Top Free Web-Based Word Processors

Directions: After reading the following, answer the questions on the next page.

Web-based word processors provide convenient alternatives to traditional word processors. Now anyone can write, save and share documents online, for free. Whether writing for work, school or for pleasure, word processors are an integral part of daily life. While many people are familiar with Word Perfect, Works or Microsoft Word, there are also numerous online alternatives that are easy to use, convenient and free.

Online word processors allow users to save and easily share documents with others. While some web-based processors are feature-rich, others are straightforward and simple. Since documents are stored on the website servers, they can be accessed and shared from anywhere.

Online Web-Based Word Processors

The seven online word processors listed below, do not require any additional software. All that is needed is a compatible browser, an Internet connection and user registration.

Adobe BuzzWord– Currently in beta, this online flash-based word processor from Adobe is strikingly sleek and sharp. Features include lists, images, word count, tables, version history and the ability to export to the PDF format. Adobe Flash is required.

ZEditor – This online word processor from ZCubes brings Web 3.0 to traditional online documents and includes many features. Users can paint, insert videos, images and emoticons into documents. Converting documents into other languages is simple and seamless.

ZohoWriter – This popular online word processor includes many options for registered users. Besides viewing, writing and editing online, users can compare and edit earlier revisions, can publish documents online, and publish to a variety of blogs. Spell check and printing is also available. ZohoWriter is compatible with many browsers but works best with Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox. JavaScript must be enabled in order for ZohoWriter to work properly.

Google Docs – Users can easily upload, edit, publish and email documents with this free application from Google. Documents can be saved online or saved to the hard drive. Besides standard documents, Google Docs offers various templates and forms including table of contents, calendars and resumes. This online resource from Google includes a suite of other online office products. Google Docs is compatible with numerous browsers. There are size limit restrictions on documents and JavaScript and cookies must be enabled.

AjaxWrite – Not only does this web-based browser look similar to Microsoft Word, it can also read, write and open Word documents online. Besides Word, AjaxWrite can open and edit other popular document formats. This processor currently works with any operating system but is only compatible with the Mozilla Firefox web browser

AbiWord – This online word processor reads, writes and edits many document formats including Word, WordPerfect, OpenOffice and HTML. AbiWord is available in many languages and offers many additional features including mail merge and dictionaries available in over 30 languages.

PicoWrite – Part of the PicoScribe suite, PicoWrite is another free online word processor. Users can insert images, spreadsheets and footnotes and are able to work online or offline. PicoWrite is compatible with most browsers.

With online word processors, it is no longer necessary to carry floppy disks, rewritable compact-discs or thumb drives. As long as there is Internet access, simply create an account, and write, edit or share from anywhere

  1. List the three items will you need to run these free word processors.
  1. Notice that Adobe BuzzWord states that it is “in beta.’ What does that mean?
  1. List four features of ZEditor.
  1. Which web browsers work better with ZEditor?
  1. List three templates that Google Docs offers.
  1. List the two restrictions in Google Docs.
  1. What feature is discussed as it relates to AjaxWrite and Microsoft Word?
  1. AjaxWrite is only compatible with what web browser?
  1. AbiWord will open what three types of word processor documents?
  1. Fill this in: “With ______, you can insert ______, ______, and ______and are able to work online or ______.”
  1. Closure: With so many free alternatives to Microsoft Word available, it’s a challenge to determine which one is best. Which one would you choose? Please write a 5+ sentence explanation.
  1. Homework: Go home tonight and try at least two of these alternatives. Visit those sites which rated highest in your research. After doing so, report back by writing an *+ sentence response on your experiences.

Mr. Cummings – Technology & Digital Photography – Web-based Processors