Final Draft Review
In the world of screenwriting, having the right software can make all the difference. One such software that has been making waves in the industry is Final Draft. In this article, we will be taking an in-depth look at what Final Draft is, how to use it, its pricing, customer support, and the pros and cons of choosing this software. This comprehensive review will help you make an informed decision on whether Final Draft is the right fit for your screenwriting needs.
What is Final Draft?
Final Draft is a screenwriting software specifically designed for professional scriptwriters, playwrights, and filmmakers. It has been the industry standard for over 30 years, with its first version released back in 1991. Since then, it has been consistently updated and improved upon, making it a popular choice for both seasoned professionals and aspiring writers.
The software offers a wide range of features that cater to the specific needs of screenwriters, such as intuitive formatting options, extensive character and location databases, and even tools for collaboration between writers. These features, combined with the software’s user-friendly interface, make it an invaluable tool for anyone looking to create a polished screenplay or stage play.
How to Use Final Draft?
Final Draft is designed to be as user-friendly as possible, so getting started with the software is relatively simple. Here are the basic steps to help you begin using Final Draft:
- Install the software: To get started, you’ll first need to purchase and install Final Draft on your computer. The software is compatible with both Windows and macOS, and installation instructions are provided on the Final Draft website.
- Start a new project: Once the software is installed, you can begin by starting a new project. Final Draft offers various templates for different formats, including film, television, stage plays, and graphic novels. Choose the template that best suits your project to get started.
- Write your script: With your new project open, you can now begin writing your script. Final Draft’s interface is designed to make the writing process as seamless as possible, with intuitive formatting tools and features that help you stay focused on your story.
- Use the Navigator: As your script grows, you can use the Navigator feature to keep track of your scenes, characters, and locations. This feature creates an organized, visual overview of your entire script, making it easy to navigate through your story.
- Collaborate with others: If you’re working with a writing partner or team, Final Draft offers collaboration tools that allow you to work together in real-time. You can share your script with others, leave comments, and even chat within the software to discuss changes and updates.
- Export and print: Once your script is complete, you can easily export it in various formats, such as PDF or Fountain, to share with others or submit to producers. You can also print your script directly from Final Draft with industry-standard formatting.
How Much Does Final Draft Cost?
When it comes to pricing, Final Draft offers different options to cater to the needs of various users. Here’s a breakdown of their pricing structure:
- Final Draft 12: The latest version of the software, Final Draft 12, is available for a one-time payment of $249.99. This includes all the features and updates for this version and can be installed on two computers.
- Upgrade to Final Draft 12: If you already own a previous version of Final Draft, you can upgrade to the latest version for a discounted price of $99.99.
- Educational Pricing: Final Draft offers special pricing for students and educators, with a discounted rate of $129.99 for a full license of Final Draft 12.
- Free Trial: If you’re unsure whether Final Draft is the right fit for you, they offer a 60-day free trial. This allows you to test out the software and its features before making a decision to purchase.
Final Draft Customer Support
One of the key aspects of any software is the quality of its customer support. Final Draft has a dedicated support team that offers assistance via email, phone, and live chat. They also have an extensive knowledge base on their website, which includes articles, tutorials, and frequently asked questions to help users navigate the software.
In addition to their support resources, Final Draft also offers webinars and workshops to help users better understand the software and improve their screenwriting skills. These events are often led by experienced industry professionals and can provide valuable insights and tips for aspiring writers.
Final Draft Pros & Cons
As with any software, there are both pros and cons to consider when deciding whether Final Draft is the right choice for your screenwriting needs. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most notable advantages and disadvantages:
Pros
- Industry Standard: Final Draft is widely regarded as the industry standard for screenwriting software. This means that scripts created using Final Draft are more likely to be accepted by producers and studios, and the software’s features are tailored specifically to the needs of professional screenwriters.
- Intuitive Interface: The software’s interface is designed to be user-friendly and easy to navigate, making it simple for writers of all skill levels to create polished scripts.
- Extensive Features: Final Draft offers a wide range of features that cater to the specific needs of screenwriters, including formatting options, character and location databases, and collaboration tools.
- Regular Updates: The software is consistently updated and improved upon, ensuring that users have access to the latest features and improvements.
Cons
- Price: Final Draft’s pricing may be a barrier to entry for some users, particularly those just starting out in screenwriting. However, the software does offer a free trial and educational pricing for students and educators.
- Learning Curve: While the software is designed to be user-friendly, there is a learning curve associated with mastering its many features. However, Final Draft offers extensive support resources and events to help users become proficient with the software.
- Limited Compatibility: Final Draft’s file format is not compatible with all other screenwriting software. This can make it difficult to collaborate with others who use different software.
- Occasional Bugs: Like any software, Final Draft can occasionally encounter bugs or glitches that can be frustrating for users. However, the support team is usually quick to address these issues and offer solutions.
Conclusion
Final Draft is undoubtedly one of the most popular and widely used screenwriting software options on the market. Its intuitive interface, extensive features, and industry-standard status make it a top choice for professional screenwriters and filmmakers.
However, the software’s pricing may be a barrier for some users, and there is a learning curve associated with mastering its many features. Additionally, Final Draft’s file format is not always compatible with other screenwriting software, making collaboration with others more challenging.
Overall, Final Draft is an excellent option for anyone looking to create polished, professional-grade screenplays. With its support resources and regular updates, it’s a software that can help writers at all levels hone their craft and bring their stories to life on the screen.