yWriter 4

Fiction writers can always benefit from useful tools that are free. Keeping track of story lines and characters can sometimes become a hectic task, but it is not an impossible one. yWriter 4 can definitely handle its own among other free applications and some paid ones as well. If you are serious about writing and don’t want a flashy user interface, then this application is what you need. It will conveniently help you to keep track of plot lines, characters, and drafts. All of your information will be organized in a simple form.

To get started, just simply download and install the application. You’ll be able to move forward in your writing via project levels. Import your existing novels in accordance with the yWriter’s format. If your work is in PDF or .doc format, then yWriter is not capable of importing it. Despite this little set back, it is still an excellent program overall. Your chapters will be displayed in spreadsheet form for viewing. After importing all of your chapters and scenes into yWriter, you’ll then be able to add notes, descriptions, or other details.

Looking at the yWriter format will remind you of the classic Windows style. It is not flashy, but it still gets the job done. In order to successfully complete your novel, most writers do not need a fancy interface filled with bells and whistles. The best part of using this program is that it is simple to use. Once you start working with it, you’ll notice how fast you completed your novel.

Microsoft Office Live Workspace

Although Microsoft can produce some well functioning products, there are times that they miss the mark completely. As technology moves onward, online storage space has become a necessity. Instead of just relying on local storage, users can access important information and documents virtually anywhere. The only requirements are a high speed internet connection, an online storage account, and a device to access it. Considering the popularity of online storage, Microsoft has tried to enter this realm as well.

Office Live Workspace is more of a personalized version of online storage. It allows you to share important documents, share calendars, and create discussions. Although working with Office Live Workspace was a pleasure at times, there were also too many bugs to make it completely enjoyable. In its beta stage, I wouldn’t feel secure enough to place all of my vital documents into this online storage.

One of the largest disappointments is the lack of editing once a document is uploaded. If you need to add something or make other changes when accessing from another computer, you must do so before uploading. I’ve worked with other free online storage systems that give me this capability without any issues. I would much prefer working with an online storage system that offers flexibility on my level.

Some of the best benefits of working with Office Live Workspace is the clean interface free from unwanted advertisements. Finding controls are not a problem because they are conveniently placed in easy to reach locations. Hopefully in the future, this program will have a more stable platform and added features for complete customization.

AIM 6.5

I love using instant messaging programs because they provide me with an always on instant access. Instead of playing email or phone tag, I can easily get in touch with my friends or co-workers. There have been too many times that I missed a vital phone call or email. Since I am consistently at my computer throughout the day, I can receive an instant notification of any incoming messages.

Usually, I try to stay away from AIM products because previously I was never satisfied with them. However, I decided to give AIM 6.5 a try. Family members and friends have advised me of its user friendly interface and great customizable features. With the latest upgrade, AIM 6.5 has definitely raised the bar. This instant messaging client offers numerous security fixes, social networking features, and more media rich profile features.

One of my favorite features in AIM 6.5 is the tunes plug in. Not only can I listen to some of my favorite tunes, but I can also listen to songs that my friends are listening to as well. I also thoroughly enjoy moving from text messaging to IM status when communicating with friends and family members. This is an extremely handy feature when I am occasionally away from my computer. All instant messages can be sent to my registered mobile phone. Anyone that has stayed away from AIM because of security compromises and lack of features will quickly change their mind with this latest release of software. AIM 6.5 is a terrific IM client that will enhance your instant messaging world.

Apple Safari Browser

Searching for the perfect browser can sometimes be a headache. Although there are several available to use, not all of them are created equal. I’ve worked with Internet Explorer for a couple of years and always wanted a better experience. There were way too many vulnerabilities and kinks to deal with. Of course, I naturally started using Mozilla Firefox as soon as I heard of it. I’m still extremely satisfied with this browser, but I am always looking for something better.

I came across the Safari 3 web browser and decided to give it a try. Users can access this browser via a Mac or Windows based computer. Apple products are well known for their intuitive interfaces. Instead of having to fight for hours to understand one single detail, you’ll be able to easily start working with them in a short time. After just a few minutes of using the Safari 3 web browser, I was able to notice that not only does it work just as good as Mozilla Firefox, but even better.

It has a minimal appearance that will allow you to focus exclusively on your Internet experience and not just the browser. Some web browsers will overwhelm you because of crowded add ons or extension. You won’t have to worry about that with Safari 3. It will easily direct you to where you need to go without a fuss. If you have long searched for a better web browser experience, then consider trying Safari 3. You’ll be extremely surprised at its ease of use and intuitive interface.

Adobe Photshop Express- Free online beta version

As a digital photographer, I am always looking for a great photo editing tool. Despite the wonderful praises given to Adobe Photoshop, I just could not drag myself to pay that outrageous price. Thankfully, Adobe got a little smarter and noticed that I wasn’t the only one hesitant about purchasing their software. They have finally released a free online version.

After a couple of days of using it, I noticed that it has wonderful potential. Although there are a few bugs in the system, my overall impression of it was a positive one. Adjusting colors, exposure, and adding special effects is extremely easy to do. Boring photos can be instantly transformed into interesting ones. The Flash based interface rarely slows down while switching between multiple features. Adobe Photoshop Express has a winning combination of features that actually work well.