I love all the "nobody yelled at me" disclaimers. It's very reassuring for a people pleaser like me
@dewainsavage31125 жыл бұрын
This combined with your other videos is great stuff, especially for a 76 year old trying to learn Scrivener. I agree it makes writing so much easier than word alone.
@ManAgainstSociety5 жыл бұрын
I know this is an old video, but as an aspiring novelist, this was an issue I was a little apprehensive about. This information is clear, concise, and useful. Thank you so much for suggesting Scrivener. I'm going through the long-haul tutorial and I'm finding myself adoring this program already. Scrivener has earned another customer and Alexa Donne has earned another subscriber. Great video!
@Morgan_le_they4 жыл бұрын
Considering how old this video is, I doubt you’ll actually see this comment, but I have to say your Scrivener proselytizing has worked with me. I’m a convert. Especially after I found out about the project goals gauge. That has changed my life and my writing sessions.
@Nayukuo6 жыл бұрын
This was a great video! I have a lot of weird anxiety about manuscript formatting, so seeing that Scrivener can do it mostly automatically for you with a few adjustments is so incredibly relieving. And I think you may have just done what a dozen other writers on youtube couldn't - convinced me to buy scrivener! (although I'll wait until after nanowrimo so I can use the winner's code for a discount, because I'm impressed but also poor)
@AlexaDonne6 жыл бұрын
Ooh yay! November is actually Scrivener month on the channel! I'm going to do a bunch of how-to videos :D
@jaelvb4 жыл бұрын
Hi, Alexa. Question, what would be a middle grade children's book manuscript's accompany? How to write a cover letter and resume about that genre of book?
@jaelvb4 жыл бұрын
Hi, Alexa. Question, what would be a middle grade children's book manuscript's accompany? How to write a cover letter and resume about that genre of book?
@beata_maruda5 жыл бұрын
You can do ALL of this in MS Word - there are styles (you can change their look, add new from how you formatted something, formulas etc. No need to have two programs, that do the same.
@zaranueva5 жыл бұрын
I agree wholelly. I will add, though, that there are some tools to help organize the book and save research and reference materials. That said, if you don't need those functions, absolutely don't need a second app.
@SysterYster4 жыл бұрын
Double space is gonna make mine more than 800 pages XD
@banettenighmare86453 жыл бұрын
Same!!
@SysterYster3 жыл бұрын
@@banettenighmare8645 The over-writer's dilemma. :P
@keithpromsakha52395 жыл бұрын
I love Scrivener. Thanks for the video. Very helpful.
@KutWrite4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the info. I had to say goodbye to Scrivener. I use Linux, under which Scrivener worked fine using the Wine Windows Emulator. I upgraded Linux though and guess what? The new version won't use Wine. I was prepared, though, with a compiled Word version of each chapter. I knew this could happen some day because Scrivener smilingly refuses to support Linux. So... on to use my Word-equivalent, LibreOffice. Not the best situation, but... it'll have to do. When I start my next novel, I'll try Manuskript, though it hasn't been updated in two years. Here I go...
@JonTanOsb5 жыл бұрын
Too complicated for an old man. I started with Word Perfect, then went to Microsoft Word. It works for everything I need. Chapter first page, I eyeball halfway down. I use Courier New 12 point. No one has complained. I also put the title before my surname. That's the way it used to be done. Has that changed? Other than that, formatting seems the same as when I started. ~ Jon
@gordonwarden60574 жыл бұрын
Jon, I agree with you. Take a look at Vellum, you just upload your Word doc and it's done. It's expensive, however a one-cost when you're writing more than one book....good luck!
@ItWILLbeWONDERFUL_THERE4 жыл бұрын
Oh! WORD PERFECT! How lucky can you get! The good old days where you could write, FREE of SOCIAL MEDIA, which didn't exist in those days ! (even LUCKIER for you) and you could write without the internet. A good old fashioned word processor, where Microsoft wasn't gouging you every year. I so envy you. SIGH! I have a project finished and I want to format. But I've been on any number of sites and all of them have at least one rule that is different from the others. WELL....taking a page from THE DISASTER ARTIST, I am going to pull a Tommy Wiseau and just find a format that works for me. I'm getting TOO much conflicting information.
@DrVVVinK4 жыл бұрын
@@ItWILLbeWONDERFUL_THERE George RR Martin still writes on Word Star, a DOS program.
@RebekahMartinModernJaneAusten4 жыл бұрын
I had no clue why my italics went underlined. Thank you!
@DrVVVinK4 жыл бұрын
Yep, it goes back to the days of typewriters.
@getkraken8064 Жыл бұрын
In the age of POD, I deem it more efficient for a writer to at least have the option of submitting their book as a POD, if they have such available. The publisher or agent only needs the book to be able to read it and make their decision. Much simpler to read a book than a pile of 400+ pages of 8x11. Thus the creation of "books". If they are not interested, they can return the copy of book much cheaper and more efficient than the standard brick of ms pages. If they are interested, then send them the bulky pile of 8x11 they need for making comments, editing, etc. But they only really need an actual book to read for assessment purposes. Save a lot of postage and printing expense for the would-be authors. Let's live in 2023 not 1923.
@gersendedupont165411 ай бұрын
Hi Alexa, loved your videos on Must Know Thriller Beats and Plot your thriller. Could you make more videos on thriller stories, twists, building tension, etc? Would be fab, thanks!
@bergfridskaaradias20713 жыл бұрын
Would be interested in an update geared toward self-publishing in general and Kindle specifically.
@elsieschmaltz67543 жыл бұрын
Very good
@jessicascreenwritingservices Жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for this! Lifesaver!
@sherrylalonde57194 жыл бұрын
No mention of margins. How much space do you put in at either end and how many spaces before a new paragraph? Also how do you format to do this in Scrivener? I'm a little confused as to whether or not all these settings are only applied when you're going to compile or while you're working your way through a draft in Scrivener. Thanks for the helpful videos!
@milomazli2 жыл бұрын
thank you Alexa!!
@blacktasticmedia37696 жыл бұрын
Awesome content, very good channel. l just subscribed...
@paulskertich93456 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the amazing video. It helped me a lot. :)
@gordonwarden60574 жыл бұрын
I've just tried Vellum. Very good. Upload your Word file and that's it.
@bookformattingexpert81214 жыл бұрын
But unfortunately it is only available for mac
@semblanceoftruth4 жыл бұрын
Where do the chapter titles come from then? Are you just putting them as part of your body text?
@M1GTYM0U535 жыл бұрын
Super helpful! Thank you for this video :)
@yvettemoreel42372 жыл бұрын
I'm so new to this program and frustrated. I tried so many times to compile my short story children's book double spaced and when I compile the spacing is all wrong. The words are jammed up and it's awful. I try to fix this so many times. Scrivener is great however I am having major issues compiling.
@mikefinley43672 жыл бұрын
Two questions. 1) Does Scrivener allow direct printing so Word, isn't needed? (2) How many double spaced actual written lines are standard on a page?
@tattoolover57534 жыл бұрын
Love the video
@karonmorono19963 жыл бұрын
I do not even have the possibility to use the "compile" dialogue box for formatting in any layout - custom or not. I think my Scrivener program is dysfunctional for some reason. I'm hoping you will be able to assist. Thank you!
@nolakatemusic77355 жыл бұрын
Can I use this formatting method when I upload to Kindle Direct Publishing?
@ohcrapitsjim4 жыл бұрын
Great content. Thank you :)
@mindychristie2 жыл бұрын
I have a journal format with 75 right side pages and need to add the accompanying left side pages (on Scrivener). how do I do that?
@karonmorono19963 жыл бұрын
I am also getting duplicate chapter titles in each chapter folder at the top of the template for chapters and I cannot correct this.
@karonmorono19963 жыл бұрын
Hello Alexa - In my Scrivener program, there is no folder marked "Manuscript Format", or "Title Page". They are completely missing. My set-up is not the same as yours. Can you help please because I'm ready to toss everything into the trash after a week of dealing with formatting glitches in both Word & Scrivener. Thank you so much.
@TheTimeProphet2 жыл бұрын
I know they double space, but I don't find double space easier to read. It ruins my flow of reading.
@serenitymeyer4614 жыл бұрын
Are you supposed to have the pages you send when querying agents formated like this ? Double spaced and everything?
@90stalgiaTV4 жыл бұрын
I've been wondering as far as italics, are italics acceptable these days when using Courier font, at least as far as online submissions for short stories are concerned? I always see articles and advice pieces saying that italics should only be used when the story is in Times New Roman, and that because Courier font can make italics difficult to read, underlining should be used instead as a way to let the editor know that you want those words italicized. I can't seem to find a consistent answer to this on the internet lol.
@mysticalarchives7821 Жыл бұрын
How does format change if you have the story split into parts one, two, etc.?
@darrickholt20134 жыл бұрын
I've just started writing, and I finally decided to start on this idea that's been brewing in my head. How do you recommend me going about self publishing? All ebooks or POD and ebooks?
@coralreeves42764 жыл бұрын
Better ask Jenna Morecci for that, Alexa is in trad pub.
@mikefinley43672 жыл бұрын
You need a word doc to export to from Scrivener? Does scriv have a spell check, any editing programs? A one time fee and ability to work offline is a real plus. I would hope a manuscript can be printed out from this program?
@paulskertich93455 жыл бұрын
Great tutorial video! I made the same tutorial as well for making manuscript template in Microsoft Word. I hope all is well, Alexa! :) Thanks for the insightful knowledge on KZbin and Reddit. :)
@thairston1 Жыл бұрын
On the next page, when I paste text on the page, and I do paste using unformatted text when it goes to the next page, it will go too far down the next page. How do I correct that?
@geozipper3 жыл бұрын
What about hash tags between sections that are spaced off from one another BUT not a separate chapter?
@MrDrumGodsey5 жыл бұрын
Alexa...Great vids BTW! Question, I’m toying with breaking up my chapters into shorter ones cause I like shorter chapters, for formatting and submission purposes do you HAVE to start a new chapter on a new page or can you do “mini” chapters like Stephen King does as an example, kind of a weird question I know...thanks!
@meenakumaraguru84465 жыл бұрын
Hey Alexa, love your videos. How long is the typical chapter when you format it on word?
@alexandrastefan40223 жыл бұрын
Hi Alex. Lov3 your channel. Please i need some help here: Can you explain how to format foe kindle since epub compile is not accepted into kindle previewer, compile to mobi cannot be done without kindle gen and since kindle gen does not exist anymore? Im facing this issue and i don't seem to find any answers online. All videos are out of date and do not include the latest changes.
@juliesit53444 жыл бұрын
Thanks for this video. I’m starting to use Scrivener today for first time. How did you set indentions for your manuscript? Also when you were typing your manuscript, did you do it single spaced and then changed it to double space in compile? Also to indent while typing you hit tab right. Someone had said no to and it got me to wondering.
@mininovaband3 жыл бұрын
Please help, I got a request from an agent but I can't figure out how to fulfill this guideline. "Auto Return: 0.5” (no tabs)" Thank you. I'm writing in Google Docs.
@heartmommyinpa4 жыл бұрын
I use Helvetica. I hate Times New Roman
@treadnokash75983 жыл бұрын
Im an aspiring novelist.is this how to make original copy of my novel.it feels like in the future ill be needing to prove that i write this.
@monster-enthusiast4 жыл бұрын
Is it bad to type your first draft in Google docs? Should you switch to Word?
@SysterYster4 жыл бұрын
I'm going to assume that the pare numbering can be either a header or... footer? At the bottom? :P
@cj37204 жыл бұрын
I am in process with a manuscript the author wants formatted to a 5 x 8 page; how would you suggest I set this up in Scrivener to come out as she requested?
@ItWILLbeWONDERFUL_THERE4 жыл бұрын
Someone on Lulu said that Formatting came AFTER the manuscript and editing is finished. I honestly don't know.
@lastjuliet7886 жыл бұрын
Hello miss Alexa , can you sketch and draw with it , I am so new to this , I want free tools help me to draw , like in poetry books right now !
@Sam-hn3pf5 жыл бұрын
If your chapters have titles, where would you put that?
@Amelijap3 жыл бұрын
scrivener gives me # do I leave those in or not?
@LexieReilly5 жыл бұрын
I had a "published" author (not truly a traditionally published author but someone who speaks a conferences) yell at me and say that this advice was incorrect even though I explained that this information was given by a traditionally published author. Her response? Was it from someone who speaks at conferences? Lol. I didn't even get a chance to answer her, but it did come from many different authortubers who have published, who were literary agents, etc. All my research has confirmed Alexa's advice. *facepalm* Alexa, any advice on how to format scene breaks?? Haven't seen any advice within the past five years.
@lindacobo17446 жыл бұрын
Quick question did you have your book finished in Microsoft Word then import to Scribner to have it formatted. Basically I am trying to figure out if I have a word document formatted then import it will it cause more problems than it solves?
@tatumhalligan91775 жыл бұрын
Linda Cobo she writes in scrivener and then moves it to Word
@cinnsuamongar4 жыл бұрын
Can't figure out how to double space in Scrivener. Am I just missing something that is self evident? Will Scrivener do the chapter titles for you or do I need to do the thirteen spaces? Ah, I am using 18 point font. :(
@banettenighmare86453 жыл бұрын
Hi! To do double space in Scrivener go to the line spacing bar and set it to 1.5 and from my test prints it does auto do the chapter spacing however definitely do test prints first to be sure. ☺️
@prayergrounds6 жыл бұрын
Hello Alexa, thank you for your insights and spot-on help. I recently discovered your videos and find that you are worth following. I have two novels, one on a [hesitate to say] final draft and another first draft. My question is this, should you make a video or point me to one if you already did so: What does your second draft process look like? I find it to be more difficult than writing a first draft. Thank you!
@AlexaDonne6 жыл бұрын
This is a great question, and one I will cover soon! My plan for the month of December is to make a series of videos on revision, so I'll definitely cover what happens after draft one. :)
@bergfridskaaradias20713 жыл бұрын
I've got 2 questions about Scrivener, if you don't mind. 1. Do you add inline formatting such as italics while drafting or during editing? 2. I'm gearing up for my first nanowrimo, and have decided to buy Scrivener. However, the discount depends on whether you win or not. In your opinion, is it worth getting it now and set up the outline there before Nov. 1st - or wait and treat yourself with a higher discount when you (hopefully) win?
@screablue6 жыл бұрын
Hi Alexa, I recently finish my novel and I was wondering if there are specific characteristics for a book to be YA. You see, I wrote it without thinking who will read it and now that I'm done, I have no idea if it's YA or adult. Thanks in advance 😁
@AlexaDonne6 жыл бұрын
My best resource for this topic is /r/YAwriters... we've had some great discussions on it, and other authors define it well! Here is one: www.reddit.com/r/YAwriters/comments/2ysrma/discussion_the_differences_between_adult_and_ya/ My podcast also did our first episode on it!: upvoteya.tumblr.com/post/146752636042/welcome-to-the-first-episode-of-the-upvoteya Hope that helps!
@screablue6 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much! I will check those out!
@benmcelwain53015 жыл бұрын
Do agents still want paper manuscripts?
@AlexaDonne5 жыл бұрын
No. 99% of them are completely digital. It's a very very rare bird who still wants a physical manuscript. Publishing houses too. I can't think of a single one who doesn't want digital submissions.
@aprildannette98206 жыл бұрын
so many rules why can't we just type the story send it they like it they don't why all the information LOL
@AlexaDonne6 жыл бұрын
If copy is difficult or frustrating to read, people won't read it. It's like cooking food so it tastes amazing and people want to eat the meal.
@dudelord7875 жыл бұрын
I can barely understand you.
@tatumhalligan91775 жыл бұрын
i saw you had DONNE as your last name- is it actually ur pen name last name or ur real last name that u use?
@AlexaDonne5 жыл бұрын
It's a pen name.
@richardwilson84276 жыл бұрын
Are authors supposed to send their full manuscripts via the mail or email?
@AlexaDonne6 жыл бұрын
Publishing has completely modernized and almost all communication and work is done digitally, so via email. 99% of agents only take email queries (and thus you send them your full manuscript as an attachment, should they request it), and then once you get a book deal it is the same. I did receive pass pages physically in the mail, but some houses even do pass pages digitally. Everything else is over email!
@richardwilson84276 жыл бұрын
Alexa Donne ok thank you for your help!
@Fludded3 жыл бұрын
I dont understand why people would write in word...
@andrewwright644 жыл бұрын
Yeesh, Scrivener for Windows looks awful. If you have a Mac there’s an option for manuscript format without the old school problems.
@milanicks26284 жыл бұрын
not helpful. Out of date. At least for Mac....
@gordonwarden60574 жыл бұрын
I'm afraid that's true
@samanthas60734 жыл бұрын
Your intro was way too long and your instructional way too short. You also can barely follow what you’re doing because you can’t read your screen. Not helpful.