Cheap Book Writing Software

Cost versus Convenience

Fledgling writers may find it tedious to compose an entire novel in a word processing program. Scrolling through page upon page to find particular scenes can be time-consuming and difficult. Keeping ideas for characters and plots often involves an entire new document or handwritten notes that can be hard to read or misplaced.

Software that is designed to help out a writer often has plenty of features that will make staying organized a cinch. Various programs offer the following items to keep you organized:

• Character tools
• Plot trackers
• Note organizers
• Outlining tools
• Timeline storyboards
• Submission trackers

Because of the difficulty in creating such helpful software, prices often run upwards of hundreds of dollars, like Adobe InDesign CS3, frequently used by self-publishers, and Fiction Master. However, there are options for cheap book writing software.

Find Cheap Book Writing Software

The cheapest product is worthless, no matter how much you paid, if you cannot use it or it does not meet your needs. Therefore, the first place to start is by checking out trial versions or demos online. You want to find software that caters to your particular writing issues.

Once you have determined a few of the software programs that will potentially work for you, use an online comparison shopping site to help you seek out the lowest price on the Web. Next, search for an online coupon code for the particular retailer with the already lowest price. Some websites send out coupon codes and discounts through e-mail if you sign up for their newsletter, so consider that option as well. Discounts may also be given if you spend over a particular amount or purchase a certain number of products, so be sure to check into this option, too.

Retailers might offer a discount depending on whether you choose to download the software or have a CD-ROM mailed to you. For example, the Writers SuperCenter offers the StoryCraft Pro Story Development Software for a $10 discount if you choose to download the program.

Finally, if you like a particular book writing software program but it is entirely too expensive, you may be able to find an older version for a cheaper price. Software constantly gets updated, with new versions released frequently. The older versions are then offered at a lower price to deplete inventory.

Software Compatibility Considerations

Retailers may have strict return policies on software purchases. Make sure you purchase the correct software before you click “buy now.” Check that the software is compatible with your current:

• Operating system (some may not work with Windows Vista)
• Web browser (if Internet support is offered)
• Actual computer (MAC or PC)
• Word processing program (if it connects to one)

Your cheap software will not be cheap at all if you purchase a non-returnable item that does not work.

Writing Software Under 50 Dollars

A number of software programs cost less than $50. Any discounts and coupons you find after that can make your wallet fatter. Be sure to check around for the lowest priced retailer, even if you think the price is phenomenal. You never know-there could be a better deal just a few clicks away!

• Writer’s DreamKit 4 Win/Mac available at Amazon.com
• StoryWeaver 3 (Download) available at Writers Store
• Scrivener available at Literature and Latte
• WriterItNow (Download) available at RavensheadServices.com

The best price you will find on cheap book writing software is, of course, free. And that is possible with yWriter4. Created by Simon Haynes, author and winner of a 2001 Aurealis Award, the download is free for users. A donation is requested, but not required, before downloading yWriter4.