I have always loved storytelling, regardless of medium or platform. However, learning the “rules” of grammar — and how they shift depending on use or context — felt like a headache in the otherwise wonderful world of narrative and world-building. 

I believe writing can always be strengthened, and I also learn best from direct, blatant feedback. Basically, I was determined to learn about my writing process and the writing of those I am inspired by. With a couple of clicks, I ran across Slick Write, an online writing tool founded in 2002 by Craig Russell that released AI-focused features late in 2023. 

With so many AI companies having launched merely months ago, it’s refreshing to come in contact with a company that has longevity.

What is Slick Write, and how does it use AI?

At its core, Slick Write was made to help its customers gain knowledge and understanding around grammar, style and readability. Over time, it’s evolved to add AI capabilities like real-time feedback on its tools. 

The platform also offers precision analysis for potential grammar issues, down to nitty-gritty details like punctuation, sentence structure and phrasing. 

In an odd, Black Mirror-esque way, I can’t help but wonder what Slick Write would think of AI-generated content, using its AI tools to identify areas for improvement. (Without touching on the seemingly never-ending em dash debate.)

How to use Slick Write for grammar and tone

Slick Write is one of the easiest platforms to try out due to no cost, no signup, no subscriptions and no installation. But do you get what you pay for?

1. Head to Slick Write’s website, and on the landing page, you can try the demo for a full deep dive into every aspect of the site. You can also select Start Writing or Check Your Own Document.
2. For writing, copy and paste your content into the text box in the Editor tab. You can now run a check by clicking the green Check button at the top right of the editor. Slick Write will generate results based on the types of edits you ask of it: Structure, Critique, Grammar & Spelling, Flow and Stats, which come together to create a document of edits reminiscent of your (least-)favorite professor’s colorful pen grading, all over your document to the point of illegibility. 
3. Each editing tab will explore feedback in detail to provide explanations or suggestions, as well as a breakdown of writing stats and tips for improvement. You have the option to revise your work or run a new analysis as needed. To kick things up, access the Features tab for writing tools like associations and related words, a rhythm tool and word frequency. 
4. Once satisfied, you can copy the revised text over. Heads up: some aspects of Slick Write still operate like it’s 2002, including no download option. There is the option to autosave text to your browser’s local storage under Settings — though it’s unclear where it goes from there. (Maybe stick to copy and paste for now.)

Should you use Slick Write?

Slick Write’s AI tools primarily allow its target audience to streamline and create more concise language for various writing styles, objectives and formats. They make for a useful student resource but also benefit bloggers, writers and those who want to elevate their writing quality with a different type of AI output. 

As far as tools go, I think capturing your first draft with creative writing tools like Sudowrite and then asking Slick Write for feedback is a powerful pairing to home in on creative style and rule-oriented grammar. (Or the reverse, if you’re seeking writing education and then want to build worlds around your language.)

But it’s hard to gauge if Slick Write is best for you without comparing it with its competitors, newcomers (in comparison) Grammarly, ProWriting Aid and Hemingway Editor. The key difference for Slick Write isn’t necessarily in its features, but in its ease — Slick Write leans into longevity, simplicity and a detailed educational experience across grammar and readability checks versus fancy enhancements. Though I do believe product evolution is necessary to some extent in an ever-changing world.

Even though its competitors have a different target audience, I believe that Slick Write, when used in conjunction with other writing tools, can hold its own in a fast-paced market, without overcomplication or overstimulation.