Scrivener, the Writing App That (Almost) Could

Launched in 2007, the word processing desktop platform known as Scrivener is a promising tool designed to help all kinds of writers develop their stories from idea inception to manuscript formatting. 

About the App

Scrivener was launched in 2007 by Literature & Latte, an independent software company founded by writers. Founder Keith Blount taught himself to code in order to create his ideal software for writing both his thesis and his novel. Scrivener was born out of a need for a platform that combines note-taking, research collecting, and writing.

Aside from Scrivener, Literature & Latte also released Scapple, a free-form idea mapping app.

The Good

If you’re a writer and you use multiple apps, then think of Scrivener as the super platform that has it all. Its general appeal is that it lets you compile thoughts, write sections of text, and collect research all in one place. 

Scrivener lets you put multiple documents in a single project, which you can then compile and export later into the file format of your choice. This takes away the need for multiple document windows being open at once or having to find different sections in a singular file. Each project acts like a digital binder. You can group multiple documents into a single folder or collect multiple documents under their own cover.

Each folder has a corkboard, which allows you to provide an at-a-glance description of every document in the folder. The corkboard also has a drag-and-drop feature, making reorganization much easier. With just one window, you can view multiple documents or research files side by side. You can also add footnotes, comments, and tags for each document. 

Every project comes with its own research folder, trash bin, and project notes folder. You can upload different file types in your research folder and view it alongside your working draft. The trash folder also retains anything you place there unless you permanently delete it from the project. You can even assign project targets and view project statistics to see if you’re on track with your goals.

Scrivener is adaptable to all kinds of writing projects and has built-in templates for different manuscripts, including screenplays, novels, academic papers, and more. Unlike other apps and platforms, you only have to buy the license once in order to access all its features. No subscriptions necessary. If you’re not yet ready to purchase the platform but would like to try it, they offer a 30-day trial on their website.

The Bad

Unlike most apps, Scrivener does not have a cloud system. While you are able to export documents using different text and file formats and sync files with Dropbox, transitioning from one device to another is not as smooth. Syncing is also not automatic with the mobile app, although there is a sync function on the desktop version. You can also sync the document with another document in an external folder.

This inability to sync automatically also means that the platform isn’t collaboration friendly. You can’t have multiple users work on a document since the license is “household only.” Even if you have multiple users with Scrivener licenses, you will have to exchange projects manually in order to collaborate on them, instead of having just one project with multiple contributors. 

The Downright Disappointing

Let’s get straight to the point: the worst thing about Scrivener is the fact that you have to get three separate licenses for you to be able to use it across different devices. At an age where most word processing apps sync across devices, it can be quite a chore to have to sync to an external cloud app as opposed to having the cloud system built in the app.

Moreover, having to buy three separate licenses is quite costly. Licenses for Windows and Mac are sold separately at USD 59.99 or together at USD 95.98. The iOS app costs USD 23.99. They do offer a 15% discount for students and academics, but buying all three would still cost over USD 100.

The Verdict 

The platform is extremely useful, especially for those who are truly committed to their long-form projects. Having Scrivener is great for personal use and, as advertised, is truly created with the multifaceted needs of a writer in mind. 

The inability to sync to multiple devices, the USD 100 price tag, and the need to buy three different licenses takes away a lot of its appeal. However, if you’re someone who’s committed to writing on one device and still have access to your college email address (or have an extra 60 bucks), then it really isn’t a bad deal. Scrivener takes away the need for multiple platforms by putting in the ability to idea dump, write, and format all in one place. A true investment for a writer who wants to invest in themselves and their work. 

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