WordPad May Be Gone, but You've Still Got Basic Word Processing Options

WordPad Soon to Be Discontinued by Microsoft

WordPad, the long-standing word processor that comes free with Windows, will no longer be available, leading experts to mourn its loss as a viable alternative to bloated writing applications.

Microsoft has halted updates for WordPad and plans to phase out the application in an upcoming release of Windows. However, there are numerous other choices available for those seeking a quick way to get their thoughts onto the screen.

"If you're a student or writer looking to enhance productivity, minimalist word processors are worth considering," mentioned Adebayo Samson, CEO of educational firm Academicful, in an interview with Lifewire via email. "These streamlined tools offer a distraction-free writing experience, ideal for maintaining focus and completing tasks efficiently. By eliminating complex formatting options and toolbars, these word processors allow users to concentrate solely on their content. The clutter-free environment promotes creativity and concentration."

Less Is More

Shortly after announcing the discontinuation of WordPad, Microsoft revealed plans to improve Notepad by adding functions like autosave and tab restoration. Microsoft revamped the Windows Notepad application in 2018 after a long hiatus and later included tab features in the Windows 11 edition.

Online forums were abuzz with the news of WordPad's impending discontinuation.

"WordPad is a very basic rich text editor," wrote Reddit user CocodaMonkey. "I appreciate it for its simplicity and availability. While not suitable for serious work, having a built-in program that can read and display rich text is convenient. There are more advanced text editors available, but having the basics always accessible is beneficial."

The digital notepad is pre-installed on Windows and is designed for basic word-processing tasks. While it lacks the advanced features of Microsoft Word, it offers more functionality than the basic Notepad. With an easy-to-use interface, WordPad provides fundamental formatting options like bold, italic, and underline. It's useful for drafting simple documents, taking quick notes, or composing brief letters.

Since its introduction with Windows 95, WordPad has been a reliable choice for Windows users in need of a straightforward and easily accessible tool for writing and basic formatting.

"Minimalist word processors are valuable to writers and creators seeking efficiency and focus," noted tech analyst Mark Vena in an email. "Their simplicity eliminates distracting features, leaving only essential functions. This streamlined approach encourages writers to concentrate on their words without being distracted by formatting or complex menus."

Minimalist Word Processors

For those who prefer a simpler alternative to Word, various straightforward word processors on the market provide a quick way to get words on the screen. Popular options include apps like FocusWriter, WriteRoom, and iA Writer, as mentioned by Samson. These tools offer a clean interface with full-screen mode, customizable backgrounds, and minimalist typography.

"Moreover, they seamlessly integrate with cloud storage platforms, allowing easy access and editing of work across multiple devices," he added. "The appeal of these minimalist word processors lies in their simplicity and user-friendly design, addressing the issue of overwhelming complexity found in traditional word processors. With these tools, users can focus on the essentials of writing, where ideas and creativity take center stage."

Reddit user voodoovan recommended LibreOffice as a free and excellent alternative to Word.

However, Reddit member KickCautious691 pointed out that LibreOffice may have compatibility issues when saving to Microsoft formats. Vena mentioned that Notion is versatile and combines minimalism with powerful collaboration features, while Ulysses offers a clean interface with robust organizational tools for Mac and iOS users. Simplenote and Zoho Writer are user-friendly, cross-platform options for online simplicity.

"These alternatives prioritize essential writing tools to help users maintain focus and efficiency in their writing tasks," he concluded.