Outlining help with software

This evening I spent some time hunting for outlining tools online. I was interested only in outlining tools, but have included a few comprehensive programs

Online

• StoryRight - an online outlining tool which allows scene by scene outlines, character dossiers and plot summarise. Free

Software packages available for purchase

• Text tree – downloadable outliner available for purchase. Demo available (17 uses only)
• Idea Cruncher – software for organising ideas. Simple tree-like structure. Demo available (30 days)
• StoryView, by Write Brothers, Inc - a rather enthusiastic Write Brothers program for outlining and brainstorming available for purchase. I tried this product several years ago. To be honest I didn’t find the interface particularly easy on the eye, but mostly the reviews have been good for this product. Demo available
• DramaticaPro, Write Brothers, Inc -a comprehensive program for Mac and PC users that allows character creation, comprehensive plotting, brainstorming and more. DramaticaPro is a popular program with many writers, but it’s not for me. Demo available
• Page Four – a clean looking program with plot outliner, character summaries and a simple word processor.
• Writer’s Cafe – comprehensive software for writings with outlining and word processing capabilities. Demo available
• My Novel – allows planning of a novel from the original idea, to characters, plot and chapter profiles and writing it. Demo available
• Story Master Pro – plan and structure your novel with Story Master Pro. Demo available
• Liquid Story Binder – wordprocessor and comprehensive plotting tool. Demo available
• Story Planner

Templates (free)

• Outlining worksheets and checklists- Download worksheets from Karen Weisner’s book From first draft to finished novel, or read her article Y0ur novel blueprint.
• Ten point plot template - download template with sample

I think I’ll stick with bullet points.