Worth Pro

Worth Pro

Are creative writing computer programs such as Dramatica Pro worth the cost?

I saw an ad on the back of writer's digest for a writing program called Dramatica Pro. It claims to help people write novels, stories, screenplays, etc.

But does it really work? I'm a beginning writer and I am curious to give the free demo a "test drive," so to speak. Should I go ahead or go on my own (not knowing how to go about constructing a novel)?
I'm having trouble trying to decide a good answer for this question so I'm putting it to vote.

Be sure to vote for the answer that closely matches your own opinion.

I tried the demo for a while, and was never impressed by it. I can't imagine that the full version is worth the money.

In my opinion, all you need is a good word processor. My favorite is actually a free one called Rough Draft. It's interface is similar to word, but with some extra helpful features:

http://www.richardsalsbury.com/

I think the money is best spent to improve your library, if you really have extra to burn! I would recommend reading as many books as possible in the genres that you like to write, as well as about the craft of writing. When you are reading other fiction books, pay attention to how the authors structure their work. Look at the pacing, character development, and dialogue. How do these authors make their books work?

Here are some of my favorites about writing:
1) "Writing Down The Bones" by Natalie Goldberg
2) "Bird by Bird" by Anne Lamott
3) "On Writing Well" by William Zinsser
4) "How to Write Science Fiction & Fantasy" by Orson Scott Card
5) "On Writing" by Stephen King
6) "No Plot? No Problem!" by Chris Baty
7) "Eats, Shoots, and Leaves" by Lynne Truss
"The Elements of Style" by Strunk and White

Also, take a look at a few websites where authors gather. Some of them have very helpful articles and forums. Holly Lisle has a fantastic website that has articles on both the business and writing aspects, including an excellent article on worldbuilding that I highly suggest for any fantasy writer:

http://hollylisle.com/fm/

Forward Motion is a wonderful, helpful community:

http://www.fmwriters.com/

Absolute Write is one of my favorite author communities, with a vast pool of resources and helpful people:

http://www.absolutewrite.com

Write every single day. Set a target for yourself. For instance, my goal right now is to write 1,000 words a day. I get this done before I go on the internet, read, watch TV, or goof around. To begin, maybe set an easier goal for yourself-- try 250 words each day. Write in a journal as well, if you feel so inclined!

Also, never forget how important it is to edit and rewrite! When you finish a short story or novel, I suggest setting it aside for a month. Don't look at it or think about it (if you can help it). Work on another project. Once that time has passed, go back and read what you wrote. Try to be objective-- are there parts that need to be expanded? Cut out? Rewritten? How is the grammar and spelling? Editing could (and should) take more time than the original draft!

The ideas really have to come from within you. We can give you all the ideas in the world, but if you aren't passionate about it then the novel won't end up being any good IF you even finish it. Write about what you love. The rest will come!

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