Hello, Writers!

There’s more to writing a book than putting words on paper or to digital memory. Regardless of the genre of your book, you will need to go through a similar set of steps before you publish your book. To do this, you will need a tool. When I first started writing, I started off using Word. Using a word processing programme was difficult. I had to format the document correctly from the first moment I typed my first word. This led me to use scriptwriting software when I first started writing screenplays. And later on, Scrivener*, a few years after I started writing fiction. It got a tonne of rave reviews from other well-respected authors, so I downloaded it to try.

Fast forward 18 months, and I’ve developed a love-hate relationship with Scrivener. I would like to add my relationship is more love than hate. When I first started out using Scrivener, I did find the software difficult to use. I’m not the type of person who loves reading instructions. I prefer to learn through experience. Here is my list of the pros and cons of using Scrivener.

It Syncs with Mobile Apps

Designed for Authors and Writers

One of the reasons why scrivener loved by authors is because it’s created with its target market in mind. It’s a well thought out piece of software. It supports the writer at every step of the journey. When you first start a new project on Scrivener you’re given the choice of using a vast range of templates. There is a template for every type of project from blog to fiction and non-fiction with parts. These templates save you time setting up like you would have to do if you were writing for a programme like Word.

Scrivener is a one-stop place for every step of your writing journey. There are sections in Scrivener where you can create character profiles, location descriptions, and organise your research. My favourite feature by far is the ability to outline your story or nonfiction book. I use this feature to outline both genres. It’s definitely much better than creating an outline using flashcards.

Autosave

The Compile Feature

I love the compile feature in scrivener. It gives the user the ability to create a book that’s formatted for submission to CreateSpace or KDP. Scrivener has the ability to create ebooks in EPUB or Kindle ready formats. I would like to add, I’ve always submitted my e-books to KDP in an EPUB format. I’ve never used the compile to kindle option. The most interesting feature about Scrivener is its ability to compile to paperback format. You can change a lot of things in the compile feature. This takes the heartache out of purchasing another programme to convert your file to EPUB, MOBI or PDF.

It Comes with Tutorials

The Cons

Limited Design Abilities

It’s Difficult to Use

Concluding Thoughts

Thank you for listening, reading, commenting and sharing with such enthusiasm.

Your coach,

Amelia xx