I can’t believe I haven’t mentioned Scrivener on this blog yet. Scrivener is so integral to my writing process that blogging about Scrivener is the equivalent to writing about my fingers and tagging the post “tool.”
The beauty of the program is that it contains a diverse range of features designed to cover all aspects of the creative process. Some writers will find themselves drawn to some features over others; it helps to address individual weaknesses that way.
For me, the ability to organize mass amounts of random notes and ephemera is critical. Creating folder hierarchies and dragging media content—web pages, .pdf files, and photographs—into Scrivener helps me stay inspired and use all the resources at my disposal.
I couldn’t run this blog without Scrivener—it’s the program that allows me to organize my thoughts, keep track of tags and general topics, and make sure I’ve got one post for every day of the week.
If you don’t know about Scrivener, give it a try. There’s a 30 day free trial. You won’t be disappointed.
Yes, yes, so much yes!
Scrivener has been a godsend for me. I usually write notes for my stories and scripts on whatever bit of paper happens to be convenient. Then when I get the chance I toss it into the appropriate program file next to whatever section is most appropriate. For a chaotic sort like myself it’s really helped me keep on track.
I also love the split screen window where you can view two different documents at the same time without having to flip to a different window. I’ve had more than enough “wait, what did I have him say then” moments to warrant frequent use of that feature.
And as a script writer the “compile” function is great, especially on rewrites. If there’s only one act or scene that you need to rewrite, but you don’t need to print out the entire script, it gives you that ability. For the price that they’re asking for it it’s an awesome program.
… trust me because I’ve tried those 150 dollar so-called “pro” script writing programs and they severely lack the functions and flexibility that Scrivener offers.
Could be just what I need – the lateral freedom of pen and paper without the pen and paper – Thanks!
Glad we have another ringing endorsement for Scrivener! Yeah, it also suits my somewhat scatter-brained approach to pulling together materials for ideas and it’s DEFINITELY helped me keep track of ideas for this very blog
I gave Scrivener a try during last year’s NaNoWriMo because they were offering the Windows beta free with a discount to anyone who “won” NaNo. Let me assure you that I ended up taking advantage of that discount. I absolutely love this program. I love the organization and the…NEATNESS of it all, and I love how the program will generate a manuscript for you, in proper format. It’s absolute LOVE.
Thanks for the tip, I’ll have to check it out.
Nice, looks great. Have you used it to create epubs? If it’s as easy as it seems I may just have to pick it up when I get home. I’m getting tired of diving into notepad to fix the html files for formatting issues.
I haven’t, but I think I’ve heard it’s really excellent for that. There is a bit of a learning curve but I think that’s one of its specialties. Perhaps the above commenter JDC would have some insight…
You raaaaang?
Yes, you can indeed use it for epub and web pages. I’ve not used it for web pages, but the Scrivener web site has video tutorials on how to go about it. There’s a way in the compile function to do all that. As TLB says there is something of a learning curve. They do go by the notion that you as a user will already know something of how to put an web page together.
It’s also fully set for epubs and gives you some functionality as far as compiling the epub file together. It gives you several different file options as far as that goes so you won’t be stuck with just one way to do it.
Hope that helps!
I just purchased Scrivener a few weeks ago and am in love with it!!
Awesome!
Gah!!! Revolutionary! How did I not know of this???? AMAZING!!!!!!!!
I’m pleased to create another convert
Should also mention that if you do NaNoWriMo, you can download Scrivener for the month, then if you “win” NaNo, you’ll get a code that allows you to buy it for 50% off.
I’ve used Scrivener for just over a year (started when it was a Windows beta), and I can’t write without it.
Got here via Ivon’s blog reccomendation-look forward to following you!
Sometimes it’s the joy of using Scrivener that gets my butt in the chair. I’m looking forward to an IOS version for the road.
Looking forward to trying it out. Thanks for the tip!
No problem! Enjoy…
Thanks. I’ve never heard of it. I’ll check it out. I’m really enjoying your blog.
Glad to hear that!
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