Carly Quellman, aka Carly Que, is a multimedia strategist and storyteller at the intersection of technology and the humanities, investigating how perspective can enhance, rather than overstimulate, the world. She can be found online and near the closest south-facing window in Los Angeles.
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.
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.)
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?
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.
