Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submitlogin

Like this a lot too.

> Earnest shows you the number of words in your text, useful for people who need to hit a particular word-count, but it only re-calculates the number every minute to deter you from constantly keeping an eye on your progress. The word-count should not be a distraction from your writing.

I would maybe have the counter be real-time, but require the user to leave the keyboard (or some other significant action) to show it? (ex: on mouseover). I was trying this out and still was looking at the "0 words" and thinking "damn, I wonder how many words there are."



Perhaps the writer could enter the target number of words. You could show a progress bar (with a course granularity of say quarters) then when you're near the target show the word count in real time so that you can fine tune your words into the limit.




Consider applying for YC's Summer 2026 batch! Applications are open till May 4

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: