At a Glance

Expert's Rating

Pros

Feature rich
great customisable options
full-screen mode
good range of export choices

Cons

Requires effort and dedication to get the most out of it
layout can look cluttered

Our Verdict

While Scrivener requires users to invest some effort in learning a more structured yet freer way of writing, the benefits are many and the results encouraging. Indeed, Scrivener can only grow in strength thanks to a dedicated development team and equally dedicated user base. If you have any interest in the power of words to enchant and educate, Scrivener is a must-have writing tool.

Scrivener is an essential writing tool designed to bring order and simplicity to the creation of often-complex long-form prose – from novels to dissertations. Think of it as a digital shoebox to collect your thoughts and ideas, research and notes, video and audio material and more all in one logical, non-linear place.

A series of templates include those aimed at fiction and non-fiction writers, scriptwriters, poets and lyricists. Once you create a new project, a binder holds all the various elements together displayed in corkboard, outliner and editor modes. Elements can be easily switched around, while collections keep track of changes as you build up and refine over various drafts.

Scrivener offers a variety of options to suit the needs of a wide range of users, while avoiding rigid formatting and ways of working that might confuse and get in the way of the actual writing process. One great addition in Scrivener 2.1 is the ability to synchronise your text with many iPad and iPhone apps, so you can work anywhere that inspiration takes hold.

Like much of Scrivener, the full-screen distraction-free mode is customisable, allowing you to create an environment and colour scheme that best suits you. A range of output and export options covers most possible scenarios, from submitting manuscripts traditionally to self-publishing to the iPad and Kindle.

You can set up the full-screen mode as you please – black screen or pleasing pic