S is for Scrivener, and I could rant and rave about this program forever. I actually already have, in a previous blog. So, before I get into this blog, go check that one out! It’s going to cut the size of this blog in half, so make sure that you read it before you continue on!
Ahem. Now then, in the blog above, I explained a lot of the functions and features that Scrivener entails. The simple fact is, the program is everything that you could want, as far as being able to write/organize/keep everything in one place. My outline is happening in the same document as my story.
I’m currently working on rewrites for my NaNoWriMo 2013 novel, Cerulean Darkness. Because of Scrivener and it’s ability to do a split screen of documents, I am able to have the chapter that I’m rewriting pulled up directly beside the new chapter, and it makes the rewriting process so much easier than it would be if I had the story on a different document.
I can still pull up my references – I still have my note cards. Scrivener has a function to allow you to take notes on the chapter; I used this function when I was working on my first round of soft edits, and it has many of the points highlighted that I want to change during this rewrite. The simple fact of the matter is, Scrivener has functionality and flexibility to make using it as your dominate writing program, especially for novels, something that I would recommend to everyone.
I’m not saying that you have to use Scrivener for everything. I actually use Googledocs for most of my fanfics – unless they turn into behemoth long ones. My rule of thumb is that if something has a complex outline, and I need to take notes, actually plot it out, make character notes, etc… I use Scrivener. I always use Scrivener for novels. It’s honestly changed the way that I write, and my capability to complete a novel, and do so in a neater and more organized fashion than in the past. The fact that my chapters can be separated into different documents, so that I can easily flip back and forth and reference, while simultaneously being able to take notes?
Honestly, I could reiterate in a dozen different ways all of the reasons that you should check Scrivener out. It has a 30 day trial, and if you win NaNoWriMo or Camp NaNoWriMo, you get a coupon for 50% off of the program. That’s only $20 bucks. It’s a one time fee – there is no subscription, there is no having to buy copious licensing for different machines. Buy one copy of Scrivener, and you can put it on as many computers as you own.
Buy one copy of Scrivener, and you can honestly change the way that you write. Trust me – at least try it out! Camp NaNoWriMo starts July 1st (and I will be blogging my progress). It’s the perfect opportunity for you to give Scrivener a try, if you haven’t already! You won’t regret it!
If you have any questions about the program, or need any help, there are dozens of great tutorials on youtube. Also, I’m always open to answering questions about it. I truly believe that Scrivener is a must have tool for writers, and I will happily do everything that I can to help you understand and utilize it for all that it’s worth!
So, that’s all for my Scrivener rant, though I could keep going, trust me! I’ll see you for the letter T! If you have any questions about Scrivener, suggestions for letters T-Z, or anything else, just leave me a comment below! I love getting feedback and hearing from you all!
Until then, keep reading and writing!
Author Amanda McCormick