Since working on my novel, I’ve started using Scrivener and I absolutely love it! Even though my novel is still in the beginning phase, this writing software was a great change.
Before using Scrivener, which is a writing app designed with the complexities of developing, drafting, and revising major projects in mind, I was using traditional word processors like Microsoft Word and Google Docs. I still think that those are excellent entry-level writing tools, but their limited features can prove frustrating when working on long-form projects, like writing novels.
Scrivener’s interface combines traditional word processing with an advanced file-and-folder organization; easy research and reference tools; and other incredible features that simplify long-form work.
As much as I love Scrivener, it does come with a learning curve and in my opinion, youtube tutorials are the best! This writing software has helped so much with keeping all my thoughts, notes, images and ideas in one organized program!
Ten ways that creatives, writers and authors can benefit from writing their novels in Scrivener.
#1: THE BINDER HELPS KEEP ALL YOUR FILES AND FOLDERS IN ONE PROJECT
As I would see it, probably Scrivener‘s best component is the Binder, a simple to-explore sidebar that stores the limitless documents and folders one can create within a single project.
With the Binder, creatives directly don’t have to keep a whole manuscript in one document or mix between several files to find the right section or set of notes. The Binder makes project management easier than ever.
#2: CUSTOMIZE THE TOOLBAR FOR EASY USE
Scrivener features dozens of unique tools, such as project bookmarks, targets, collections, and keywords. The customizable Scrivener toolbar makes it easy to access your favourite features with ease.
#3: SETTING GOALS WITH PROJECT & DOCUMENT TARGETS
If you’re an author who flourishes under pressure, then you’ll love using Scrivener’s project and document targets. Use these components to consider yourself responsible for your objectives by setting cutoff times and target word counts. You can also activate a visual progress bar and push notifications to keep yourself on track.
#4: WORK/VIEW UP TO FOUR DOCUMENTS AT ONCE
Using Scrivener’s Split the Editor and Copyholder features, you can easily view multiple files at once as you work. This means you never need to switch between at least two windows to see your notes or drafts again.
#5: UNENDING RESEARCH? IMPORT ENDLESS FILES FOR REFERENCE!
With Scrivener, you can easily import and organize your references in forms ranging from images and text to web pages, audio and video files, multi-markdown files, and much more.
#6: GET IN FOCUS WITH COMPOSITION MODE
When it comes time to get some genuine words on the page, the full-screen Composition Mode can easily help you focus more.
#7: NO MORE LOST IDEAS!
Never lose one more significant idea as you write. When working on a file, you can use Scrivener’s Inspector sidebar to give your document a synopsis, capture revision notes, leave comments on lines of text, and more.
#8: MAKE REVISIONS WITHOUT REGRET
With Scrivener, you don’t have to make a new project each time you start another draft. Instead, you can use the Snapshots feature to capture a version of your work, which you can then view or revert to at any time.
#9: ORGANIZE, OUTLINE, AND IDENTIFY FILES WITH EASE
Scrivener boasts several features that allow you to manage the complexities of long-form work. Use the Corkboard + Outliner modes to visually assess and re-order your documents, tag files with helpful labels and statuses. You can even create your own project keywords to easily navigate your work.
#10: COMPILE & FORMAT YOUR MANUSCRIPT FOR EXPORT
With your manuscript complete, you can easily format and export your work as a variety of file types ranging from .mobi and .epub ebook files to paperback proofs, Microsoft Word documents, and beyond.
The benefits of these core features are some of the biggest reasons why I love writing in Scrivener, though tools like Collections, Project Statistics, and easy backup options also lend to what makes this writing app so incredible.
Are you currently working on/writing a novel? So, if you are not yet using Scrivener, get your copy now?
Scrivener is available for Mac and Windows users for a one-time fee of $49 USD or a one-time fee of $19.99 for iOS (ex: iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch). You can also take advantage of their amazing free trial, which doesn’t expire for 30 working days.
Download the thirty-day free trial.
Purchase Scrivener for Mac.*
Purchase Scrivener for Windows.*
*These are affiliate links, meaning I’ll earn commission on sales made via these links at no extra cost to you, thank you for your support!
