yWriter6 – Novel Writing Software for Structured Drafts and Planning

yWriter6 helps fiction authors organize complex novels by breaking the manuscript into chapters and scenes, tracking word counts, characters, locations, and plot notes, all in one desktop tool.

Category

Quick Facts - About YWriter

Category Novel Writing Software
Pricing Free
Platform Windows (Vista+)
Main Features Scene/Chapter management, Storyboard, Word count, Auto backups, Exports to RTf/LaTeX
Best For Indie authors and planners who prefer offline work
Language Support English
Integrations RTF/LaTeX export; local file formats
Deployment Desktop application

What is YWriter ?

yWriter6 is an AI-powered writing companion designed to help authors plan, organize, and draft complex novels.

It focuses on structure, progress tracking, and offline accessibility, so writers can stay in a creative flow without data cloud distractions.

Description

1. Project-based Organization

  • Break your manuscript into chapters and scenes for precise planning.
  • Drag and drop to reorder content and interleave strands easily.

2. Storyboard and Plot Tracking

  • Visual storyboard shows how scenes connect and flow across POVs.
  • Attach goals, conflicts, and outcomes to guide revisions.

3. Progress Monitoring and Backups

  • Real-time word counts per file with a running total.
  • Automatic backups and version history to safeguard work.

4. Character, Location, and Item Management

  • Centralized lists for characters, locations, and items with quick access.
  • Link notes to scenes to preserve context and continuity.

5. Export and Import Options

  • Export selected chapters to RTF or LaTeX for proofs or publishing prep.
  • Import older yWriter projects for seamless transition between versions.

6. Offline and Local-first Data

  • All data stored locally on your computer, no cloud required.
  • Runs without internet and protects your privacy.

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Pricing & Plans Of YWriter

yWriter6 is free to download and use. Optional registration adds benefits and support for ongoing development.

  • Free: $0 – Core writing and project management features.
  • Standard Registration: $11.95 – Optional registration to support development and unlock extra perks.
  • Gold Registration: $24.95 – Enhanced support and early access to future features.

Pro's

  • Strong scene-based organization that keeps drafts structured.
  • Free to download and use, with optional registrations for support.
  • Works offline with local data storage for privacy and control.

Con's

  • Windows-focused; limited cross-platform parity for newer macOS or mobile ports.
  • Outdated UI compared with modern apps and lacks real-time collaboration.

Popular Use Cases of YWriter

  • Personal writing projects and planning
  • Long-form novels with multiple POVs
  • Educational use for teaching outlining and plotting
  • Revision and manuscript tracking

Alternatives of YWriter

Tool Best For How It Compares
Scrivener Long-form novels Robust research and corkboard features; paid with a steeper learning curve.
Manuskript Open-source outlining Open-source outlining tools; different UI and workflow.
Plottr Visual plotting Excellent visuals for plotting; fewer manuscript-management features.

Feedback

From Spacejock Software: “yWriter6 keeps scenes and chapters neatly organized while drafting.”

From writers forum: “A solid free tool for outlining and tracking progress.”

FAQs related to YWriter

  1. What is yWriter6?
    A desktop writing tool that helps you organize novels into chapters and scenes for better planning and drafting.
  2. Is yWriter6 free to use?
    Yes, the core software is free to download and use; registration is optional.
  3. Can I export my work to other formats?
    Yes, you can export selected chapters to RTF and LaTeX for proofs and publishing prep.

Start organizing your novel today

Download yWriter6 for free and begin structuring your story with a storyboard, track progress, and keep notes all in one desktop tool.

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