Outlining software (for writers) by Christopher Warren Dean
As writers, some of us tend to prefer doing things the old-fashioned way, while many of us enjoy the use of modern tools like computers. For the latter, I'd like to share with you the software applications that I've used over the years to assist with outlining my stories. Each program has it's strengths and weaknesses. Therefore, the tool of choice is definitely one of personal preference. It should complement your particular style for story structure, scene and character development.
Some of these tools include additional functionality beyond those of outlining. I'll note the additional functionality where appropriate. I'll also note the operating system as well.
Here's what I've used:
* yWriter 5 (text editor, notes) (Windows, Linux using mono)
* Writer's Cafe (text editor, scrapbook, names) (Windows, Linux, Mac)
* PageFour (text editor) (Windows)
* WhizFolders Organizer Deluxe (Windows)
* Liquid Story Binder XE (text editor, notes, galleries, mindmaps) (Windows)
* WriteItNow (text editor, notes, ideas, submissions) (Windows, Mac)
* ActionOutline (Windows)
* Scrivener (text editor, notes) (Mac, Windows (in beta))
As I said, all of these tools have merit. Check them out and use the one that works best for you.
My personal favorite is yWriter (http://www.spacejock.com/yWriter5.html). It does a fantastic job of allowing various ways to structure your story (chapter/scene, act/scene, etc); keeps notes yWriter5by project and by scene; define characters, items and locations; and define goals for each scene. Additionally, you can specify scene attributes, such as type of scene, ratings (relevance, tension, humor, quality), tags, status, time duration and other attributes. Everything is nicely packaged in one tool. I can even associate images with characters and locations. And it is all FREE. The programmer for yWriter is a published author and uses yWriter to write his own novels.
I have to say that I also like Scrivener (http://www.literatureandlatte.com/index.php) very much, and now that a Windows version is on the horizon, I'm looking forward to checking it out again. I use additional tools for storyforming, timelines, maps, etc and needed to move from Mac to Windows. The one tool I missed from the Mac was Scrivener.
I'm sure that I've missed other notable software programs for Outlining. If you have found a particular outlining program useful, please drop me a comment and let me know.
I'll discuss the various storyforming tools that I've used in a future post.
About the Author
Christopher Warren Dean was born in California, grew up in many of the western states and ultimately found his home in Washington State with his wife and two lovable dogs. He holds a B.A. from Washington State University and works in Information Technology managing data integration solutions. When he's not working or with his family, Christopher is busy writing, reading, taking photographs and playing golf or computer games.
You can find him at http://www.landsofguir.com
