Writing a novel is a complex and daunting task, but with the right tools, the process can become more manageable and enjoyable. In recent years, a variety of software applications have been developed to assist writers in plotting their novels, organizing their ideas, and keeping track of their characters and storylines. In this article, we’ll explore the world of novel plotting software, compare some of the most popular options, and provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best tool for your writing needs.
Why Use Novel Plotting Software?
Before we dive into the specifics of various software options, let’s first discuss the benefits of using novel plotting software:
- Organize Your Ideas: Writing a novel often involves juggling multiple characters, plot lines, and story arcs. Novel plotting software helps you keep track of all these elements in a structured and organized manner, preventing you from losing track of important details.
- Visualize Your Story: Many novel plotting software applications offer visual representations of your story, such as timelines, mind maps, or storyboards. These visual aids can help you better understand the flow of your narrative and identify potential plot holes or inconsistencies.
- Streamline Your Writing Process: With novel plotting software, you can easily rearrange scenes, chapters, or plot points, allowing for a more efficient writing process. This can save you time and effort compared to working with traditional writing methods.
- Collaborate with Others: Some novel plotting software applications offer collaboration features, enabling you to work with co-authors, editors, or beta readers seamlessly.
Popular Novel Plotting Software Options
Now that we’ve discussed the benefits of using novel plotting software, let’s take a look at some of the most popular options available:
1. Scrivener
Scrivener is one of the most widely used novel plotting software applications among writers. It offers a range of features, including:
- Corkboard View: Visualize your novel’s structure with virtual index cards that represent scenes or chapters.
- Outliner: Create and organize detailed outlines for your novel.
- Character and Setting Sketches: Keep track of your characters’ traits, backstories, and the settings in your novel.
- Snapshots: Capture different versions of your work, allowing you to experiment without fear of losing progress.
- Compilation: Export your novel into various formats, such as Word, PDF, or ePub.
Scrivener is available for both Windows and macOS, with a one-time purchase fee of $49 (or $19 for educational pricing).
2. yWriter
yWriter is a free, open-source novel plotting software that offers a range of features for writers. Some of its key features include:
- Scene Outlining: Organize your novel into scenes and chapters.
- Character and Location Profiles: Keep track of your characters’ details and the settings in your novel.
- Word Targets: Set daily or project-wide word count goals.
- Project Backups: Automatically back up your work to prevent data loss.
- Export Options: Export your novel to various formats, including RTF, PDF, and HTML.
yWriter is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, and it’s completely free to use.
3. Novelize
Novelize is a novel plotting software designed specifically for writers who prefer a more visual approach to organizing their stories. Some of its key features include:
- Storyboard View: Visualize your novel’s structure using a virtual storyboard.
- Character Profiles: Create detailed profiles for your characters, including their backstories, traits, and relationships.
- Timeline View: View your novel’s events in a chronological timeline.
- World-Building Tools: Create detailed maps, languages, and cultures for your fictional world.
- Collaboration: Share your project with co-authors, editors, or beta readers for seamless collaboration.
Novelize offers a free trial, and its paid plans start at $4.99 per month or $49.99 annually.
4. Writer’s Cafe
Writer’s Cafe is a comprehensive suite of tools designed to assist writers throughout the entire writing process, from plotting to publishing. Some of its key features include:
- Novel Planner: Plan and outline your novel, including characters, settings, and plot points.
- Writing Tools: Write and organize your novel using various tools, such as a word processor, storyboard, and timeline.
- Publishing Tools: Format and publish your novel in various formats, including ePub and print-on-demand.
- Community: Connect with other writers and participate in writing groups and forums.
Writer’s Cafe offers a free trial, and its paid plans start at $9.99 per month or $99.99 annually.
5. Plottr
Plottr is a web-based novel plotting software that focuses on helping writers organize their ideas and develop their stories. Some of its key features include:
- Beat Sheets: Create detailed beat sheets for your novel’s plot and structure.
- Character Profiles: Develop comprehensive profiles for your characters, including their goals, motivations, and backstories.
- Timeline View: Visualize your novel’s timeline and rearrange events as needed.
- Writing Mode: Write your novel directly within the Plottr interface.
- Collaboration: Share your project with co-authors, editors, or beta readers for feedback and collaboration.
Plottr offers a free trial, and its paid plans start at $25 per year.
Comparison Table
To help you compare the features of these novel plotting software options, we’ve created a detailed comparison table:
| Feature | Scrivener | yWriter | Novelize | Writer’s Cafe | Plottr |
| Corkboard/Storyboard View | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Outlining Tools | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Character Profiles | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Setting/World-Building Tools | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Timeline View | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Word Count Tracking | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Writing Mode | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Export Options | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Collaboration Features | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Publishing Tools | ✓ | ||||
| Community/Forums | ✓ | ||||
| Free Version Available | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Pricing | $49 | Free | $4.99/mo | $9.99/mo | $25/yr |
Please note that this table provides a general overview of the features offered by each software option. Some features may vary or have additional capabilities not listed here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To help address some common questions and concerns regarding novel plotting software, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions:
1. Do I need to use novel plotting software to write a successful novel?
No, using novel plotting software is not a requirement for writing a successful novel. Many authors have written best-selling novels using traditional methods, such as pen and paper or basic word processors. However, novel plotting software can streamline the writing process and help you stay organized, especially for complex or multi-threaded narratives.
2. Can novel plotting software help with writer’s block?
While novel plotting software cannot directly cure writer’s block, it can provide valuable tools and resources to help you overcome creative blocks. For example, some software offers features like prompts, random idea generators, or brainstorming tools that can help you break through mental barriers and spark new ideas.
