
Writers often ask if writing software will help them with their writing, so I thought I’d discuss a few options in the software world. Today’s feature is StoryWeaver. I have to start by stating that StoryWeaver is the type of writing software I don’t trust—software that makes lots of claims about how it will make your writing better. If creativity could be purchased for $30 we’d all be bestselling novelists. So, why am I writing about StoryWeaver? Because it costs $30 instead of $180, like another popular product. If you want software that teaches you to write, you might as well save $150.
What does StoryWeaver do? It helps you plan. The process is similar to the Snowflake method, but StoryWeaver has built in cards to talk you through the process. If you’ve never tackled writing or planning a novel before, StoryWeaver might help build confidence. But I suspect that after one or two run throughs with all the cards and planning, writers will want to streamline the process to get to the writing part faster.
If you’re interested in software to help you plot and plan, think of it rather in the terms of a writing class. You’ll learn some techniques from it, but eventually, you’ll want to leave the class and do your own thing. At $30, StoryWeaver is an affordable class. But before purchasing any writing software, take advantage of the free download to see if it plans the novel the way you would naturally.