Scrivener

Active

Country: United Kingdom (GB)
Founded: 2007
Developer: Literature & Latte
Pricing: $49 (one-time purchase)
Open source: No
Platforms: macOS, Windows

Indexes

Writing/Word Processing

Overview

Scrivener is a writing software designed for authors, screenwriters, and other long-form writers to organize, draft, and manage complex writing projects. It provides a centralized workspace where users can store research, character profiles, outlines, and manuscript text in a hierarchical structure called the Binder. The software is particularly valued for its flexibility in handling various document types and its ability to export to multiple formats including Word, PDF, ePub, and Kindle.

Key Features

Binder Organization - Hierarchical file structure for organizing manuscript sections, research, character profiles, and project materials in one location.
Corkboard View - Visual index card interface for planning scenes, viewing character profiles, and rearranging story elements.
Character Profiles - Pre-formatted character sketch templates with customizable fields for storing character information and details.
Document Templates - Reusable templates for characters, scenes, and other document types that can be applied across projects.
Inspector Panel - Metadata editing interface for adding synopsis, labels, keywords, and notes to individual documents.
Multi-Format Export - Export capabilities to Word, RTF, PDF, ePub, Kindle, Final Draft, and MultiMarkdown formats.
Name Generator - Built-in tool to generate character names with adjustable obscurity levels and quantity options.
Project Bookmarks - Quick reference system for linking to and accessing frequently used character information and research.

Pricing

Plan	Price	Includes
Standard License	$49 (one-time)	Full access to all features, available for Mac or Windows (separate purchase required for each platform)
Free Trial	Free	30-day trial period with full feature access

Platforms & Requirements

Scrivener is available for macOS and Windows as separate purchases. Each platform version requires a one-time license fee. The software runs on modern versions of both operating systems but specific minimum requirements vary by platform version.

Integrations & Ecosystem

Export to Microsoft Word
Export to RTF format
Export to PDF
Export to ePub format
Export to Kindle format
Export to Final Draft screenplay format
MultiMarkdown support for LaTeX
Document linking within projects

Alternatives

App	Difference
Plottr	Specialized plotting and outlining tool with visual timeline and character relationship mapping, often used alongside Scrivener.
Microsoft Word	General-purpose word processor with less specialized organization features for long-form writing projects.
Google Docs	Cloud-based collaborative writing platform with real-time sharing but fewer organizational tools for complex manuscripts.
Atticus	Focused specifically on book publishing with integrated formatting and distribution features.

Reputation

Scrivener is widely regarded as the industry standard for serious novelists and screenwriters, praised for its organizational capabilities and flexibility in handling complex writing projects. Users appreciate its customizable templates, multiple viewing options, and robust export functionality. Common criticisms include a steep learning curve for new users and an interface that some find dated compared to modern applications. The software maintains strong community support through tutorials and user forums.

Sources (9)