There are a number of
software packages to help writers. We will be reviewing these and would
welcome any contributions from users. For those interested in
scriptwriting or poetry, there will be separate listings. Scriptwriting
(for film, radio and the theatre) is particularly well supported by
software packages using specialised word-processing packages which respect
the presentation conventions of a script.
Software which helps with finding a name
http://musecreations.ca/
Muse names provides a database of 40,000 names for you to browse
through.
Software which helps with the plotting
How the packages work
None of the software will actually write a word for you. What
they do is provide a framework and prompts to suit the genre and style you
have set.
The software is only a tool. In the hands of a craftsman, it
improves quality and productivity. Even a novice will benefit from the
power provided by the software. The tool does not replace the skill or
imagination of the user, but it does enhance it.
The packages are not listed in any order of cost or preference. Reviews
will be added as they are received.
·
Our first review
is of the package called newnovelist. 'after describing the characters, the places and
setting you have a wonderfully clear and detailed outline'
is what our reviewer said.
http://www.newnovelist.com
·
Writers Blocks comes in a scientific and creative
version. See our review.
http://www.writersblocks.com
·
ADM: THE KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT DESKTOP
This offers a free download and 30-day trial. Tool for managing data,
so might suit non-fiction projects which involve compiling history, or
scientific works.
http://www.adm21.net/
·
Ideas Tracker with a demo download available. The
title accurately describes what it sets out to do, organise data and
ideas
http://www.intellectusenterprises.com/IdeaTracker.html
·
Power Structure helps to arrange the elements of a
story
·
StoryCraft 4.3 uses The Jarvis Method, one of the
standard fiction models, to help you construct your story. Good online
preview so you can see if it suits you.
http://www.storycraftpro.com/
·
BookWriter combines the function of word processor
and project manager in one package. http://www.designwrite.com/sts/z-write/index.html
http://www.yadudigital.com/products/bookwriter.htm
·
Z-write for the MAC platform combines word
processing with prompting the creative process. Free trial to download
http://www.designwrite.com/sts/z-write/index.html
·
WriteItNow keeps the work on course and there is a
demo to download
http://www.ravensheadservices.com/index.htm
Specialist tools (and see freebies below)
·
The writer, which is about the business of writing,
has a set of courses and some demonstrations
http://www.writepro.com
· StyleWriter checks word-processed documents
against 35,000+ language problems
and offers ways of clarifying the style.
·
Stuck for a name?
http://www.vgrant.com/software.shtml
or
·
StoryBase examines every known plot
http://www.ashleywilde.com/
·
For those compiling dictionaries
http://www.biblioscape.com
·
Style software ideal for larger organisations where a
corporate style is required but has applications in smaller projects.
http://www.editorsoftware.com/
·
If you are looking for a word to rhyme
http://www.writeexpress.com/rhymer.html
Index Creation Software
This shows how CEDEX, SkyIndex and Macrex can help you put your index
together.
Business
Not all software is aimed at the creative end. If you want to make a
living you need to keep track of your work and who it is going to. From
commissioning to paycheck will probably be months, so some tools to help
you keep track might be useful.
·
The Working Writer helps manage the business side of
being a freelance writer.
http://dolphinsoftware.bc.ca/software/writers/index.html
·
Write Again - a set of tools to manage projects and
marketing. Free trial download.
http://www.asmoday.com/WA.htm
·
InkLink helps look after your projects and track
costs.
http://www.writerssupercenter.com/inklink/
Freebies
·
This link offers access to a host of tools for creative
writers. They have not been checked so feedback would be welcome.
http://www.creativepurrsuits.com/reststopnews/freebies.html
·
Rough Draft is ‘donation ware’. Many great
programs have started life as giveaways.
http://www.rsalsbury.co.uk/rd.htm
