Introduction to InkCheck
InkCheck is a manuscript editor designed specifically for serious novelists, editors, and self-publishers who want to improve the quality of their writing without compromising their voice. Unlike traditional writing tools that attempt to rewrite or suggest changes, InkCheck focuses on identifying specific issues in your prose so you can make informed decisions about what to fix. It runs entirely in your browser, requires no account, and ensures your manuscript never leaves your device — offering a powerful yet non-intrusive editorial tool.
The core editor is free to use, with Pro and Editor tiers unlocking advanced features like export options, comparison tools, and printable reports. InkCheck checks for 11 types of issues including passive voice, filler words, repetition patterns, dialogue density, and punctuation inconsistencies. It supports offline use and works with multiple file formats such as .txt, .md, and .pdf. Whether you're a writer refining your first draft or an editor preparing a report for a client, InkCheck offers a streamlined and privacy-first approach to manuscript editing.
Takeaways
- Non-intrusive editing: No suggestions or rewrites — only issue identification
- Privacy-focused: Your manuscript stays on your machine; no data sent to servers
- Offline capability: Works without internet connection after initial load
- Supports multiple file formats: .txt, .md, .pdf
- Free core editor: All 11 check types available at no cost
- Advanced features for professionals: Export, comparison, and printable reports
How InkCheck Works
InkCheck operates through a simple three-step process:
- Load your manuscript — Upload a .txt, .md, or .pdf file, or paste text directly into the editor.
- Run the analysis — Choose between Quick scan (mechanical fixes) or Standard scan (full prose check). Issues are ranked by severity and highlighted inline.
- Fix, approve, and export — Work through issues at your own pace, approve fixes individually or in bulk, and export your manuscript in .txt, .doc, or PDF format.
Core Benefits and Applications
| Use Case | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Novelists | Identify hidden issues like passive voice and filler words that become invisible after multiple reads |
| Editors | Generate detailed reports and compare drafts efficiently |
| Self-publishers | Catch errors that could hinder reader engagement without professional editing |
| Writers in revision | Improve clarity and style while preserving authorial voice |
| Privacy-conscious users | Ensure manuscript security with local processing and no cloud storage |
What It Checks
| Category | Check Types |
|---|---|
| Mechanical | Double spaces, space before punctuation, repeated punctuation, unmatched quotes & parentheses, consecutive duplicate words |
| Style | Passive voice, filler words, adverb overuse, long sentences, repetition |
| Custom | Banned words, watch words |
Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Deep prose analysis | 11 check types covering mechanical errors, style issues, and repetition |
| Editor's Report | Printable report with issue breakdown, severity scores, and manuscript stats |
| Custom word lists | Add banned or watch words with distinct highlighting |
| Side-by-side diff | Compare original vs. edited copy without modifying your manuscript |
| Chapter navigation | Jump instantly between chapters using Markdown headings or ALL CAPS titles |
| Works offline | Single HTML file; no server, no account, no internet required after first load |
