A Little Smoke May Help Your Writing
Blog reader and scriptwriter Michael Downend has alerted me to the recently released and upgraded WhiteSmoke 2008 writing software. While offering familiar dictionary and thesaurus capabilities, WhiteSmoke goes well beyond that, checking grammar, punctuation and word use in order to catch errors and to make suggestions for improvement. Some writers may scorn such mechanical aids, but the software evidently does a remarkable job of catching common problems and works as a capable proof reader.
To get an idea of what the software can do, take a look HERE to see common errors that the software can spot. I discovered in this display many of the errors and typos I myself often make in my early drafts. The software even suggests alternate word choices. Hemingway fans, however, may wince at the software’s advertised penchant for recommending adverbs and adjectives.
The software comes in various configurations, with some versions aimed at specialties such as legal, medical and business writing. There is also a version for general writing. And there’s even a version for creative writing, which offers these benefits:
The Creative Writing Version of WhiteSmoke is designed for one purpose - to take care of the technical stuff so you can keep those creative juices flowing. We know that writing a great novel, short story, poem, script or screenplay is hard work, and calls for a strong imagination and a lot of dedication. The WhiteSmoke Creative Writing Version can make the experience easier by giving you the full functionality of WhiteSmoke’s English grammar and spelling technologies in combination with a text enrichment database designed especially for creative writing purposes. These core features are supported by a one-click English dictionary and thesaurus giving you instant access to word definitions, synonyms and antonyms.
The best way to get acquainted with the software is to read through the online visual users guide. There appears to be no opportunity to “try before you buy.” Clicking on the Download button walks one through the purchase process. Cost of the software is not cheap. The general version costs $69.95, while the creative writing version goes for $99.95. Until November 30 [this or course might be extended], the company is offering discounts, but the download page currently forces one toward the $125.00 Executive Version. I could not find a way to order the Creative Writing version, with its 30 percent discount.
I personally have misgivings about the rigidity of its sales approach. However, if one ever hires proof readers, this software may offer a cost-effective alternative. The software promises to work with any computer application, even online word processors and instant messengers I’ll take a pass myself — but I may buy a copy for my language-challenged brother, who would find it a god-send.
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