yWriter

Overview

yWriter is a word processor designed for novel writing that organizes content into chapters and scenes. It targets authors structuring long-form projects, with tools for tracking characters, locations, and progress. Key distinctions include scene-level management and project outlining without standard word processor features.¹²⁷

Key Features

• Chapter and Scene Organization - Breaks novels into chapters and scenes for structured outlining and navigation.
• Project Wizard - Guides users in setting up new projects with title, author, and folder selection.
• Character and Location Tracking - Manages details for characters, settings, and other story elements.
• Storyboard Tool - Visualizes screen time and usage of POV characters across scenes.
• Progress Tracking - Monitors word counts and completion status at scene and chapter levels.
• Ebook Creation - Supports export for ebook formats on Windows and Linux.
• Scene Descriptions - Allows brief descriptions and notes for each scene.

Pricing

Platforms & Requirements

Primary version yWriter7 runs on Windows 7 SP1 and newer. Android, macOS, and iOS versions available; older editions support Windows XP (yWriter5) and Vista (yWriter6). Linux supports ebook creation features.¹²⁴

Integrations & Ecosystem

• LaTeX export
• LibreOffice import/export
• Ebook formats
• RTF export
• Comments to annotations

Alternatives

Reputation

yWriter receives positive feedback for its free access, user-friendly interface, and effectiveness in organizing novels by scenes and chapters. Users praise its outlining and tracking capabilities for long projects. Criticisms focus on limited platform support beyond Windows and absence of advanced formatting or collaboration features.³⁵