Find the Perfect Name with Scrivener

By Rory C. Keel

For several years now, I have been using the Scrivener writing program to do my writing. For me, it is the greatest program that allows me to outline, storyboard, edit and write all within a neatly organized package.

With all the bells and whistles, it would be hard to list them all or explain how to use them in one blog. However, I do want to share some of the interesting features this wonderful program holds.

Have your ever written a story with a character that needed a better name? You know, the Bob or Sally that would really make your story a bestseller if they had a better name.

Well, Scrivener can help you find that perfect name. Tucked neatly away in the Writing tools is a built-in name generator.

Here’s how you find it. Above the tool bar find the word “EDIT,” follow down the menu until you see the word “Writing Tools.” When you place your curser over the word a side menu should appear, and at the bottom you should see the “Name generator.”

With the click of your mouse or scroll pad, the Name Generator should appear in a small window.

The first decision you will need to make is how many names do you want the program to generate? You will see a scroll bar numbered from 1-500, simply slid the marker to number you want to choose from.

Next you will notice the small gear button near the bottom of the window, click it. At this point, you need to make several other choices, such as do you want MALE or FEMALE names? You can set alliteration options, number of forename or surnames, initials, and obscurity level of the names.

You will also find a menu to choose the ethnicity of the name you wish to find. Once you check the appropriate box or boxes, find the long button on the previous menu that says “Generate Names,” and click. The blank screen will suddenly fill with names from which to choose the right name for your character.

I hope you find the perfect name.

Roryckeel.com