Two capable tools. Different philosophies.
Scrivener and LivingWriter both help authors manage work that is too large for a basic word processor.
Both support structured manuscripts, drag-and-drop organization, notes, templates, visual planning, and distraction-reducing themes.
The clearest difference is the workflow: Scrivener is a deep desktop toolkit, while LivingWriter is designed as a connected cloud workspace that feels approachable from the first draft.
LivingWriter keeps the structure visible.
The best writing software should support your thinking without making the software itself the project.
Scrivener rewards writers who want extensive controls and are comfortable configuring a detailed desktop environment.
LivingWriter takes a more guided approach. Your manuscript, boards, notes, goals, and story elements are connected through a consistent interface.
Start writing immediately, then reveal more planning tools as the manuscript grows.
Because LivingWriter is cloud-based, the same organized workspace follows you across supported devices.
The better choice depends on whether you value maximum desktop configuration or a simpler, connected writing flow.
Why writers choose LivingWriter
A focused, modern interface
LivingWriter puts the draft first while keeping planning tools close.
Open notes, goals, and story details beside the editor when you need them, then return to a clean page.
Cloud access by design
Scrivener is primarily desktop software and commonly relies on file-based workflows for moving projects between devices.
LivingWriter saves to the cloud and keeps your manuscript available across its web, desktop, and mobile experiences.
Visual story planning
Arrange scenes, chapters, relationships, research, and story elements on flexible boards. See LivingWriter Planning Boards in action.
Collaboration in the manuscript
Invite collaborators without passing project files back and forth.
LivingWriter supports a shared writing and review workflow, with comments and manuscript context kept together. It also includes dedicated screenplay formatting for scripts.
Story Elements
Create profiles for characters, locations, objects, and topics. LivingWriter recognizes those Story Elements as you type and keeps their details beside the draft.
Writing Goals
Turn a long manuscript into steady progress. Set goals for a chapter, an entire story, or a writing day, and plan days off without losing the bigger picture.
Smart Text Autosuggest
LivingWriter can link Story Elements as you type. Select a recognized name to open the relevant details without searching another file.
Inline comments
Attach a focused comment to a specific passage for revision, feedback, or a reminder, while broader chapter and story notes remain separate.
Cover concepts
Add cover art to a project and explore visual directions for the finished book.
LivingWriter is built for authors who want drafting, planning, and project context in one approachable workspace.
Writing Templates
Choose a guided structure for fiction or nonfiction. Start with Story Circle, the 27 Chapter Method, Memoir, Book Proposal, Seven Point Story, Three Act Structure, and more—then adapt every step to your book.