CNET Editors' review
yWriter 5 is an unusual but interesting bit of freeware that takes a coder's approach to writing a novel. Simon Haynes, a bestselling novelist and programmer, developed it to help the aspiring author by automating many of the tasks common to fiction writing. It's basically a specialized word processor that breaks down the elements of a writing project into discrete pieces that can be refined individually and then strung together, much the way a coder approaches a large programming job. Chapters, scenes, characters, and plot elements can be defined, developed, edited, and automatically integrated into the project. You can even drag and drop elements such as new or altered characters or locations into the narrative. It won't suggest plot twists or offer creative suggestions, but it does help the writer focus on the creative process by looking after the housekeeping.
The program downloads and installs easily and free of adware and other malicious software (as is all software on Download.com). It also uses local config files, not the Windows Registry, so it's completely portable. The clean, businesslike interface resembles a spreadsheet more than a word processor, but you don't have to write in it--you can create content in your favorite program and use yWriter 5 to keep track of it. A PDF Quickstart Guide illustrated with many screen shots makes it easy to set up your first project. A sample project shows what yWriter 5 can do in the hands of an experienced writer.
Not only does yWriter5 do something no other software does that we're aware of, but it also does it well. It's completely free to download and use.
Publisher's Description
From Spacejock Software:
yWriter5 is a word processor which breaks your novel into chapters and scenes. It will not write your novel for you, suggest plot ideas or perform creative tasks of any kind. It does help you keep track of your work, leaving your mind free to create.It was designed for novels, enterprising users have created their own translation files to customize the program to work with plays, non-fiction and even sermons. The sermon translation is included under the Languages menu as 'Sermon5
What's new in this version: Version 5.1.9.1 has fixed issues on the character, item and location editing forms when Windows was set to oversized fonts.
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All versions:
4.4 starsout of 20 votes
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Current version:
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My rating:
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"Gives complete rundown to writing a book lots of help"
Version: yWriter 5 5.1.8.9
Pros
Gives complete rundown to writing a book lots of help
Cons
Cannot transfer word or any office writings into it without a lot of changes
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"where has this been hiding?"
Version: yWriter 5 5.1.8.9
Pros
Awesome product a bit clunky to work with out of the game but with a bit of work you can tailor it to the way you write.
Cons
none so far
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"Great writing tool so far."
Version: yWriter 5 5.1.8.8
Pros
Excellent organizing tool. Ability to move scenes, paragraphs, chapters, etc. around easily. Save scenes, even if not using them. Character bios, location information, project notes, all in one easy to use package.
Cons
Haven't explored all the capabilities yet, but so far I see no cons.
Summary
Easy to use software package. Has almost everything one could want for writing all in one place. The only thing missing is the ability to see the entire story in one continuous document and formatting capability. I do not consider this a minus, though, since there already are numerous word processors available to accomplish these simple tasks. Why reinvent the wheel?
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"Amazing Software"
Version: yWriter 5 5.1.8.5
Pros
Storyline notes. Chapter setup. Items listing. Character cards. Scene lists. Location cards. Import/export capabilities. this program has it all.
Cons
Too easy to create several projects at once which leads to getting sidetracked easily!
Summary
I love the SpaceJock software line. Simon has created an excellent program in yWriter. Instead of having all your information scattered among numerous documents, everything is contained in a tidy little package. FOR FREE!!!!
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"It may be okay for you, but not really for non-fiction"
Version: yWriter 5 5.1.8.5
Pros
It's free to use
Cons
hard to set up Yours isn't like the sample
never sure it's saving properly
can't edit out sample w/my own info
Maybe my style is different, I was hoping for chapters & headings
not taking all day to set up characters & plotsSummary
You may find it useful, but I didn't. Writing the author for help was alright, he answered quickly, but said it was set up for non-fiction.
I detest it so much I still get miffed at seeing it suggested, but I guess it's the only game in town. I'll write up my review on the other suck one I found. Good luck
If anyone reads this, who makes writing software, have a simple one at a decent price, that'd be nice. -
"An multifaceted tool for organizing any writing project"
Version: yWriter 5 5.1.7.9
Pros
I'm grateful to Simon Haynes for 1) the ongoing development of yWriter and 2) the extensive help/learning/wiki resources. yWriter's intuitive out of the box, with many sparkling facets you'll discover and learn about with time and study. Thanks Simon
Cons
You want me to look a gift horse in the mouth !? There's room for improvement in any project, and Simon periodically updates yWriter. What more could I ask for in any software, let alone an incredibly competent and free one.
Summary
Are you a serious writer? Then download. It's not only free, but a serious time and sanity saving wonder of writing organization. Also, when you realize what a blessing yWriter is and are eternally grateful, know that you can visit the official site and throw in a few bucks in to support the project.
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"A top product for nothing... am I dreaming?"
Version: yWriter 5 5.1.7.5
Pros
So easy to set up and use and backing up is as simple as copying the book file to wherever you want. I love the idea of chapters and scenes where you can outline the whole book if you like and then add ideas as you progress. Its brilliant... and free
Cons
Although the new version has spell checker, it would be better if it worked the same way as MS word. Just being picky is all :)
Summary
You could pay hundreds for this ... and it would still be worth it. Well done who ever made it.
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"Too good to be true!"
Version: yWriter 5 5.1.6.9
Pros
Does everything and more for what I wanted.
Cons
Hard to find, but maybe a better way of spell check
Summary
I searched high and wide for a good book writing program to suit my needs and all I could find was expensive ones I could not afford. Thought I had died and gone to heaven when I found this. Thanks heaps ywriter.
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"Awesome program for published and aspiring authors"
Version: yWriter 5 5.1.6.9
Pros
This program allows you to organize your chapters, scenes, characters and everything in between. You can easily keep everything for your book organized and in one place.
Cons
I haven't found anything negative about this program so far.
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"Simple to use development tool for writers."
Version: yWriter 5 5.1.5.7
Pros
None, simple way to organize and write any book or just to work out ideas.
Cons
Not many. Actual writing environment somewhat cluttered.
Summary
This is really the best tool I've tried as far as organizing writing anything from a short story or a novel. The only con is perhaps the writing environment which is a little cluttered compared to Q10. It is better than paid for options.
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