posted
I've tried a few programs like these -- and I didn't find them very helpful. Not because they didn't have good ideas on how to organize your working habits, but because they limit you to working a certain way. Do this first. This second. This third. And so forth. It can be very annoying.
I've found that if you open up several word documents and an spreadsheet, you can do everything they do -- and you can do it in the way that suits you best.
In terms of manuscript preparation, I don't get it. It's so easy to format a manuscript that the fact that a program like this would highlight it means it's aimed for the gullible beginner. Also, with so many online magazines nowadays, is there really such a thing as a "standard manuscript format"? I'm not sure.
Finally, I also have to laugh at the submission tracker. I made one myself in Excel in 20 minutes for $0.
Personally, if you're going to spend $40 on stuff to help you write, spend it on paper, ink, envelopes, stamps, and take what you have left over and buy a couple of really good novels you haven't read yet.
posted
I learned my trade before computers, so I just open up a Microsoft Works word processor file, and write from there. Other notes? I open another file, or scribble them down on a pad next to my computer. Most of it is organized in my head. (Or misorganized.)
Posts: 8809 | Registered: Aug 2005
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posted
I wouldn't mind just being able to keep a running list of characters/characterics for all the little detail stuff - you know, something that could show on the side of the window and be open all the time i'm working. Names of parents, car type, eye color, old girlfriend. I end up typing a listing a characters and their deets for whatever poor sap I lure into proofing for me (montana, if you're reading this, sorry), but i never get around to it until i've committed at least two or three consistancy errors.
Posts: 1304 | Registered: May 2007
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posted
i tryed to use voice recunisation softwere but if failed to do anything but anger me.
if i dont usuly use organize programs u just put it on a WORD DOC and save it to my computer and then increptit then put it in a hiden folder deep on my harddrive. i leave my self clues to find it.
But...that just gives me a mental image of some writer's den overflowing with index cards, cards tacked to the wall with colored strings connecting them, bits and pieces of newspaper magazines alongside, etc.
At least if my organization is junky or cluttery on the computer, it won't overflow onto my bed. I have no idea how people use index cards and retain sanity while getting any sense of efficiency out of them.
posted
even though CELTX is made for screenwriting, i use it for fiction 'cause it gives me one place to put all the extraneous info that i need to refer to from time to time, and it is organized around scenes, which helps me in the novel writing.
Posts: 2710 | Registered: Jul 2004
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I have no idea how people use index cards and retain sanity while getting any sense of efficiency out of them.
