Writing Image Source: Sean MacEntee

As a freelancer, you need to manage your own schedule, to handle your budget and to measure your productivity. Therefore, you need some technological help to stay on top of all these things. Below, there are 14 free tools and applications, easy to use, that will boost your productivity.

For time management, a freelancer can choose one of the following tools:

  • Toggl
    Toggl is a precious tool that allows you to track the time spent on the computer. The user can easily switch from one task to another and create reports of his/her work. Toggl works with Chrome, and starts as soon as you open the browser.
  • TextExpander
    A freelancer sends a lot of emails every day. Usually, their content is similar. TextExpander allows you to pre-program more features: short abbreviations, different signatures, fixing typos, auto-inserting forms and information. Use this tool to save precious time!

Next, there are four important writing tools:

  • WordCounter
    The WordCount tool developed by essay writing service NinjaEssays is the easiest way to get a correct estimation of the number of words and characters contained in a text, sentence, or phrase. There are no limitations of length; the users can type in any content and see how many words and symbols (with and without spaces) it contains.
  • OpenOffice
    OpenOffice is a free alternative to Microsoft Office. However, this platform has other great features too: users can export their texts into PDF, in different formats – for e-book, pamphlets, guides, etc. Then, the documents can be shared with anyone else.
  • ZenWriter
    ZenWriter is what you need if you cannot focus on the tasks. This is a full-screen writing application, with a special light and dark background. Users can choose the fonts they like better.
  • EssayEagles
    This is a wonderful site for someone who needs writing help. The professional writers from Essay Eagles are ready to create the best custom writing.
  • Logline
    Logline is great for organizing your documents. With just a few clicks, users can write notes directly on the text and they can also structure the sections in the desired order. There is no need for the document to be converted into .doc or PDF until the book is done.

Below, there are some tools essential for organizing your work:

  • Dropbox
    Use this tool to make sure that you have the necessary documents wherever you go. With just a drag-n-drop movement, Dropbox synchronizes all the files on all the devices you want. Now, the documents are not on a computer anymore, but out there, “in the cloud”.
  • Remember The Milk
    This tool is wonderful because it works with Gmail. RMT is a task manager that can set up location reminders and that transmits alerts from a lot of devices.

Projects management tools are next:

  • MindMeister
    MindMeister allows you to create mind-maps on electronic devices. Use it to clarify your ideas and plans.
  • Evernote
    Evernote helps you storage all new ideas and thoughts. It is compatible both with the phone and the PC. You can take photos of documents, record an idea, make a list, or attach something.
  • Mint
    Mint is a great tool that helps you manage your finances. It also contains detailed posts, case studies and info graphics.
  • DeskTime
    DeskTime is an essential tool for business owners. Users can control their employees: they can see how many people are working for them, for how many hours, and in what periods of time.

The last tools are about social media:

  • Ping.fm
    Ping.fm is like all social networks in one place. You just have to update it once with all the accounts you have, and done – you save the time spent by logging in dozens of different sites.
  • BufferApp
    With the help of this application, you can set up the time you want a post to be published on Twitter.