Why I Use Scrivener

When I finally decided to put pen to paper I realized there were several option available for authors. There are different software depending on whether you use a MAC or a PC.

Since I am most familiar with a PC I decided not to try and learn a new system. Instead, I focused my research on the best software available for a PC. The first stop was my Cozy Mystery Village Facebook Group. I decided to individually message several authors for their input. Well, it turns out that all of them used a different software. However, that gave me a start because now I could narrow down the options to two - Word and Scrivener.

Word had the advantage that I was familiar with it, but the problem I found was it limited me in what I could do. Word is just for writing. You cannot effectively compile into the different formats. Also, if I wanted to have several files open I needed to minimize each file so that I could spread out on the desktop. Already, I was seeing this software had limitations.

Next was Scrivener. From everything I found Scrivener looked like it was going to be the best option for me. The way the files are set-up are like a notebook. Just as if you had a physical notebook. Imagine a tab for your cast of characters, and a tab for each chapter, or even a tab for research. All of this and more in one place.

To be honest I have viewed numerous videos, downloaded several templates, and now feel I am getting the hang of it. One of the best things Scrivener offers is a 30 day trial period. This allows one to practice using the software before purchasing.

I found that it has more pros than cons, so for now this is my go to software for writing.