Article by Linda Gold

Mind Mapping Software

Mind mapping software is designed to aid in the somewhat complicated process of mindmapping. A mind map is a diagram used to represent ideas, words, tasks, or other items that are linked to and arranged around a central key word, idea or concept. Mind maps are used to structure, classify, visualize and generate ideas, and serve as an aid in problem solving, decision making, organization, study, and writing. As you can imagine, creating such a diagram by hand can be overwhelming to the novice mind mapper.

The cost of high quality mind mapping software starts at about 0, and many mind mapping programs have a free trial option. Two of the most highly rated and popular mind mapping software programs are iMindMap and NovaMind. If you want to get started right away, one of these two will likely meet your needs.

Buzan’s iMindMap is designed by Tony Buzan who many consider the father of mind mapping. An obvious benefit of choosing iMindMap is that you are linked in to Buzan’s techniques and innovations. For those unfamiliar with the process, there is flash movie explaining the concept. There are also a number of flash video tutorials explaining how to use the software. There are three editions of iMindMap: Elements, Professional and Ultimate. The software is compatible with Microsoft Office and OpenOffice.

NovaMind is another excellent example of quality mind mapping software. While you don’t get the Tony Buzan stamp of approval, NovaMind does have some unique features not found in other programs. For instance, NovaMind is one of the only mind mapping software programs with a free layout mode where you can put branches anywhere you like. It also has rainbow coloring, an integrated branch suggestion system, and a special module for screenwriters. NovaMind also comes in three editions: Express, Pro, and Platinum.

The iMindMap and NovaMind mind mapping software both work on the Mac and Windows operating systems. You will find both systems workable and easy to use. The price structure is similar, so your choice will boil down to which features are more important to you as a user.

Before you purchase any mind mapping software, make sure that you first identify your needs. You should also consider your budget, and whether you can upgrade for a discount within the same family of programs. Once you’ve identified your needs you can start comparing the different mind mapping systems. Many programs come with a free trial which will greatly assist you in making an informed decision.

Most people who invest the time necessary to learn the mind mapping process become lifetime converts. Trying to accomplish the process on paper can be extremely frustrating and time-consuming. Good mind mapping software pays for itself very quickly in terms of saved time and frustration.

Screenwriting Tips

Article by Charlie Board

Although screenwriting software cannot teach you how to write a script, it can become an invaluable timesaving tool for any aspiring or professional scriptwriter. Specialist screenwriting software can allow you to compare and contrast your own script with the scripts of your favourite Hollywood movies, follow the development of characters and plot and also analyse the overall arc of your story. Some more advanced and accessible screenwriting software application can even allow you to monitor elements such as romance, tension, action and w emotion in your script, all of which will directly affect audience engagement.

You may also be able to store biographical details n characters, their relationships to each other, their places in the arc of the story and the development of plot. Once you have a basic idea of how to write a script but are perhaps intimidated by the idea of following your original ideas through to realisation, this type of software can undoubtedly make the entire experience more enjoyable and accessible. Color coded screen tabs are often used in the interfaces of these applications, which allow you to cross reference and cross check each chapter with your synopsis whilst subdividing your script according to not only chapter breaks but perhaps a three part natural flow or even into natural scene or

Product Description
Story Development Features: Send to Script: Send copy from the Index Card Summary directly to your scriptScene View: Outline your script ideas and reorder scenes in this high level overviewScene Navigator: Manage and view the important details of your scene in this sortable floating palletScene Properties Inspector (SPI): Add scene titles and colors to track your story lines, characters, etcIndex Cards: Easily outline your story and restructure your script by draggi… More >> Final Draft FINAL DRAFT VERSION 8 PROFSCRIPTWRITING SOFTWARE

Article by Greg Adams

For screenwriting software Final Draft will make your script writing tasks easier.There are some other big boys on the block, like Sophocles and Movie Magic Screenwriter to name a few (These are both fine script writing programs). However, the market leader, industry standard and best screenwriting software is Final Draft. If you intend to get serious about screenwriting then get it. If, on the other hand, you are unsure about how serious you are and you want to just get your feet wet first then perhaps you should hold off on the impulse to buy and explore some less expensive or free screenwriting software first (discussed further down).

Why Buy Final Draft?

Download script templates for almost any format of script: registered users get access to their database for templates. Graphic novels, musicals, sitcoms and many more styles are available. Whatever you want to write, you can find a template for it.Ease of use: there is tons of support everywhere for learning this software due to its popularity.Industry standard: the most used screenwriting software period.Cross platform support: swap scripts between Mac and PC and between different file formats.Direct access for registering your work: Final Draft is the only screenwriting software with an authorized agreement with the WGAW online registry service.Simple editing: a host of features allow for drag and drop editing as you look at your script from the top down on a virtual editing table. The Scene Navigator, Scene Properties Inspector, Scene View, and Index Card features are what make script editing and formatting a breeze.

Alternatives to Final Draft?If the price is outside your means, fear not, because there are some legitimate strong alternatives that cost substantially less or are free. Some of these are marginal, and a few are contenders, but most importantly, they won’t force you to live on pasta for the next 3 months due to a blown budget. If you need free software for independent productions then A Celtix is your answer. It is not acceptable for pro submissions but it is great for independent/small studios with budget concerns.

From Adam Buxton’s MeeBOX pilot, BBC3, 2007. Graphics by David O’Reilly.