Introduction: Every Blogger Starts with $0
Earning your first $100 online is a major milestone — not because of the amount, but because it proves your blog can make real money. The hardest part is the beginning: finding the right tools that simplify your work, save you time, and help you monetize faster.
You don’t need fancy software or expensive subscriptions. You just need the right mix of free and affordable tools that do three things:
- Help you create high-quality content
- Bring in consistent traffic
- Turn that traffic into income
Let’s explore the best blogging tools that can help you achieve your first $100 milestone.
1. WordPress — The Foundation of Your Blog
Why You Need It:
WordPress is the world’s most popular blogging platform for a reason. It gives you full control over your content, layout, and monetization.
Key Benefits:
- 100% customizable with themes and plugins
- SEO-friendly structure
- Supports ads, affiliate links, and digital products
Pro Tip:
Start with a reliable hosting provider like Bluehost or Hostinger. They often include free domains and one-click WordPress installation — ideal for beginners.
2. Rank Math or Yoast SEO — Optimize for Google
Why You Need It:
SEO (Search Engine Optimization) helps your blog posts appear in search results — the main source of free, targeted traffic.
Key Benefits:
- Optimize titles, meta descriptions, and keywords
- Get real-time SEO analysis
- Improve site visibility and click-through rates
Pro Tip:
Write keyword-rich headlines like “Best Blogging Tools for Beginners (Earn Your First $100 Fast)” to attract organic traffic.
3. Canva — Create Eye-Catching Visuals
Why You Need It:
Blog posts with visuals get more engagement and shares. Canva makes it simple to design professional images, infographics, and Pinterest pins — even if you’re not a designer.
Key Benefits:
- Free templates for blog graphics
- Easy drag-and-drop interface
- Brand kits to keep your visuals consistent
Monetization Tip:
Use Canva to create Pinterest pins that drive traffic to your blog — and more traffic means more income opportunities.
4. Grammarly — Write Like a Pro
Why You Need It:
Flawless writing builds credibility and keeps readers engaged. Grammarly checks spelling, grammar, and tone so your content reads smoothly.
Key Benefits:
- Detects grammar and punctuation mistakes
- Improves readability
- Suggests tone adjustments
Pro Tip:
Install the browser extension to edit directly inside WordPress or Google Docs.
5. Google Keyword Planner — Find Profitable Keywords
Why You Need It:
Every successful blog post starts with keyword research. Google Keyword Planner helps you find what people are actually searching for — so you can target money-making topics.
Key Benefits:
- Discover search volume and competition
- Find related keywords to expand ideas
- Free and reliable (Google-approved)
Example:
If you blog about finance, keywords like “how to make $100 online” or “best side hustles 2025” can attract motivated readers ready to take action.
6. Trello — Plan Your Blog Workflow
Why You Need It:
Organization is key when you’re juggling writing, editing, SEO, and promotion. Trello helps you manage tasks visually with boards and checklists.
Key Benefits:
- Track blog post ideas and deadlines
- Collaborate easily if you have a team
- Integrate with Google Drive and Slack
Pro Tip:
Create boards like “Content Ideas,” “In Progress,” and “Published” to stay consistent.
7. ConvertKit — Start Building an Email List
Why You Need It:
Email marketing is one of the most powerful ways to make money blogging. Even with a small list, you can earn by promoting affiliate products or your own digital offers.
Key Benefits:
- Simple sign-up forms and landing pages
- Automated welcome emails
- Free plan available for beginners
Monetization Tip:
Offer a free checklist, eBook, or template to get subscribers — then recommend helpful products with your affiliate links.
8. Google Analytics — Track What Works
Why You Need It:
You can’t improve what you don’t measure. Google Analytics shows which posts bring traffic and which ones convert — essential for scaling your blog income.
Key Benefits:
- View traffic sources and user behavior
- Track your most profitable pages
- Measure ROI from marketing campaigns
Pro Tip:
Check analytics weekly to see which topics or keywords are performing best — then double down on them.
9. ShareASale or Impact — Find Affiliate Programs
Why You Need It:
Affiliate marketing is one of the easiest ways to earn your first $100. Platforms like ShareASale and Impact let you promote quality products and earn commissions.
Key Benefits:
- Access to hundreds of brands
- Real-time earnings dashboard
- Easy link management
Example:
Write posts like “Best Blogging Tools I Use to Earn Money” and include affiliate links to the tools you recommend.
10. Medium or Substack — Get Extra Traffic
Why You Need It:
If your blog is still new, publishing versions of your posts on Medium or Substack can bring exposure and new readers — who may later visit your main site.
Key Benefits:
- Free platforms with built-in audiences
- Opportunity to earn through subscriptions
- Great for building authority
Pro Tip:
Include a link at the end of your article that leads back to your main blog or newsletter.
11. PayPal — Get Paid Easily
Why You Need It:
You’ll need a reliable way to receive payments for affiliate commissions, sponsored posts, or digital product sales. PayPal is fast, secure, and accepted worldwide.
Key Benefits:
- Easy to integrate with most platforms
- Trusted payment processor
- Track income from multiple sources
Pro Tip:
Set up a PayPal Business account for smoother transactions and better reporting.
12. Google AdSense — Monetize with Ads
Why You Need It:
Once your blog starts getting consistent visitors, you can place ads and earn money every time someone views or clicks them.
Key Benefits:
- Simple setup for WordPress
- Passive income stream
- Works alongside affiliate marketing
Pro Tip:
Use AdSense sparingly at first — too many ads can reduce reader trust. Focus on high-quality content before scaling up.
Conclusion: Your First $100 Starts with Smart Tools
You don’t need dozens of apps or fancy automation to make money blogging.
All you need is a strong foundation, the right tools, and consistent effort.
Start with:
- WordPress for your blog
- Rank Math for SEO
- Canva + Grammarly for quality content
- ConvertKit for email marketing
- Affiliate programs + AdSense for monetization
💡 Remember: Your first $100 might take weeks, but every post you publish is a step toward passive income and long-term success.
hyeloo