If you are a writer looking to improve your productivity and use writing software that is the best in the market and offers unique tools and approaches, we will recommend choosing between Living Writer vs Scrivener. Both of these software programs are used by writers to ensure smooth project management. However, if you are confused about which one to choose among the two, read this guide to find help in making your decision.
Part 1: Introduction to LivingWriter & Scrivener
What is Scrivener
Scrivener is a popular word processing and project management software designed specifically for writers, authors, researchers, and other creative professionals. It is developed by Literature & Latte and is well-regarded for its comprehensive set of features tailored to the needs of long-form writing projects.
Key Features of Scrivener:
Organization Tools: Scrivener provides a range of tools to help users organize their writing projects. This includes features like the Corkboard, Outliner, and Collections, which enable users to outline, rearrange, and structure their content flexibly.
Split-Screen Editing: Users can work on multiple sections of their project simultaneously, making it easy to refer to different parts of the text and maintain a coherent structure.
Full-Screen Mode: It offers a distraction-free writing environment, allowing writers to focus on their work without distractions.
Snapshot Feature: This feature enables users to take "snapshots" of their work at different stages, making it easy to track changes and revisions.
Scratch Pad: It provides a space for jotting down ideas, notes, or snippets of text that may not yet have a specific place in your project.
Template Library: Scrivener offers a library of templates for different types of writing projects, helping users get started with the right structure.
Pros and Cons of Scrivener
Pros:
Helps users manage complex writing projects, making it ideal for authors, novelists, academics, and researchers.
Ease of integrating research materials directly into your writing environment.
The snapshot feature provides a safety net for writers to experiment and revise without fear of losing previous work.
Scrivener allows you to organize your work in a way that suits your creative process.
Cons:
Due to its extensive features, it may take some time for users to fully utilize its capabilities.
Scrivener does not have a dedicated mobile app, which might limit flexibility for some users.
Scrivener is primarily designed for individual use and may not be the best choice for collaborative writing.
Brief introduction of the Scrivener software, including its features, pricing, functions, interface and pros and cons with screenshots.
What is LivingWriter
LivingWriter is a web-based writing tool designed to assist authors, writers, and content creators in the process of creating and organizing their written work. It provides a collaborative platform with a range of features tailored to the needs of writers. Below are some details about this writing software that can help you as an author or researcher.
Key Features of LivingWriter:
Online Platform: LivingWriter operates entirely in a web browser, allowing users to access their work from any device with an internet connection.
Collaborative Writing: It offers real-time collaboration features, making it suitable for teams or co-authors working on a single project.
Plotting and Outlining Tools: LivingWriter provides tools to help writers plan and outline their stories, including the ability to create and organize scenes.
Character Profiles: Users can create and manage character profiles, which can include details like names, descriptions, and roles within the story.
Exporting and Formatting: The platform allows for easy export of documents into various file formats, making it compatible with different writing tools and publishing platforms.
Note-Taking and Research: LivingWriter provides space for writers to take notes, store research materials, and organize reference documents.
Revision History: Users can track changes and revisions over time, allowing for easy comparison and restoration of previous versions.
Pros and Cons of LivingWriter:
Pros:
It is well-suited for writers working in teams or with co-authors, as it supports real-time collaboration.
The platform offers dedicated features for plotting, outlining, and developing characters and worlds.
Being web-based, writers can access their work from any device with an internet connection.
LivingWriter provides tools for organizing scenes, characters, and other story elements.
Cons:
LivingWriter operates on a subscription model, which may involve a regular fee for full access to all features.
Being a web-based platform, it may require an internet connection to work.
Devices Supported:
LivingWriter is a web-based writing platform, which means it operates through a web browser and is accessible on a wide range of devices with internet connectivity. This includes desktop computers and laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
Also, since LivingWriter operates as a web application, it is designed to be responsive and accessible on a variety of screen sizes and devices. However, for the best user experience, it's recommended to use devices with larger screens, such as desktops, laptops, or tablets, due to the complex nature of writing projects.
Part 2: LivingWriter vs. Scrivener - Which Is Better?
Both LivingWriter and Scrivener are powerful writing tools, but they cater to slightly different preferences and needs. So far, you have understood all the characteristics and features of both writing software tools. But if you want to choose which one is best for you, here's a comparison to help you decide:
LivingWriter:
Strengths:
Real-time Collaboration
Plot and Character Tools
Access Anywhere
Organization Tools
User-Friendly Interface
Considerations:
Subscription model involving a monthly or one-time fee for full access to all features.
Being web-based, it may require an internet connection to work, which can be a limitation in some situations.
Scrivener:
Strengths:
Robust organization ideal for authors, novelists, academics, and researchers.
Research integration
Snapshot feature
Full control over structure
Considerations:
Due to its extensive features, Scrivener may take some time to fully utilize its capabilities
Scrivener does not have a dedicated mobile app for Android phones
Limited collaboration features
Conclusion:
Based on the comparison mentioned above, it is advised to choose using LivingWriter if:
You're working on a collaborative project with multiple authors.
Plot development, character profiles, and world-building are essential to your writing process.
You need the flexibility to work from any device with internet access.
Choose Scrivener if:
You're working on a complex writing project that requires extensive organization.
Research integration and version control are crucial to your writing process.
You prefer a dedicated desktop application and are willing to invest time in learning its features.
Ultimately, the choice between LivingWriter and Scrivener depends on your specific writing needs and preferences. Both tools offer unique strengths, so consider which features align best with your workflow and project requirements.
Part 3: How to Download and Install LivingWriter
Step 1: To download LivingWriter on your PC, you will have to go to LivingWriter.Com on your web browser.
Step 2: On the website, you will have to go to downloads, where you will be able to find LivingWriter download option for Windows and Mac. In this scenario, we will have to download it for Windows, so we will click on the left option named “Download for Windows”.
Step 3: Once the .exe file has been downloaded, you will have to find it in the downloads folder on your PC and then right-click it. From the options menu, click “Run as Administrator” to start the installation of LivingWriter on your PC.
Step 4: It is quite queer, but the installation window for LivingWriter will look something like the one mentioned below. Wait for this window to disappear because this is when the installation will be completed.
Step 5: After it has been installed on your PC, LivingWriter will be automatically opened on your PC. To start using it, you will have to provide your login credentials.
Step 6: To log in to your account, you will have to go to the download window on your brower where you will be able to see an option named “Try it for free”. Click on this button, and you will be directed to a login form where you will need to sign up to use LivingWriter for free.
Step 7: Fill in the information in this form containing your name, email address, and password. Then click “Sign up” to get registered with LivingWriter.
After getting registered and creating an account, you will be able to use LivingWriter for free on your PC.
Part 4: How to Download and Install Scrivener
Step 1: To download and install Scrivener on your PC, you will have to go to the Scrivener website and find the Scrivener free trial option download option.
Step 2: Click on this option, and you will be given download options for multiple devices. Here, we will have to download it for Windows.
Step 3: As soon as you click on this option, your download will start in the browser. You can see the progress in the download panel.
Step 4: After your file has been downloaded, go to the download folder, open the installation file and you will see the window as mentioned below.
Click “Next” to start the installation further.
Step 5: The next option will ask you to accept the terms and service and licensing agreement. Check the upper box and click next to proceed with the installation.
Step 6: From the next option, again click on “Next” to proceed the installation further.
Step 7: Your file will start getting installed on your PC. You can see the progress from the progress bar.
Step 8: After some time, the installation will be completed, and you can now click the “Finish” button to complete the installation and launch the application.
That’s it. You have successfully downloaded and installed the Scrivener program on your PC. You can start using it right away for writing or research purposes as you want.
Part 5: Best Alternative to LivingWriter vs Scrivener - WPS Office
So far, we have found the difference between LivingWriter vs Scrivener. But both of these software programs are available only after paying a specific amount of fee.
On the other hand, WPS Office is a versatile and free office suite that provides a comprehensive set of tools for opening, creating, editing, and saving documents in various formats, including those from Microsoft Office.
It offers full compatibility with popular file types like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, making it a suitable alternative to paid office suites like LivingWriter and Scrivener.
Features of WPS Office
Cross-platform compatibility with operating systems and devices out there. This includes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux.
WPS Office includes a PDF reader and editor, allowing you to view, edit, and create PDF documents.
It provides seamless integration with cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive.
Pros of WPS Office:
Free download and free-to-use Word, Excel, and PPT. Powerful PDF toolkit.
Rich template store for documents, spreadsheets, and presentations, helping users get started with professional-looking materials.
Rich functions and features similar to Microsoft Office and other high-quality productivity suites.
Lightweight office suite that can be easily used even if your PC doesn’t have enough space or resources.
Safe and stable office suite with regular updates and latest security patches.
Cons of WPS Office:
The free version may display ads, which can be a minor inconvenience for some users.
While it covers most basic office tasks, it may lack some of the advanced features found in premium office suites like Microsoft Office.
Overall, WPS Office is an excellent free alternative to paid office suites like LivingWriter vs Scrivener, offering a robust set of features and compatibility with various file formats.
FAQs
1. Can I try both software before making a decision?
Both Living Writer and Scrivener might offer trial versions. Check their official websites for trial options.
2. Can I export my work from Living Writer to other formats?
Living Writer likely supports exporting your work into various formats like DOCX or PDF for sharing and further editing.
3. Is AI-driven assistance available in Scrivener?
AI-driven suggestions are a notable feature in Living Writer, whereas Scrivener might offer basic grammar and spelling checks.
Living Writer vs Scrivener
We have seen a proper comparison of Living Writer vs Scrivener. Both of these software programs are easy to use and have multiple features and functionalities. However, as we have seen earlier, you will have to pay a monthly or one-time fee to start downloading or using these software tools.
WPS Office, on the other hand, is a completely free software tool that contains all productivity software tools. You can download and use it on your device for absolutely free. Just go to wps.com and download the office suite for your use.
