Writing Software...or Not

As a writer, at some point you must, well, write. Beyond the obvious of crafting characters, scenes, and plot lines, there is the mechanics of how to get your words onto paper. But today paper is virtual. Usually. So what is the best software to use for writing? The answer is, whatever works best for you. There are many choices, but, while there may be features unique to some, the choice of which software is really up to you.
 

Microsoft Word is by far the most common word-processing software out there. It is easy to use and universally accepted. However, it’s not the only game in town. There are freeware and open source word-processing software that are just as easy to use. Open Office has a word processor that is just as easy to use as Word, and it is open source. Google Docs is a free-to-use word processor, but it does not contain as many features as other software. And, despite the intent, it can be hard to share content with someone not using Google Docs (like your publisher).

There are other tools available that go beyond word processing and focus on helping the writer. One freeware example is yWriter. This software incorporates a word processor, but it is really story-management software. You can create character profiles, scene sketches, and places. You can rearrange scenes using a storyboard approach. You can even set and track writing deadlines or milestones. Scrivener similarly goes beyond merely word processing and provides tools to help the writer, but it is for-purchase software.

There are numerous examples of software to use for writing, so many that this discussion doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface. But, what about good ol’ pen and paper? Many writers, regardless of age, prefer to compose stories in the traditional way by pressing the tip of a pen or pencil onto the fibers of a sheet of paper. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that. Remember, the correct choice is, whatever works for you. However, be aware that when everything is said and done, in some way and in some fashion your words must end up in electronic form. No publisher will accept manuscript as handwriting on paper (or as typed pages). If you prefer to write on paper, feel free to do so, but be prepared to translate your paper story into a digital text file at the end of the project.

Tin Whiskers Publisher is a member of the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA). IBPA’s mission is “to lead and serve the independent publishing community by providing advocacy, education, and tools for success.” IBPA is a not-for-profit membership organization serving and leading the independent publishing community. Founded in 1983, it is the largest publishing trade organization in the United States. IBPA members pledge to uphold the organization’s code of ethics.