320 words, ~ 3 mins to read

QuillDrop vs. Atticus, Vellum, Google Docs

Or, why use QuillDrop?

When it comes to formatting your novel for Amazon KDP, you have several excellent options: Atticus, Vellum, Google Docs, and QuillDrop. Each tool has its strengths, but for many indie authors, a simpler solution like QuillDrop can be the perfect fit. Here’s why:


Why a Simple Format Works for Many Novels

Most novels—especially fiction—don’t require complex formatting. What you typically need is:

  1. Clean text formatting: Headings, paragraphs, and basic styles (bold, italics, etc.).
  2. Chapter separation: Clear breaks between chapters.
  3. Easy-to-use templates: Pre-configured for KDP requirements so you don’t spend time on formatting.

If your book is text-heavy and doesn’t need advanced layout features (like multi-column text, tables, or intricate design elements), a tool like QuillDrop can handle the job efficiently.

Not convinced? All my 15+ novels totaling 1M+ words have been generated using this method. Go to my homepage and go to the Amazon page for any of them and see the ‘Read Sample’. Every book was produced using the QuillDrop method!

Feeling lazy? Here are a couple of direct links:


How QuillDrop Compares

QuillDrop

  • Simplicity: Paste your Markdown text, choose a template, and download a KDP-ready Word doc in seconds.
  • Focus on Writing: No distractions—just write in plain text.
  • Free Option: Try it before committing. Paid features like premium templates and larger word counts are affordable.
  • Customization: Includes basic styling and chapter management features.

Read the docs for more

Atticus & Vellum

  • Advanced Features: Designed for complex formatting, including multi-column layouts, custom fonts, and more.
  • Cost: Both are premium tools with higher price points.
  • Flexibility: Ideal for authors who need precise control over their book’s design.

Google Docs

  • Accessibility: Free and widely used, but manual formatting for KDP can be time-consuming.
  • Customization: Requires manual adjustment of styles, margins, and chapter breaks.
  • Templates: You’ll need to create or find KDP-compatible templates yourself.

Who Should Use QuillDrop?

QuillDrop is ideal for indie authors who:

  • Want simplicity: No need to learn complex software or deal with manual formatting. No accounts, no logins, no complex settings.
  • Focus on writing: Easily convert plain text to a KDP-ready document.
  • Prefer affordability: Free for basic use, with a really cheap premium option.

Examples of QuillDrop in Action

Here are some of my books formatted using QuillDrop:

  1. The Curse of Ammon
  2. The Atlantis Papyrus

Both were created with QuillDrop, showing how effective it can be for straightforward novels.


Well, want to give it a try? Get started now.

About Jay Penner

Jay Penner's highly-rated books regularly feature Amazon's category bestseller lists. Try his Spartacus, Cleopatra, Whispers of Atlantis or Dark Shadows books. Reach out to him or subscribe to his popular newsletter.

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