KUMARI PACHECO
So, you're writing a thing. Fantasy novel, historical timepiece, graphic novel script—whatever floats your boat. You have these characters, plots, and settings swirling around in your head. Why on earth should they also be scrambled up in your doc files? Now, I'm no pioneer. Many writers will tell you that Microsoft Word doesn't quite cut it when it comes to world-building. That said, I'm certain that my replacement, Scrivener, beats the rest by ten leagues through the lands of Mordor (no, really).
Scrivener's blank page is never a blank page. It gives you options where Word leaves you staring helplessly at a white screen. Here, "Page 1" is not so much a page as it is an endless scroll, allowing you to chase your ideas without the disruption of page breaks. On its left, you have your modules—which can be shifted up and down to fit a hierarchy—and, if you're a "plotter" like me, that's likely where you'll begin.
Each module contains a blank sheet—although some, like "Characters," provide a nifty little template—and can be dragged inside each other, like I've done with "1880-90s Clothing" and "Research." Such nested modules can be collapsed using the arrow to the left of the icon, creating a nice, tidy workspace with everything you need inside of the same "document."
In addition, Scrivener has several little icons through which you can personalize your modules. You can even personalize their contents by creating your own templates!
No more switching between ten documents for to the same story. No more rooting around for a specific chapter or character profile. Scrivener's made binge-writing so much easier!
TL;DR - Scrivener makes Word look like a post-it note.
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