Tony - January 27, 2019. I’m new, and I’m enjoying the page. The “fictional language” template the others are talking about, if you haven’t discovered it already, is a template for developing a language in the same manner as J.R.R. Tolkien in “The Hobbit,” or as Stephen King in The Dark Tower series. Go to the action menu (the gear wheel) at the foot of the binder and select Change Icon. From there, scroll all the way down until you reach Manage Icons. A window will open: You’ll want to add your icons in Icons in Project Package. Customize Binder Icons By default, Scrivener allows you to change the icons of specific items in the Binder. However, you can also change your icons’ colors, and even add new icons to the default list. This section will show you how to do both. One note before we begin: you can’t change the color of icons you’ve added yourself.
You've no doubt heard of Scrivener before. Developed by Literature and Latte, this piece of novel-writing software is expansive, affordable, and extremely popular with experienced authors and beginners alike.
Scrivener’s Corkboard feature is here to help. Pack up your paper index cards and colored sticky notes, and let’s go virtual. Understanding Index Cards in Scrivener. Every file in Scrivener has an associated index card.
Scrivener Tutorial
But just why is it so popular? Do you really need yet another piece of software in your life? Will it really help you write your novel?
Like anything, Scrivener isn't for everyone. But it is an objectively handy tool for writers who are serious about working on a long-form project.
Scrivener How To
Let's take a look at some of the reasons Scrivener is useful for novel-writing, then dive into a Beginner's Guide to get you started with the program.
Table Of Contents
- Getting started
- The binder
- Beginners' tips for writing in Scrivener
Why should I use Scrivener to write my novel?
There are many benefits to using Scrivener to write a manuscript. Here are just a few:
- It's a one-stop shop for your novel. As well as a word processor, Scrivener is:
- A planning, plotting and outlining tool
- A place to collate and organise notes and research
- An editing platform
- A formatting tool (especially useful for self-publishing).
- It allows you to restructure, rearrange and reshape your novel much more easily than standard software such as Microsoft Word.
- It helps keep you motivated and on track with your novel-writing goals through various handy functions, such as its statistics and Project Targets features.
- It can also be used for developing texts other than novels – plays or film scripts, for example, can be created in Scrivener's Screenwriting mode.
There are a few potential downsides to Scrivener – namely, that it takes some time to learn how to navigate, and that it isn't free (although the one-time cost you pay is very reasonable, considering what you get).
If you're interested in the program but not quite sure if you actually want to purchase it, consider using the free trial. That way you've got 30 days to decide whether it's right for you.
Scrivener How To Use
If you do have Scrivener installed, let's jump into our Beginner's Guide with everything you need to know to get going.
Getting started
When you first open Scrivener, you'll be greeted by a 'New Project' window. Here, you can choose which category your project falls into: Fiction, Non-Fiction, Scriptwriting, or Miscellaneous (for any other type of project).
If you're writing a novel, select 'Fiction', then choose between the Novel and Novel (with Parts) formats. There's also a Short Story format for when you're working on short-form pieces.
Once you've chosen your novel format, your new project will be created, and you're ready to get started!
Before you begin writing, though, let's get familiarised with the Scrivener interface and all its features.
The interface
There are five key aspects to Scrivener's interface:
- The toolbar, at the top of the screen. This contains icons that act as shortcuts to different tools and parts of the program.
- The editor, in the middle of the screen, which is where you will do most of your work. The editor can be split into two screens, allowing you to view two parts of your project at once.
- The format bar, above the editor, which contains text editing and formatting tools.
- The inspector, accessed by pressing the 'i' symbol in the top right corner. The inspector shows additional information for the active file/s in the editor, such as synopsis details, meta-data and other notes.
- The binder, on the left-hand side, which collects all the files within your project in the one place. The binder houses your manuscript itself as well as notes and research materials. We'll take a closer look at the binder below.
The binder
There are a number of different sections in the Scrivener binder, so let's take a look at what each is for.
Manuscript
This is the main section of the binder, as it's where you'll actually be writing and organising your novel manuscript. Within this section, you can add as many sub-folders and documents as you like.
To help keep things organised, create a new folder for each chapter and a new document for each scene within a chapter. This allows you to rearrange sections of your work whenever you like, and makes things a whole lot easier when it comes to editing and restructuring!
Characters and Places
These sections allow you to keep notes and details about your novel's various characters and settings. You can store anything from documents to images here, and it's super handy to have all your notes and inspiration within easy reach while you're writing.
If you like, you can use Scrivener's in-built templates for creating character profiles and setting sketches – see the section on 'Template Sheets' below.
Front Matter
'Front matter' refers to all the pages that come before the actual story in your book: the title page, copyright details, the dedication and so on.
In the Front Matter section of the binder, you'll find folders containing front matter templates for three different formats: manuscript, paperback novel and e-book. These can be filled out when you've finished writing your novel and are getting ready to export it from Scrivener.
Research
This is the place to store any research files you need. Scrivener supports text, image, multimedia, archived web pages and PDF files, so you can import any of these into the Research section of the binder for easy access.
Template Sheets
As we mentioned above, Scrivener provides some template sheets for character and setting development. When you expand this folder, you'll see two documents entitled 'Character Sketch' and 'Setting Sketch'. You can copy these templates as many times as you like and fill them out with character and location details for your novel.
Trash
This one's pretty self-explanatory – anything that gets deleted in Scrivener ends up in the Trash section of the binder. All deleted files can be accessed by clicking on the Trash folder (until you empty the Trash), meaning you can recover any files you may have accidentally deleted.
Beginners' tips for writing in Scrivener
Once you've familiarised yourself with Scrivener's interface, and have found your way around the binder, it's time to start writing!
Here are some handy tips and tricks for Scrivener beginners.
Use word count targets to help track your writing progress
In the 'Project' drop-down menu at the top of the screen, there's a handy function called 'Project Targets'. Here, you can set word count goals for your manuscript as a whole, and for each individual writing session. This is a great way to keep yourself on track and monitor your progress.
If you don't want to set specific targets, you can keep track of your word count by clicking 'Project' then 'Project Statistics' instead.
Use split-screen mode to view two files at once
One of the great benefits of Scrivener is that it allows you to view more than one file in the editor at a time. So, for example, if you're writing and want to check your notes for something, you're able to view those notes without having to move away from your manuscript at all.
To use split-screen mode, go to the top right corner of the editor, where you'll see two icons showing horizontal or vertical splits. Choose one, and then simply open up your extra file within that window. You'll now be able to view two things side by side (or one above the other).
To return to single-screen mode, simply click the full-screen icon in the top right corner.
Use Scrivenings mode when editing or reading your work
As we mentioned above, you'll generally be using folders and files within those folders to organise your work. However, if you want to view all the documents within a folder together – for example, all the separate scenes within a chapter one after the other – there's an easy way to do it.
When you're in a folder, simply click the Scrivenings button, which is the left-hand button in the group of three that sits in the toolbar above the editor. This will automatically arrange all your documents to be viewed within the one window.
You can also use this function to view the manuscript as a whole. Simply click on 'Manuscript' in the binder, then click the button for Scrivenings mode, and your whole manuscript will be displayed.
Use full-screen mode to minimise distraction
We're all familiar with the distraction of multiple internet tabs and other apps when writing. However, when using Scrivener, you have the option of entering full-screen mode to get rid of all other distractions and focus on your writing.
To open full-screen mode, either use the F11 keyboard shortcut or click 'View' > 'Enter Full Screen'. Distraction-free writing time awaits you!
Add labels to help organise your work
If you want a visual indicator to separate different files in the binder's Manuscript folder, try using labels. Adding a label to a folder or file highlights it in a particular colour in the binder, allowing you to associate it with its label at a glance. (To ensure the highlight feature is activated, go to View > Use Label Colour In > Binder.)
For example, if you're writing a manuscript with multiple character viewpoints, you may wish to highlight each character's POV chapters in a certain colour to help you distinguish between them in the binder.
To add a label to a folder or file, right-click it in the binder and select 'Label'. Scrivener offers a number of predefined labels such as 'Idea', 'Notes', 'Chapter' and 'Scene', but you can also create your own labels by clicking 'Edit' and then adding a custom label.
Export your project in a number of different formats
When you've finished your project, you'll want to export it from Scrivener so you can print it out, self-publish it as an ebook, send it to beta readers etc. You have a number of options when it comes to which file format you'd like to export your project to.
When you're ready, click the 'Compile' icon in the toolbar. Here, you can choose from a number of predefined formats for both print and online mediums.
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As we've mentioned, this is just a beginner's guide help you get started with Scrivener. For a much more detailed breakdown of all its features and functions, take a look at the official manual by clicking 'Help' then 'Scrivener Manual' in the main menu.
We hope you enjoy writing your novel with Scrivener! If you have any tips or tricks of your own, feel free to leave them in the comments below. Happy writing!
Scrivener proved so popular for desktop and laptop users that the demand for a mobile version couldn’t be ignored for ever.
Eventually, Literature and Latte, creators of Scrivener, responded by putting out a version for iOS which is compatible with both iPhone and iPad.
You may be wondering if Scrivener for iOS is a good fit for your needs. You may also be trying to figure out exactly why a writer would benefit from using the iOS version of Scrivener if they already have a version for their desktop. Read on to experience a full rundown of Scrivener for iOS which explores –
- The key features of Scrivener for iOS
- The main advantages of Scrivener for iOS
- Drawbacks to using Scrivener for iOS
Scrivener for iOS 101 – Key Features and Benefits
Let’s get straight to it. The key features for Scrivener’s iOS version, and the ways they can benefit you, are as follows –
- Full text editing and composition
- Syncs with both Mac and Windows desktop versions for seamless integration
- Full research capabilities on the go (import PDF, text, online and image research)
- Full ability to outline and plan
- Advanced editing capabilities including find and replace, comments, and labelling
Scrivener for iOS Mobile Writing Mode
Let’s take a look at each feature in turn and consider how it might benefit a writer using Scrivener on the go.
At first glance, it might seem strange or unwanted that the mobile version of Scrivener features a full writing mode. After all, not many writers would use their phone or tablet as their primary means of writing. However, this feature is more beneficial than it may at first seem.
The main way to benefit from Scrivener for iOS’ mobile writing mode is to outline and plan on the go. It’s a breeze, even on a keypad as small as an iPhone’s, to write short pieces of text, such as chapter summaries or character notes.
Don’t rule out writing in longer form on Scrivener for iOS entirely. A lot of writers make use of external keyboards to carry out full-length composition on the mobile version of Scrivener. This is a great option when travelling and pressed for space. It can be easier to carry around a tablet and slim external keyboard than a full laptop in addition to a tablet and keyboard.
Scrivener for iOS Sync Capabilities
For many writers, this will be the most attractive feature of Scrivener for iOS. The key advantage between syncing between the mobile and desktop version, no matter if you use Mac or Windows, is the ability to carry out different stages of your writing environment in different locations.
If you’re like many writers, you will prefer to carry out the majority of your writing in a home or office environment, using a desktop or laptop device. However, when it comes time for you to review your work and self-edit, it can be great to get a change of scenery. Perhaps you have a favorite coffee shop you love to edit in, or simply like to get outdoors and sit in the park on a sunny day.
Knowing that your work will sync between mobile and desktop is a real gamechanger for people who like working in different locations. It saves the need to export into and out of Scrivener by copy and pasting or using cumbersome third party software. Instead, you can work within the Scrivener environment, no matter where you are or what device you are using.
Scrivener for iOS Research Functionality
One of the most widely stated reasons for writers switching to Scrivener from more standard options, such as Microsoft Word, is the level of research organization and depth offered by Scrivener.
With Scrivener, gone are the days when you had to compile your research in a separate environment than your word processor, sloppily switching back and forth between them, inefficiently wasting time and energy.
Scrivener for iOS takes this research awesomeness to a new level. If you are out and about, and read or think of something related to your writing project, you can quickly and easily save your inspiration within your Scrivener project. When you return to work on your writing, your ideas are right there, within Scrivener, waiting for you.
Scrivener for iOS Planning and Editing
It’s often healthy and productive to split a writing project into distinct phases, such as planning, writing and editing.
The fact that the mobile version of Scrivener allows full editing capabilities, as well as outlining and planning, helps you to make faster and better progress on your writing projects.
If you take public transport as part of your daily commute, you can work on your writing project in one way or another, instead of having to think about it and get to work when you are home. If you have a lunch break, you can use it to move forward with your writing, rather than just scrolling through social media.
It can often be a creative struggle to switch from writing mode to editing mode in the same environment on the same device. Having the option to switch to your iPad or iPhone and go wherever you feel most focused is a breath of creative fresh air and can reduce the tedium of always working in the same place.
The Best Situations For Using Scrivener for iOS
Let’s take a look at how the benefits mentioned could make a difference for real writers.
- The mobile writer. If you travel a lot for work, or pleasure, you are likely to spend a lot of time on planes, trains and buses. Scrivener for iOS allows you to make productive use of this time, safe in the knowledge that your work syncs and is fully compatible with desktop Scrivener.
- The writer who needs inspirational locations. If you are feeling stuck, blocked or simply bored by your environment, Scrivener for iOS makes it easy to switch things up and work in a park or a coffee shop.
- The iPhone fanatic. Carrying around a laptop or tablet can be cumbersome and open you up to risk or theft. Simply by having an iPhone running Scrivener for iOS, you can usefully dip in and out of your writing work on the go, which is a lot more productive than mindless scrolling through social media.
Scrivener for iOS Drawbacks
It’s important to look at things in a fair and balanced way, so it’s worth considering the following drawbacks to Scrivener for iOS.
- The $19.99 investment isn’t right for everyone. If you won’t use Scrivener on your iOS device enough to justify the cost, consider sticking to the desktop version.
- There is no Scrivenings mode. This is a fan favorite from the desktop version which allows you to easily combine different text files. If this is a key part of your Scrivener use, the iOS version might not be your best bet.
- No export to .epub and .mobi. I don’t know of many writers who would want to handle the format and ebook aspect of their project from a mobile device. However, if you do, you may wish to reconsider using the iOS version of Scrivener.
- Not all features available on iPhone. Corkboard mode, for example, works on iPad but not on iPhone. If you will be using Scrivener for iOS on your iPhone only, be aware of the limitations.
Scrivener for iOS Conclusion
Overall, Scrivener for iOS is an impressive mobile iteration of Scrivener packed with features and benefits. The $19.99 price is easily justified if using the software will save you time and make your writing process more efficient.
We’d never advocate buying a mobile app for no reason. However, if any of the benefits found in this article sound like they would be useful for you, it’s worth stepping out of your comfort zone and experimenting.
A lot of writers can’t imagine switching back from Scrivener to their previous word processor. You might just experience the same revolution if you give Scrivener for iOS a try for yourself.