xPad
For most writing a word processor is overkill. xPad is the perfect simple alternative. Your notes sit in a sidebar and save automatically when you quit. Way better than stickies or TextEdit.
Writeroom
A full-screen writing space that eliminates distractions. If you use your Mac for writing, you have to try this.
OpenOffice
OpenOffice is a full-featured, office suite compatible with Microsoft Word, Powerpoint, and Excel. Plus it's 100% free and open source. Friends don't let friends pay for Microsoft Office.
http://bestmacsoftware.org/
