: scattered notes across multiple apps, constant formatting distractions, poor research integration, and the inability to maintain focus during deep writing sessions. 

Among Setapp users, there are many YouTube bloggers, writers, and video editors. I asked them what they consider to be the best software for script writing, and gathered tools that top creators actually rely on daily.

Best script writing software for Mac in 2025: Comparison 

After talking to content creators about their workflows, I identified the key features they look for when choosing script writing software for Mac: 

• No distractions to keep the creative flow going
• Synchronization between devices
• Flexibility in exporting

Although there aren't many options for the best free script writing software on the market, the good news is that all of the tools listed below are available in Setapp for the price of a single subscription. This is much more cost-effective than purchasing each app separately.  

Now, let’s explore more of what professional content creators like in each of these tools.

Ulysses: Best script writing software for long-form and structured content

Professional bloggers consistently recommend Ulysses as their primary writing tool.

Here’s why Rotten Apple, a tech YouTuber with more than 45k subscribers, names this tool among the best script writing software. 

"Ulysses is my absolute bread and butter for script development. Ideas are worthless unless you flesh them out properly.  So, I start with a fleshed-out idea and write down exactly what I want to convey in Ulysses. Then, I conduct extensive research, fact-checking, and gathering information that gives my video credibility. I start with a rough brain dump and then systematically develop each section. The writing statistics help me maintain optimal video length, which is crucial for YouTube's algorithm preferences".

Lokesh Kapoor, digital content creator and founder of the DroidCrunch blog, is also among the fans of Ulysses. 

“I used to get lost in formatting and scattered docs on Google Drive — Ulysses changed that. It’s clean, distraction-free, and keeps me focused on actually writing, whether I’m drafting a guide or publishing straight to WordPress”.

As a content creator who constantly writes for Setapp, my LinkedIn blog, and academic papers, I couldn’t agree more. The beauty of Ulysses lies in its ability to help me structure my thoughts while keeping the creative flow intact:

• Markdown formatting keeps me focused on content, not formatting
• Research notes and script drafts in a unified workspace
• Export flexibility for different platforms and team collaboration
• Version history so I never lose previous iterations of ideas

CleanShot X: Best Mac tool to capture references for script writing

Script writing extends far beyond text. Visual references, research screenshots, and mood boards are essential for developing authentic, well-researched content. CleanShot X consistently appears in professional creators' toolkits for managing visual research.

Content creators cite CleanShot X as one of the best script writing software for Mac because it assists in creating annotated screenshots for visual storytelling notes, features automatic cloud sync across all devices, and provides clean captures without desktop clutter. 

“When I'm fact-checking or gathering information that gives my videos credibility, I capture relevant details from posts, articles, and websites to avoid missing anything important or for later use as visual context. CleanShot X is my go-to tool for this task. I like, how easy it is to create annotated screenshots and organize visual references. What’s more, I no longer have the problem of losing my saved screenshots. With CleanShot X, available on Setapp, I can quickly find references”, shares Rotten Apple.

Read more:

• Best writing apps for Mac I use daily for running a blog
• Best Al writing assistant software
• How Setapp streamlines workflows for writers and bloggers

MindNode: Best software for script writing outlines and story planning

To create an engaging story, bloggers often add MindNode to their list of best script writing software. With this application, you can establish connections between topics, build visual maps, and create more cohesive, interactive content.

“When I need better visual clarity when laying out more convoluted ideas, MindNode is where I would go. Complex tech topics often require breaking down intricate concepts into digestible segments, and traditional linear notes just don't cut it. MindNote, included in Setapp, helps me identify content gaps before I start scripting, and prevents me from creating videos that jump around randomly or miss crucial explanation steps that viewers need”, says Rotten Apple.

Thomas, an author of the NighTech YouTube channel, supports this view:

“I’ve been using MindNode quite a lot! Mind mapping really helps when breaking down a complicated topic. It makes it easy to visualize links between different ideas”.

As a writer with 10 years of experience, I also use MindNode frequently. This is one of the best script writing software I've ever tried. It helps me create a visual structure for the narrative before I start drafting. When I have a ready-made article plan on a beautiful, clean interface, it's easier to focus on my work than when all my ideas are jotted down in messy notes. 

Paper: Best free script writing software with a minimalist interface

For people who struggle with concentration, Paper is the best script writing software for Mac. No extra interface elements, just everything you need to focus on your work. Personally, I really enjoy working with Focus Mode turned on, as it allows me to finish my drafts much faster without being distracted by notifications on my Mac. 

Content creators note the following advantages of Paper for script writing:

• Zero-distraction writing environment
• Markdown support for basic structure
• Writing statistics and progress tracking
• Clean export to professional formats

Here’s what Rotten Apple says about this app: 

“I’ve used Paper quite a lot for writing. Having zero distraction does help”.

News Explorer: Script writing app for research 

Content creators need up-to-date, relevant information to develop timely scripts. Here's where News Explorer, included in Setapp, comes in. Bloggers and YouTubers appreciate the app's ability to aggregate multiple news sources while maintaining organization. 

“News Explorer provides access to a wide range of news websites in a single location, with their articles meticulously organized for easy reading. The best part is that it automatically updates and syncs with both of my Macs, making navigation through information incredibly hassle-free. I often find inspiration in tech news! I spend 15 minutes each morning scanning News Explorer headlines, immediately capturing potential video ideas in Things, and setting priority levels based on story momentum”, shares Rotten Apple. 

MonsterWriter: Best script writing software for academic and technical content

Creators working on educational YouTube content, technical documentation, or research-heavy scripts love MonsterWriter from the Setapp collection. 

With convenient shortcuts that support markdown, writing scripts in MonsterWriter is almost as fast as thinking. You can focus on the story rather than formatting — perfect when you're developing detailed content on a tight deadline.

“I rely on MonsterWriter to streamline my writing process and stay productive. Whether I’m outlining ideas, drafting long-form pieces, or organizing notes, the app keeps everything structured and easy to manage. One of my favorite features is how it handles formatting and references — so I can focus on shaping my thoughts without getting distracted by the technical details. It’s a clean, efficient tool that helps me stay in flow”, says Stefan-Radu Gogolan, video editor, digital marketing specialist. 

Wrap-Up: Which is the best script writing software for your workflow?

Based on extensive feedback from working professionals, the best script writing software depends entirely on your specific content type and workflow requirements.

It's worth starting work on the script with News Explorer to catch trends and MindNode for visual story planning. Next, creators use Ulysses for organization and structure, CleanShot X for research documentation, and Paper, which transforms any Mac into a distraction-free writing environment. For preparing scripts for tutorials or complex technical videos, YouTubers recommend MonsterWriter.

All these and over 250 other apps for your creativity and productivity are available in Setapp for the price of a single subscription!