Has anyone ever used novel writing software?

I always just write in Word, or TextPad. I turn off the grammar and spelling notifications when writing a long piece so I don't get my flow slowed down. Novel software is good for organization only. Some writers I know swear by them, but I have never seen the need. My Moleskein keeps all my ideas and I number the pages and make a contents page as I go.

I tried a few novel writing software as trial versions, but they did not work. I am not into plotting - I have a general idea of the beginning and ending and have the character decide what he's doing to do. Most novel writing software depends on one particular problem, whether character making, plotting, etc. and there is none that addresses the whole problem. I usually just write and then plot the chapters after I have written them.

I have tried several that have been helpful, mostly in developing characters and plotlines. I always use free/trial versions first to see if I like them. Here are some of the sites that I use. My favorite program is Dramtica Pro by Write Brothers. I currently have one novel under consideration for publication and am working on two more. The programs don't do the writing for you, but rather help organize the thoughts and keep track of what goes where. You can also try absolutewrite.com, for a list of their software programs. They also have a great newsletter. Hope the info helps. Best wishes. http://www.masterfreelancer.com/wsstore/ssi001.html http://storymind.com/store/free-script-writing-software.htm http://www.freedownloadscenter.com/Search/writing.html

No one I have met who has invested in such a program has ever been successful except those who were already writers. Sad but true. Most (if not all) of the stuff those programs do can be done by other programs that you probably already own. The problem with whole concept of buying a novel writing program is that you don't really know if you need one until after you finish your first major project. Of course, that is why they sell so many. For instance, there is at least one programs that keeps track of your daily word count. What is the real use of this? To me, it would just be another source of stress. Especially considering that I am a little scattered at the best of times, and not even present at the worst of times (college and lodgework). And I work on so many different projects that I really don't need to be reminded that I set aside the latest project to do an article or my term paper. And let's take grammar. You better off taking English 121 (or whatever it is) at your local community college. Between that and having real live people read your work (preferably out loud for the really troublesome parts), you will catch most of the worst problems. If you are looking for a magic bullet--writing software is not it. On the other hand, if you have ended up with a twenty word files open at once while writing your novel, then it might be a real good investment.