How I Created a No-Code Offline Grammarly Alternative as a Mac App
It lives in a browser tab, as a Chrome extension, and even as a Mac app. Developed by Claude, it provides a versatile platform for any writing needs—all tailored for you.
While crafting this article, I found myself on a plane battling intense turbulence. The software at my fingertips, designed to check spelling and grammar, was created at an airport. Remarkably, it operates fully offline on my Mac, correcting my typos while I sip on my over-sugared coffee.
It’s intriguing—while I can’t code to save my life, the Mac app I’m using surpasses Grammarly in terms of sophistication and speed. For those unfamiliar, Grammarly is one of the leading spelling and grammar checkers worldwide. So, how did this transformation happen? I simply conveyed my desires to Claude, specifying my preferences, and in less than half an hour, I had a Grammarly alternative that didn’t require yet another subscription.
How it all began. / (Nadeem Sarwar / Digital Trends)
A Trio of Solutions
The initial version exists as a standalone website that functions perfectly without any internet connection. The second iteration is a Chrome extension, also capable of working offline, while the third is a dedicated Mac app that serves as a seamless menu bar utility. After testing it on both Mac and Windows, users were genuinely impressed by the tool’s remarkable speed and accuracy.
Addressing My Challenges
Over the past few weeks, I’ve immersed myself in app and software development. My first venture included creating a Mac app that utilizes motion sensors from AirPods Pro to monitor posture. Essentially, it detects when I slouch, sending reminders to sit up straight. All processing occurs entirely on my Mac, giving me an added layer of efficiency.
The Mac app I built lives as a minimalist menu bar utility. Nadeem Sarwar / Digital Trends
What’s even more astonishing is that I did all this without ever having to see a single line of code.
For my next project, I envisioned a solution that would allow me to work efficiently without being tethered to the internet. As an editor, Grammarly has been indispensable, yet the occasional cloud sync issues have resulted in lost chunks of text. There are days when finding a reliable internet connection feels like an uphill battle.
All I desire is the freedom to write in peace, relying on a grammar checker while I rapidly type on my laptop’s somewhat squishy keyboard. But the distractions of being online—endless notifications and social media temptations—often derail my focus.
The Freedom of Independence
This journey has been simply surreal.
Running my Grammarly replacement as a Chrome utility. Nadeem Sarwar / Digital Trends
Why go through all this trouble? Primarily, it’s about custom-building software that meets my unique demands, while also avoiding privacy concerns. The financial aspect, of not needing yet another subscription, is of course appealing. However, the most gratifying aspect comes from taking control of my daily workflow—this is just the beginning.
The Development Experience
To build my very own grammar checker, I simply detailed my requirements to Claude. It suggested three approaches: one that works offline, one that requires an internet connection, and a full macOS app as a menu bar utility. Remarkably, this tool combines note-taking and grammar correction, complete with a one-click export feature for Apple Notes.
The barriers to creating innovative products have never been lower. If someone had told me last year that I could develop such a robust macOS tool on an Android tablet without any coding knowledge, I would have laughed at them.
Creating software with Claude. Nadeem Sarwar / Digital Trends
Navigating AI Challenges
Despite years of reliance on Grammarly, recent trends in AI-driven suggestions have left much to be desired. The app has stumbled with fundamental spelling checks, often providing perplexing advice.
In contrast, the Harper engine I’ve adopted focuses on conventional grammar rules rather than convoluted AI-driven suggestions. This is precisely what I needed—I want a tool that corrects mistakes without altering my writing style. While the Harper engine isn’t flawless, it shines in its speed, identifying errors in just 20 milliseconds.
Grammarly alternative built using Claude. Nadeem Sarwar / Digital Trends
A Step into the Future
In conclusion, crafting tools that cater to one’s specific needs without diving into the complexities of coding is not just liberating—it’s empowering. My journey with Claude has opened the door to endless possibilities. As I look ahead, I can’t wait to explore new innovative projects.
If you find yourself in a similar situation, I encourage you to embrace this creative spirit. The tools for innovation are at our fingertips, waiting to be transformed into something extraordinary. Let’s unlock our potential together!
