Screenwriter-mode
Screenwriter-mode: A free, plain-text screenplay tool for writers comfortable with GNU Emacs. Ranked #5 of 27 in Screenwriting Software by our editors (7.9/10); pricing: Free plan; best for plain-text writers using lightweight desktop tools.
At a glance
- Editor score7.9 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forPlain-text writers using lightweight desktop tools
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free and cross-platform on Linux, macOS, and Windows
- Core screenplay formatting with automatic .scp and .screenplay activation
- Character, location, scheduling, and production-oriented reports
Where it doesn't
- Requires comfort with GNU Emacs and command-line tools
- Collaboration features are outside its stated focus
- Revision and publishing capabilities are limited in scope
Our verdict on Screenwriter-mode
Screenwriter-mode is a screenplay-formatting plug-in for GNU Emacs, aimed at writers and production users who are comfortable working with Emacs and command-line tools. It supports slug lines, action, dialogue, and transitions, while automatically activating for .scp and .screenplay files. Screenplays are stored as plain text, making the product a fit for users who prefer lightweight desktop workflows over a standalone application.
The published feature set covers more than basic formatting. The accompanying screenplay-tools suite includes formatting and printing helper scripts, production scheduling-related reports, location and character element databases, and character reports generated from screenplay text. Basic Org-mode integration supports lists of locations and characters. Supported formats include PDF, .screenplay, .scp, and .org, while the cross-platform support spans Linux, macOS, and Windows. The free pricing model also makes it accessible without a paid tier structure.
Screenwriter-mode is most suitable for plain-text writers who value Emacs integration, script control, and production-oriented reporting. Its focus is narrower than a full production platform: collaboration, revision workflows, and publishing capabilities are limited in scope, and the product is delivered as an Emacs plug-in and command-line toolset rather than a standalone application. Choose it when a free, scriptable, cross-platform writing environment fits your workflow; choose an alternative when collaborative production management or broader publishing features are central requirements.
Your product? Our editors can test Screenwriter-mode in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
Screenwriter-mode pricing
Screenwriter-mode fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Real-time collaboration | Not verified |
| Offline mode | Not verified |
| Revision tracking | Not verified |
| Production breakdown tools | Yes |
| Supported platforms | Linux, macOS, Windows |
| Export formats | PDF, .screenplay, .scp, .org |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Support | Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 1 integrations: Org-mode |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | nongnu.org |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Screenwriter-mode integrations
Screenwriter-mode lists 1 integrations on its own site.
- Org-mode
Alternatives to Screenwriter-mode
- Final DraftA mature, full-scope screenwriting suite for writing through production.9.3
- CeltxA strong fit for writers who need production planning beyond screenplay formatting.9.1
- WriterDuetA flexible screenwriting workspace for teams that need collaboration and extensive exports.8.8
See all Screenwriter-mode alternatives →
Screenwriter-mode vs the competition
- Screenwriter-mode vs Final Draft
- Screenwriter-mode vs Celtx
- Screenwriter-mode vs WriterDuet
- Screenwriter-mode vs Fade In
- Screenwriter-mode vs OpenDraft
- Screenwriter-mode vs Story Architect
Compare Screenwriter-mode with any tool side by side →
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Featured on iTechGuides
Screenwriter-mode is listed in our Screenwriting Software directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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