Writing Software for Macs
Novel Developing Programs for Computers
Forget the myth that there is limited software options for Mac computers. Today, it is quite the opposite. Especially for OS X users. Nowadays the choices seem overwhelming. For writers, programs to help organize ideas, create characters and even get over that all too familiar writers block can be a valid reason to invest in a writing software program. But for those seeking novel development software or even a note organizing program for our computer, which to choose?
Our Top Choices
After wadding through the freeware, the payware and the just don't careware, we've narrowed it down to the top, must have programs. These programs help in all different aspects of the writing process from developing characters, to keeping track of our ideas, to actually putting fingers to the keyboard...well, you get the point. So, get your check card ready.
Dramatica Pro.
Our top choice for writing software is Dramatica Pro by Write Brothers, Inc., this program covers every need you can imagine! This powerful program takes you through the story creation process step-by-step and asks you tons of questions about who your characters are, what they are doing, and what you hope to accomplish with them. You have a chance to use pictures and templates, but the beauty of the program is that you can be as hand-led or not as you want to. Experienced writers may like the refersher courses in character creation and plot descriptions and the advanced story weaving explanations. Beginning writers will certainly like the simpler, user friendly aspects of the programs and the simplified "checklist" nature of the program. What is so wonderful is the templates that you can print out and refer back to later. It is a program that really interacts with you.
Cons of Dramatica Pro.
There is only one downside to this program and that is the cost. At $269.50 (current list price at dramatica.com), you may have to weigh the cost against your projected book advance! But we still think it is worth the price of success!
Writers DreamKit.
Also by Write Brothers, Inc. this makes the #2 spot on our list simply because it is the the kid brother to Dramatica Pro. A much costlier version of Dramatica Pro at only $49.95 (writersstore.com), it contains practically the same features as its big brother, without the fancy feature, such as the colorful thumbnail pictures you can give to your characters or the advanced tutorials or storyweaving, it still gets you to a basic story outline in the end, with characters, a basic plot and some ideas for scenes. The rest is up to you.
WriteRoom.
Very simple in concept this is NOT a writing developing software program. However, it will help you write a novel better and probably faster using a computer. On most computers, the writing experience is the same. You might change up the font a little bit, or the background, but it is still sitting in front of a pretty bright, light colored background and typing in plain font. WriteRoom has changed all that. Offered through hogbaysoftware.com, WriteRoom is a full screen writing environment. You write in full screen, kind of like back in the days of DOS (does anyone still remember those days?). You choose the background color (the black with the bright alien green seems to be the most popular) and the font and leave the rest alone. It even has a wonderful typing sound effect that I could really get used to. This is fantastic when procrastination is not an option. $25.00.
Scrivener.
If this offered a few more creative development features instead of just outlining options this would be a close contender for spots number one and two. The reasons, great user interface. Very easy on the eyes and really fun. This program is wonderful for sorting ideas. It does not matter if you are writing a novel, screenplay, non-fiction piece, or even a research paper, this is the program that will help organize all those ideas. You can import movie clips, charts, .pdf files and any text documents you wants, story board ideas using the cork board and index card features. This powerful program also has a feature that allows for the most common writing forms such as as screenplays and novels and gives organizational suggestions. The best part is that when you are all done, you can pull up whatever materials you need with a handy keyword search, or you can export it all to your favorite word processor.$39.95 at literatureandlatte.com.
Storyist.
The Storyist is a very structured story program. Kind of like a cross between Scrivener and Dramatica Pro. Storyist does a lot of hand holding and is perfect for that first time writer who may feel they have the writing talent, but don't have the structure or all the ideas flowing through them quite yet. Writers choose from a variety of styles and formats including novels, screenplays and more. They are able to make notes in regards to the plot structure and are given step by step tutorials on character building and plot twists.
Writing Starts Within
No matter the writing software you choose for your make, the novel program you find is only a tool. Technology is a great way to jump start your writing process or break through writers block, but definitely it should not be the only technique in your writers toolbox.
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