Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to what writers ask before they buy — and after.
Getting started
What is Scrivener used for?
Long-form writing — novels, non-fiction, screenplays, dissertations, and any project that grows past a single file.
Is there a free trial?
Yes — 30 days of use (counted only when you open the app). No account required.
Do I need to be online?
No. Scrivener works fully offline. Sync is optional, via Dropbox or iCloud Drive.
Pricing & Licensing
One-time payment or subscription?
One-time. A standard licence is yours forever, with free updates within the major version.
Is there an educational discount?
Yes — 15% off for students, teachers, and academic staff.
Can I use one licence on multiple machines?
Yes, on machines you personally own. The macOS and Windows editions are sold separately or as a bundle.
Platforms & Sync
Does Scrivener work on Windows?
Yes. Scrivener 3 for Windows is feature-complete and shares the same project format as macOS.
Is there a mobile version?
Yes — a separate iOS / iPadOS app, sold via the App Store. Sync via Dropbox.
Can I open the same project on Mac and Windows?
Yes. The project format is fully cross-platform.
Files & Compatibility
What can I export to?
DOCX, RTF, PDF, ePub, Kindle, Final Draft, MultiMarkdown, plain text, and more via Compile.
Can I import existing manuscripts?
Yes — drag DOCX, RTF, or text files into the Binder and Scrivener will split them by chapter if you wish.
Where are my files stored?
Wherever you choose. Local disk, Dropbox, iCloud Drive — the project is a folder of files you control.