Screenwriting : Free Screenwriting Software by Claude Gagne

I haven't tried all of the free screenwriting software, but WriterDuet is fast and easy to use, Claude Gagne. You can only work on three projects with the free version though.

I like WriterDuet the most. It's not perfect but works really well

writerduet is cloud based and has an app

Thanks. I'll give it a try. If I take an unfinished screenplay from my flash drive and uploaded onto WriterDuet does it count as one screenplay? Or, it only counts if you start one from scratch? I received my unfinished screenplays on Final Draft from the repair shop and would like to PDF them so I could send them out. I have a Christmas one I was working on that I think is a winner. I think it's a challenge in not only writing screenplays but all the frustration to keep all the crap that involves in keeping above all the technical issues that surround you in the writing process. It's a costly challenge if you keep buying the screenwriting programs like Final Draft that keep eliminating earlier versions. All the best fellas.

Scott Sawitz How does the app work? I'm not familiar with apps. I don't own an IPhone. I did all my writing on a tower and now learning on a laptop. I just can't keep up with the new technology that keeps popping up. Maybe I should give up writing at my age and concentrate on promoting my earlier works! Thanks for the helping hand.

You're welcome, Claude Gagne. "If I take an unfinished screenplay from my flash drive and uploaded onto WriterDuet does it count as one screenplay? Or, it only counts if you start one from scratch?" Both count as projects.

Claude Gagne desktop app for Mac, PC, or Linux.

I personally enjoy WriterDuet. It makes formatting super easy allowing you to write quickly and efficiently.

Christopher Phillips PC.

WriterDuet without a shadow of a doubt. It's arguably better than Final Draft.

Trelby is also worth considering. I keep a list of screenwriting software options here.

Celtx and Trelby...and they're like free forever, not "capitalism free"... :)

Claude Gagne PC also has desktop Apps. As an example, there is the full Microsoft Outlook program to install, but you can also download a lite weight Outlook App from the MS store. WriterDuet just has a lite weight app to download.

Thanks, everyone. I've recovered some of my PDF"s from my old computer. One problem though is they have the old gmail's on the title page and will need to place a note when I place them on my loglines section. I do have my phone number. Do producers actually look there to find what they're looking for? Anyone have any luck that way? It's hard to be a screenwriter and have nothing for them to peruse my work.

You're welcome, Claude Gagne. Glad you recovered some of your PDF's.

Yeah, producers (directors, etc.) look for scripts in the logline sections of people's profiles. That's how I sold four short scripts to a producer.

As for the email, you could post a note in the synopsis part of the logline page.

Thanks, CJ Walley, Kiril, Alexander, and Christopher. It's nice to have you guys there helping and supporting me with my questions. Stage 32 is a great program if a fella is green on computers. From a tower to a laptop is quite an experience to work through, especially at my age. Have a great day.

Claude Gagne You could edit the pdfs and whiteout the old gmail and add a new one. There are several free sites to edit pdfs for people looking to make simple updates like add a signature or add some text.

I've been using FadeIn. It's technically not free, but the "demonstration" version is and doesn't have an expiration that I've found. It's the only reliable screenwriting software that I've been able to consistently use without paying anything.

Thanks Christopher, and Maurice. it's amazing how closely we are connected to help each other in achieving our goals. Ben Henning Fadein, I'll need to check it out. Thanks for clueing me in on how to avoid paying. Gee, I'll be able to write for free for along time. Goodbye Final draft and hello to what four so far. I'm back in business in writing for free. All the best.

You're welcome, Claude Gagne. All the best as well.

Claude Gagne, I think WriterDuet can import a pdf. It might not be perfect, but all you would need to do is give it a proofread or too, updated the contact details, and export. That would negate your email address issue.

I believe you can keep deleting and creating new project files as you see fit. As long as you only have three active at any time, it's free to use.

If you do decide to go for a paid tier, keep in mind Script Revolution Rockstar Members get 30% off the subscription price.

"I believe you can keep deleting and creating new project files as you see fit. As long as you only have three active at any time, it's free to use." You're right, CJ Walley.

Technically, the best free software is Windows Notepad. When you're in the process of writing, you don't want to be editing. Seeing little squiggly lines on spelling and grammar makes you want to keep backspacing and fixing things. I start most things in Notepad. Plus, the files are small and don't run into memory issues as the page count grows. Final Draft or other software can import it later.

As an example:

INT. DEFENDER LIMO - NIGHT

Pikul drives. He can see why the limo is an off-road vehicle: the road is terrible, dirt and gravel, stutter potholes and sharp ridges, the occasional fallen tree.

PIKUL

(manic, scared)

I normally like the countryside, don't you? Normally, the country is relaxing and calm.

I use Trelby. Trivial and intuitive, so it is easy to learn.

@Christopher that's so interesting!! What a great idea.

Its been a while but Celtx had a free function on it.

I get asked this a lot, so I made a page on our Rochester Writers Workshop site.

https://www.rwwny.org/software/

Most “free” apps are really fremium, meaning you get a couple things free, then pay to unlock more.

Short answer for best truly free is Trelby (Windows) and Highland 2 (Mac). Highland 2 gives you a watermark on exports, but it’s unobtrusive.

Finding good, free screenwriting software can be such a relief, especially when you’re just starting out or working on a tight budget. There are a few solid options out there, but I’ve found that having a set of good utility tools on my Mac has been just as helpful. Managing files, clearing up storage, and keeping everything running smoothly makes such a difference when you’re juggling drafts and notes. I came across this list of free Mac utilities that’s been a lifesaver for keeping my workspace https://nektony.com/how-to/run-windows-mac organized. It’s amazing how much smoother things run when your Mac’s in top shape!