Enhancing Your Screenwriting Process With Tech.
As you probably already know if you're reading this; dyslexia can make writing a challenging and frustrating experience. But the right tools can help dyslexic screenwriters overcome these obstacles and bring their stories to life.
Here at Script Stable, we know ALL about the struggles that dyslexia (and neurodivergence) can bring for screenwriters. Founder Fran Fowler was diagnosed as dyslexic and neurodivergent as an adult and speaks proudly to others who struggle.
Just because someone is dyslexic or has learning difficulties, does NOT mean they can't be a brilliant writer. Dyslexic thinking is now starting to be viewed as an asset (because it is!) but for a long time, and while I was growing up, it was code for 'stupid'. Which hardly does wonders for a dyslexic's confidence. Whilst it's true that us dyslexics might have to work doubly as hard and graft the extra mile; we also think outside the box and create unique stories. In a time where software is here to help, lean in to whatever works for you. Sometime's it's trial and error but don't give up at the first hurdle. You have stories to tell, so go tell them.
Script Stable have created a list of some of the best screenplay software options for dyslexic writers, so let's get into it:
Final Draft
Final Draft is one of the most popular and widely used screenplay software options. It is absolutely Script Stable's favourite software and we recommend it first and foremost. It's what the pro's use and there are good reasons for that. It offers a range of helpful features, including a streamlined interface, customisable templates, and automatic formatting that takes the guesswork out of writing a screenplay. However, the 'best' often comes with a higher price tag and whilst we think it's worth it; it is an investment.
Celtx
Celtx is a free and easy to use screenplay software that offers a simple interface and customisable templates. It also features a script editor that can help dyslexic writers avoid common writing mistakes and typos (pretty standard feature though). Whilst it's no Final Draft, it is a great option for students or those who don't have a ton of cash to splash.
Trelby
Trelby is an open-source screenplay software that offers a range of helpful features, including a script editor, automatic formatting, and customisable templates. It's also free to use, making it an accessible option for dyslexic writers. Again, free is a great perk, especially if you're new to screenwriting and not sure if you're in it for the long haul yet.
Scrivener
Scrivener is a versatile writing tool that can be used for a range of projects, including screenplays. It offers a range of helpful features, including a customisable interface, corkboard view, and a virtual index card system to help dyslexic writers keep their projects organised. Whilst we rarely use Scrivener for screenplays, it is GREAT for treatments or other writing you might find yourself working on.
WriterDuet
WriterDuet is a cloud-based screenplay software that offers real-time collaboration and a range of helpful features, including automatic formatting, customisable templates, and a script editor. It's an accessible and user-friendly option for dyslexic writers.
TEXT-TO-SPEECH
For some dyslexics the issues come around reading. The writing part can feel easy when you're inspired but reading back is not only is it hard, it can take a thousand years to get through the script, becoming a laborious task that gets put off. And not only that, it's almost impossible to spot typos in order to fix them.
By trying text-to-speech, it's more like listening to a radio drama. Helping bring your characters to life whilst highlighting errors and typos.
We wholeheartedly recommend trying out a few options and finding the best fit for you. Here is our list of best text-to-speech software available and how they can help enhance your screenwriting process:
NaturalReader
NaturalReader is a powerful and versatile text-to-speech software that offers a wide range of features and customisation options. With support for multiple languages and voices, NaturalReader makes it easy to listen to your script as you write, helping you to catch mistakes and make changes before it's too late.
IVONA
IVONA is a cutting-edge text-to-speech software that uses advanced artificial intelligence algorithms to produce high-quality, natural-sounding voices. With a wide range of voices and languages, IVONA makes it easy to listen to your script and get a feel for how it will sound on the big screen.
Balabolka
Balabolka is a free, open-source text-to-speech software that is simple to use and highly customisable. With support for multiple languages and the ability to save your files as audio files, Balabolka is a great option for screenwriters who want to listen to their scripts without the need for an internet connection.
TextAloud
TextAloud is a user-friendly text-to-speech software that makes it easy to listen to your script as you write. With a wide range of voices and customisation options, TextAloud helps you to get a better sense of your script's pacing and flow, allowing you to make changes before it's too late.
ReadPlease
ReadPlease is a simple and straightforward text-to-speech software that is easy to use and highly customisable. With support for multiple languages and the ability to save your files as audio files, ReadPlease is another great option for screenwriters who want to listen to their scripts without the need for an internet connection.
AUDIO-TO-TEXT (DICTATION)
For some dyslexics the actual act of typing can be frustrating, if not disheartening. If this sounds like you then you might want to try audio to text software, aka dictating your script.
Dyslexia can come in all shapes and sizes and for some dictation is the only way forward. Ignore the naysayers and the literary snobs - writing is the story you create; it doesn't matter how you get to your finished screenplay as long as it's come from you. Plenty of successful screenwriters use dictation as their go to method.
Little disclaimer: Script Stable hasn't tried any audio-to-text software yet, so this list is simply the software we're currently aware of. The list includes both audio-to-text software and screenplay-specific software:
Paid Options:
Dragon NaturallySpeaking (audio-to-text software)
Final Draft (screenplay software with audio dictation feature)
Movie Magic Screenwriter (screenplay software with audio dictation feature)
Fade In (screenplay software with audio dictation feature)
Free Options:
Google Docs Voice Typing (audio-to-text software)
Microsoft Azure Speech to Text (audio-to-text software)
IBM Watson Speech to Text (audio-to-text software)
Celtx (screenplay software with audio dictation feature, offers a limited free plan)
WriterDuet (screenplay software with audio dictation feature, offers a limited free plan)
Trelby (screenplay software, open-source and free)
Amazon Storywriter (screenplay software, free to use with an Amazon account)
Please note that while some of the screenplay software options mentioned have audio dictation features, they may not be as comprehensive as dedicated audio-to-text software like Transcribe, Sonix, Happy Scribe, Rev, Google Docs Voice Typing, Microsoft Azure Speech to Text, IBM Watson Speech to Text, Otter.ai (offers a limited free plan) Speechnotes.
Additionally, it's always a good idea to explore and compare the features of different software to find the one that best suits your specific needs and preferences.
Choosing the right screenplay software can make a huge difference for dyslexic writers. By selecting a software option that offers a simple interface, helpful features, and customisable templates, dyslexic writers can overcome a lot of their challenges and bring their stories to life.
If there's any other software you use as a dyslexic screenwriter, please share in the comments and we can compare notes.
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