Ulysses

Ulysses presents itself as a premier writing application for Apple's ecosystem, aiming to provide a focused and powerful environment for creative writing. The application's core design emphasizes a distraction-free workspace, minimal interface elements, and a robust underlying system for organizing and outputting text.

The unified library is a significant strength. Instead of managing individual files scattered across folders, all your writing is housed within Ulysses's central library. This approach simplifies organization, especially for larger projects like novels where you might have numerous chapters, notes, and outlines. The ability to create groups and filters within the library further enhances its organizational capabilities.

The editor itself is built around a markdown-based syntax, specifically Markdown XL. This choice is a deliberate one, designed to keep the user's hands on the keyboard and minimize interruptions to the writing flow. While there is a learning curve if you are new to markdown, the syntax is relatively intuitive, and Ulysses provides helpful visual cues and shortcuts. The syntax allows for easy formatting of headings, lists, emphasis, and more. For those who prefer a more visual approach, Ulysses does offer formatting previews, but the primary interaction remains markdown-driven.

Synchronization via iCloud is generally reliable and fast. This feature is crucial for users who write across multiple devices. Starting a project on a Mac and seamlessly picking it up on an iPad or iPhone is essential for modern workflows, and Ulysses handles this effectively. However, like any cloud synchronization, occasional hiccups can occur, though they are not a frequent issue.

Export options are extensive and highly customizable. Ulysses provides support for common formats like PDF, ePub, HTML, and DOCX. Furthermore, the ability to create and customize export styles allows users to tailor the final output to their specific needs, whether for publishing a book or generating a report. The integrated publishing to platforms like WordPress and Medium is a valuable addition for bloggers and online writers, streamlining the process of getting content from the editor to the web.

Functionality like text statistics (word count, character count, etc.) and writing goals are useful for tracking progress and maintaining motivation. The ability to set daily targets can be particularly helpful for structured writing routines. The application also includes features like keywords and notes attached to sheets, facilitating deeper organization and contextual information.

While Ulysses excels in many areas, there are considerations. Its subscription model may not appeal to all users, particularly those who prefer a one-time purchase. Additionally, the markdown-centric workflow, while a strength for many, might be a barrier for users who are accustomed to traditional WYSIWYG editors.

In summary, Ulysses is a powerful and well-designed writing application, particularly suited for creative writers and those who value a clean, focused, and organized environment. Its unified library, robust synchronization, flexible export, and markdown-based editor provide a strong foundation for tackling writing projects of any scale. The subscription model and the markdown workflow are key factors for potential users to consider.