# Plans & Billing
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/account/plans-billing

The free editor, how Quill credits work, the free trial, credit packs, and Quill Pro.

The **Inkwell editor is free forever** — the full screenplay editor, import/export, unlimited scripts, offline writing, no cost ever. **Quill**, your AI writing partner, runs on credits. This page explains how the two fit together. For current rates, visit [inkwell.app/pricing](https://inkwell.app/pricing).

## What's Free vs. What Uses Credits

|                                            | Free editor  | Quill (AI partner)       |
| ------------------------------------------ | ------------ | ------------------------ |
| **Cost**                                   | Free forever | Runs on credits          |
| **Write, format, paginate**                | ✅ Unlimited  | —                        |
| **Import/export (PDF, Fountain, FDX)**     | ✅ Unlimited  | —                        |
| **Unlimited scripts**                      | ✅            | —                        |
| **Offline**                                | ✅            | Needs internet           |
| **Ask Quill (brainstorm, rewrite, notes)** | —            | A few credits per answer |

<Note>
  There are **no standing free credits**. The editor never costs anything, but Quill needs credits. The way to try Quill for free is the **free week of Quill Pro** (below) — after that, you buy a credit pack or subscribe to keep using Quill. Either way, the editor keeps working.
</Note>

## The Free Editor

Everything you need to write a screenplay, free forever, no account gymnastics:

* Industry-standard formatting and pagination
* Auto-save & version history
* Import/export (PDF, Fountain, FDX)
* Print to PDF
* All themes & customization
* Project Panel (navigation, characters, logline)
* Unlimited scripts, fully offline

You never spend credits to write, format, import, or export. Credits only come into play when you ask **Quill** — the AI writing partner — and it answers.

## Trying Quill: The Free Week

Every **new account** can start a **free week of Quill Pro**:

* **500 credits** to spend on Quill
* **7 days**
* **No credit card**, nothing to cancel
* **Opt-in** — you start it with one tap after signing in

When the week ends, you drop back to the free editor with no Quill credits. Nothing gets charged, nothing gets deleted, and your scripts are untouched. To keep using Quill after that, buy a **credit pack** or subscribe to **Quill Pro** (both below).

## After the Trial

Once the trial ends (or if you never started one), you have two ways to use Quill:

|                   | Credit pack     | Quill Pro                  |
| ----------------- | --------------- | -------------------------- |
| **Price**         | \$4.99 one-time | $10/month or $100/year     |
| **Credits**       | 150 credits     | 500 credits/month          |
| **Subscription?** | No              | Yes                        |
| **Best for**      | Occasional use  | Regular writing with Quill |

A user with no active trial or subscription and no credit pack simply has **0 Quill credits** — and the editor still works fully. Credits are spent only when Quill answers: a typical answer costs a few credits, and bigger requests cost more.

## Quill Pro

### What's Included

**500 credits every month** for **$10/month** or **$100/year** (save \$20/year). Credits refresh on your billing date. See [inkwell.app/pricing](https://inkwell.app/pricing) for current rates.

**The same Quill** you met during the trial — Pro is simply a larger, recurring credit budget so you never have to think about running out mid-draft.

**Priority Support**:

* Faster response times
* Priority bug fixes
* Feature request consideration

### Best For

* Writers who use Quill regularly
* Anyone who'd otherwise buy a credit pack most months
* Writers with multiple active projects

## Manage Your Subscription

### Check Credit Balance

**From Inkwell app**:

1. Look at **status bar** (bottom of window)
2. Click your Quill status
3. Popover shows:
   * Credits remaining
   * Whether you're on a trial, Quill Pro, or credit packs
   * Next refresh date (if on Pro or a trial)
   * Days remaining in your trial

**From web dashboard**:

1. Visit inkwell.app
2. Log in → Profile → **Usage**
3. See detailed statistics and writing activity

<Tip>
  The status bar is the fastest way to check your credit balance while writing. Click it anytime to see your usage.
</Tip>

### Upgrade to Pro

**From Inkwell app** (easiest):

1. Click your plan in the **status bar**
2. Click **"Upgrade Plan"** button
3. Complete checkout (opens in browser or uses in-app purchase)

**From web**:

1. Visit inkwell.app/pricing
2. Choose Pro plan
3. Complete checkout

**In-App Purchase (Mac App Store version)**:

* Uses Apple's payment system
* Managed through App Store subscriptions
* Same features as web version

### Cancel Pro Subscription

**Web subscription**:

1. Visit inkwell.app
2. Profile → **Manage Subscription**
3. Click **Cancel**
4. Confirm cancellation

**Mac App Store subscription**:

1. macOS Settings → Apple ID → **Subscriptions**
2. Find Inkwell Pro
3. Click **Cancel Subscription**

**What happens after canceling**:

* Keep Pro credits until the billing period ends
* Your scripts and work are completely safe — the editor keeps working, free, forever
* Monthly credits stop refreshing (your balance drops to 0 once used, unless you hold a credit pack)
* You can buy a \$4.99 credit pack anytime, or resubscribe later

## Buy a Credit Pack

Not ready to subscribe? A one-time credit pack keeps Quill available without any recurring charge.

### How to Purchase

**From Inkwell app**:

1. Open the Quill status in the **status bar** (or **Settings → Account**)
2. Click **"Buy Credits"**
3. Confirm the **150-credit pack for \$4.99**
4. Complete purchase

**From web**:

1. Visit inkwell.app
2. Profile → **Buy Credits**
3. Complete checkout

### Credit Pack Details

**Purchased pack credits**:

* **\$4.99 for 150 credits**
* **Never expire** — use them whenever you come back
* No subscription, no auto-renewal
* Stack on top of any Pro or trial credits you already have

**Example**: A writer with no subscription buys a 150-credit pack and spends it on Quill at their own pace — a few credits each time Quill answers. When they run out, the editor still works — they just buy another pack or subscribe when they want Quill back.

### Pack or Pro?

**Buy a pack when**:

* You use Quill occasionally
* You have a one-off deadline push
* You'd rather not have a subscription

**Subscribe to Pro when**:

* You'd buy a pack most months anyway
* You want a fresh 500 credits every month without thinking about it

## Billing & Payments

### Payment Methods

* Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex)
* Apple Pay / Google Pay
* In-App Purchase (Mac App Store version uses Apple ID)

### Billing Cycle

**Monthly plans**:

* Billed on the same date each month
* Credits refresh on billing date
* Prorated if you upgrade mid-cycle

**Credits refresh**:

* Quill Pro: 500 credits on your billing date each month
* Free trial: 500 credits for 7 days, once, for new accounts
* No subscription: no refresh — you spend credit packs at your own pace

**Unused credits**:

* Monthly Pro credits **do not** roll over
* Purchased credit packs **never expire**

### Receipts & Invoices

**Web subscriptions**:

* Emailed automatically after each payment
* Access history at inkwell.app → Billing

**App Store subscriptions**:

* Managed through Apple
* View receipts in App Store → Apple ID → Purchase History

## Common Questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Can I try Quill for free?">
    Yes — every new account can start a **free week of Quill Pro**: 500 credits, 7 days, no credit card, nothing to cancel. It's opt-in, so you start it with one tap after signing in. When the week ends you drop back to the free editor with no Quill credits, and you can buy a \$4.99 credit pack or subscribe whenever you want Quill back.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What happens when my free trial ends?">
    You keep the full editor — free, forever, offline. Your Quill credit balance returns to 0 (unless you've bought a pack or subscribed). Nothing is charged and nothing is deleted. To keep using Quill, buy a 150-credit pack for \$4.99 or subscribe to Quill Pro.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Do I get free credits every month?">
    No. There's no standing monthly free credit. The editor is always free, but Quill runs on credits you get from the free trial (once), a credit pack, or a Quill Pro subscription.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What happens if I cancel Quill Pro?">
    You keep Pro credits until the billing period ends, then credits stop refreshing. Your scripts and the editor are unaffected — the editor is free forever. You can buy a credit pack anytime or resubscribe later.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Do purchased credits expire?">
    No. Purchased credit packs never expire. Only monthly Quill Pro credits reset each month and don't roll over.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I get a refund?">
    Contact [support@inkwellwriter.com](mailto:support@inkwellwriter.com) for refund requests. We handle them case-by-case.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Is there a student or educator discount?">
    Yes! Email [support@inkwellwriter.com](mailto:support@inkwellwriter.com) with proof of student/educator status for discount information.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I pause my Quill Pro subscription?">
    Not currently. You can cancel and resubscribe later without losing your account or scripts — and the editor keeps working for free in the meantime.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Is Quill better on Pro?">
    No. Pro is exactly the same Quill — it just comes with a larger, recurring credit budget. More room to ask, not a different partner.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Next Steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="No Setup Required" icon="brain" href="/quill-ai/model-selection">
    Quill works out of the box — nothing to configure
  </Card>

  <Card title="Credits & Billing" icon="coins" href="/quill-ai/credits-billing">
    Understand how credits work
  </Card>

  <Card title="Using Quill AI" icon="comments" href="/quill-ai/using-quill">
    Learn to use Quill effectively
  </Card>

  <Card title="FAQ" icon="question" href="/reference/faq">
    Common questions about Inkwell
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Focus Mode
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/customization/focus-mode

Hide the Project Panel for distraction-free writing.

Focus Mode hides the Project Panel (drawer) on the left side, giving you maximum screen space for your script.

## Enable Focus Mode

**Keyboard shortcut** (fastest):

* Press `Cmd+[` (or `Cmd+1`) to toggle the drawer on/off

**Menu**:

1. Go to **View → Show Drawer**
2. Uncheck to hide (Focus Mode ON)
3. Check to show (Focus Mode OFF)

The Project Panel slides away, leaving only your script and the status bar visible.

<Tip>
  Combine Focus Mode with **Typewriter Mode** and **Fullscreen** (`Fn+F` or View → Toggle Fullscreen) for the ultimate distraction-free writing experience.
</Tip>

## What Gets Hidden

When Focus Mode is ON, the following are hidden:

* **Navigation panel** (scenes, sections, notes tree)
* **Script Info panel** (title page metadata)
* **Project panel** (logline, scratchpad)
* **Characters panel** (character list and stats)

## What Stays Visible

Focus Mode only hides the left Project Panel. You still see:

* **Your script** (main editor)
* **Status bar** (bottom: page count, save status)
* **Quill AI** (if open on the right)
* **Menu bar** (File, Edit, View, etc.)
* **Title bar** (window controls)

## When to Use Focus Mode

**Writing first drafts**:

* No distractions
* Full focus on the words
* Maximum screen real estate

**Editing dialogue**:

* See more lines at once
* Easier to track rhythm and pacing
* Fewer UI elements pulling attention

**On smaller screens**:

* Laptops with limited screen space
* More room for your script
* Less cramped interface

**Deep work sessions**:

* Eliminate visual clutter
* Reduce cognitive load
* Enter flow state faster

## Quick Toggle Workflow

**During planning**:

1. Project Panel ON → Review navigation, characters, logline
2. Make notes in scratchpad
3. Plan next scenes

**During writing**:

1. Press `Cmd+[` (or `Cmd+1`) → Focus Mode ON
2. Write without distractions
3. Press `Cmd+[` (or `Cmd+1`) → Project Panel returns when you need it

<Note>
  Your Focus Mode preference is saved. If you close Inkwell with the drawer hidden, it stays hidden when you reopen.
</Note>

## Combine with Other Modes

**Ultimate Focus**: Focus Mode + Typewriter Mode + Fullscreen

```
1. Press Cmd+[ (or Cmd+1) (hide drawer)
2. Enable Typewriter Mode (View → Typewriter Scrolling)
3. Press Fn+F (fullscreen)
```

Result: Just you and your script.

**Focused Editing**: Focus Mode + Zoom to Fit

```
1. Press Cmd+[ (or Cmd+1) (hide drawer)  
2. Press Cmd+9 (zoom to fit)
```

Result: Perfect view of a full page.

**AI-Assisted Focus**: Focus Mode + Quill AI

```
1. Press Cmd+[ (or Cmd+1) (hide Project Panel)
2. Press Cmd+] (or Cmd+0) (show Quill AI on right)
```

Result: Script on left, AI on right, no navigation clutter.

## Common Questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="How do I access navigation in Focus Mode?">
    Press `Cmd+[` (or `Cmd+1`) to temporarily show the Project Panel, navigate where you need to go, then press `Cmd+[` again to hide it.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I hide just parts of the Project Panel?">
    No. Focus Mode is all-or-nothing for the left drawer. However, you can select different tabs (Navigation, Script Info, Project, Characters) before hiding it.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Does Focus Mode affect Quill AI?">
    No. Focus Mode only hides the left Project Panel. Quill AI (right side) remains accessible with `Cmd+]` (or `Cmd+0`).
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Will I lose my place if I toggle Focus Mode?">
    No. Your cursor stays exactly where it was. Focus Mode only changes visibility, not your script or cursor position.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Is there a way to auto-hide the drawer?">
    Not currently. You must manually toggle with `Cmd+[` or `Cmd+1` or the View menu. However, your preference is remembered across sessions.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Next Steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Typewriter Mode" icon="keyboard" href="/customization/typewriter-mode">
    Keep your cursor centered while typing
  </Card>

  <Card title="Zoom Controls" icon="magnifying-glass" href="/customization/zoom-controls">
    Adjust zoom for comfortable reading
  </Card>

  <Card title="Themes" icon="palette" href="/customization/themes">
    Choose a theme that reduces eye strain
  </Card>

  <Card title="Keyboard Shortcuts" icon="keyboard" href="/reference/keyboard-shortcuts">
    Learn all Inkwell shortcuts
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Themes
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/customization/themes

Choose from Light, Dark, Sepia, and Midnight themes to customize your writing environment.

Inkwell offers four carefully designed themes plus automatic system matching. Each theme is optimized for different lighting conditions and writing preferences.

## Available Themes

### Light

**Best for**: Bright environments, daytime writing

* Clean white background
* High contrast black text
* Crisp, professional appearance
* Reduces eye strain in well-lit rooms

### Dark

**Best for**: Low-light environments, night writing, OLED screens

* Deep dark background
* Light text for reduced eye strain
* Lower screen brightness
* Popular for late-night writing sessions

### Sepia

**Best for**: Long writing sessions, reduced blue light

* Warm, paper-like beige background
* Softer contrast than Light theme
* Easier on eyes during extended use
* Mimics traditional paper appearance

### Midnight

**Best for**: Complete darkness, minimal distraction

* Pure black background
* Maximum contrast reduction
* True OLED black (saves battery on OLED screens)
* Ultimate focus mode for night owls

### System (Default)

**Best for**: Automatic theme switching

* Matches your macOS/Windows system theme
* Switches between Light and Dark automatically
* Changes with system settings
* Set it and forget it

## Change Your Theme

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Settings">
    Press `Cmd/Ctrl+,` or go to **File → Settings**
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select theme">
    Click on your preferred theme from the theme selector
  </Step>

  <Step title="Apply immediately">
    The theme changes instantly—no restart required
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Tip>
  Try **Sepia** for long writing sessions. The warm tones reduce eye fatigue compared to stark white or dark themes.
</Tip>

## Theme Comparison

| Theme        | Background | Text       | Best Time | Eye Strain             |
| ------------ | ---------- | ---------- | --------- | ---------------------- |
| **Light**    | White      | Black      | Day       | Low (bright rooms)     |
| **Dark**     | Dark Gray  | Light Gray | Night     | Low (dark rooms)       |
| **Sepia**    | Beige      | Dark Brown | Anytime   | Lowest (long sessions) |
| **Midnight** | Pure Black | Light Gray | Night     | Medium (very dark)     |
| **System**   | Auto       | Auto       | Always    | Varies                 |

## Choosing the Right Theme

### For Productivity

**Use Light or System**:

* Familiar appearance
* Professional look for screenshots
* Easy to share with others

### For Long Writing Sessions

**Use Sepia**:

* Reduces blue light exposure
* Warm tones are easier on eyes
* Less harsh than pure white

### For Night Writing

**Use Dark or Midnight**:

* Reduces screen brightness
* Less disruptive to sleep patterns
* Easier on eyes in darkness

### For Maximum Focus

**Use Midnight**:

* Eliminates all visual distraction
* Pure black minimizes peripheral awareness
* Combine with Focus Mode for ultimate concentration

## Common Questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Can I customize theme colors?">
    Not currently. Inkwell's themes are carefully designed for optimal readability and eye comfort. Custom themes may be added in future updates.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Does theme affect printing?">
    No. Your theme only affects the editor appearance. Printed scripts always use standard black text on white paper, regardless of your theme.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Why doesn't System theme work?">
    Make sure your operating system has a dark mode setting. System theme follows macOS (System Preferences → Appearance) or Windows (Settings → Personalization → Colors).
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I switch themes mid-session?">
    Yes! Change themes anytime in Settings. Your work is never affected—only the visual appearance changes.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Which theme is best for eyes?">
    **Sepia** is generally easiest on eyes for extended use. But the "best" theme depends on your environment—use Light in bright rooms, Dark/Midnight in dim rooms.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Next Steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Focus Mode" icon="eye-slash" href="/customization/focus-mode">
    Hide UI elements for distraction-free writing
  </Card>

  <Card title="Typewriter Mode" icon="keyboard" href="/customization/typewriter-mode">
    Keep cursor centered while you type
  </Card>

  <Card title="Zoom Controls" icon="magnifying-glass" href="/customization/zoom-controls">
    Adjust text size for comfort
  </Card>

  <Card title="Keyboard Shortcuts" icon="keyboard" href="/reference/keyboard-shortcuts">
    Learn all Inkwell shortcuts
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Typewriter Mode
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/customization/typewriter-mode

Keep your cursor centered on screen as you type for a more focused writing experience.

Typewriter Mode (also called Typewriter Scrolling) keeps your cursor vertically centered on the screen as you type. Instead of the cursor moving down the page, the page scrolls up—like a traditional typewriter.

## Enable Typewriter Mode

**Menu**:

1. Go to **View → Typewriter Scrolling**
2. Check the box to enable
3. Uncheck to disable

The checkmark shows whether Typewriter Mode is ON or OFF.

<Note>
  There's no dedicated keyboard shortcut for Typewriter Mode by default. Enable it once via the menu, and your preference is saved.
</Note>

## How It Works

**Normal scrolling**:

* Cursor starts at top of screen
* Moves down as you type
* Reaches bottom, then page scrolls up
* Your eyes track the moving cursor

**Typewriter scrolling**:

* Cursor stays centered vertically
* Page scrolls up as you type
* Your eyes stay in one place
* Like a traditional typewriter

## Benefits

**Reduced eye strain**:

* Eyes don't track a moving cursor
* Fixed focal point reduces fatigue
* Especially helpful for long writing sessions

**Better posture**:

* Monitor stays at eye level
* No looking up and down
* More ergonomic for extended use

**Improved focus**:

* Cursor always in the same spot
* Less visual distraction
* Easier to maintain flow state

**Nostalgic feel**:

* Mimics traditional typewriter behavior
* Appeals to writers who miss mechanical keyboards
* Creates a unique writing ritual

<Tip>
  Typewriter Mode works best when combined with **Focus Mode** (hide Project Panel) and a comfortable zoom level.
</Tip>

## When to Use Typewriter Mode

**Long writing sessions**:

* Reduces eye and neck strain
* Maintains consistent eye position
* Better for marathon writing days

**First drafts**:

* Keeps you in the flow
* Less visual distraction
* Easier to just write without overthinking

**If you prefer consistency**:

* Cursor always in the same spot
* Predictable writing environment
* No adjusting to cursor position

## When to Disable Typewriter Mode

**Editing**:

* Need to see surrounding context
* Jumping between scenes
* Reviewing full pages at once

**Navigation**:

* Finding specific scenes
* Scrolling through script quickly
* Comparing different sections

**Smaller screens**:

* Limited vertical space
* Centered cursor may hide too much above/below
* Standard scrolling may be more practical

## Combine with Other Features

**Ultimate Writing Setup**: Typewriter Mode + Focus Mode + Sepia Theme

```
1. View → Typewriter Scrolling (enable)
2. Press Cmd+Shift+D (hide drawer)
3. File → Settings → Sepia theme
```

Result: Focused, centered, easy-on-eyes writing environment.

**Fullscreen Typewriter**: Typewriter Mode + Fullscreen

```
1. View → Typewriter Scrolling (enable)
2. Press Fn+F (fullscreen)
```

Result: Just you, your script, and a centered cursor. No distractions.

## Common Questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Does Typewriter Mode work when editing?">
    Yes, but it's less useful. When you click to a different line, the page re-centers. This can be jarring when jumping around for edits. Most users disable it for editing and enable it for drafting.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I scroll manually with Typewriter Mode on?">
    Yes! You can still scroll with your mouse or trackpad. The page scrolls normally. Typewriter Mode only affects automatic scrolling as you type.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Why does my cursor jump when I click a line?">
    Typewriter Mode re-centers the cursor whenever you move it. This is expected behavior. If it's distracting, consider disabling Typewriter Mode for editing.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Does this affect my script content?">
    No. Typewriter Mode only changes how the page scrolls. Your script content, formatting, and saved file are unaffected.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Will Typewriter Mode slow down Inkwell?">
    No. Typewriter Mode is a visual preference with no impact on performance.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Next Steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Focus Mode" icon="eye-slash" href="/customization/focus-mode">
    Hide UI for distraction-free writing
  </Card>

  <Card title="Zoom Controls" icon="magnifying-glass" href="/customization/zoom-controls">
    Adjust zoom for comfortable viewing
  </Card>

  <Card title="Themes" icon="palette" href="/customization/themes">
    Choose a theme that's easy on your eyes
  </Card>

  <Card title="Keyboard Shortcuts" icon="keyboard" href="/reference/keyboard-shortcuts">
    Learn all Inkwell shortcuts
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Zoom Controls
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/customization/zoom-controls

Adjust zoom level to find the perfect text size for comfortable writing.

Inkwell offers flexible zoom controls to match your screen size, vision preferences, and writing style.

## Zoom Shortcuts

| Action            | macOS   | Windows  |
| ----------------- | ------- | -------- |
| Zoom In           | `Cmd+=` | `Ctrl+=` |
| Zoom Out          | `Cmd+-` | `Ctrl+-` |
| Reset Zoom (100%) | `Cmd+0` | `Ctrl+0` |
| Zoom to Fit       | `Cmd+9` | `Ctrl+9` |

<Tip>
  **Zoom to Fit** (`Cmd/Ctrl+9`) automatically sets the perfect zoom level to show a full page width. Try it first!
</Tip>

## Zoom to Fit (Recommended)

**What it does**:

* Calculates optimal zoom to show a full page width
* Accounts for your window size
* Maintains proper screenplay formatting
* Adjusts automatically when you resize the window

**How to use**:

1. Press `Cmd/Ctrl+9`
2. Page width matches window width
3. Resize window → zoom adjusts automatically

**Best for**:

* First time using Inkwell
* After connecting/disconnecting external monitors
* When you want to see the full page at once
* Working on different screen sizes

<Note>
  Zoom to Fit is a toggle. Press `Cmd+9` again to disable auto-fitting and return to manual zoom control.
</Note>

## Manual Zoom

### Zoom In (`Cmd+=`)

**Increases** text size by \~10% per press

**Use when**:

* Text feels too small
* Eyestrain from small fonts
* Presenting or screen sharing
* Working on high-resolution displays

### Zoom Out (`Cmd+-`)

**Decreases** text size by \~10% per press

**Use when**:

* Want to see more text at once
* Reviewing full page layouts
* Editing long scenes
* Working on smaller screens

### Reset Zoom (`Cmd+0`)

**Returns** to 100% (default size)

**Use when**:

* Zoomed too far in/out
* Want to return to standard size
* Sharing your screen with others

## Find Your Perfect Zoom

### For Writing

**125-150% zoom**:

* Larger text reduces eye strain
* Easier to focus on current line
* Good for long writing sessions
* Press `Cmd+=` 2-4 times from default

### For Editing

**100-110% zoom** (or Zoom to Fit):

* See more context at once
* Easier to track scene flow
* Standard screenplay appearance
* Good for revisions

### For Outlining

**75-90% zoom**:

* See multiple scenes at once
* Better bird's-eye view
* Easier to track structure
* Press `Cmd+-` 1-3 times from default

### For Presentations

**150-200% zoom**:

* Audience can read easily
* Good for screen sharing
* Clear on projectors
* Press `Cmd+=` 4-7 times from default

## Zoom Persistence

**Your zoom level is saved**:

* Per script (each `.ink` file remembers its zoom)
* Persists across sessions
* Applies when you reopen the file

**Exception**: Zoom to Fit recalculates based on current window size, so it may differ if you change monitors or window size.

## Common Zoom Scenarios

### Laptop + External Monitor

**Problem**: Zoom looks wrong when switching displays\
**Solution**: Press `Cmd+9` (Zoom to Fit) after connecting/disconnecting monitor

### Reading on Small Screens

**Problem**: Text too small on 13" laptops\
**Solution**: Zoom In to 125-150% or use Zoom to Fit

### Comparing Scenes

**Problem**: Need to see multiple scenes at once\
**Solution**: Zoom Out to 75-90% to fit more on screen

### Sharing Screen

**Problem**: Audience can't read text\
**Solution**: Zoom In to 150-200%

## Combine with Other Features

**Focused Writing**: Zoom to Fit + Focus Mode

```
1. Press Cmd+9 (Zoom to Fit)
2. Press Cmd+Shift+D (hide drawer)
```

Result: Full page width, no distractions.

**Comfortable Long Sessions**: 125% Zoom + Sepia Theme

```
1. Press Cmd+= two times (125% zoom)
2. File → Settings → Sepia theme
```

Result: Larger, warmer text for extended writing.

**Overview Mode**: Zoom Out + Navigation Panel

```
1. Press Cmd+- two times (zoom out)
2. Press Cmd+J (show Project Panel → Navigation)
```

Result: See scene structure and navigation together.

## Common Questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Does zoom affect printing?">
    No. Zoom only affects editor display. Your script prints at standard size regardless of zoom level.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What's the zoom range?">
    Approximately 50% to 300%. Inkwell prevents zooming beyond usable limits.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Why does my zoom reset when I reopen Inkwell?">
    Your zoom level should persist. If it doesn't, make sure you're saving the file (`Cmd+S`) before closing. Unsaved files may not remember zoom settings.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I set a default zoom for all new scripts?">
    Not currently. Each script remembers its own zoom level. Use Zoom to Fit (`Cmd+9`) as a quick way to optimize any script.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Does Zoom to Fit work with Focus Mode?">
    Yes! Zoom to Fit recalculates based on available space. With Focus Mode (drawer hidden), you get more horizontal space, so Zoom to Fit adjusts accordingly.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Next Steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Focus Mode" icon="eye-slash" href="/customization/focus-mode">
    Hide the Project Panel for more writing space
  </Card>

  <Card title="Typewriter Mode" icon="keyboard" href="/customization/typewriter-mode">
    Keep cursor centered while typing
  </Card>

  <Card title="Themes" icon="palette" href="/customization/themes">
    Choose a theme for comfortable viewing
  </Card>

  <Card title="Keyboard Shortcuts" icon="keyboard" href="/reference/keyboard-shortcuts">
    Learn all Inkwell shortcuts
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Creating Your First Script
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/getting-started/first-script

Start a new screenplay, save your work, and learn the basic workflow.

Ready to write your first screenplay in Inkwell? This guide walks you through creating a new script, understanding auto-formatting, and getting comfortable with the writing workflow.

## Create a new script

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open the New Script dialog">
    * Click **File → New Script** or press `Cmd/Ctrl+N`
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose save location">
    * **Local**: Scripts save to a folder on your computer as `.ink` files

    You can change this later in settings.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Click Create">
    Your new script appears in the editor, ready for you to start writing.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Write your first scene

Inkwell uses **Fountain syntax**, a plain-text screenplay format. The editor automatically converts your typing into properly formatted screenplay elements.

### Scene heading

Start by typing a scene heading (also called a slug line):

```
INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY
```

**What happens**: Inkwell recognizes this as a scene heading because it starts with `INT.`, `EXT.`, or `INT./EXT.` The text appears in ALL CAPS and properly spaced.

<Tip>
  **Shortcuts for scene headings:**

  * `INT.` = Interior scene
  * `EXT.` = Exterior scene
  * `INT./EXT.` = Mixed interior/exterior
</Tip>

### Action lines

Press **Enter** twice after your scene heading and start typing action:

```
ALICE enters, scanning the crowded room. She spots BOB at a corner table and hesitates.
```

**What happens**: Any regular paragraph becomes action (also called description). Action lines use standard sentence case and describe what we see on screen.

### Character names

To write dialogue, type a character name in ALL CAPS on its own line:

```
ALICE
```

**What happens**: Inkwell centers the character name and prepares for dialogue below it.

<Note>
  Character names must be in ALL CAPS to be recognized. Once you've used a name, Inkwell will auto-complete it when you start typing.
</Note>

### Dialogue

Press **Enter** after the character name and type their dialogue:

```
ALICE
I wasn't sure you'd come.
```

**What happens**: Dialogue appears indented below the character name. Keep typing—Inkwell handles the formatting.

### Parentheticals

To add actor direction, wrap it in parentheses on its own line:

```
ALICE
(nervous)
I wasn't sure you'd come.
```

**What happens**: Parentheticals appear between the character name and dialogue, slightly indented.

### Complete example

Here's a complete scene showing all elements together:

```
INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY

ALICE enters, scanning the crowded room. She spots BOB at a corner table and hesitates.

ALICE
(nervous)
I wasn't sure you'd come.

BOB
(not looking up)
I almost didn't.

Alice crosses to the table and sits. An awkward silence.

ALICE
We need to talk about—

BOB
Don't.
```

<Check>Congratulations! You've written your first properly formatted scene.</Check>

## Understand auto-save

Inkwell automatically saves your work as you write. You don't need to manually save (though you can press `Cmd/Ctrl+S` if you prefer).

### How auto-save works

* **Saves every 3 seconds** after you stop typing
* **Creates restore points** every 5 minutes (for version history)
* **Stores locally** as an `.ink` file in your chosen save location

### Status bar indicators

Look at the bottom-right of the window to see save status:

* **Saved**: All changes are saved to your local file
* **Saving...**: Currently writing to disk
* **Not saved**: Changes pending (should save within 3 seconds)

<Warning>
  If you see **"Not saved"** for more than a few seconds, check your disk space or file permissions. Your work may not be saving.
</Warning>

## Navigate your script

As your script grows, use these tools to stay oriented:

### Scene navigation

* **Project Panel** (left sidebar): Shows a list of all scenes, sections, and notes
* Click any scene to jump directly to it
* Use `Cmd/Ctrl+G` to open "Go to Scene" dialog

### Search

* Press `Cmd/Ctrl+F` to search for text
* Find character names, dialogue, or action descriptions
* Use `Cmd/Ctrl+Shift+F` to find and replace

### Minimap

The **minimap** on the right edge shows:

* Your current position in the script (green highlight)
* The size of the current scene
* Locations of the selected character's dialogue (if a character is selected)

<Tip>Click anywhere on the minimap to jump to that part of your script instantly.</Tip>

## Preview your script

Want to see how your script looks as a formatted PDF?

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Print Preview">
    * Go to **File → Print Preview** or press `Cmd/Ctrl+P`
    * A formatted preview appears showing standard screenplay layout
  </Step>

  <Step title="Review formatting">
    Verify that:

    * Scene headings are bold and properly spaced
    * Character names are centered
    * Dialogue is indented correctly
    * Page breaks follow industry standards (no orphaned dialogue)
  </Step>

  <Step title="Export or print">
    * Click **Export PDF** to save a shareable copy
    * Click **Print** to send to a printer
    * Or close the preview to keep writing
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Common first-script questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="How do I add a title page?">
    Title pages are stored in **Script Info** (Project Panel → Script Info tab). Fill in:

    * **Title**: Your screenplay's name
    * **Written by**: Your name
    * **Contact**: Your email or agent info

    When you export to PDF, Inkwell automatically generates a properly formatted title page.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I change the scene heading after writing it?">
    Yes! Click anywhere in the scene heading and edit it like normal text. Inkwell updates the formatting automatically.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What if I type a character name in lowercase?">
    Inkwell won't recognize it as a character. Character names must be in ALL CAPS. However, once you've used a character, you can type just a few letters and press `Tab` to auto-complete.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="How do I delete a scene?">
    Select all the text in the scene (from scene heading to the line before the next scene) and press `Delete` or `Backspace`. You can also use `Cmd/Ctrl+A` to select all, then delete.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I undo changes?">
    Yes! Press `Cmd/Ctrl+Z` to undo and `Cmd/Ctrl+Shift+Z` to redo. Inkwell keeps a full history of your edits during the current session.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Try it yourself

**Practice exercise**: Write a simple scene with these elements:

1. A scene heading (INT. or EXT.)
2. Two lines of action
3. Two characters having a brief exchange (3–4 lines of dialogue total)
4. One parenthetical

When you're done, preview it with `Cmd/Ctrl+P` to see the formatted result.

<Check>You now understand the basic Inkwell workflow! Keep writing and explore more features as you go.</Check>

## Next steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Learn Fountain syntax" icon="book" href="/writing/formatting-basics">
    Master all screenplay elements and advanced formatting
  </Card>

  <Card title="Explore the UI" icon="map" href="/getting-started/ui-overview">
    Understand panels, menus, and customization options
  </Card>

  <Card title="Use Quill AI" icon="sparkles" href="/quill-ai/model-selection">
    Collaborate with AI to brainstorm and refine scenes
  </Card>

  <Card title="Project Panel" icon="sidebar" href="/project-panel/navigation">
    Organize scenes, characters, and metadata
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Installation & Setup
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/getting-started/installation-setup

Install Inkwell, check system requirements, and complete first launch.

Inkwell is a native macOS application built using Swift and SwiftUI. This guide walks you through downloading, installing, and launching the app for the first time.

## System requirements

Before installing, verify your Mac meets these requirements:

* **OS version**: macOS 13.0 (Ventura) or later
* **Processor**: Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3/M4/M5/etc.) or Intel Core i5 or better
* **RAM**: 8 GB minimum recommended
* **Disk space**: \~200 MB for installation
* **Internet**: Required for Quill AI features (offline writing is fully supported for local scripts)

<Tip>Offline writing is fully supported. You only need internet to use Quill AI features and sync account details.</Tip>

## Download Inkwell

<Steps>
  <Step title="Visit the download page">
    Go to [inkwell.app](https://inkwell.app/) and click **Download**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Get the DMG package">
    Download the macOS package: `Inkwell.dmg`.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Verify the download">
    Wait for the download to complete before opening the file.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Install on macOS

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open the installer package">
    Double-click the `.dmg` file you downloaded. A Finder window will appear showing the Inkwell application and your Applications folder.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Drag to Applications">
    Drag the **Inkwell** icon directly into the **Applications** folder shortcut in that window.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Launch Inkwell">
    Open your **Applications** folder and double-click **Inkwell** to launch the app.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Confirm security permissions">
    Because Inkwell is signed and notarized by Apple, it will run without warnings. If Gatekeeper prompts you to confirm opening an app downloaded from the internet, click **Open**.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## First launch setup

When you open Inkwell for the first time, the native Startup Picker guides you through setup:

<Steps>
  <Step title="Welcome & sign in">
    Choose to sign in or create an account:

    * **Continue with Google or Apple**: Quick sign-in using your existing account.
    * **Continue with Email**: Enter your email address to receive a secure login link.
    * **Use locally**: Skip sign-in to work offline. Note that Quill AI is disabled without an account.

    <Warning>Quill AI features require an account and internet access. Local-only mode disables these assistant features.</Warning>
  </Step>

  <Step title="Start writing (and try Quill, free)">
    The **editor is free forever** — unlimited local scripts, import/export, and offline writing, no cost ever.

    To try **Quill**, the AI writing partner, start your **free week of Quill Pro**: 500 credits, 7 days, no credit card, nothing to cancel. It's opt-in, so you start it with one tap after signing in. When the week ends you keep the free editor, and you can continue with a \*\*$4.99 credit pack** or **Quill Pro** ($10/month or \$100/year) from Account Settings.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Configure usage telemetry (optional)">
    Choose whether to share usage data. This helps us refine features and performance:

    * **Share telemetry**: Send anonymous performance metrics (no script content).
    * **Do not share**: Work with absolute privacy.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Start writing">
    The Startup Picker will display. Select **New Script** or open an existing `.ink` file.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Verify installation

After setup, confirm Inkwell is working properly:

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Check app version">
    Go to **Inkwell Editor → About Inkwell** in the macOS menu bar to see your current version number.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Test auto-save">
    Create a new script, type a scene heading, and wait a moment. The status bar will show "Saved" automatically, showing disk synchronization works.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Test Quill AI">
    Open the Quill panel (`Cmd+]` or `Cmd+0`), click the input field, and type a short query. If Quill responds, AI services are online.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

<Check>Installation complete! You're ready to create your first screenplay.</Check>

## Troubleshooting installation

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="macOS security Gatekeeper alerts">
    If macOS displays a warning that the app cannot be opened because it was not downloaded from the App Store:

    1. Open **System Settings** on your Mac.
    2. Navigate to **Privacy & Security**.
    3. Scroll down to the security section and click **Open Anyway** next to the Inkwell alert.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Installation fails or app hangs on launch">
    * Ensure your Mac has at least 500 MB of free storage.
    * If the app hangs, force quit it (`Cmd+Option+Esc`), drag the app from `/Applications` to the Trash, and re-install from the `.dmg`.
    * If problems persist, reach out to [support@inkwell.app](mailto:support@inkwell.app).
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can't sign in or verify email link">
    * Check your spam folder for the sign-in link email.
    * Ensure your network isn't blocking Firebase auth domains.
    * Try signing in with Google or Apple.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Next steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Create your first script" icon="plus" href="/getting-started/first-script">
    Start a new screenplay and learn the basic workflow
  </Card>

  <Card title="UI overview" icon="map" href="/getting-started/ui-overview">
    Explore the editor, panels, and navigation
  </Card>

  <Card title="Import existing scripts" icon="file-import" href="/managing-files/importing-files">
    Bring your existing Fountain or Final Draft files into Inkwell
  </Card>

  <Card title="Learn Fountain basics" icon="book" href="/writing/formatting-basics">
    Master screenplay formatting with Fountain syntax
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# User Interface Overview
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/getting-started/ui-overview

Tour the editor, panels, menus, and customization options.

Inkwell's native macOS interface is designed for distraction-free writing while keeping powerful formatting, outlining, and AI tools just a keystroke away. This guide introduces the main user interface components.

## Main window layout

When working on a script in Inkwell, the interface centers around three main workspace components:

1. **Editor** (center): Your primary writing canvas, styled in standard Courier Prime formatting.
2. **Project Panel** (left sidebar): A collapsible panel to browse your script's outline, character statistics, and script metadata.
3. **ScrollMap** (right gutter): A visual scrollbar and minimap showing scene structure, search highlights, and revision markers.
4. **Beat Board** (swappable center canvas): Swaps the text editor for a grid of index cards representing your scenes.

## The editor

The editor provides a native, high-performance text canvas. It displays your screenplay with live, automated formatting as you type.

### Key features

* **Live formatting**: Automatic screenplay layout conforming to Fountain syntax.
* **Typewriter scrolling**: Keeps your cursor centered vertically as you type (toggle in the **View** menu).
* **Line numbers**: View or hide line counts in the left margin.
* **Page markers**: Shows industry-standard page breaks (1 page ≈ 1 minute of screen time).
* **Active element readout**: Displays the active paragraph type (Scene Heading, Action, Character, Dialogue, Parenthetical, Transition, Shot) in the status bar.

### Workspace modes

* **Edit mode** (default): Write and edit your screenplay.
* **Focus mode**: Collapses sidebars and status bars for a distraction-free writing environment (toggle in the **View** menu).
* **Beat Board mode**: Displays scenes as index cards for outline organization.
* **Print Preview**: Displays the formatted PDF layout (press `Cmd+P` or toggle preview).

## Project Panel

The Project Panel (left sidebar) manages your script's structure and metadata. Toggle it with `Cmd+[` or use the menu. It contains four tabs:

### Navigation tab

Displays a hierarchical outline of your script:

* **Sections**: Major story divisions (Acts, Sequences, Beats) defined by `#` and `##` in your script.
* **Scene headings**: Every scene beginning with `INT.` or `EXT.`.
* **Notes**: Inline developer notes wrapped in `[[ double brackets ]]`.
* **Synopses**: Summaries of scenes prefixed with `=`.

**Usage**:

* Click any item to instantly jump to that line in the editor.
* Drag and drop outline items to reorder scenes directly.

### Project Info tab

Contains high-level story data:

* **Logline**: A one-sentence summary of your script. Quill AI accesses this to keep responses contextually relevant.
* **Scratchpad**: Freeform outline notes and ideas that travel with the project file without printing.

### Characters tab

Shows all characters detected in your script:

* **Character list**: Names sorted by first appearance.
* **Dialogue statistics**: Displays dialogue count and percentage of total lines for each character.
* **Metadata fields**: Age, gender, biography, and description.

**Usage**:

* Click a character name to highlight their dialogue throughout the editor and outline.
* Edit character biographies so Quill AI has access to their backstory when generating dialogue suggestions.

### Script Info tab

Title page metadata for industry-standard formatting:

* **Title & Subtitle**: Screenplay name and subheadings.
* **Credit**: "Written by", "Story by", etc.
* **Author(s)**: Writer credits.
* **Source**: "Based on..." or adaptions info.
* **Date & Contact**: Draft dates and representation details.

## ScrollMap

The ScrollMap (right gutter) is a visual scrollbar that maps your entire script.

* **Scene Blocks**: Visual blocks indicating scene lengths.
* **Current Position**: Highlighted tracker showing your active page.
* **Character distribution**: Clicking a character in the Characters tab shows where they appear as color stripes on the ScrollMap.
* **Revision indicators**: Shows where edits have been made in revision mode.
* **Scroll & Jump**: Click anywhere on the ScrollMap to jump directly to that page or scene.

## Top menu bar

All commands are mapped to standard macOS native menu hierarchies:

### File menu

* **New Script** (`Cmd+N`): Create a new screenplay tab or window.
* **Open** (`Cmd+O`): Open an existing `.ink` file.
* **Save** (`Cmd+S`): Manually save (auto-save is active in the background).
* **Import**: Bring in Fountain, Final Draft (`.fdx`), or PDF files.
* **Export**: Save as PDF, Final Draft (`.fdx`), or Fountain.
* **Print Preview** (`Cmd+P`): View standard formatted PDF pages.

### Edit menu

* **Undo/Redo** (`Cmd+Z` / `Cmd+Shift+Z`)
* **Cut/Copy/Paste** (standard shortcuts)
* **Find** (`Cmd+F`): Find and replace text.

### View menu

* **Toggle Outline** (`Cmd+[`): Show or hide the left Project Panel.
* **Toggle Quill Panel** (`Cmd+]`): Show or hide the right AI panel.
* **Focus Mode**: Hides sidebars for minimal distraction.
* **Typewriter Scrolling**: Centered cursor mode.
* **Scroll Gutter Map** (`Cmd+Opt+M`): Toggle the ScrollMap visibility.
* **Zoom Controls**: Reset zoom (`Cmd+Opt+0`), Zoom in (`Cmd+=`), and Zoom out (`Cmd+-`).

### Go menu

* **Go to Page…** (`Cmd+L`): Jump to a specific page number.
* **Go to Scene…** (`Cmd+J`): Jump to a scene by scene number or heading.
* **Previous / Next Change** (`Opt+J` / `Opt+K`): Navigate between recent edits.

### Screenplay menu

* **Number Scenes / Clear Scene Numbers**: Automatically manage scene numbers.
* **Lock Script**: Prevent accidental edits during production.

### Revision menu

* **Show Revision Mode** (`Cmd+Opt+R`): Toggle revision color overlays.
* **Previous / Next Revision** (`Cmd+Opt+[` / `Cmd+Opt+]`): Jump to edits.
* **Commit Current Generation**: Accept and lock changes for the active revision color.

### Window menu

* Standard macOS window controls and tab switching.

## Status bar

Located at the bottom of the window:

* **Page count**: Current page total.
* **Word count**: Total words in the document.
* **Active element**: Shows active formatting element (e.g., Action, Dialogue).
* **Save status**: Shows "Saved" or "Saving...".
* **AI credits**: Remaining Quill credits.

## Quill AI panel

Toggle the Quill panel with `Cmd+]` (or `Cmd+0`).

* **Dialogue box**: Chat with Quill to brainstorm, rewrite, or analyze scripts.
* **No setup**: Quill is ready out of the box — there's nothing to configure before you ask.
* **Inline diffs**: Quill suggests edits that can be accepted or rejected in the document.

## Keyboard shortcuts cheat sheet

Here are the most essential shortcuts:

| Action                   | Shortcut                  |
| ------------------------ | ------------------------- |
| New script               | `Cmd+N`                   |
| Save                     | `Cmd+S`                   |
| Print Preview            | `Cmd+P`                   |
| Find                     | `Cmd+F`                   |
| Toggle Outline           | `Cmd+[` (or `Cmd+1`)      |
| Toggle Quill Panel       | `Cmd+]` (or `Cmd+0`)      |
| Go to Scene              | `Cmd+J`                   |
| Go to Page               | `Cmd+L`                   |
| Previous / Next Change   | `Opt+J` / `Opt+K`         |
| Toggle Revision Mode     | `Cmd+Opt+R`               |
| Previous / Next Revision | `Cmd+Opt+[` / `Cmd+Opt+]` |
| ScrollMap Toggle         | `Cmd+Opt+M`               |
| Zoom In / Out            | `Cmd+=` / `Cmd+-`         |

[See complete shortcuts list →](/reference/keyboard-shortcuts)

## Common UI questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="How do I hide the sidebars?">
    Toggle the outline drawer with `Cmd+[` and the Quill panel with `Cmd+]`. You can also enable **Focus Mode** in the View menu.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I resize the Project Panel?">
    Yes! Drag the divider line between the Project Panel and the editor to resize.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I change the font used in the editor?">
    To ensure 100% compliance with industry pagination rules (1 page ≈ 1 minute), Inkwell locks the editor font to Courier Prime.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Next steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Learn Fountain basics" icon="book" href="/writing/formatting-basics">
    Master screenplay formatting and syntax
  </Card>

  <Card title="Beat Board guide" icon="table-cells-large" href="/writing/beat-board">
    Outline your story visually using index cards
  </Card>

  <Card title="Keyboard shortcuts" icon="keyboard" href="/reference/keyboard-shortcuts">
    Speed up your workflow with shortcuts
  </Card>

  <Card title="Using Quill AI" icon="sparkles" href="/quill-ai/using-quill">
    Learn how to collaborate with your AI co-writer
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Inkwell Documentation
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/index

Complete guide to writing screenplays with AI assistance in Inkwell.

Professional screenplay software with built-in AI collaboration. Write, format, and refine your scripts faster.

## Get Started

<Card title="Quickstart" icon="rocket" href="/quickstart">
  Install Inkwell and write your first pages in under 5 minutes.
</Card>

## Core Features

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Writing & Formatting" icon="pen-to-square" href="/writing/formatting-basics">
    Industry-standard screenplay formatting with smart auto-detection
  </Card>

  <Card title="Quill AI" icon="sparkles" href="/quill-ai/using-quill">
    AI-powered brainstorming, editing, and creative collaboration
  </Card>

  <Card title="ScrollMap Navigation" icon="map" href="/writing/navigation-productivity#navigation-minimap-scrollmap">
    Visual minimap showing scene length, character distribution, search results, and unsaved changes
  </Card>

  <Card title="Project Panel" icon="sidebar" href="/project-panel/navigation">
    Navigate scenes, manage characters, and track script metadata
  </Card>

  <Card title="Version History" icon="clock-rotate-left" href="/managing-files/auto-save-version-rollback">
    Auto-save, checkpoints, and restore previous versions
  </Card>

  <Card title="Import & Export" icon="file-import" href="/managing-files/importing-files">
    Work with PDF, Fountain, and Final Draft formats
  </Card>

  <Card title="Customization" icon="palette" href="/customization/themes">
    Themes, focus mode, typewriter scrolling, and zoom controls
  </Card>

  <Card title="Sides (iOS App)" icon="mobile" href="/sides/inkwell-reader">
    Review scripts and rehearse with dynamic actor sides on iOS
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Popular Guides

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Your First Script" icon="file-pen" href="/getting-started/first-script">
    Create your first screenplay from scratch
  </Card>

  <Card title="Using Quill AI" icon="comments" href="/quill-ai/using-quill">
    Get the most out of AI collaboration
  </Card>

  <Card title="Keyboard Shortcuts" icon="keyboard" href="/reference/keyboard-shortcuts">
    Master Inkwell shortcuts for faster writing
  </Card>

  <Card title="Plans & Billing" icon="credit-card" href="/account/plans-billing">
    Free editor, Quill credits, and the free trial
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Need Help?

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="FAQ" icon="question" href="/reference/faq">
    Quick answers to common questions
  </Card>

  <Card title="Troubleshooting" icon="wrench" href="/reference/troubleshooting">
    Fix common issues
  </Card>

  <Card title="Contact Support" icon="life-ring" href="/support">
    Get personalized help
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Documentation Sections

### Getting Started

* [Installation & Setup](/getting-started/installation-setup)
* [Create Your First Script](/getting-started/first-script)
* [UI Overview](/getting-started/ui-overview)

### Writing

* [Formatting Basics](/writing/formatting-basics)
* [Navigation & Productivity](/writing/navigation-productivity)
* [Revisions & Tracking Changes](/writing/revisions)

### Sides (iOS App)

* [Inkwell Reader & Sides](/sides/inkwell-reader)

### Files & Export

* [Auto-Save & Version History](/managing-files/auto-save-version-rollback)
* [Importing Files](/managing-files/importing-files)
* [Exporting Files](/managing-files/exporting-files)
* [Printing Options](/printing/options)

### Quill AI

* [Using Quill](/quill-ai/using-quill)
* [No Setup Required](/quill-ai/model-selection)
* [Credits & Billing](/quill-ai/credits-billing)
* [Limitations & Best Practices](/quill-ai/limitations-caveats)

### Project Organization

* [Navigation Panel](/project-panel/navigation)
* [Script Info (Title Page)](/project-panel/script-info)
* [Project Info (Logline & Notes)](/project-panel/project-info)
* [Characters Panel](/project-panel/characters)

### Customization

* [Themes](/customization/themes)
* [Focus Mode](/customization/focus-mode)
* [Typewriter Mode](/customization/typewriter-mode)
* [Zoom Controls](/customization/zoom-controls)

### Reference

* [Keyboard Shortcuts](/reference/keyboard-shortcuts)
* [Troubleshooting](/reference/troubleshooting)
* [FAQ](/reference/faq)

### Account & Support

* [Plans & Billing](/account/plans-billing)
* [Support & Contact](/support)
* [Legal & Privacy](/legal)


# Legal & Privacy
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/legal

Privacy policy, terms of service, EULA, and third-party licenses.

Legal information, policies, and attributions for Inkwell.

## Privacy Policy

Our Privacy Policy explains what data we collect, how we use it, and your rights.

**Key highlights**:

* Your script files stay on your device (we don't upload or store them)
* Quill AI sends script portions to AI providers when you use it, and keeps a small per-conversation memo on your account
* If you're signed in, your writing sessions (including script titles) are saved to your account to power writing time and streaks
* Optional analytics (can be disabled)
* Required crash reports for app stability

📄 **[Read Full Privacy Policy](https://inkwell.app/privacy)**

**Last updated**: July 22, 2026

<Note>
  You can disable optional analytics in Settings. Crash reports are required for debugging and cannot be disabled.
</Note>

## Terms of Service

Our Terms govern your use of Inkwell and related services.

**Covers**:

* Acceptable use
* Account responsibilities
* Subscription terms
* Intellectual property
* Disclaimers and limitations

📄 **[Read Terms of Service](https://inkwell.app/terms)**

## End User License Agreement (EULA)

The EULA is the software license agreement you accepted when installing Inkwell.

**Key points**:

* Grant of license
* Restrictions on use
* Updates and support
* Warranty disclaimer
* Limitation of liability

📄 **[Read EULA](https://inkwell.app/eula)**

<Warning>
  You agreed to the EULA when you first installed Inkwell. Using the app constitutes acceptance of these terms.
</Warning>

## Data & Privacy

### What We Collect

**Always collected** (required):

* Crash reports and error logs
* App version and platform info
* Performance diagnostics

**Optionally collected** (you control):

* Anonymous usage analytics (PostHog)
* Feature interaction patterns
* Quill AI prompt types (not content)

**Saved to your account** (when signed in):

* Writing sessions: start/end times, active vs. idle time, word counts
* The title of the script you were working on, and an identifier for it
* Quill conversation memos: characters, beats, decisions, and open questions summarized from your Quill chats

**Never collected**:

* The words you write (your script text is never uploaded)
* Keystroke logging
* Screen recordings

### How Your Scripts Are Handled

**Local storage**:

* Scripts are saved as `.ink` files on your computer
* Not uploaded to Inkwell servers
* You control backups and file location

**What we do keep about a script**:

* Its title and an identifier, on each writing-session record (signed-in accounts)
* A per-thread Quill memo summarizing what a conversation established about it
* Both are deleted when you delete your account

**Quill AI usage**:

* When you use Quill AI, relevant script portions are sent to AI providers (Anthropic and Google)
* AI providers may temporarily cache content for processing
* Your content is **not** used to train AI models
* See each provider's privacy policy for their data handling

**Version history**:

* Stored locally in `.ink-history` folder next to your script
* Not uploaded to cloud
* You can delete anytime

### Your Rights

You have the right to:

* Disable optional analytics (Settings)
* Request deletion of your anonymized telemetry data
* Access what information we've collected about you
* Use Inkwell offline (no Quill AI)
* Delete your account, which removes your writing-session history and Quill memos along with your sign-in and billing records

**Exercise your rights**: Email [privacy@rundquist.tech](mailto:privacy@rundquist.tech)

## Third-Party Services

Inkwell integrates with these external services:

### AI Providers

When you use Quill AI, relevant portions of your script are processed by third-party AI providers:

* **Anthropic**
* **Google**

📄 Privacy policies:

* [Anthropic Privacy Policy](https://www.anthropic.com/privacy)
* [Google AI Privacy](https://ai.google/responsibility/privacy/)

### Analytics & Infrastructure

* **PostHog**: Optional product analytics
* **Google Firebase**: Authentication, cloud storage, messaging
* **Stripe**: Payment processing (subscriptions and credit purchases)

📄 Privacy policies:

* [PostHog Privacy](https://posthog.com/privacy)
* [Firebase Privacy](https://firebase.google.com/support/privacy)
* [Stripe Privacy](https://stripe.com/privacy)

### Feedback

* **Feedback Fish**: In-app feedback collection

📄 [Feedback Fish Privacy](https://feedback.fish/privacy)

<Note>
  We carefully vet all third-party services for security and privacy compliance. However, we don't control their practices—refer to their policies for details.
</Note>

## Open Source & Attributions

Inkwell is built with open source software. We're grateful to these projects and their contributors:

### Core Technologies

* **Electron**: Cross-platform desktop framework
* **React**: UI framework
* **Lexical**: Text editor framework
* **TypeScript**: Programming language
* **Tailwind CSS**: UI styling

### Full License Attributions

View complete list of open source licenses and attributions, the application shops with a ThirdPartyLicenses.txt file.

## Compliance

### GDPR (European Union)

If you're in the EU, you have additional rights under GDPR:

* Right to access your data
* Right to data portability
* Right to erasure ("right to be forgotten")
* Right to restrict processing

**Exercise GDPR rights**: [privacy@rundquist.tech](mailto:privacy@rundquist.tech)

### CCPA (California)

California residents have rights under CCPA:

* Right to know what personal information is collected
* Right to delete personal information
* Right to opt-out of sale (we don't sell your data)

**Exercise CCPA rights**: [privacy@rundquist.tech](mailto:privacy@rundquist.tech)

### Children's Privacy

Inkwell is not intended for children under 13. We don't knowingly collect data from children.

## Security

We take security seriously:

**How we protect your data**:

* Encrypted connections (HTTPS, TLS)
* Secure authentication (Firebase Auth)
* Regular security audits
* Prompt vulnerability patching

**Report security issues**: [security@rundquist.tech](mailto:security@rundquist.tech)

<Warning>
  Report security vulnerabilities privately—do not post publicly. We'll respond within 24 hours.
</Warning>

## Contact

**Privacy questions**: [privacy@rundquist.tech](mailto:privacy@rundquist.tech)\
**Legal inquiries**: [legal@rundquist.tech](mailto:legal@rundquist.tech)\
**General support**: [contact@inkwell.app](mailto:contact@inkwell.app)

**Rundquist Tech LLC**\
4546 El Camino Real B10 #781\
Los Altos, CA 94022\
United States

## Updates to Policies

We may update these policies from time to time. When we do:

* "Last updated" date will change
* You may see an in-app notification
* Policies are always available on our website

**Check for updates**: [inkwell.app/privacy](https://inkwell.app/privacy)

## Next Steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Privacy Policy" icon="shield" href="https://inkwell.app/privacy">
    Full privacy policy on our website
  </Card>

  <Card title="Terms of Service" icon="file-contract" href="https://inkwell.app/terms">
    Complete terms and conditions
  </Card>

  <Card title="Support" icon="life-ring" href="/support">
    Get help or contact us
  </Card>

  <Card title="FAQ" icon="question" href="/reference/faq">
    Common questions answered
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Auto-save & Version Rollback
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/managing-files/auto-save-version-rollback

Automatic saving with restore points and safely rolling back to earlier versions.

Inkwell automatically saves your work and tracks changes, allowing you to recover from accidental edits or restore earlier versions. This guide explains how auto-save and version history work.

## How auto-save works

Inkwell saves your script automatically in the background—you never need to manually save (though `Cmd/Ctrl+S` works if you prefer).

### Save frequency

Auto-save triggers when the renderer detects changes and sends updated data to the main process. This happens:

* While you're actively editing (tracks changes continuously)
* When you stop typing (after a brief pause)
* When you close the file or quit the app

### What gets saved

* All screenplay content (scenes, dialogue, action, etc.)
* Script Info (title, author, contact details)
* Project Info (logline, scratchpad notes)
* Character metadata (age, gender, aliases, bios)
* Revision marks and colors
* Formatting and structure

<Tip>
  Auto-save uses an efficient **patch-based system** that only saves what changed, keeping file sizes small and saves fast.
</Tip>

### Save location

Scripts save as `.ink` files in the location you chose when creating the script:

* **Default location**: `~/Documents/Inkwell Scripts/`
* **Custom location**: Wherever you selected in the "Save As" dialog

You can move `.ink` files to other folders—just open them from their new location with `Cmd/Ctrl+O`.

## Version history system

Inkwell uses a sophisticated version history system that efficiently tracks all changes to your script.

### How history works

Instead of storing complete copies of your script for every save, Inkwell uses:

* **Snapshots**: Full copies of your script at key moments (initial state, manual saves, checkpoints)
* **Patches**: Efficient change records between snapshots (auto-saves)

This approach keeps file sizes small while maintaining complete version history.

### Automatic checkpoints

Inkwell automatically creates checkpoints (full snapshots) when:

* Too many patches have accumulated since the last checkpoint
* Too much time has passed since the last checkpoint

This ensures you can always restore to any point in history quickly.

### Access version history

Click the save status indicator in the bottom-right corner of the status bar to open the Save History popover:

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Save History">
    Click the save status text (e.g., "Saved") in the status bar, or look for the clock icon
  </Step>

  <Step title="Browse history">
    The popover shows all save points chronologically:

    * **Time saved**: How long ago each save occurred
    * **Save type**: Manual Save (💾) or Auto-save (🕐)
    * **Current**: Highlighted entry shows your current position
  </Step>

  <Step title="Restore a version">
    Click the restore icon (↻) next to any entry to revert to that version. A confirmation dialog appears before restoring.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Warning>
  Restoring a version **creates a backup** of your current state before reverting. The backup is saved to your backup folder and can be recovered if needed.
</Warning>

## Common rollback scenarios

### Accidental deletion

**Problem**: You deleted a scene or dialogue and need it back.

**Solution**:

1. Click the save status in the status bar to open Save History
2. Find a save point from before the deletion (check timestamps)
3. Click the restore icon (↻) next to that entry
4. Confirm the restore in the dialog that appears
5. Your deleted content returns, and a backup of your current state is saved

### Rewrite gone wrong

**Problem**: You rewrote a scene but prefer the original.

**Solution**:

1. Open Save History from the status bar
2. Find the save from before your rewrite
3. Restore that version
4. Your original writing returns, and your experimental version is backed up

### Want to experiment safely

**Scenario**: You want to try a major rewrite without fear of losing your current draft.

**Approach**:

1. Press `Cmd/Ctrl+S` to create a manual save of your current state
2. Make your experimental changes
3. If you like them, keep writing
4. If not, restore the manual save from Save History

<Tip>
  Manual saves (`Cmd/Ctrl+S`) create clear markers in your history, making it easy to find important drafts.
</Tip>

## Compress history

Over time, your `.ink` file accumulates version history. If file size becomes large, you can compress history.

### When to compress

Consider compressing when:

* Your `.ink` file exceeds 20-30 MB
* You're archiving a finished draft and won't need edit history
* You want to share a script without including your editing process

### How to compress

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Save History">
    Click the save status in the status bar
  </Step>

  <Step title="Click Compress history">
    At the bottom of the popover, click **Compress history**
  </Step>

  <Step title="Confirm">
    A dialog explains that this keeps only your current state and removes all history. A backup is created automatically.

    Click **Confirm Compress** to proceed.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Review results">
    A summary shows how many entries were removed and how much space was saved.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Warning>
  Compression is **permanent** for the file itself, but a backup with full history is automatically created in your backup folder before compression.
</Warning>

### Backup folder

All revert backups and compression backups are saved to a dedicated backup folder. To access it:

1. Open Save History from the status bar
2. Click **Open backup folder** at the bottom
3. Your file manager opens to the backup directory

Backups are named with timestamps and the reason they were created (e.g., `my-script-revert-2025-01-15.ink`).

## Frequently asked questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Can I disable auto-save?">
    No. Auto-save is always active to protect your work. The patch-based system is efficient and doesn't interrupt writing.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What happens if Inkwell crashes?">
    Your script is saved up to the last auto-save (usually recent). When you reopen Inkwell, your work will be recovered automatically.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="How much history does Inkwell keep?">
    Inkwell keeps all history until you manually compress it. The patch-based system keeps file sizes reasonable even with extensive history.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Where are automatic backups stored?">
    Backups created during restores and compressions are saved to a dedicated backup folder. Click "Open backup folder" in the Save History popover to access them.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="I restored the wrong version—can I undo it?">
    Yes! Restoring automatically creates a backup. Open your backup folder (from Save History popover → "Open backup folder") and open the most recent backup file.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Does version history work with imported files?">
    Files imported from Fountain or Final Draft don't include version history. History tracking starts fresh when you import and begin editing in Inkwell.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Troubleshooting

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Save status shows 'Saving...' indefinitely">
    Possible causes:

    * **Disk full**: Check available storage space
    * **File permissions**: Ensure Inkwell can write to the save location
    * **File in use**: Close other apps accessing the `.ink` file

    If the issue persists, export to PDF or Fountain immediately, then contact support.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Save History popover is empty">
    This occurs when:

    * You just created a new script (history starts accumulating as you edit)
    * You compressed history (only current state remains)
    * The file was just imported (no history transfers from other formats)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="My .ink file is very large">
    Large files (20+ MB) usually have extensive history. Compress history from the Save History popover to reduce file size. A backup with full history is created automatically.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Next steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Exporting files" icon="file-export" href="/managing-files/exporting-files">
    Export your script to PDF, Fountain, or Final Draft
  </Card>

  <Card title="Importing files" icon="file-import" href="/managing-files/importing-files">
    Import scripts from other formats
  </Card>

  <Card title="Keyboard shortcuts" icon="keyboard" href="/reference/keyboard-shortcuts">
    Learn all available shortcuts
  </Card>

  <Card title="Troubleshooting" icon="wrench" href="/reference/troubleshooting">
    Fix common issues and recover lost work
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Exporting Files
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/managing-files/exporting-files

Export your script to Fountain, Final Draft (FDX), or PDF format.

Inkwell can export your scripts to industry-standard formats for sharing, submission, or use in other screenwriting applications.

## Export Formats

| Format      | Extension   | Best For                            | Preserves                   |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------------------------------- | --------------------------- |
| PDF         | `.pdf`      | Submissions, printing, distribution | Final formatting, revisions |
| Fountain    | `.fountain` | Plain-text editing, version control | All elements, no revisions  |
| Final Draft | `.fdx`      | Collaboration with FD users         | All elements, revisions     |

## Export to PDF

PDF export creates a professionally formatted, industry-standard screenplay ready for submission or printing.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Export">
    * Go to **File → Export PDF**
    * Or press `Cmd/Ctrl+P` and click **Export PDF**
  </Step>

  <Step title="Configure options">
    Choose what to include:

    * Title page
    * Scene numbers
    * Sections, notes, synopsis
    * Revision marks
    * Page headers and watermarks
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose save location">
    Select where to save your PDF and name it appropriately
  </Step>

  <Step title="Export">
    Click **Export PDF**. Your script is saved as a PDF file.
  </Step>
</Steps>

### PDF Export Options

All PDF export options are configured in the Print Dialog:

* **Title Page**: Include formatted title page with your script info
* **Scene Numbers**: Add scene numbers if you've numbered your scenes
* **Sections**: Include act/sequence markers (usually off)
* **Notes**: Include inline `[[ notes ]]` (usually off for final drafts)
* **Synopsis**: Include scene summaries (usually off)
* **Revision Marks**: Show asterisks for revised lines
* **Page Header**: Custom text at top of each page
* **Watermark**: Semi-transparent text across pages

[Learn more about print options →](/printing/options)

### When to Export PDF

✅ **Use PDF for**:

* Agent or producer submissions
* Contest entries
* Table reads and rehearsals
* Production scripts
* Archiving final drafts

<Tip>
  Name your PDFs descriptively: `Title-Draft-Date.pdf` (e.g., `TheLastTrain-FirstDraft-2025-01-15.pdf`)
</Tip>

## Export to Fountain

Fountain is a plain-text screenplay format that's human-readable and future-proof.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Export">
    Go to **File → Export → Fountain**
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose save location">
    Select where to save and name your file (`.fountain` extension is added automatically)
  </Step>

  <Step title="Save">
    Click **Save**. Your script is exported as plain text.
  </Step>
</Steps>

### What exports to Fountain

✅ **Fully exported**:

* All screenplay elements (scenes, action, dialogue, etc.)
* Title page metadata
* Formatting (bold, italic, underline)
* Sections (`#` markers)
* Synopses (`=` markers)
* Inline notes (`[[ ]]` markers)
* Scene numbers (if present)

❌ **Not exported**:

* Revision marks (Fountain doesn't support revisions)
* Version history (Fountain is a single snapshot)
* Character metadata (bios, colors, etc.)

### When to Export Fountain

✅ **Use Fountain for**:

* Version control with Git
* Editing in any text editor
* Sharing with writers using other Fountain apps
* Long-term archival (future-proof plain text)
* Collaboration on platforms like GitHub

<Tip>
  Fountain files are tiny (usually under 100 KB) and work in any text editor. They're perfect for backing up to cloud storage or version control.
</Tip>

## Export to Final Draft

Final Draft (FDX) export creates files compatible with Final Draft and other professional screenwriting software.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Export">
    Go to **File → Export → Final Draft**
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose save location">
    Select where to save and name your file (`.fdx` extension is added automatically)
  </Step>

  <Step title="Save">
    Click **Save**. Your script is exported in FDX format.
  </Step>
</Steps>

### What exports to Final Draft

✅ **Fully exported**:

* All screenplay elements
* Title page metadata
* **Revision marks with colors** (Blue, Pink, Yellow, etc.)
* Formatting (bold, italic, underline)
* Scene numbers
* Dual dialogue
* Page breaks

✅ **Converted from Inkwell format**:

* Sections (`#`) → Outline elements
* Inline notes (`[[ ]]`) → FDX notes

❌ **Not exported**:

* Version history (FDX doesn't store Inkwell's patch-based history)
* Character metadata (bios, colors—FD handles these differently)

<Note>
  Revision marks export with their colors preserved. If you're on a "Blue Revision," the FDX file will show blue revision marks.
</Note>

### When to Export Final Draft

✅ **Use FDX for**:

* Collaborating with Final Draft users
* Production teams that use Final Draft
* Maintaining revision history when switching tools
* Importing into other professional screenwriting software

## Export Best Practices

### File Naming Conventions

Use clear, descriptive names for exports:

**Spec scripts**:

```
Title-Draft-Date.pdf
TheLastTrain-FirstDraft-2025-01-15.pdf
```

**Production scripts**:

```
Title-RevisionColor-Date.pdf
TheLastTrain-BlueRevision-2025-01-22.pdf
```

**Fountain/FDX backups**:

```
Title-Date.fountain
TheLastTrain-2025-01-15.fountain
```

### Version Organization

Create a folder structure for exports:

```
MyScript/
  ├── MyScript-Working.ink (your Inkwell file)
  ├── Exports/
  │   ├── PDF/
  │   │   ├── MyScript-FirstDraft-2025-01-10.pdf
  │   │   └── MyScript-BlueRevision-2025-01-20.pdf
  │   ├── Fountain/
  │   │   └── MyScript-Backup-2025-01-15.fountain
  │   └── FinalDraft/
  │       └── MyScript-ForProducer-2025-01-18.fdx
```

### Before Exporting

<Steps>
  <Step title="Update Script Info">
    Check **Project Panel → Script Info** to ensure:

    * Title is correct
    * Author name is current
    * Contact info is up-to-date
    * Draft date reflects this version
  </Step>

  <Step title="Review formatting">
    Do a quick scroll-through:

    * All scenes formatted correctly
    * Character names consistent
    * No stray notes or TODOs (unless intentional)
  </Step>

  <Step title="Check scene numbers">
    If this is a production script:

    * Use **Screenplay → Number Scenes** to add/update numbers
    * Verify numbering is continuous
  </Step>

  <Step title="Handle revisions">
    If tracking revisions:

    * Ensure revision color is set correctly
    * Mark all changes before exporting
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Common Export Questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Which format should I use for submissions?">
    **Always PDF** for agents, producers, and contests. PDFs ensure your formatting looks exactly as intended, regardless of what software the recipient uses.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I re-import exported files?">
    Yes! All three formats can be imported back into Inkwell:

    * **PDF**: Import works, but may need cleanup
    * **Fountain**: Perfect round-trip (no data loss)
    * **FDX**: Perfect round-trip including revisions
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Do exports include my version history?">
    No. Exports are snapshots of your current script. Version history is unique to `.ink` files. To preserve history, keep your original `.ink` file.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Why is my PDF missing the title page?">
    Title page content comes from **Script Info** (Project Panel → Script Info tab). Fill it out, then export again.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I export multiple scripts at once?">
    Not currently. Export each script individually. If you need to batch export, consider scripting Fountain exports (plain text is easily automated).
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Revision marks aren't showing in my PDF">
    Check two things:

    1. **Revision Marks** toggle is on in the Print Dialog
    2. Your script actually has marked revisions (use **Screenplay → Mark Selection Revised** first)
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Next steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Printing options" icon="print" href="/printing/options">
    Customize PDF output with headers, watermarks, and more
  </Card>

  <Card title="Importing files" icon="file-import" href="/managing-files/importing-files">
    Import scripts from other applications
  </Card>

  <Card title="Revisions" icon="pen" href="/writing/revisions">
    Track changes with revision marks
  </Card>

  <Card title="Script Info" icon="info-circle" href="/project-panel/script-info">
    Update title page metadata
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Importing Files
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/managing-files/importing-files

Import Fountain, Final Draft (FDX), and PDF files into Inkwell.

Inkwell can import scripts from other screenwriting apps and formats. This guide covers supported formats and what to expect when importing.

## Supported Import Formats

Inkwell supports three import formats:

| Format      | Extension   | Import Quality  | Notes                                    |
| ----------- | ----------- | --------------- | ---------------------------------------- |
| Fountain    | `.fountain` | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent | Perfect fidelity, all metadata preserved |
| Final Draft | `.fdx`      | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent | Full format support including revisions  |
| PDF         | `.pdf`      | ⭐⭐⭐ Good        | Best-effort inference, may need cleanup  |

## Import Fountain Files

Fountain is a plain-text screenplay format that imports perfectly into Inkwell.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Import">
    Go to **File → Import → Fountain (.fountain)…**
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select file">
    Choose your `.fountain` file from the file picker.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Review imported script">
    Your script opens in Inkwell with all formatting preserved.
  </Step>
</Steps>

### What imports from Fountain

✅ **Fully supported**:

* All screenplay elements (scenes, action, dialogue, etc.)
* Title page metadata (title, author, contact, etc.)
* Formatting (bold, italic, underline)
* Sections and synopses
* Inline notes
* Scene numbers (if present)

❌ **Not imported**:

* Revision marks (Fountain doesn't support revisions natively)
* Version history (starts fresh in Inkwell)

<Tip>
  Fountain files export from most modern screenwriting apps including Highland, Final Draft, Fade In, and WriterDuet.
</Tip>

## Import Final Draft Files

Final Draft (FDX) files import with full fidelity, including advanced features.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Import">
    Go to **File → Import → Final Draft (.fdx)…**
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select FDX file">
    Choose your `.fdx` file.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Review imported script">
    Your script opens with formatting and metadata intact.
  </Step>
</Steps>

### What imports from Final Draft

✅ **Fully supported**:

* All screenplay elements
* Title page metadata
* **Revision marks with colors** (Blue, Pink, Yellow, etc.)
* Formatting (bold, italic, underline)
* Scene numbers
* Dual dialogue
* Page breaks (Inkwell recalculates for accuracy)

✅ **Converted to Inkwell format**:

* Outline elements → Sections (`#` syntax)
* FDX notes → Inline notes (`[[ ]]` syntax)

❌ **Not imported**:

* Final Draft-specific features (Omit, A-pages)
* Version history (starts fresh in Inkwell)
* Custom fonts or page margins (Inkwell uses industry standard Courier Prime)

<Note>
  Revision marks import with their colors intact. You can continue tracking revisions in the same color sequence.
</Note>

## Import PDF Files

PDF import uses text recognition to recreate your screenplay from a PDF document. Quality depends on how the PDF was created.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Import">
    Go to **File → Import → PDF…**
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select PDF file">
    Choose your `.pdf` file.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Wait for processing">
    PDF import takes longer than other formats (usually 5 to 30 seconds depending on script length).
  </Step>

  <Step title="Review and clean up">
    Check the imported script carefully. You may need to fix element detection or formatting.
  </Step>
</Steps>

### PDF Import Quality

**Best results** (⭐⭐⭐⭐):

* PDFs exported directly from screenwriting software
* Text-based PDFs (not scanned image pages)
* Standard Courier font
* Clean, properly formatted scripts

**Moderate results** (⭐⭐⭐):

* PDFs with non-standard fonts
* Hand-formatted scripts
* PDFs with headers, footers, or watermarks

**Poor results** (⭐⭐):

* Scanned PDFs (images, not text)
* Multi-column layouts
* Heavily annotated PDFs

### What imports from PDF

✅ **Usually correct**:

* Scene headings
* Character names
* Dialogue
* Action/description
* Page breaks (approximate)

⚠️ **May need cleanup**:

* Element type detection (dialogue vs. action)
* Character name consistency (formatting variations)
* Parentheticals and transitions
* Special formatting (bold, italic, underline)

❌ **Not imported**:

* Revision marks
* Title page metadata (you'll need to re-enter in Script Info)
* Inline notes
* Sections or synopses

<Warning>
  Always review PDF imports carefully. Element detection is best-effort and may misidentify some lines.
</Warning>

## Post-Import Steps

After importing, follow these steps to ensure your script is production-ready:

<Steps>
  <Step title="Check Script Info">
    Open the **Sidebar** (`Cmd+1` to toggle), select the **Script Info** tab (document icon), and fill in:

    * Title
    * Credit & Author
    * Draft Date
    * Contact information & Copyright
  </Step>

  <Step title="Review formatting">
    Scroll through your script and check:

    * Scene headings are properly detected.
    * Character names are consistent and in ALL CAPS.
    * Dialogue is correctly formatted.
    * Transitions and parentheticals are in the right places.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Add characters (if needed)">
    Go to the **Characters** tab in the sidebar (person icon). Inkwell auto-detects character names, but you may want to:

    * Add character bios & details (Gender, Age).
    * Fix any name inconsistencies.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Save as .ink file">
    Press `Cmd+S` to save. Choose a location and filename.

    Your script is now in Inkwell's native format.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Common Import Issues

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Characters detected as action">
    **Cause**: Character names weren't in ALL CAPS or had inconsistent formatting.

    **Fix**: Retype the character name in ALL CAPS on its own line. The dialogue below will auto-format correctly.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Action detected as dialogue">
    **Cause**: Action paragraphs were indented or formatted unusually.

    **Fix**: Highlight the misidentified text, then press **Tab** to cycle the element type back to Action.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Scene headings not detected">
    **Cause**: Scene headings didn't start with standard prefixes like `INT.` or `EXT.`.

    **Fix**: Force a scene heading by adding a period (`.`) at the start of the line. Example: `.FLASHBACK - 1985`
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="PDF import is very slow">
    Large PDFs (100+ pages) take 30-60 seconds to import. This is normal—PDF text extraction and element inference is computationally intensive.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Title page didn't import">
    Title pages rarely import from PDFs or Fountain. Re-enter your script info in **Sidebar → Script Info** after importing.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Revision marks missing after FDX import">
    Check that your FDX file actually had revision marks. If it did and they're not showing, ensure you didn't have revisions mode disabled. Go to **Revision → Show Revision Mode** (or press `Cmd+Opt+R`) to confirm revisions are active.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Best Practices

### Before Importing

1. **Clean up the source**: If possible, remove headers, footers, and watermarks from PDFs before importing.
2. **Use the best format**: Prefer Fountain or FDX over PDF when available.
3. **Backup the original**: Keep a copy of your original file in case you need to re-import.

### After Importing

1. **Do a full read-through**: Check formatting on every page.
2. **Fix inconsistencies early**: Correct character names and element types before writing new content.
3. **Set up Script Info**: Fill in title page metadata immediately.
4. **Save regularly**: Press `Cmd+S` to save your work.

## Next steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Exporting files" icon="file-export" href="/managing-files/exporting-files">
    Export your script to other formats
  </Card>

  <Card title="Formatting basics" icon="book" href="/writing/formatting-basics">
    Learn Fountain syntax for editing imported scripts
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Printing & PDF Export
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/printing/options

Print your script or export to PDF with customizable options including headers, watermarks, and formatting.

Inkwell provides professional printing and PDF export with full control over what appears in your output. This guide covers all printing options and customization features.

## Open the Print Dialog

<Steps>
  <Step title="Access Print/Export">
    * Go to **File → Print** or press `Cmd/Ctrl+P`
    * Or go to **File → Export PDF**
  </Step>

  <Step title="Preview your output">
    The left side shows a live PDF preview that updates as you change settings
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose your action">
    * Click **Print** to send to a printer
    * Click **Export PDF** to save as a file
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Print Options

The print dialog includes toggles for controlling what appears in your output:

### Title Page

**Toggle**: On by default

Include the industry-standard title page with your script's metadata (title, author, contact info).

**When to use**:

* Professional submissions to agents or producers
* Contest entries
* Any formal distribution

**When to disable**:

* Internal drafts
* Sharing with collaborators who only need the script content

<Note>
  Title page content is pulled from **Script Info** (Project Panel → Script Info tab). Make sure it's filled out before printing.
</Note>

### Scene Numbers

**Toggle**: On by default

Include scene numbers on both sides of scene headings (e.g., `1  INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY  1`).

**When to use**:

* Production scripts (essential for crew coordination)
* Table reads and rehearsals
* Any script being filmed

**When to disable**:

* Spec scripts (agents and contests don't want scene numbers)
* Early drafts before production

<Tip>
  Add scene numbers to your script with **Screenplay → Number Scenes** before printing. You can remove them later with **Screenplay → Clear Scene Numbers**.
</Tip>

### Sections

**Toggle**: Off by default

Include section markers (Acts, Sequences) that you've added with `#` syntax.

**When to use**:

* Sharing outlines with collaborators
* Development drafts where structure is important
* TV scripts with clear act breaks

**When to disable**:

* Final production scripts (sections are usually for writers' reference only)
* Professional submissions

### Notes

**Toggle**: On by default

Include inline notes marked with `[[ note ]]` syntax.

**When to use**:

* Production scripts with crew notes
* Development drafts with reminders
* Collaborative rewrites

**When to disable**:

* Final polished scripts
* Professional submissions to agents or contests

### Synopsis

**Toggle**: Off by default

Include scene synopses (beat sheet summaries) marked with `=` syntax.

**When to use**:

* Beat sheets for development discussions
* Outlines for pitching or planning

**When to disable**:

* All standard script distributions (synopses are for planning, not final scripts)

### Revision Marks

**Toggle**: On by default

Include revision markers (asterisks in the right margin) showing which lines have changed.

**When to use**:

* Production rewrites (essential for tracking changes)
* Any colored revision pages
* Scripts in active production

**When to disable**:

* First drafts or spec scripts
* Final clean versions after production wraps

[Learn more about revision tracking →](/writing/revisions)

## Page Headers

Add custom text that appears at the top of every page (except the title page).

### Configure Page Header

<Steps>
  <Step title="Click Advanced Options">
    In the print dialog, click **Advanced** to expand additional settings
  </Step>

  <Step title="Enter header text">
    Type your header text in the **Page Header** field
  </Step>

  <Step title="Preview">
    The PDF preview updates to show your header at the top of each page
  </Step>
</Steps>

### Common Page Header Uses

**Production information**:

```
"THE LAST TRAIN" - Blue Revision - 1/15/2025
```

**Draft identification**:

```
FIRST DRAFT - CONFIDENTIAL
```

**Contact information**:

```
John Smith - john@email.com - (555) 123-4567
```

<Tip>
  Keep headers concise (under 60 characters). Long headers may overlap with page numbers.
</Tip>

## Watermarks

Add semi-transparent text across every page to mark drafts, protect scripts, or indicate confidentiality.

### Configure Watermark

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Advanced Options">
    Click **Advanced** in the print dialog
  </Step>

  <Step title="Enter watermark text">
    Type your watermark in the **Watermark** field (e.g., "DRAFT", "CONFIDENTIAL", "FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION")
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose orientation">
    Select from the **Orientation** dropdown:

    * **Horizontal**: Text runs left-to-right across the page
    * **45°**: Text runs diagonally (most common)
    * **Vertical**: Text runs top-to-bottom
  </Step>

  <Step title="Preview">
    The PDF preview shows your watermark
  </Step>
</Steps>

### Common Watermark Uses

**Protect unreleased material**:

```
CONFIDENTIAL - DO NOT DISTRIBUTE
```

**Draft identification**:

```
DRAFT - NOT FOR PRODUCTION
```

**Submission tracking**:

```
FOR CONSIDERATION BY [STUDIO NAME]
```

**Copyright protection**:

```
 2025 [YOUR NAME] - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
```

<Warning>
  Watermarks are semi-transparent and do not obscure text, but may affect readability on some printers. Test before printing large quantities.
</Warning>

## Printer Selection

Choose which printer to use or save directly to PDF.

### Select a Printer

The print dialog shows all available printers on your system:

1. Use the **Printer** dropdown to select your target printer
2. Your default printer is pre-selected
3. Printer-specific options (paper size, duplex, etc.) appear when you click **Print**

### Export to PDF Instead

If you want to save a PDF file instead of printing:

1. Click **Export PDF** instead of **Print**
2. Choose a save location and filename
3. The PDF is saved with all your selected options

<Tip>
  Export to PDF when you need to email scripts, upload to file-sharing services, or archive specific versions.
</Tip>

## Common Printing Scenarios

### Spec Script for Submission

**Recommended settings**:

* Title Page: On
* Scene Numbers: Off
* Sections: Off
* Notes: Off
* Synopsis: Off
* Revision Marks: Off
* Page Header: None
* Watermark: None

### Production Script (Locked for Shooting)

**Recommended settings**:

* Title Page: On
* Scene Numbers: On
* Sections: Off
* Notes: On (if production notes exist)
* Synopsis: Off
* Revision Marks: On
* Page Header: "TITLE - Revision Color - Date"
* Watermark: Optional ("CONFIDENTIAL")

### Blue Revision Pages

**Recommended settings**:

* Title Page: Off (only printing changed pages)
* Scene Numbers: On
* Sections: Off
* Notes: On
* Synopsis: Off
* Revision Marks: On
* Page Header: "TITLE - Blue Revision - Date"
* Watermark: None

**Print on blue paper** and distribute only the changed pages.

### Table Read Script

**Recommended settings**:

* Title Page: On
* Scene Numbers: On (helps actors follow along)
* Sections: Off
* Notes: Off (keep it clean for actors)
* Synopsis: Off
* Revision Marks: Off (unless you want actors to see changes)
* Page Header: Optional
* Watermark: "CONFIDENTIAL - TABLE READ ONLY"

## Keyboard Shortcuts

| Action            | macOS         | Windows        |
| ----------------- | ------------- | -------------- |
| Open Print Dialog | `Cmd+P`       | `Ctrl+P`       |
| Export PDF        | `Cmd+Shift+P` | `Ctrl+Shift+P` |

## Troubleshooting

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Preview is blank or loading forever">
    * Close and reopen the print dialog
    * Ensure your script has content (title page alone may appear blank without scene content)
    * Check that you have enough disk space for PDF generation
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Watermark not appearing">
    Watermarks only appear if you've entered text in the **Watermark** field under **Advanced** options. Check that Advanced is expanded and text is entered.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Title page information is wrong">
    Title page content comes from **Script Info** in the Project Panel. Update it there, then regenerate your print preview.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Scene numbers not printing">
    Ensure **Scene Numbers** toggle is on in the print dialog. If they still don't appear, use **Screenplay → Number Scenes** to add them to your script first.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Revision marks disappeared">
    Check that **Revision Marks** toggle is on. If marks were cleared from your script with **Screenplay → Clear Selected Markers**, they can't be restored from old exports.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Next steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Exporting files" icon="file-export" href="/managing-files/exporting-files">
    Export to Fountain or Final Draft formats
  </Card>

  <Card title="Revisions" icon="pen" href="/writing/revisions">
    Track changes with revision marks and colors
  </Card>

  <Card title="Script Info" icon="info-circle" href="/project-panel/script-info">
    Customize your title page metadata
  </Card>

  <Card title="Scene numbers" icon="hashtag" href="/writing/formatting-basics#scene-numbers">
    Add and manage scene numbering
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Characters Panel
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/project-panel/characters

Manage character information, track dialogue count, and analyze character distribution.

The Characters panel automatically detects characters from your script and lets you add metadata like bios, age, and gender. It's also a powerful tool for analyzing dialogue distribution.

## Open the Characters Panel

<Steps>
  <Step title="Show Project Panel">
    Press `Cmd/Ctrl+J` to toggle the Project Panel
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select Characters tab">
    Click the **Characters** tab (person icon) at the top
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Automatic Character Detection

Inkwell automatically creates character entries when you write dialogue:

```
ALICE
Hey, want to grab coffee?

BOB
Sure, sounds good.
```

Both **ALICE** and **BOB** now appear in the Characters panel—no manual setup required.

<Tip>
  Characters are detected from ALL CAPS names followed by dialogue. Consistent naming is important: "ALICE" and "Alice" are treated as different characters.
</Tip>

## Character Information

Each character card shows:

**Dialogue Count**:

* Number of dialogue blocks this character has
* Percentage of total dialogue in your script
* Helps identify if characters feel balanced

**Metadata** (optional):

* **Bio**: Character description or backstory
* **Gender**: Male, Female, Non-binary, Other, or Unknown
* **Age**: Numeric age or age range
* **Aliases**: Other names this character uses

### Add Character Metadata

<Steps>
  <Step title="Click a character card">
    Click any character in the Characters panel
  </Step>

  <Step title="Edit fields">
    Fill in Bio, Gender, Age, and Aliases fields
  </Step>

  <Step title="Auto-save">
    Changes save automatically as you type
  </Step>
</Steps>

**Example bio**:

```
Alice Thompson, 32, forensic accountant. 
Meticulous and risk-averse after a childhood 
trauma. Doesn't trust easily but fiercely 
loyal once she does.
```

<Note>
  Quill AI can see character bios and uses them to provide better, character-appropriate suggestions.
</Note>

## Sorting Characters

Click the **Sort** dropdown to organize characters by:

**Order of Appearance** (default):

* Characters appear in the order they first speak
* Matches reading experience

**Number of Lines**:

* Sorts by dialogue count (most to least)
* Quickly identifies your protagonist vs. supporting cast

**Gender**:

* Groups characters by gender
* Useful for analyzing cast diversity

**Age**:

* Sorts youngest to oldest
* Helps visualize age distribution

## Analyzing Dialogue Distribution

Use dialogue counts to:

**Check protagonist screen time**:

* Protagonist should typically have 20-30% of total dialogue
* If much less, they may not feel like the lead

**Balance ensemble casts**:

* In ensemble pieces, spread dialogue more evenly
* No one character should dominate unless intentional

**Identify underdeveloped characters**:

* Very low dialogue count may mean underdeveloped character
* Consider cutting or combining minor characters

**Example analysis**:

```
ALICE: 156 lines (28%) ← Good protagonist presence
BOB: 89 lines (16%) ← Strong supporting role
CLAIRE: 67 lines (12%) ← Solid secondary character
DETECTIVE: 8 lines (1.4%) ← Functional role, appropriate
WAITER: 2 lines (0.4%) ← Could be cut or combined
```

<Tip>
  If a character has significant story impact but low dialogue, consider if they're fully developed or if scenes need rewriting.
</Tip>

## Character Aliases

Use aliases for characters who are referred to by multiple names:

**Example**: A character named "ROBERT" might also appear as:

* BOB
* MR. THOMPSON
* DAD

Add these as aliases so Inkwell knows they're the same person.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Click the character">
    Open the character with the primary name (e.g., ROBERT)
  </Step>

  <Step title="Add aliases field">
    Enter other names separated by commas: `BOB, MR. THOMPSON, DAD`
  </Step>

  <Step title="Save">
    Auto-saves. Inkwell now knows these are the same character.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Warning>
  Aliases inform Quill AI and are for your reference, but they don't automatically merge dialogue counts. For accurate counts, use consistent naming in your script.
</Warning>

## Best Practices

### Consistent Character Names

❌ **Inconsistent**:

```
ALICE
Hi there.

Alice
Nice to meet you.

alice thompson
See you later.
```

✅ **Consistent**:

```
ALICE
Hi there.

ALICE
Nice to meet you.

ALICE
See you later.
```

### When to Add Bios

**Always useful for**:

* Protagonists and major characters
* Characters with complex motivations
* Anyone Quill AI will help you write

**Less critical for**:

* One-line functional characters (Waiter, Cop #2)
* Background characters without arcs

### Tracking Character Arcs

Use the bio field to track character development:

```
ALICE
Bio: Starts as risk-averse accountant, learns to 
trust her instincts after Bob's betrayal. Arc 
complete when she exposes the conspiracy alone.

Current state: Post-midpoint, starting to take 
risks but still hesitant.
```

## Common Questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Why doesn't a character appear in the panel?">
    Make sure the character name is:

    * In ALL CAPS
    * On its own line
    * Followed by dialogue

    If formatted correctly and still missing, try closing and reopening the Project Panel.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I delete a character?">
    Characters are automatically detected from your script. To remove one, delete all their dialogue from your script. The character will disappear from the panel.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What if I have two characters with similar names?">
    Differentiate them clearly: `ALICE`, `ALICE (YOUNG)`, or `ALICE THOMPSON` vs. `ALICE CHEN`. Consistent differentiation prevents confusion.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Does Quill AI use character information?">
    Yes! Quill can see character names, bios, gender, age, aliases, and dialogue count. This helps it suggest dialogue and actions that fit each character.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What's a good dialogue distribution?">
    * **Feature protagonist**: 20-30% of total dialogue
    * **Ensemble cast**: 10-20% each for mains
    * **Supporting**: 5-15%
    * **Minor**: \< 5%

    These are guidelines, not rules. Genre and structure matter.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I export character data?">
    Character metadata is stored in your `.ink` file and exports with it. When you export to Fountain or FDX, character names remain, but metadata (bios, etc.) may not transfer to all formats.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Next Steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Using Quill AI" icon="comments" href="/quill-ai/using-quill">
    Learn how Quill uses character information
  </Card>

  <Card title="Formatting Basics" icon="book" href="/writing/formatting-basics">
    Master character and dialogue formatting
  </Card>

  <Card title="Project Info" icon="lightbulb" href="/project-panel/project-info">
    Add logline and development notes
  </Card>

  <Card title="Navigation" icon="map" href="/project-panel/navigation">
    Organize scenes with sections
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Navigation Panel
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/project-panel/navigation

Navigate your script using sections, notes, and scene headings in a hierarchical tree.

The Navigation panel provides a bird's-eye view of your script's structure, making it easy to jump between scenes and organize your screenplay.

## Open the Navigation Panel

<Steps>
  <Step title="Show Project Panel">
    Press `Cmd/Ctrl+J` to toggle the Project Panel on the left side
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select Navigation tab">
    Click the **Navigation** tab (globe icon) at the top of the Project Panel
  </Step>
</Steps>

## What Appears in Navigation

The Navigation tree shows:

**Sections** (`#` or `##` syntax):

* Acts, sequences, or custom organizational units
* Collapsible to show/hide their contents
* Example: `# ACT TWO` or `## Opening Sequence`

**Notes** (`[[note]]` syntax):

* Inline notes marked with double brackets
* Show their content in the tree
* Example: `[[TODO: Add foreshadowing here]]`

**Scene Headings**:

* All `INT.` and `EXT.` scene headings
* Displayed under their parent section (if any)
* Click to jump directly to that scene

<Tip>
  Use sections to organize your script into Acts, Sequences, or Story Beats. They're invisible in the final output but essential for navigation.
</Tip>

## Navigate Your Script

### Jump to a Scene or Section

Click any item in the Navigation tree to instantly jump to that location in your script. The editor scrolls and places your cursor at the selected item.

### Collapse/Expand Sections

Click the **arrow** next to a section to collapse or expand its contents:

* **Collapsed**: Hides all scenes and notes under that section
* **Expanded**: Shows the full hierarchy

This helps you focus on specific parts of your script without visual clutter.

## Organize with Sections

Sections create hierarchical structure in your script.

### Create a Section

<Steps>
  <Step title="Add section syntax">
    Type `#` followed by a space and your section name on its own line:

    ```
    # ACT ONE

    # ACT TWO - THE CONFRONTATION

    ## Sequence: The Heist
    ```
  </Step>

  <Step title="Sections appear in navigation">
    The Navigation panel updates automatically to show your new section
  </Step>

  <Step title="Write scenes under the section">
    Any scene headings after a section are nested under it in the navigation tree
  </Step>
</Steps>

### Section Levels

* **`#` (single hash)**: Top-level sections (Acts, Parts)
* **`##` (double hash)**: Sub-sections (Sequences, Beats)
* **`###` (triple hash)**: Further nesting (rarely needed)

**Example hierarchy**:

```
# ACT ONE

INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY

## Inciting Incident

INT. ALICE'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

EXT. CITY STREET - DAY

# ACT TWO
```

**Navigation shows**:

* ACT ONE
  * INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY
  * Inciting Incident
    * INT. ALICE'S APARTMENT - NIGHT
    * EXT. CITY STREET - DAY
* ACT TWO

[Learn more about sections →](/writing/formatting-basics#sections)

## Use Notes for Planning

Notes appear in the Navigation tree, helping you track TODOs and reminders.

### Create a Note

Type `[[` followed by your note text and close with `]]`:

```
[[TODO: This scene needs more tension]]

[[Remember to foreshadow the twist here]]

[[CUT? This feels redundant]]
```

Notes appear:

* In the Navigation tree under their parent section
* Inline in your script (visible only to you, not in exports)

<Note>
  Notes don't print by default. Toggle them off in the Print Dialog if you want to export a clean script.
</Note>

## Reorder Scenes

You can drag and drop items in the Navigation tree to reorganize your script.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Click and hold">
    Click on a scene heading or section in the Navigation tree
  </Step>

  <Step title="Drag to new position">
    Drag it above or below another item. A blue line shows where it will drop.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Release to reorder">
    Drop the item. Your script editor updates to reflect the new order.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Warning>
  Dragging a section moves all its child scenes and notes with it. Be careful when reordering large sections.
</Warning>

## Common Use Cases

### Structure a Three-Act Screenplay

```
# ACT ONE

INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY

INT. ALICE'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

# ACT TWO

## Confrontation

INT. BOB'S OFFICE - DAY

## Midpoint Twist

EXT. WAREHOUSE - NIGHT

# ACT THREE

INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY (FINAL SCENE)
```

### Track TODOs and Revisions

```
# ACT ONE

[[TODO: Opening needs more action]]

INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY

[[CUT? This dialogue feels slow]]
```

Navigate directly to notes from the Navigation panel to address them quickly.

### TV Episode Structure

```
# COLD OPEN

EXT. CITY STREET - NIGHT

# ACT ONE

INT. POLICE STATION - DAY

INT. INTERROGATION ROOM - DAY

# ACT TWO

## A-Story: The Investigation

INT. CRIME SCENE - DAY

## B-Story: Personal Drama

INT. DETECTIVE'S HOME - NIGHT

# ACT THREE

EXT. FINAL CONFRONTATION - NIGHT

# TAG

INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY
```

## Keyboard Shortcuts

| Action                   | macOS      | Windows     |
| ------------------------ | ---------- | ----------- |
| Toggle Project Panel     | `Cmd+J`    | `Ctrl+J`    |
| Jump to next section     | `Cmd+Down` | `Ctrl+Down` |
| Jump to previous section | `Cmd+Up`   | `Ctrl+Up`   |

## Frequently Asked Questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Do sections appear in my final script?">
    No. Sections are for organization only. They don't print or export to PDF unless you explicitly enable them in the Print Dialog (**Sections** toggle).
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I nest scenes inside scenes?">
    No. Only sections can contain other items. Scenes are always leaf nodes in the hierarchy.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What happens if I delete a section?">
    Only the section marker is deleted. The scenes under it remain in your script but become top-level items in the Navigation tree.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I rename a section?">
    Yes. Just edit the section line in your script. The Navigation tree updates automatically.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Why doesn't my note appear in Navigation?">
    Make sure it's on its own line and properly formatted: `[[note text here]]`. Notes inline within action or dialogue may not appear in the tree.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Next Steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Formatting Basics" icon="book" href="/writing/formatting-basics">
    Learn how to use sections and notes syntax
  </Card>

  <Card title="Script Info" icon="info-circle" href="/project-panel/script-info">
    Set up your title page metadata
  </Card>

  <Card title="Characters" icon="users" href="/project-panel/characters">
    Manage character information and dialogue stats
  </Card>

  <Card title="Project Info" icon="lightbulb" href="/project-panel/project-info">
    Add logline and scratchpad notes
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Project Info
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/project-panel/project-info

Write your logline and keep development notes in the scratchpad.

The Project Info panel provides space for your logline and a scratchpad for notes, ideas, and todos.

## Open Project Info

<Steps>
  <Step title="Show Project Panel">
    Press `Cmd/Ctrl+J` to toggle the Project Panel
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select Project tab">
    Click the **Project** tab (lightbulb icon) at the top
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Logline

### What is a Logline?

A logline is a one-sentence summary of your story that captures:

* **Protagonist**: Who the story is about
* **Goal**: What they want
* **Conflict**: What's standing in their way
* **Stakes**: What happens if they fail

**Example loglines**:

* "A shark-phobic police chief must hunt down a man-eating great white before it destroys a beach town's summer season." (JAWS)
* "A computer hacker discovers reality is a simulation and joins a rebellion to free humanity from their machine overlords." (THE MATRIX)
* "A young lion prince must reclaim his kingdom from his murderous uncle while overcoming his own guilt." (THE LION KING)

### Why Write a Logline?

**For you**:

* Keeps your story focused
* Quick reference when you lose direction
* Helps Quill AI understand your premise

**For others**:

* Pitches your script in one sentence
* Helps readers decide if they want to read it
* Essential for query letters and submissions

<Tip>
  Quill AI can see your logline and uses it to give better, more story-appropriate suggestions.
</Tip>

### Write Your Logline

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Project tab">
    Navigate to **Project Panel → Project**
  </Step>

  <Step title="Type in logline field">
    Click in the **Logline** text area and start typing
  </Step>

  <Step title="Auto-save">
    Changes save automatically as you type
  </Step>
</Steps>

### Logline Tips

**Keep it to 1-2 sentences**:

* One powerful sentence is better than a long paragraph
* If you need two, make sure they're tight

**Include the core conflict**:

* Don't just describe the setup
* Show what the character must overcome

**Be specific**:

* ❌ "A woman must save the day"
* ✅ "A NASA botanist must survive alone on Mars using only her wits and limited supplies"

**Skip character names**:

* Use descriptors: "A jaded detective," "An ambitious journalist"
* Exception: If the character name is iconic (e.g., "James Bond")

**Avoid spoilers**:

* Don't reveal the ending
* Focus on the central problem, not the resolution

## Scratchpad

### What is the Scratchpad?

A free-form notes area for:

* **Story beats**: Quick outline of key moments
* **Character ideas**: Traits, backstory snippets
* **TODOs**: Scenes to write or fix
* **Research notes**: Facts, details, references
* **Random ideas**: Anything you don't want to forget

**Unlike inline notes** (`[[note]]`):

* Scratchpad doesn't clutter your script
* It's always available in the Project Panel
* Perfect for big-picture planning

### Use the Scratchpad

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Project tab">
    Navigate to **Project Panel → Project**
  </Step>

  <Step title="Scroll to Scratchpad">
    The scratchpad is below the logline
  </Step>

  <Step title="Type freely">
    Add whatever notes you want. Auto-saves as you type.
  </Step>
</Steps>

### Scratchpad Ideas

**Story structure**:

```
ACT 1: Setup
- Introduce Alice in her boring corporate job
- Meet Bob at the coffee shop
- Inciting incident: Bob reveals the conspiracy

ACT 2: Confrontation  
- Alice investigates Bob's claims
- Discovery of evidence
- Midpoint: Alice is betrayed

ACT 3: Resolution
- Alice exposes the conspiracy
- Final confrontation with villain
- Return to normal... or not?
```

**Character development**:

```
ALICE:
- Afraid of taking risks
- Arc: Learns to trust her instincts
- Backstory: Lost her parents young

BOB:
- Mysterious, evasive
- Twist: He's actually trying to protect her
```

**TODOs**:

```
- [ ] Write the coffee shop meet-cute
- [ ] Add foreshadowing in Scene 5
- [ ] Cut redundant dialogue in Act 2
- [ ] Research how police investigations work
```

**Theme notes**:

```
Central theme: Trust vs. paranoia
- Early scenes show Alice's distrust
- Bob teaches her to trust again
- Final scene: She trusts herself
```

<Note>
  Scratchpad content is saved in your `.ink` file. It's for your eyes only—it doesn't export to PDF or appear in your script.
</Note>

## Quill AI Access

Quill AI can see your logline to better understand your story when providing suggestions. This helps Quill:

* Suggest plot developments that fit your premise
* Keep characters consistent with your vision
* Recommend story beats aligned with your genre

Quill AI **cannot** see your scratchpad. It's private notes for you only.

## Common Questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Is my logline visible to anyone else?">
    No. Your logline is stored locally in your `.ink` file. The only time it's sent externally is to Quill, your AI writing partner, when you use Quill to help with your script.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Should I write my logline before I start writing?">
    It helps! A clear logline keeps you focused. But if you prefer discovery writing, you can write it after your first draft when you understand the story better.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I use markdown in the scratchpad?">
    Yes! Use `**bold**`, `*italic*`, `- lists`, etc. Markdown won't render visually, but it helps organize your notes.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Does the scratchpad have a character limit?">
    No practical limit. Write as much as you need, but if it gets too long, consider moving some content to inline notes in your script.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Will my scratchpad export to PDF?">
    No. Scratchpad is for development only and never appears in exports or prints.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Next Steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Using Quill AI" icon="comments" href="/quill-ai/using-quill">
    Learn how Quill uses your logline
  </Card>

  <Card title="Script Info" icon="info-circle" href="/project-panel/script-info">
    Set up your title page metadata
  </Card>

  <Card title="Formatting Basics" icon="book" href="/writing/formatting-basics">
    Learn how to use inline notes
  </Card>

  <Card title="Navigation" icon="map" href="/project-panel/navigation">
    Organize your script with sections
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Script Info
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/project-panel/script-info

Manage your script's title page metadata including title, author, contact, and draft date.

The Script Info panel lets you fill in the metadata that appears on your screenplay's title page when printing or exporting to PDF.

## Open Script Info

<Steps>
  <Step title="Show Project Panel">
    Press `Cmd/Ctrl+J` to toggle the Project Panel
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select Script Info tab">
    Click the **Script Info** tab (book icon) at the top
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Title Page Fields

### Title

**What it is**: Your screenplay's title\
**Example**: `THE LAST TRAIN`\
**Industry standard**: ALL CAPS

### Credit

**What it is**: The credit line (usually "Written by" or "Screenplay by")\
**Common options**:

* `Written by`
* `Screenplay by`
* `Story by`
* `Teleplay by` (for TV)

### Author(s)

**What it is**: Writer name(s)\
**Examples**:

* Single: `Jane Smith`
* Multiple: `Jane Smith & John Doe`
* Team: `Jane Smith and John Doe`

**Industry conventions**:

* `&` = Writing team (wrote together)
* `and` = Sequential writers (wrote separately)

### Source

**What it is**: Original source material (if adapted)\
**Examples**:

* `Based on the novel by Stephen King`
* `Based on a true story`
* Leave blank for original screenplays

### Contact

**What it is**: Contact information for submissions\
**Examples**:

* Agent: `Represented by Jane Doe, XYZ Agency`
* Direct: `jane@email.com | (555) 123-4567`
* Manager: `Management: ABC Company, manager@abc.com`

<Tip>
  For professional submissions, use your agent or manager's contact info rather than personal details.
</Tip>

### Draft Date

**What it is**: Date of this draft\
**Format**: Inkwell provides a date picker\
**Examples**: `January 15, 2025` or `1/15/2025`

<Note>
  Update the draft date when creating revisions. It helps track which version people are reading.
</Note>

## Auto-Save

All fields auto-save as you type. No need to click "Save."

Changes appear in:

* Print preview (when you press `Cmd/Ctrl+P`)
* PDF exports
* Title page displays

## Industry Best Practices

### Spec Scripts (Submissions)

**Include**:

* Title (ALL CAPS)
* Credit ("Written by")
* Author name
* Contact info (agent/manager preferred)
* Draft date

**Omit**:

* Source (unless it's adapted)
* WGA registration numbers
* Copyright symbols (implied)

### Production Scripts

**Include**:

* Title
* Credit
* Author(s)
* Draft date
* Revision color/date (e.g., "Blue Revision - 1/20/2025")

**Optional**:

* Production company
* Shooting dates
* Contact for production office

### TV Scripts

**Include**:

* Show title
* Episode title (often in quotes)
* "Written by" credit
* Episode number (e.g., "Episode 205")
* Draft date

**Example**:

```
THE WIRE
"The Cost"
Episode 210

Written by
David Simon

January 10, 2003
```

## Common Questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="What if I have multiple writers?">
    Use `&` for writing teams and `and` for sequential writers. Example: "Jane Smith & John Doe" (team) or "Jane Smith and John Doe" (separate contributions).
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Should I include copyright?">
    No. Copyright is automatic upon creation. Don't add © symbols—it looks amateurish on spec scripts.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What if my title is lowercase?">
    Industry standard is ALL CAPS for titles on the title page. Inkwell formats it for you when printing.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I customize the title page layout?">
    No. Inkwell uses the industry-standard title page format. Custom layouts are non-standard and may hurt submissions.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Where does this info appear?">
    Only on the title page when printing or exporting to PDF. It doesn't appear in your script editor or Fountain exports.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Next Steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Printing & PDF" icon="print" href="/printing/options">
    Learn how to print with your title page
  </Card>

  <Card title="Exporting Files" icon="file-export" href="/managing-files/exporting-files">
    Export scripts with metadata intact
  </Card>

  <Card title="Project Info" icon="lightbulb" href="/project-panel/project-info">
    Add logline and development notes
  </Card>

  <Card title="Characters" icon="users" href="/project-panel/characters">
    Manage character information
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Quickstart
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/quickstart

Get started with Inkwell and write your first screenplay in minutes

Welcome to Inkwell! This guide will help you install the app, create your first script, and start writing.

## Install Inkwell

<Steps>
  <Step title="Download the app">
    Download Inkwell for macOS from [inkwell.app/download](https://inkwell.app/download).
  </Step>

  <Step title="Launch and sign in">
    Open Inkwell and sign in with your email or continue with Apple or Google. The editor is **free forever** — write, format, import, and export as much as you like. To try **Quill**, the AI writing partner, start your **free week of Quill Pro** (one tap after signing in).
  </Step>

  <Step title="System requirements">
    * **macOS**: 13.0 (Ventura) or later
    * **Internet**: Required for AI features (offline writing supported)
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Tip>New accounts can start a **free week of Quill Pro** — 500 credits, no credit card, nothing to cancel — to try Quill AI right away.</Tip>

## Create your first script

<Steps>
  <Step title="Start a new screenplay">
    Click **New Script** or press `Cmd+N`. You'll see a blank editor with industry-standard screenplay formatting ready to go.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Write your first scene">
    Start typing naturally—Inkwell auto-formats as you write:

    ```
    INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY

    ALICE enters, scanning the crowded room. She spots BOB at a corner table.

    ALICE
    (nervous)
    I wasn't sure you'd come.

    BOB
    I almost didn't.
    ```

    The editor recognizes scene headings, action, character names, dialogue, and parentheticals automatically based on Fountain syntax.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Save your work">
    Your script auto-saves automatically every few seconds. The status bar shows "Saved" when your work is safe. You can also manually save with `Cmd+S` or export via the File menu.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Try Quill AI (optional)

Quill is your AI co-writer. Try it out:

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Quill panel">
    Click the **Quill** icon in the sidebar, or press `Cmd+]` (or `Cmd+0`) to toggle the panel.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Ask for help">
    Try a prompt like:

    * "Make this dialogue more tense"
    * "Suggest three ways Alice could reveal her secret"
    * "What happens next?"

    Quill responds with suggestions you can accept, reject, or refine.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Review suggestions">
    Quill never overwrites your work. You'll see inline suggestions that you approve or reject with a single click.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Note>
  The editor is free forever. Quill runs on credits — spent only when it answers, a few per answer. Try it with a **free week of Quill Pro**, then keep going with a \$4.99 credit pack or a Pro subscription. [Learn about plans →](/account/plans-billing)
</Note>

## Explore the interface

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Editor" icon="pen-to-square">
    Your main writing space with live formatting and auto-save
  </Card>

  <Card title="Project Panel" icon="sidebar">
    Navigate scenes, manage characters, and organize your script
  </Card>

  <Card title="Quill AI" icon="sparkles">
    Your AI co-writer for brainstorming and editing
  </Card>

  <Card title="Settings" icon="gear">
    Customize themes, fonts, and preferences
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Don't miss: The ScrollMap

Look at the **right edge of the editor**—that's Inkwell's visual navigation ScrollMap. It's a unique feature that shows:

* **Your current scene** highlighted on the left
* **Character distribution** when you click on a character name
* **Search results** highlighted in blue
* **Unsaved changes** on the right side

**Try it now**:

1. Click anywhere on the ScrollMap to jump to that part of your script
2. Click on a character name (like ALICE) in your script
3. Watch the ScrollMap highlight everywhere that character appears

<Tip>
  The ScrollMap gives you a "bird's eye view" of your entire script structure. It's especially powerful for long scripts—click to jump, drag to scroll, and see patterns at a glance.
</Tip>

[Learn more about ScrollMap →](/writing/navigation-productivity#navigation-minimap-scrollmap)

## Next steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Learn Fountain basics" icon="book" href="/writing/formatting-basics">
    Master screenplay formatting with Fountain syntax
  </Card>

  <Card title="UI overview" icon="map" href="/getting-started/ui-overview">
    Understand the editor, panels, and navigation
  </Card>

  <Card title="Using Quill AI" icon="sparkles" href="/quill-ai/model-selection">
    Discover how to collaborate with your AI co-writer
  </Card>

  <Card title="Import existing scripts" icon="file-import" href="/managing-files/importing-files">
    Bring in Fountain, Final Draft, or PDF files
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

<Check>
  **You're ready to write!** Start your screenplay and explore Inkwell's features as you go.
</Check>


# Credits & Billing
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/quill-ai/credits-billing

How Quill credits work, how to try Quill free, and how to keep using it.

The **Inkwell editor is free forever**. **Quill**, your AI writing partner, runs on credits. This guide explains how credits work, how to try Quill free, and how to keep using it.

## How Credits Work

One rule, and it's simple: **you only spend credits when Quill answers.**

A brainstorm, a rewrite, a note, a formatting question — you're charged only when Quill actually responds. A typical answer costs **a few credits**; longer or more complex requests cost more. Nothing else costs anything.

Credits are **not** spent when you:

* ❌ Write, format, or paginate your script
* ❌ Import or export (PDF, Fountain, FDX)
* ❌ Type in the Quill panel without sending
* ❌ Send a request that errors out before Quill answers

<Tip>
  There's nothing to set up or configure — Quill is ready the moment you open the panel. And because the editor is free, you only ever spend credits when you actually get an answer back.
</Tip>

## How to Get Credits

There are **no standing free credits** — no signup bonus, no monthly free allowance. You get Quill credits one of three ways:

|                    | Free week               | Credit pack   | Quill Pro         |
| ------------------ | ----------------------- | ------------- | ----------------- |
| **What**           | Free trial of Quill Pro | One-time pack | Subscription      |
| **Credits**        | 500                     | 150           | 500/month         |
| **Price**          | Free                    | \$4.99        | $10/mo or $100/yr |
| **Card required?** | No                      | Yes           | Yes               |
| **Who**            | New accounts, once      | Anyone        | Anyone            |

### Try Quill free — the free week

Every **new account** can start a **free week of Quill Pro**:

* **500 credits** to spend on Quill
* **7 days**
* **No credit card**, nothing to cancel
* **Opt-in** — one tap after you sign in

When the week ends, you drop back to the free editor with no Quill credits. Nothing is charged, nothing is deleted, and your scripts are untouched. To keep using Quill, buy a credit pack or subscribe.

### Credit packs — \$4.99 for 150

If you'd rather not subscribe, a one-time **150-credit pack is \$4.99** — no recurring charge. Pack credits **never expire**.

### Quill Pro — $10/month or $100/year

Quill Pro gives you **500 credits every month** for **$10/month**, or **$100/year** (save \$20/year). Credits refresh on your billing date. Pro is the same Quill — just a larger, recurring budget so you never run out mid-draft.

**Upgrade to Pro** in **Settings → Account** or at [inkwell.app/pro](https://inkwell.app/pro).

<Note>
  A user with no active trial or subscription and no credit pack has **0 Quill credits** — and the editor still works fully. Credits only gate Quill answers, never your writing.
</Note>

## Check Your Credit Balance

Your current credit balance is always visible in Inkwell:

**In the Status Bar** (bottom-right corner):

* Shows your remaining credits
* Updates in real-time after each answer

**In the Quill AI Panel**:

* Credit count appears in the header
* Click to see detailed usage information

## Buy a Credit Pack

If you run out of credits, you can buy more anytime:

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Settings">
    Go to **Inkwell → Settings…** (or press `Cmd+,`)
  </Step>

  <Step title="Navigate to Account">
    Click the **Account** tab.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Buy Credits">
    Click **Buy Credits**. The credit pack is **150 credits for \$4.99**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Complete purchase">
    Enter payment details and confirm. Credits are added immediately.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Tip>
  Purchased credits never expire and can be used anytime, even months later.
</Tip>

## Monitor Your Usage

### View Credit History

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Settings">
    Go to **Inkwell → Settings…** (or press `Cmd+,`)
  </Step>

  <Step title="Account Tab">
    Click **Account** → **Credit History**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Review usage">
    See each answer with:

    * Date and time
    * Credits it cost
    * Remaining balance
  </Step>
</Steps>

### Make your credits count

A typical answer costs a few credits, and bigger requests cost more — so the way to stretch credits is simply to **ask well**:

**Be specific.** A focused question ("rewrite this exchange to feel more like Sorkin") gets a useful result on the first try, so you don't spend another round of credits on a clarifying follow-up.

**Stay in the same thread.** Quill remembers the conversation, so a follow-up like "make it darker" builds on what came before instead of starting over.

**Attach files once.** If you attach a script or reference PDF early in a conversation, Quill keeps it for the whole thread — no need to re-attach.

## Credit Deduction Rules

Credits are spent when:

* ✅ You send a message to Quill **and** Quill answers (a few credits per answer, more for bigger requests)

Credits are **not** spent when:

* ❌ You type in the Quill panel without sending
* ❌ A request fails or errors before Quill answers
* ❌ You write, format, import, or export — those are always free

<Warning>
  Once Quill answers, the credits for that answer aren't refundable, even if you don't love the result. Refine your prompt before sending if you're not sure what you want.
</Warning>

## Ways to Use Quill at a Glance

|                | Free week     | Credit pack | Quill Pro            |
| -------------- | ------------- | ----------- | -------------------- |
| Credits        | 500 (once)    | 150         | 500/month            |
| Price          | Free          | \$4.99      | $10/mo or $100/yr    |
| Subscription   | No            | No          | Yes                  |
| Credits expire | End of 7 days | Never       | Monthly, no rollover |
| Card required  | No            | Yes         | Yes                  |

The editor itself is free and unlimited on all of the above — credits only ever apply to Quill answers.

## Frequently Asked Questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="How much does a Quill answer cost?">
    A typical answer costs a few credits. Longer or more complex requests — say a full scene rewrite — cost more. You're only ever charged when Quill actually answers.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Do I get free credits just for signing up?">
    No. There's no signup bonus and no monthly free allowance. The way to try Quill for free is the **free week of Quill Pro** — 500 credits, 7 days, no card. After that you buy a pack or subscribe.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What happens if I run out of credits?">
    Quill pauses until you get more credits — buy a \$4.99 credit pack or subscribe to Quill Pro. Your scripts and the editor are never affected; you can keep writing, formatting, importing, and exporting for free.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Do unused credits roll over?">
    Monthly Quill Pro credits do not roll over — they reset each billing period. **Purchased credit packs never expire** and carry forward indefinitely.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I get a refund for unused credits?">
    Credit packs and monthly credits aren't refundable, but pack credits never expire — you can use them whenever you come back.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Does a bigger request cost more?">
    Yes. A typical answer costs a few credits, but longer or more complex requests — a full scene rewrite, say — cost more than a quick note. You're only charged when Quill answers.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What if a Quill answer is unhelpful?">
    The credit for that answer still counts, since Quill did respond. Try refining your prompt for a better result. If an answer was clearly broken, contact support.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I share credits with others?">
    No. Credits are tied to your individual Inkwell account and cannot be transferred.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Next steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Using Quill AI" icon="comments" href="/quill-ai/using-quill">
    Learn conversations, context awareness, and AI philosophy
  </Card>

  <Card title="Plans & Billing" icon="star" href="/account/plans-billing">
    Free trial, credit packs, and Quill Pro
  </Card>

  <Card title="Limitations" icon="triangle-exclamation" href="/quill-ai/limitations-caveats">
    Understand AI caveats and best practices
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Limitations & Best Practices
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/quill-ai/limitations-caveats

Understand what Quill AI can and can't do, and how to use it responsibly.

Quill AI is powerful, but it has limitations. Understanding these helps you use it effectively and avoid pitfalls.

## What Quill Can't Do

### Generate Perfect Output

❌ **First draft is final**: Quill's suggestions often need refinement
✅ **Iterate**: Treat responses as starting points, not finished work

❌ **Match your unique voice automatically**: Quill will try, but may not always sound like you
✅ **Review and edit**: Adjust Quill's output to match your style

### Replace Creative Judgment

❌ **Make story decisions**: Plot, character choices, themes
✅ **Provide options**: Quill offers possibilities, you decide

❌ **Understand your vision**: Only you know the full story you want to tell
✅ **Clarify context**: Give Quill background in your prompts

### Guarantee Accuracy

❌ **Fact-check real-world details**: Quill can make up facts
✅ **Verify independently**: Check dates, locations, technical details

❌ **Know industry standards perfectly**: May suggest non-standard formatting
✅ **Trust your knowledge**: If something seems off, it probably is

### Access Real-Time Information

❌ **Browse the internet**: No web search or current events
❌ **Know released films/shows**: Training data has a cutoff date
✅ **Provide context**: Tell Quill about recent developments if relevant

## Common Issues & How to Handle Them

### Hallucinations

**Problem**: Quill invents details that sound plausible but are wrong.

**Examples**:

* Made-up statistics or dates
* Invented screenplay terminology
* False claims about industry practices

**Solution**:

* Verify any factual claims
* Don't trust Quill for research
* Focus on creative assistance, not information lookup

### Repetitive or Generic Responses

**Problem**: Quill gives clichéd or bland suggestions.

**Solution**:

* Be more specific in your prompt.
* Ask for "unexpected," "original," or "subtle" alternatives.
* Provide more context about your story's unique elements or character bios.

### Inconsistent Character Voice

**Problem**: Quill's dialogue doesn't sound like your character.

**Solution**:

* Reference character bios in your prompt.
* Give example dialogue from earlier scenes.
* Specify character traits: "Bob is sarcastic, never sincere."
* Edit manually after accepting.
* Leverage **Voice Drift Detection** highlights to review lines that feel out of character.

### Ignoring Your Instructions

**Problem**: Quill doesn't follow specific requirements.

**Solution**:

* Make requirements explicit and concrete.
* Number your constraints (1, 2, 3...).
* Ask Quill to confirm understanding first.
* Try rephrasing or breaking into smaller requests.

## Best Practices

### Always Review Before Accepting

Never blindly accept Quill's suggestions:

**Check for**:

* Continuity with earlier scenes
* Character consistency
* Tone matching your story
* Logical plot progression
* Your unique voice and style

**Red flags**:

* Clichés or overused phrases
* Out-of-character dialogue
* Plot holes or contradictions
* Melodramatic or on-the-nose writing

### Use Quill as a Collaborator, Not a Ghost Writer

| Good uses                                       | Risky uses                                     |
| :---------------------------------------------- | :--------------------------------------------- |
| "Give me 5 scene opening options"               | "Write Act 2 for me"                           |
| "This feels flat. Suggest how to add tension"   | "Create my characters"                         |
| "Help me brainstorm why Bob would betray Alice" | "Give me a complete screenplay about \[topic]" |

### Start Specific, Iterate Broadly

1. **First**: Solve specific problems ("Fix this dialogue")
2. **Then**: Explore broadly ("What if this scene were darker?")
3. **Finally**: Refine ("Make option 2 more subtle")

### Manage Credit Usage Wisely

**Make your credits count** (you spend credits only when Quill answers — a few per answer, more for bigger requests):

* Be specific with prompts — a vague request needs a follow-up, and that follow-up is another answer, more credits spent.
* Stay in the same thread for related questions; Quill remembers the conversation, so a follow-up builds on what came before.
* Attach files once — they're remembered for the whole conversation.

**When credits are low**:

* Make prompts detailed enough to get it right on the first try.
* Batch related questions into one thread rather than spinning up new conversations.
* Use manual editing for small tweaks where you don't need the AI — writing and formatting are always free.

### Keep Conversations Focused

**One thread = One topic**:

* ✅ Thread about Act 2 pacing
* ❌ Thread jumping between character development, dialogue fixes, and plot holes

**Why**: Context confusion leads to worse responses and wasted credits.

### Protect Your Work

**Don't include**:

* Real people's names (use fictional names)
* Sensitive company information
* Confidential project details you're under NDA for

**Remember**: Your prompts and script context are sent to Inkwell's secure servers for AI processing. We do not sell your screenplays or use them to train future AI models.

## When NOT to Use Quill

### Save Time and Credits

Skip Quill for:

* **Simple typos**: Just fix them manually
* **Minor rewording**: Edit directly
* **Formatting questions**: Check this documentation instead
* **Decisions only you can make**: Character names, plot directions, themes

### Preserve Your Voice

Avoid Quill for:

* **First drafts of crucial scenes**: Write these yourself first
* **Your personal style**: Don't let AI homogenize your voice
* **Deeply personal moments**: Trust your instincts

## Limitations Summary

| What Quill Does                 | What Quill Doesn't Do                      |
| ------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------ |
| Suggests ideas and alternatives | Make your creative decisions               |
| Drafts dialogue and description | Write with your unique voice automatically |
| Spots potential issues          | Guarantee correct or original output       |
| Speeds up iteration             | Replace the need for revision              |
| Provides craft guidance         | Know your full story vision                |
| Accesses script context         | Browse the internet or verify facts        |

## Next Steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Using Quill AI" icon="comments" href="/quill-ai/using-quill">
    Learn how to use Quill effectively
  </Card>

  <Card title="No Setup Required" icon="brain" href="/quill-ai/model-selection">
    Quill works out of the box — nothing to configure
  </Card>

  <Card title="Credits & Billing" icon="credit-card" href="/quill-ai/credits-billing">
    Manage your credit usage
  </Card>

  <Card title="Philosophy" icon="lightbulb" href="/quill-ai/using-quill#quills-philosophy">
    Understand Quill's design principles
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# No Setup Required
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/quill-ai/model-selection

Quill works out of the box — there's nothing to pick or configure before you start writing.

Quill doesn't ask you to configure anything. There's no engine to choose, no settings page to study, and nothing standing between you and your script — open the panel and ask.

## Why nothing to configure?

Previous versions of Inkwell made you choose from a long list of AI options before you could ask a question. That sounded like flexibility, but in practice it meant:

* You had to learn what each option was good at, which kept changing
* The pick that made sense last quarter didn't make sense this quarter
* New writers stared at a dropdown of cryptic names instead of writing

Now Inkwell handles all of that server-side, where we can tune Quill for every writer at once — no app update required, no comparison chart to read. When Quill gets better, it gets better for everyone in a single server update.

## What this means in practice

* **You write the prompt; we handle the rest.** Focus on being specific about what you want.
* **Simple promise.** [You only spend credits when Quill answers](/quill-ai/credits-billing) — a few per answer, more for bigger requests. Writing, formatting, and import/export are always free.
* **Nothing is "Pro-only."** Quill works the same however you pay for credits. Quill Pro simply comes with a larger, recurring credit budget — more room to ask, not a different Quill.

## Tips for getting good results

**Be specific.** "Make the opening tighter" is vague; "cut 8 lines from the first scene without losing the reveal about Maya's ethics" gives Quill enough to work with on the first try — so you get what you want in one answer.

**Stay in the same thread.** Quill remembers the conversation, so a follow-up like "now make it more ambiguous" builds on what came before instead of starting from scratch.

**Attach files once.** PDFs, scripts, and reference docs are remembered for the whole thread.

## Next steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Credits & Billing" icon="credit-card" href="/quill-ai/credits-billing">
    How credits work — and how to try Quill free
  </Card>

  <Card title="Using Quill AI" icon="comments" href="/quill-ai/using-quill">
    Conversations, context, and the Quill philosophy
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Using Quill AI
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/quill-ai/using-quill

Your AI co-writer for brainstorming, editing, and screenplay development.

Quill AI is Inkwell's integrated AI assistant designed specifically for screenwriters. This guide covers everything you need to know to use Quill effectively.

## Open Quill AI

Access Quill from anywhere in Inkwell:

**Keyboard shortcut** (fastest):

* macOS: `Cmd+]` (or `Cmd+0`)

**Menu**:

* Go to **View → Toggle Quill Panel**

**First time**: The Quill panel slides in from the right side of your screen.

## The Quill Interface

The Quill panel includes:

**Top section**:

* **Thread selector**: Switch between conversations.
* **New thread button** (`+`): Start a fresh conversation.
* **Close button** (`×`): Hide the panel.

**Middle section**:

* **Conversation history**: Your messages and Quill's responses.
* Auto-scrolls to the latest message.

**Bottom section**:

* **Text input**: Type your prompts here.
* **Credit counter**: Shows remaining credits.
* **Send button** (or press **Enter**): Submit your message.

<Tip>
  Press `Shift+Enter` to add a line break in your message. Press `Enter` alone to send.
</Tip>

## Start a Conversation

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Quill">
    Press `Cmd+]` to open the Quill panel.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Type your request">
    Enter what you need help with in plain language:

    * "Help me brainstorm a cold open for a thriller"
    * "Rewrite this dialogue to be more tense"
    * "Suggest three ways this scene could end"
  </Step>

  <Step title="Send">
    Press **Enter** to send. Quill responds in seconds.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Continue the conversation">
    Ask follow-ups, request changes, or explore alternatives. Quill remembers the conversation context.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## What Quill Can Do

### Brainstorming & Ideation

Ask Quill to help generate ideas:

* **Plot developments**: "What if Alice discovers Bob is lying? Give me 5 directions this could go."
* **Character arcs**: "How could I develop Alice's character over three acts?"
* **Scene concepts**: "I need a tense confrontation scene between Alice and Bob in a coffee shop."
* **Loglines**: "Help me write a logline for a sci-fi thriller about AI consciousness."

### Dialogue Improvement

Get help refining dialogue:

* **Rewrite for tone**: "Make this dialogue more sarcastic"
* **Sharpen exchanges**: "Tighten this conversation to under 5 lines"
* **Add subtext**: "Rewrite this so Bob's hiding something"
* **Character voice**: "Make Alice sound more confident here"

### Scene Editing

Improve existing scenes:

* **Pacing**: "This scene feels slow. Suggest cuts."
* **Conflict**: "Add more tension to this argument"
* **Description**: "Rewrite this action to be more visual and cinematic"
* **Structure**: "Should I split this into two scenes?"

### Story Development

Work through story problems:

* **Plot holes**: "Alice gets to the warehouse too quickly. How can I fix the timeline?"
* **Character motivation**: "Why would Bob risk everything here?"
* **Theme**: "How can I strengthen the theme of betrayal in this act?"
* **Beats**: "What's missing between the midpoint and the climax?"

### Format & Craft

Get technical help:

* **Formatting questions**: "How do I format a phone conversation?"
* **Industry standards**: "Should I include camera directions?"
* **Page count**: "This scene is 8 pages. Too long?"
* **Structure advice**: "Does this follow standard three-act structure?"

## Conversations & Threads

Quill organizes your conversations into **threads**. Each thread is a separate conversation with its own history.

### Why Use Threads

**Keep topics separate**:

* Thread 1: Brainstorming Act 2
* Thread 2: Fixing dialogue in Scene 12
* Thread 3: Character development for Bob

**Context matters**:

* Quill remembers the conversation within each thread
* Earlier messages inform later responses
* Switching threads starts fresh context

### Manage Threads

**Create a new thread**:

1. Click the **+** button at the top of the Quill panel
2. Start typing in the fresh conversation

**Switch threads**:

1. Click the **thread selector** dropdown
2. Choose from your recent conversations
3. The conversation history loads

**Thread naming**:

* Quill automatically names threads based on your first message
* Example: "Help me with Act 2" becomes "Act 2 assistance"

<Note>
  Threads are saved locally in your `.ink` file. They persist across sessions.
</Note>

## Context Awareness

Quill has access to your script's context and current state to provide relevant, informed help.

### What Quill Knows

**Your complete script**:

* Full script content in Fountain format
* All scenes, dialogue, and action
* Scene headings and structure
* Character names and dialogue patterns

**Script statistics**:

* Scene count
* Total elements (lines)
* Estimated page count
* Word count
* Whether script changed since last request

**Character information** (from Sidebar → Characters):

* Character names and aliases
* Bios and descriptions
* Gender and age
* Dialogue count per character

**Project metadata**:

* Script title (from Sidebar → Script Info)
* Logline (from Sidebar → Project)

**Your current editor state**:

* Currently selected text (if any)
* Line numbers of selection
* Cursor position

**Conversation history**:

* All messages in the active thread
* Your previous requests and Quill's responses
* Context updates (script changes, statistics)

**Temporal context**:

* Current date and time
* Time zone information

### What Quill Doesn't Know

❌ **Content from other scripts**: Quill only sees the currently open script
❌ **Internet data**: No web searches or real-time information
❌ **Your files**: Can't access files outside Inkwell
❌ **Other threads**: Each thread is isolated
❌ **Version history**: Only sees current state, not past versions

### How to Leverage Context

**Reference your script**:

* "Look at Scene 5. How can I foreshadow the twist?"
* "Based on Alice's character bio, how would she react here?"
* "Given my logline, does this scene fit the story?"

**Be specific**:

* ✅ "Rewrite the dialogue between Alice and Bob in Scene 12"
* ❌ "Rewrite this" (Quill doesn't know which scene you mean)

**Build on conversation**:

* First: "Help me brainstorm endings"
* Then: "I like option 2. Expand on that"
* Then: "Now make it more ambiguous"

<Tip>
  Set your logline in **Sidebar → Project** before using Quill. It helps Quill understand your story's premise.
</Tip>

## Inline Collaboration

When Quill suggests changes to your script, it shows them inline with **accept** and **reject** options.

### How It Works

1. **You ask for changes**: "Rewrite Scene 12's dialogue to be more tense"
2. **Quill proposes edits**: Changes appear highlighted in your script.
3. **You review**: Read the proposed changes.
4. **You decide**: Click **Accept** (✓) or **Reject** (✗) for each change.

<Warning>
  Quill never modifies your script without your approval. You are always in control.
</Warning>

### Review Changes Carefully

Before accepting:

* **Read the full change**: Don't just accept blindly.
* **Check character voice**: Does it sound like your characters?
* **Verify continuity**: Does it match earlier scenes?
* **Test the tone**: Is it right for your story?

**You can**:

* Accept some changes and reject others.
* Edit Quill's suggestions manually before accepting.
* Ask Quill to revise: "Make it less dramatic"

## Effective Prompting Tips

### Be Specific

❌ **Vague**: "Make this better"
✅ **Specific**: "Make this dialogue sharper by cutting unnecessary words"

❌ **Vague**: "Help with my script"
✅ **Specific**: "The midpoint feels weak. How can I raise the stakes?"

### Provide Context

If Quill doesn't have the context, give it:

```
"Alice just discovered Bob's secret. She's angry but trying to hide it. 
Rewrite this confrontation to show her restraint breaking."
```

### Iterate

Don't expect perfection on the first try:

1. "Give me 3 scene ending options"
2. "I like #2 but make it less obvious"
3. "Perfect, now write it in full"

### Ask for Options

Get variety before committing:

* "Give me 5 different openings for this scene"
* "Suggest 3 ways this could go wrong"
* "Show me both a hopeful and dark version"

## Quill's Philosophy

Quill is designed with core principles:

### You're in Control

* **Quill suggests, you decide**: Every change requires your approval.
* **Non-intrusive**: Appears when you call it, never interrupts.
* **Your voice, your story**: Quill assists, but you're the writer.

### Collaboration, Not Replacement

* **Brainstorming partner**: Bounces ideas back and forth.
* **Second pair of eyes**: Spots issues you might miss.
* **Craft assistant**: Handles technical details so you focus on story.

### Transparent

* **Credit costs are clear**: You spend credits only when Quill answers — a few per answer, more for bigger requests.
* **No hidden changes**: All edits are visible and reviewable.
* **Your data stays yours**: Scripts are stored locally, not on cloud servers.

<Note>
  Quill is a tool, not a substitute for your creative judgment. Use it to amplify your skills, not replace them.
</Note>

## Privacy & Data

**Your scripts stay local**:

* Scripts are stored on your computer in `.ink` files.
* Quill conversations are saved locally with your script.
* Nothing is automatically uploaded to cloud storage.

**What gets sent to AI providers**:

* Your prompt and conversation history (within the thread).
* Relevant script content (if Quill needs it for context).
* Project metadata (logline, character info) when relevant.

**What doesn't get sent**:

* Your entire script (only relevant portions).
* Other scripts you've written.
* Personal information beyond what's in your script.

<Tip>
  If you're working on sensitive material, avoid including real names or confidential details in your prompts.
</Tip>

## Common Questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Can Quill write my entire script?">
    Technically yes, but that's not what it's designed for. Quill works best as a **collaborative partner** for specific tasks—brainstorming, editing, problem-solving. Writing a full script requires your unique voice, vision, and creative decisions.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Does Quill learn from my writing style?">
    Not permanently. Quill uses context from your current script and conversation to inform responses, but doesn't retain learning across sessions or scripts. Each conversation starts fresh.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I undo an accepted change?">
    Yes! Use `Cmd+Z` immediately after accepting to undo. Or restore from version history if you accepted and kept writing.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Why did Quill give a weird response?">
    Common reasons:

    * Vague prompt (be more specific)
    * Lacks context (provide background)
    * AI limitation (try breaking the task into smaller steps)
    * Random AI variation (try rephrasing your request)
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I use Quill offline?">
    No. Quill runs on Inkwell's secure servers, so it needs an internet connection. Your scripts work offline, but Quill features require connectivity.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Does using Quill mean I didn't write my script?">
    No more than using spell-check, a thesaurus, or getting feedback from a writing partner. **You** conceive the story, make creative decisions, and choose what to keep or discard. Quill is a tool that assists your process.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Next Steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="No Setup Required" icon="brain" href="/quill-ai/model-selection">
    Quill works out of the box — nothing to configure
  </Card>

  <Card title="Credits & Billing" icon="credit-card" href="/quill-ai/credits-billing">
    Understand how credits work and manage costs
  </Card>

  <Card title="Keyboard Shortcuts" icon="keyboard" href="/reference/keyboard-shortcuts">
    Learn all Inkwell shortcuts including Quill
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Voice Drift Detection
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/quill-ai/voice-drift

Ensure your characters always sound like themselves with AI-powered dialogue analysis.

Voice Drift is a Quill AI feature that acts as a subtle assistant for your characters' voices. It analyzes your screenplay's dialogue in the background and flags lines that might sound out of character, inconsistent, or too similar to another character.

## How Voice Drift Works

Every writer knows how easy it is for dialogue to start sounding homogenized, or for two distinct characters to blend into a single voice. Voice Drift runs a background check on your dialogue to catch this.

For characters with enough lines (typically 10 or more), Voice Drift:

1. **Establishes a baseline**: Analyzes the character's vocabulary, sentence length, rhythm, and semantic "vibe."
2. **Analyzes surrounding context**: Compares each line of dialogue against the character's historical baseline and the immediate conversational context.
3. **Flags deviations**: Highlights lines that stand out as unusual or inconsistent.

## Reading Voice Drift Flags

When Voice Drift detects a possible inconsistency, it adds a subtle underline to the dialogue line in the editor.

Hover your cursor over the flagged line to view the suggestion details. The popover displays:

* **Severity**: Subtle, moderate, or strong signal.
* **Character & Scene**: The speaking character and scene number.
* **The specific drift detected**:
  * *Rhythm/register differs from this character's baseline* (stylistic drift).
  * *Tone/vibe differs from this character's baseline* (semantic drift).
  * *Rhythm breaks from the immediate surrounding lines* (conversational rhythm change).
  * *Tone breaks from the immediate surrounding lines* (conversational tone change).
* **Speaker similarity**: If a line sounds like another character, the tooltip will suggest: `"Sounds more like [CHARACTER NAME]."`

## Manage Voice Drift Hints

Voice Drift is enabled by default to help you catch inconsistencies as you write. However, if you find the hints distracting during a rough draft, you can toggle them off.

### Toggle Voice Drift Hints

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Settings">
    Go to **Inkwell → Settings…** (or press `Cmd+,`).
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select Editor Settings">
    Click the **Editor** tab.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Toggle Hints">
    Check or uncheck **Show voice-drift hints**.

    Turning the setting off immediately clears all highlights from your editor.
  </Step>
</Steps>

### Ignore Specific Lines

If a flagged line of dialogue is intentional (for example, a character is lying, mimicking someone else, or acting out of character on purpose), you can dismiss the hint:

1. Hover over the flagged line to reveal the tooltip.
2. Click **Ignore this line** in the popover.
3. The underline is removed, and Inkwell will remember to ignore this line in future background passes.

## Best Practices for Screenwriters

### Establish Baselines First

Voice Drift requires a minimum amount of dialogue to understand a character's voice. If a character only has a few lines in your script, Voice Drift won't have enough data to compute a baseline. Focus on writing the script first, and review the hints once your characters have established their voices.

### Intentional Inconsistency

Characters don't always speak consistently. A character who is stressed, drunk, lying, or talking to authority figures will naturally change their rhythm and tone. Treat Voice Drift flags as invitations to review the line, not errors that must be fixed.

### Reviewing "Sounds Like" Flags

If a line is flagged with `"Sounds more like [OTHER CHARACTER],"` check if the speaker is starting to borrow vocabulary or speech patterns from another character in the scene. This can be a great way to catch exposition dumps or ensure your ensemble cast remains distinct.

## Privacy & Performance

* **Local Processing & Privacy**: Dialogue analysis and matching are done locally using secure embeddings. Your raw text remains confidential.
* **Performance**: Voice Drift calculations run asynchronously in the background. It won't interrupt your typing flow or cause lag, even on large scripts.

## Next Steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Using Quill AI" icon="comments" href="/quill-ai/using-quill">
    Learn how to brainstorm and edit with Quill
  </Card>

  <Card title="Characters" icon="users" href="/project-panel/characters">
    Manage your characters list and bios
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# FAQ
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/reference/faq

Frequently asked questions about Inkwell.

Quick answers to the most common questions about Inkwell.

## General

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Is Inkwell free?">
    Inkwell has a free tier with 100 welcome credits at signup plus 15 monthly credits thereafter. Pro plans with 500 credits/month and additional features are available at $10/month or $100/year.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What platforms does Inkwell support?">
    Inkwell works on macOS (10.15+) and Windows (10/11). A Linux version may be available in the future.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Do I need an internet connection?">
    Inkwell works offline for writing, saving, and printing. You **need** internet for:

    * Quill AI features
    * Account management
    * Downloading updates
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Where are my scripts stored?">
    Scripts are saved locally on your computer as `.ink` files wherever you choose to save them. They are NOT automatically uploaded to the cloud.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I use Inkwell on multiple computers?">
    Yes! Your Inkwell account works on all your devices. However, scripts must be manually transferred (via cloud storage, USB, etc.) since they're stored locally.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## File Management

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="What file format does Inkwell use?">
    Inkwell uses `.ink` files, a JSON-based format that stores your script, formatting, metadata, and version history. You can export to PDF, Fountain (`.fountain`), and Final Draft (`.fdx`).
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I open Final Draft files in Inkwell?">
    Yes! Use **File → Import → Import from Final Draft** to import `.fdx` files. Some advanced Final Draft features may not transfer perfectly.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="How do I share my script with someone who doesn't have Inkwell?">
    Export to PDF (`Cmd+Shift+P`) for universal compatibility, or export to Fountain/Final Draft if they use screenplay software.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Does Inkwell have cloud sync?">
    Not currently. Scripts are saved locally. You can manually sync via iCloud Drive, Dropbox, Google Drive, or other cloud storage services by saving your `.ink` files to those folders.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="How often does auto-save happen?">
    Inkwell auto-saves every few seconds as you type. You can also manually save with `Cmd+S` anytime.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Writing & Formatting

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Does Inkwell follow industry-standard screenplay format?">
    Yes! Inkwell adheres to Hollywood screenplay formatting standards. Your printed/exported scripts will look professional and industry-ready.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="How do I force an element type?">
    Inkwell auto-detects element types (scene heading, action, dialogue, etc.) based on what you type. You rarely need to manually change types. If needed, formatting rules are covered in [Formatting Basics](/writing/formatting-basics).
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I write TV scripts in Inkwell?">
    Yes! Inkwell supports standard screenplay format used for both feature films and TV scripts. Use sections (`#`) to organize acts and scenes.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="How do I add a title page?">
    Go to **Project Panel → Script Info** tab and fill in title, author, contact, etc. This automatically generates a proper title page when printing or exporting.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I use custom fonts?">
    No. Inkwell uses Courier Prime (the modern industry standard) for all scripts. This ensures consistency and proper page count estimation.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Quill AI

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="What AI models does Quill use?">
    Quill is powered by Claude (Anthropic) for chat and uses Google Gemini for embeddings (scene similarity search). There's no model picker — Quill chooses the right model for each task server-side. See [How Quill Picks a Model](/quill-ai/model-selection).
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="How many credits do I get?">
    Free plan: 100 welcome credits at signup + 15 credits/month. Pro plan: 500 credits/month at $10/month (or $100/year). Credit cost per request varies with the size and complexity of the task — short questions cost a few credits, long agentic edits with attached files cost more. See [Credits & Billing](/quill-ai/credits-billing).
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can Quill write my entire script?">
    Technically yes, but Quill works best as a **collaborative tool** for brainstorming, editing, and problem-solving—not as a ghostwriter. Your creative vision and voice should drive the script.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Is my script data sent to AI companies?">
    When you use Quill AI, relevant portions of your script and conversation history are sent to AI providers (OpenAI, Google, Anthropic) to generate responses. Your full script is stored locally and never uploaded elsewhere.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Does Quill learn from my writing?">
    No. Quill doesn't retain information between sessions or learn from your writing style permanently. Each conversation uses current script context but doesn't build a long-term profile.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Printing & Exporting

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="How do I create a PDF?">
    Press `Cmd+Shift+P` or go to **File → Create PDF**. Configure options in the print dialog, then export.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Why does my page count differ from Final Draft?">
    Page count can vary slightly between software due to subtle differences in spacing and formatting engines. Inkwell's count is accurate for its rendering, but exact page breaks may differ from other software.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I print revision pages only?">
    Not currently. Revision tracking marks changed text, but you must print the full script. Industry practice is to print full scripts with revision marks visible.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="How do I add watermarks?">
    In the Print/PDF dialog, enable **Watermark** and enter your text. Watermarks appear diagonally across each page. See [Printing Options](/printing/options#watermarks) for details.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I export to Microsoft Word?">
    No. Screenplay formatting is very specific and doesn't translate well to Word. Export to PDF for universal compatibility or Fountain for other screenplay software.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Features & Settings

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="What is Typewriter Mode?">
    Typewriter Mode keeps your cursor vertically centered on screen as you type, reducing eye strain. Enable it in **View → Typewriter Scrolling**. See [Typewriter Mode](/customization/typewriter-mode).
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="How do I hide the sidebar?">
    Press `Cmd+Shift+D` or go to **View → Show Drawer** to toggle the Project Panel (Focus Mode). This hides navigation, characters, and project info.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I change the theme?">
    Yes! Press `Cmd+,` to open Settings and choose from Light, Dark, Sepia, Midnight, or System themes. See [Themes](/customization/themes).
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What are sections and how do I use them?">
    Sections (`#`, `##`, etc.) create hierarchical structure for organizing acts, sequences, and beats. They appear in Navigation but don't print by default. See [Navigation Panel](/project-panel/navigation).
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="How do I track revisions?">
    Enable **Screenplay → Revision Mode**, select a color, then use `Cmd+[` to mark text as revised. Revision marks can print in color or appear as asterisks. See your application menu for details.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Troubleshooting

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="My script won't open. What do I do?">
    Check the `.ink-history` folder next to your script for backup versions. If the file is corrupted, contact support—we may be able to recover it. See [Troubleshooting](/reference/troubleshooting).
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Inkwell is running slowly. How do I fix it?">
    Try:

    * Compress version history (save indicator → Save History → Compress)
    * Close other applications
    * Restart Inkwell
    * Ensure adequate free RAM and disk space

    See [Troubleshooting](/reference/troubleshooting#performance-issues).
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Quill AI isn't working. What's wrong?">
    Common causes:

    * No internet connection
    * Out of credits
    * Firewall blocking access

    Try refreshing (`Cmd+R`) or check your credit balance. See [Troubleshooting](/reference/troubleshooting#quill-ai-issues).
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Where can I get help?">
    * Email: [support@inkwellwriter.com](mailto:support@inkwellwriter.com)
    * Documentation: docs.inkwellwriter.com
    * Community forum: community.inkwellwriter.com
    * Discord: discord.gg/inkwell
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Account & Billing

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="How do I upgrade to Pro?">
    Click your user menu (top right) → **Manage Subscription** → Choose Pro plan. Or visit the Inkwell website to subscribe.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I cancel anytime?">
    Yes. Pro subscriptions can be canceled at any time. You keep Pro features until the end of your billing period.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What happens if I run out of credits?">
    Free users wait until next month for credits to refresh, or purchase additional credits. Pro users get 500 credits/month and can also purchase more if needed.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Do credits roll over?">
    No. Unused monthly credits do not carry over to the next month. Purchased credit packs (separate from monthly allotment) don't expire.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Is there a student discount?">
    Check the Inkwell website or contact support for current student/educator pricing.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Still Have Questions?

If your question isn't answered here:

* **Search the docs**: Use the search bar at the top
* **Email support**: [support@inkwellwriter.com](mailto:support@inkwellwriter.com)
* **Community forum**: community.inkwellwriter.com
* **Discord**: discord.gg/inkwell

## Next Steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Troubleshooting" icon="wrench" href="/reference/troubleshooting">
    Resolve common issues
  </Card>

  <Card title="Keyboard Shortcuts" icon="keyboard" href="/reference/keyboard-shortcuts">
    Master Inkwell shortcuts
  </Card>

  <Card title="Getting Started" icon="rocket" href="/getting-started/first-script">
    New to Inkwell? Start here
  </Card>

  <Card title="Using Quill AI" icon="comments" href="/quill-ai/using-quill">
    Learn how to use Quill effectively
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Keyboard Shortcuts
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/reference/keyboard-shortcuts

Complete reference of all Inkwell keyboard shortcuts.

Master Inkwell with these keyboard shortcuts. Designed to follow industry standard muscle memory (including Final Draft and macOS system conventions), these shortcuts will help you write faster and navigate your script with ease.

## File & Application

| Action                  | macOS Shortcut |
| :---------------------- | :------------- |
| **New Script**          | `Cmd+N`        |
| **Open Script**         | `Cmd+O`        |
| **Save Script**         | `Cmd+S`        |
| **Save Script As…**     | `Cmd+Shift+S`  |
| **Print / Export PDF…** | `Cmd+P`        |
| **Close Window / Tab**  | `Cmd+W`        |
| **Settings…**           | `Cmd+,`        |
| **Quit Inkwell**        | `Cmd+Q`        |

***

## Editing & Find

| Action                    | macOS Shortcut    |
| :------------------------ | :---------------- |
| **Undo**                  | `Cmd+Z`           |
| **Redo**                  | `Cmd+Shift+Z`     |
| **Cut**                   | `Cmd+X`           |
| **Copy**                  | `Cmd+C`           |
| **Paste**                 | `Cmd+V`           |
| **Paste and Match Style** | `Cmd+Shift+Opt+V` |
| **Select All**            | `Cmd+A`           |
| **Find in Script**        | `Cmd+F`           |
| **Find Next**             | `Cmd+G`           |
| **Find Previous**         | `Cmd+Shift+G`     |
| **Find and Replace…**     | `Cmd+Opt+F`       |

***

## Screenplay Formatting

### Inline Formatting

Apply bold, italic, or underline to notes or specific words:

| Action        | macOS Shortcut |
| :------------ | :------------- |
| **Bold**      | `Cmd+B`        |
| **Italic**    | `Cmd+I`        |
| **Underline** | `Cmd+U`        |

<Note>
  Standard screenplay formatting does not use bold or underline for dialogue or action. Use these styles sparingly, or inside inline notes.
</Note>

### Element Types

Quickly change the type of the active line or paragraph:

| Action            | macOS Shortcut |
| :---------------- | :------------- |
| **Action**        | `Ctrl+Cmd+1`   |
| **Scene Heading** | `Ctrl+Cmd+2`   |
| **Character**     | `Ctrl+Cmd+3`   |
| **Dialogue**      | `Ctrl+Cmd+4`   |
| **Parenthetical** | `Ctrl+Cmd+5`   |
| **Transition**    | `Ctrl+Cmd+6`   |
| **Lyric**         | `Ctrl+Cmd+7`   |
| **Centered**      | `Ctrl+Cmd+E`   |

<Tip>
  You can also press **Tab** or **Return** while writing to cycle through element types automatically. See [Formatting Basics](/writing/formatting-basics) for more details.
</Tip>

***

## Navigation & Tools

| Action               | macOS Shortcut |
| :------------------- | :------------- |
| **Go to Page…**      | `Cmd+L`        |
| **Go to Scene…**     | `Cmd+J`        |
| **Previous Change**  | `Opt+J`        |
| **Next Change**      | `Opt+K`        |
| **Edit Title Page…** | `Cmd+Opt+T`    |

***

## Views & Panels

| Action                       | macOS Shortcut           |
| :--------------------------- | :----------------------- |
| **Toggle Outline Sidebar**   | `Cmd+[` (or `Cmd+1`)     |
| **Toggle Quill AI Panel**    | `Cmd+]` (or `Cmd+0`)     |
| **Toggle Scroll Gutter Map** | `Cmd+Opt+M`              |
| **Toggle Fullscreen**        | `Ctrl+Cmd+F` (or `Fn+F`) |

***

## Zoom Controls

| Action                | macOS Shortcut |
| :-------------------- | :------------- |
| **Zoom In**           | `Cmd+=`        |
| **Zoom Out**          | `Cmd+-`        |
| **Reset Zoom (100%)** | `Cmd+Opt+0`    |
| **Zoom to Fit**       | `Cmd+9`        |

***

## Revision Mode

Track and manage drafts using industry standard screenplay color cycles:

| Action                          | macOS Shortcut             |
| :------------------------------ | :------------------------- |
| **Toggle Revision Mode**        | `Cmd+Opt+R`                |
| **Select Revision Color (1–9)** | `Cmd+Opt+1` to `Cmd+Opt+9` |
| **Next Revision Mark**          | `Cmd+Opt+]`                |
| **Previous Revision Mark**      | `Cmd+Opt+[`                |
| **Next Generation (Color)**     | `Cmd+Opt+G`                |

***

## Quick Reference by Writing Stage

### Drafting

```markdown theme={null}
Cmd+N          Create new script
Cmd+[          Toggle the left Outline Sidebar to see your structure
Cmd+]          Toggle the right Quill AI Panel for brainstorming
Cmd+S          Save your draft
Ctrl+Cmd+F     Toggle Fullscreen (Focus Mode)
```

### Editing & Tuning Dialogue

```markdown theme={null}
Cmd+F          Find dialogue/characters
Cmd+Opt+F      Replace text
Cmd+L          Jump to page
Cmd+J          Jump to scene
Opt+J / Opt+K  Jump between recent changes
```

### Script Revisions

```markdown theme={null}
Cmd+Opt+R      Show/Hide Revisions
Cmd+Opt+G      Advance to the next revision color
Cmd+Opt+]      Jump to next revision mark
Cmd+Opt+[      Jump to previous revision mark
```

### PDF & Exporting

```markdown theme={null}
Cmd+P          Open Print and PDF Export panel
Cmd+Opt+T      Open Title Page Editor
```

## Common Questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Can I customize keyboard shortcuts?">
    Keyboard shortcuts are preconfigured to match standard screenwriting muscle memory and cannot be customized in settings.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Why don't the navigation commands work?">
    Make sure you're focused in the script editor. Some window-level commands require the cursor to be active inside the screenplay text area.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What is the Scroll Gutter Map shortcut?">
    `Cmd+Opt+M` toggles the scroll gutter map on the right edge of your editor, which displays a birds-eye view of your screenplay's structure and scene lengths.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>


# Troubleshooting
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/reference/troubleshooting

Resolve common issues and recover from errors.

This guide helps you diagnose and fix common Inkwell issues. If you can't find a solution here, contact support.

## Script Won't Open

This guide helps you diagnose and fix common Inkwell issues. If you can't find a solution here, contact support at **[support@inkwell.app](mailto:support@inkwell.app)**.

## Script Won't Open

### Problem: "File is corrupted" or cannot be read

**Possible causes**:

* File transfer was interrupted
* Disk storage error
* File was manually edited outside Inkwell with syntax errors

**Solutions**:

<Steps>
  <Step title="Check version history">
    Inkwell keeps local checkpoints of your work. Open the folder containing your screenplay and check for a hidden `.ink-history` directory (press `Cmd+Shift+.` in Finder to toggle hidden files). Find the most recent `.ink` file backup, duplicate it, and rename it to restore your draft.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Try opening in a text editor">
    Your `.ink` file is formatted as standard text (Fountain/JSON). You can open it in TextEdit to recover your screenplay's text directly.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Contact support">
    If you cannot recover your screenplay, email it to **[support@inkwell.app](mailto:support@inkwell.app)**. Our engineering team can often repair damaged structures to retrieve your writing.
  </Step>
</Steps>

### Problem: "File format not recognized"

**Cause**: Trying to open a file that is not a native `.ink` project.

**Solution**: Inkwell uses the `.ink` project package format. To open scripts written in other apps, use **File → Import** and select **PDF…**, **Fountain…**, or **Final Draft…**.

***

## Quill AI Issues

### Problem: "Insufficient credits" error

**Cause**: Your monthly Quill AI credit allocation is depleted.

**Solutions**:

* Wait until your billing date (Pro) or the 1st of the month (Free) for credits to reset.
* Purchase a credit pack (**Inkwell → Settings…** → **Account** → **Buy Credits**).
* Upgrade to Pro (**Inkwell → Settings…** → **Account** → **Upgrade to Pro**).

### Problem: Quill AI won't open or load

**Possible causes**:

* Internet connection is offline (Quill requires an internet connection).
* Network firewall or VPN is blocking the API request.

**Solutions**:

<Steps>
  <Step title="Check internet connection">
    Verify that your Mac is connected to the internet.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Toggle Quill Panel">
    Press `Cmd+]` to close and reopen the Quill AI panel to force a reconnection attempt.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Check for updates">
    Go to **Inkwell → Check for Updates…** to ensure you are running the latest desktop client.
  </Step>
</Steps>

***

## Formatting Issues

### Problem: Text won't format as dialogue

**Cause**: Inkwell auto-detects element types based on screenplay formatting conventions.

**Solutions**:

* Character names must be in ALL CAPS on their own line.
* Dialogue must follow directly on the line below the character's name.
* Do not leave blank lines between the character name and their dialogue.

***

## Performance & Display Issues

### Problem: Screenplay rendering feels laggy

**Solutions**:

* **Disable typewriter scrolling**: Turn off typewriter scrolling via **View → Typewriter Scrolling** to reduce vertical page jumps during heavy edits.
* **Adjust zoom**: Reset your zoom to 100% (`Cmd+Opt+0`) to reduce GPU rendering load.
* **Restart Inkwell**: Quit the app (`Cmd+Q`) and reopen it to flush temporary memory.

***

## Auto-Save Issues

### Problem: Save indicator shows an error

**Possible causes**:

* Disk permissions issue.
* Drive where script is stored was disconnected (e.g., an external drive or cloud drive).

**Solutions**:

* Try saving to a new location using **File → Export**.
* Move your script folder to your local **Documents** folder to resolve permissions issues.
* Manually trigger a save with `Cmd+S`.

***

## General Recovery Steps

### Lost Work Recovery

<Steps>
  <Step title="Check script history">
    Open Finder, go to the folder where your script is saved, and look for the `.ink-history` directory. This contains automatic checkpoints of your writing.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Check Time Machine">
    If you use macOS Time Machine, you can roll back your script folder to an earlier hour.
  </Step>
</Steps>

### Resetting App Settings

If you experience persistent configuration issues, you can reset Inkwell's preferences back to factory defaults:

<Warning>
  This will reset your custom themes, shortcuts, and settings, but it will **never** delete your screenplay files.
</Warning>

1. Quit Inkwell (`Cmd+Q`).
2. Open the **Terminal** app on your Mac.
3. Paste the following command and press Enter:
   ```bash theme={null}
   defaults delete tech.rundquist.InkwellEditor
   ```
4. Reopen Inkwell.

***

## Get Help

If your issue persists:

* **Email Support**: [support@inkwell.app](mailto:support@inkwell.app)
* **Updates**: Check **Inkwell → Check for Updates…** (or the Mac App Store updates tab).

***

## Next Steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="FAQ" icon="question" href="/reference/faq">
    Common questions and answers
  </Card>

  <Card title="Keyboard Shortcuts" icon="keyboard" href="/reference/keyboard-shortcuts">
    Master Inkwell shortcuts
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Inkwell Reader (iOS Companion)
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/sides/inkwell-reader

Read your scripts, browse scene outlines, and chat with Quill AI on the go.

Inkwell Reader (also referred to as **Sides**) is the official iOS companion app for iPhone and iPad. Built specifically for writers, actors, directors, and crew, it allows you to carry your screenplays in your pocket without sacrificing industry-standard formatting.

## Key Features

* **True Screenplay Layout**: Unlike standard PDF viewers, Inkwell Reader lays out Fountain and native `.ink` files with precise margins, proper dual-dialogue placement, and page breaks.
* **Outline Drawer**: Swipe from the left or tap the list icon to view your script's scene headings and jump directly to any scene.
* **Full-Text Search**: Instantly find character names, dialogue, or action descriptions across your entire screenplay.
* **Files App Integration**: Open scripts directly from iCloud Drive, Dropbox, or your local device storage.
* **Reading Themes**: Switch between **Paper**, **Sepia**, **Focus**, and **Midnight** (dark mode) themes, and adjust text size for comfortable reading.
* **Offline First**: All scripts are cached locally on your device, allowing you to read on set or in transit without an internet connection.

***

## Quill AI on iOS (Read-Only)

Bring your creative assistant with you. When you sign in to your Inkwell account, you can access your Quill chat threads right alongside your screenplay.

* **Creative Partner**: Ask Quill about character motivation, scene pacing, or theme ideas as you read.
* **Read-Only Safety**: To protect your script's integrity while on the go, Quill chat on iOS is read-only. It can reference your script and suggest improvements, but it will never write changes directly to your active `.ink` file.
* **Cross-Device Sync**: Your Quill conversation history automatically syncs between your Mac and iOS devices.

***

## Getting Started

### 1. Download the App

Search for **Inkwell Reader** on the App Store (available for iPhone and iPad running iOS 16 or later).

### 2. Import Your Scripts

You can open scripts in Inkwell Reader in two ways:

* **Files app**: Tap any `.ink`, `.fountain`, or `.pdf` file in the iOS Files app, and choose **Open in Inkwell Reader**.
* **In-App Picker**: Open Inkwell Reader and tap the folder icon to browse and open files.

### 3. Generate "Sides" from your Mac

If you are working on a production set and need physical or digital "Sides" (the specific pages being shot on a given day):

1. In the Mac application, open your script and choose **File → Generate Sides…**
2. Select the character to highlight.
3. Configure highlight options (bold cues, yellow highlights, or margin bars) to make the lines stand out.
4. Export the resulting PDF directly to your iOS device via AirDrop or iCloud Drive to read it in Inkwell Reader.

***

## Customize Your Reading Experience

Tap the **Settings (gear) icon** in the top-right corner of the Reader screen to adjust:

* **Font Size**: Pinch-to-zoom on the screenplay page, or use the font size slider in Settings.
* **App Themes**:
  * **Paper**: High-contrast black text on a clean white page.
  * **Sepia**: Warm, low-strain background for reading in sunlight.
  * **Focus**: Minimal layout with soft gray backgrounds.
  * **Midnight**: Pitch-black theme designed for dark rooms or night shoots.

***

## FAQ

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Can I edit my script on iOS?">
    No. Inkwell Reader is a read-only viewer designed to optimize the reading and review experience. To write or edit your script, use the macOS native desktop application.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Does PDF viewing support outlines?">
    Yes! Text-based PDFs will display their extracted scene headings in the outline drawer, although Fountain and `.ink` formats offer the most accurate and responsive outline navigation.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="How do I sync files between my Mac and iPhone?">
    Save your `.ink` or `.fountain` files to a cloud storage provider (like iCloud Drive, Google Drive, or Dropbox) from your Mac. You can then open those files directly in Inkwell Reader on your iOS device via Files.app integration.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Do I need an account to use the app?">
    No. You can read, search, and navigate your scripts completely offline and signed out. An Inkwell account is only required if you want to use the optional Quill AI assistant.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

***

## Next Steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Exporting PDF & Sides" icon="file-export" href="/managing-files/exporting-files">
    Learn how to generate and export sides on Mac
  </Card>

  <Card title="Using Quill AI" icon="comments" href="/quill-ai/using-quill">
    Learn how to brainstorm and interact with Quill
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Support & Contact
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/support

Get help with Inkwell through in-app feedback, email, or community resources.

Need help with Inkwell? We're here to assist! Choose the method that works best for you.

Need help with Inkwell? We're here to assist! Choose the method that works best for you.

## Email Support

For technical support, account/billing issues, feature requests, or private matters:

**Email**: [support@inkwell.app](mailto:support@inkwell.app)\
**Privacy concerns**: [privacy@rundquist.tech](mailto:privacy@rundquist.tech)

**Response time**: Typically within 24–48 hours (business days). Pro plan users receive priority support.

### What to include in your bug report:

* **Inkwell version**: Found under **Inkwell → About Inkwell**
* **Operating system**: Your macOS version
* **Description**: What happened, and what you expected to happen
* **Steps to reproduce**: How we can duplicate the issue on our end
* **Attachments**: If relevant, attach the `.ink` file or screenshots/screen recordings showing the issue

***

## Community Resources

### Documentation

You're already here! Search the docs for answers to most questions.

* Check the [FAQ](/reference/faq)
* Browse [Troubleshooting](/reference/troubleshooting)
* Review [Keyboard Shortcuts](/reference/keyboard-shortcuts)

***

## Report a Security Issue

Found a security vulnerability? Please email [security@rundquist.tech](mailto:security@rundquist.tech) with details. We take security seriously and will respond promptly.

***

## Feature Requests

We love hearing your ideas! To suggest a feature, email [support@inkwell.app](mailto:support@inkwell.app) with:

* A description of the feature
* Your use case (why you need it and how it improves your writing workflow)
* Any reference examples from other applications

***

## Account & Billing Questions

For questions about:

* Upgrades, downgrades, and cancellations
* Credit balance issues
* Payment history or receipts

**Stripe billing**: Email [support@inkwell.app](mailto:support@inkwell.app) or log into your account settings via **Inkwell → Settings…** → **Account**.

**App Store subscriptions**:
If you subscribed to Pro directly through the Mac App Store, your billing is managed securely by Apple:

* On your Mac: Open **System Settings** → click your **Apple Account (Name)** → **Media & Purchases** → **Manage Subscriptions**.
* Learn more at [Apple Support](https://support.apple.com/billing).

***

## Self-Service Resources

Before reaching out, these links might help:

* [Troubleshooting Guide](/reference/troubleshooting)
* [FAQ](/reference/faq)
* [Quickstart](/quickstart)
* [Using Quill AI](/quill-ai/using-quill)
* [Credits & Billing](/quill-ai/credits-billing)


# What's New
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/whats-new/overview

Release notes and new features in Inkwell.

The latest improvements to Inkwell — new features, refinements, and fixes.

<Tip>
  Inkwell updates automatically. Open **Inkwell → Check for Updates…** any time to install the latest version manually.
</Tip>

## Latest releases

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="v1.5.5 — Know what you wrote" icon="sparkles" href="/whats-new/v1-5-5">
    Authorship shows which words are yours, which are Quill's and which were pasted; Production Highlight and Style Check read your action lines; Focus gets its own menu; and PDF imports stop inventing characters. Released September 26, 2026.
  </Card>

  <Card title="v1.5.4 — Centered lines behave" icon="sparkles" href="/whats-new/v1-5-4">
    Editing around centered text no longer breaks it, acts and sequences round-trip cleanly through Final Draft, and the update reminder stops nagging every hour. Released August 23, 2026.
  </Card>

  <Card title="v1.5.3 — A fix that couldn't wait" icon="sparkles" href="/whats-new/v1-5-3">
    Repairs a bug in 1.5.1 and 1.5.2 that could crash Inkwell the moment it opened — caught and fixed the same day. Your scripts were never at risk. Released August 14, 2026.
  </Card>

  <Card title="v1.5.2 — Sync that respects every account" icon="sparkles" href="/whats-new/v1-5-2">
    Account switching now keeps each account's sync settings and encryption keys cleanly separate, with honest messaging when a script belongs to another account. Released August 14, 2026 — currently paused while we fix a launch issue; a corrected update is on its way.
  </Card>

  <Card title="v1.5.0 — Encrypted cloud sync" icon="sparkles" href="/whats-new/v1-5-0">
    Your scripts now sync across your devices, end-to-end encrypted with a key only your devices hold — plus faithful Final Draft round-trips and a cleaner PDF import. Released August 12, 2026.
  </Card>

  <Card title="v1.4.0 — PDF import, rebuilt from the ground up" icon="sparkles" href="/whats-new/v1-4-0">
    A new import engine that understands your script's layout — dual dialogue, stage plays, and shooting scripts come in clean — plus writing streaks and condensed sides. Released July 23, 2026.
  </Card>

  <Card title="v1.3.2 — Updates greet you at launch" icon="sparkles" href="/whats-new/v1-3-2">
    Inkwell now checks for updates the moment you open it, so new versions are offered before you start writing. Released July 12, 2026.
  </Card>

  <Card title="v1.3.1 — The reliability release" icon="sparkles" href="/whats-new/v1-3-1">
    A deep polish pass across the whole app — dozens of fixes to writing, importing, saving, and Quill. Released July 12, 2026.
  </Card>

  <Card title="v1.3.0 — Your free week, right where you write" icon="sparkles" href="/whats-new/v1-3-0">
    Your free week of Quill Pro is now offered throughout the app, so it is easy to find and start whenever you are ready. Released July 11, 2026.
  </Card>

  <Card title="v1.2.2 — Try Quill free for a week" icon="sparkles" href="/whats-new/v1-2-2">
    Start with a free week of Quill Pro, no card required. Simpler pay-as-you-go pricing, and sign in with Apple or Google right in the app. Released July 10, 2026.
  </Card>

  <Card title="v1.1.5 — Better PDF imports" icon="sparkles" href="/whats-new/v1-1-5">
    Scripts that used to import skewed or scrambled now come in clean, with a progress bar and the option to cancel. Released July 7, 2026.
  </Card>

  <Card title="v1.1.4 — Sign-in recovery and shooting-script imports" icon="sparkles" href="/whats-new/v1-1-4">
    Finish signing in by hand if the browser ever stalls, and import shooting scripts whose scene headings carry scene numbers. Released June 26, 2026.
  </Card>

  <Card title="v1.1.3 — Smoother scrolling" icon="sparkles" href="/whats-new/v1-1-3">
    Scrolling through long scripts is noticeably smoother, and the Characters sidebar no longer causes stutter. Released June 14, 2026.
  </Card>

  <Card title="v1.1.2 — Windows that just work" icon="sparkles" href="/whats-new/v1-1-2">
    Reliable open/close/quit with no stray or empty windows, a clean editor titlebar, dependable file opening, and the Writing Streak card is back. Released June 7, 2026.
  </Card>

  <Card title="v1.1.1 — Polish for the smarter editor" icon="sparkles" href="/whats-new/v1-1-1">
    The outline keeps up as you type, more transitions auto-format, autocomplete stops suggesting (CONT'D), and the Dock icon behaves. Released June 6, 2026.
  </Card>

  <Card title="v1.1.0 — The editor that knows screenplays" icon="sparkles" href="/whats-new/v1-1-0">
    Autocomplete for character names and locations, smart Tab, auto-formatting for scene headings and transitions, industry-standard spacing, and a noticeably faster editor. Released June 6, 2026.
  </Card>

  <Card title="v1.0.5 — Quill gets attachments, credits get honest" icon="sparkles" href="/whats-new/v1-0-5">
    PDF and image attachments in Quill, credit balance visible everywhere, a new Settings window, and a top-to-bottom billing audit. Released May 18, 2026.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Older releases

Earlier releases pre-date the published release notes. From v1.0.5 onward, each version's notes will land here.


# v1.0.5 — Quill gets attachments, credits get honest
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/whats-new/v1-0-5

Drop PDFs and images into a Quill conversation, see your credit balance everywhere it matters, and settle into a cleaner Settings window.

<Note>
  Released **May 18, 2026** · [Download the latest version](https://inkwell.app/download)
</Note>

## Highlights

This release is mostly about **Quill** — the AI writing partner inside Inkwell. You can now drop a PDF or an image straight into a conversation, click an attachment chip to preview it full-size, and see exactly how many credits you have left in both the account menu and the Quill panel itself. Billing and the credit ledger got a top-to-bottom audit so the number on screen matches the work you've actually done.

## New

* **PDF and image attachments in Quill.** Drag a PDF, screenshot, or reference image into the Quill composer and Quill will read it as part of your turn. Click the attachment chip in any past message to open it in a preview sheet without leaving the conversation.
* **Credit balance in plain sight.** Your remaining credits now show in the account chip at the top-right of every window and inside the Quill panel — no more digging into your profile to find out where you stand.
* **A real Settings window.** Settings now lives in a dedicated window with all your preferences — editor behavior, autosave, account — grouped into clear sections. Open it from the **Inkwell** menu or with `⌘,`.
* **Save-on-quit prompt.** Close a window with unsaved changes (`⌘W`) or quit Inkwell (`⌘Q`) and you'll get a prompt to save first. Pairs with the autosave toggle if you've turned autosave off.
* **Help menu shortcuts.** New **Help → What's New in Inkwell** and **Help → Inkwell Documentation** menu items take you straight to release notes and the docs site you're reading right now.

## Improved

* **Quill writes better, by default.** A built-in writing-focused system prompt now ships with every conversation, so Quill stays on-task as your screenplay collaborator without you having to re-explain context each time.
* **Quill conversations feel faster and cheaper.** A rolling prompt cache keeps recent context warm between turns, which means quicker responses and lower credit cost on follow-up questions in the same thread.
* **Smarter long-conversation handling.** When a thread gets long enough that it starts costing more per turn, Quill will tell you — and offers to summarize older context so you can keep going without blowing your budget.
* **Cleaner Quill panel.** Sending an attachment-only turn no longer leaves a blank message bubble behind. Image previews scale to fit instead of overflowing the panel. Clicking the empty space around the composer focuses the text field the way you'd expect.

## Fixed

* **Quitting Inkwell no longer hangs.** A background sync process could occasionally keep Inkwell alive for several seconds after you quit. Quit is now instant.
* **No more ghost editor on launch.** Opening Inkwell could briefly show an empty editor window behind the project picker. The picker now opens cleanly on its own.
* **Quit confirmation respects the launcher.** Closing only the startup picker (with no documents open) no longer asks "are you sure?" — it just quits.
* **Billing returns you to the right place.** After managing your subscription with Stripe, you'll land back on your profile page instead of a missing `/account` URL.
* **Credit balance now reflects your actual usage.** Several places that read your balance from the wrong source could show a stale number; everything now reads from the same credit ledger so the value on your account chip, your profile, and your receipts all agree.

***

<Tip>
  See [all releases](/whats-new/overview) for the full history.
</Tip>


# v1.1.0 — The editor that knows screenplays
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/whats-new/v1-1-0

Autocomplete for names and locations, smart Tab, auto-formatting, industry-standard spacing, and a noticeably faster editor.

<Note>
  Released **June 6, 2026** · [Download the latest version](https://inkwell.app/download)
</Note>

## Highlights

This release is all about the **writing experience**. Inkwell now understands the shape of a screenplay as you type: it suggests character names and locations before you finish typing them, formats scene headings and transitions for you, and lays out every element at the spacing the industry expects. Add a smarter Tab key and a meaningfully faster editor, and the page just gets out of your way.

## New

* **Autocomplete as you type.** Start a character cue, scene heading, or wryline and Inkwell offers the rest in a floating glass list. It completes **character names** already in your script, **locations** and **times of day** in scene headings (`INT. KIT…` → `KITCHEN`, `… - N` → `NIGHT`), and the usual extensions — **(V.O.)**, **(O.S.)**, **(CONT'D)**, **(MORE)**. Use ↑/↓ to choose and **Tab** or **Return** to accept; **Esc** dismisses. It stays quiet until you've typed a few characters, so it never gets in your way.
* **Smart Tab for parentheticals.** Tab onto an empty dialogue line and Inkwell drops in `()` with the cursor already between the parentheses, ready for the wryline. Changed your mind? Tab again on the empty `()` and it clears itself.
* **(CONT'D) handled for you.** When the same character speaks twice in a row across a break, Inkwell adds the `(CONT'D)` tag automatically.
* **See the element you're on.** When you cycle a line's type with Tab, a small label flashes up — `SCENE HEADING`, `ACTION`, `CHARACTER` — so you always know what you just changed it to, even as the text shifts.

## Improved

* **Auto-formatting that matches the rules.** Scene headings and transitions now uppercase themselves as you type — no more shouting at the caps-lock key.
* **Industry-standard spacing.** Dialogue, parentheticals, and character cues now sit at the exact margins Final Draft and the WGA use, so a page in Inkwell looks like a page everywhere else — and your page counts line up.
* **Room to breathe.** Press Return at the end of a scene heading or a line of dialogue and Inkwell leaves a blank line and lands you on the next element — the rhythm you'd expect, without hitting Return twice.
* **Songs stay together.** A block of lyrics no longer gets split awkwardly across a page break when it could sit whole on the next page.
* **A faster page.** The first character of a new paragraph no longer stutters, and pagination now does its work quietly in the background instead of competing with your typing. Long scripts feel noticeably snappier.

## Fixed

* **Scene headings recognize themselves sooner.** Typing just `INT.` now promotes the line to a scene heading, and the line no longer flickers as a character cue while you type `INT.`/`EXT.`.
* **Cleaner Quill threads.** Deleting a Quill conversation now fully removes it, and an empty thread shows a proper starting state instead of leftover scraps.

***

<Tip>
  See [all releases](/whats-new/overview) for the full history.
</Tip>


# v1.1.1 — Polish for the smarter editor
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/whats-new/v1-1-1

The outline keeps up as you type, transitions like QUICK CUT TO: format themselves, autocomplete stops suggesting (CONT'D), and the Dock icon behaves.

<Note>
  Released **June 6, 2026** · [Download the latest version](https://inkwell.app/download)
</Note>

## Highlights

A round of fixes for the new editor features in 1.1.0 — the outline now tracks your scenes in real time, more transitions auto-format, autocomplete is tidier, and clicking the Dock icon does the obvious thing.

## Improved

* **More transitions format themselves.** Any line ending in `TO:` is now recognized as a transition — so `QUICK CUT TO:`, `JUMP CUT TO:`, `TIME CUT TO:`, `BACK TO:`, and `FADE IN:` right-align automatically, not just `CUT TO:` and `DISSOLVE TO:`. (You can still force any line with a leading `>`.)

## Fixed

* **The outline keeps up as you type.** Adding or editing a scene heading now updates the outline, scene count, and word count immediately — previously they could lag behind until the page re-paginated.
* **Autocomplete stops suggesting `(CONT'D)`.** Typing a character name no longer offers `NAME (CONT'D)` or `NAME (V.O.)` as a completion — it suggests the bare character name, the way it should.
* **The Dock icon behaves.** Clicking Inkwell in the Dock while a script is open now just brings your editor back to the front. It no longer pops open the startup window over your work, or spawns extra empty editor windows.

***

<Tip>
  See [all releases](/whats-new/overview) for the full history.
</Tip>


# v1.1.2 — Windows that just work
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/whats-new/v1-1-2

A ground-up fix for window behavior — reliable quit, no stray windows, a clean editor titlebar — plus your Writing Streak is back.

<Note>
  Released **June 7, 2026** · [Download the latest version](https://inkwell.app/download)
</Note>

## Highlights

This release rebuilds how Inkwell manages its windows so they behave the way you expect: the app opens to the start screen, closing and quitting do exactly what they say, and you never end up with stray or empty windows. The Writing Streak card on the start screen is working again too.

## Improved

* **Opening, closing, and quitting just work.** New Screenplay always opens a single editor, clicking the Dock icon brings the right window forward, and there are no more phantom or empty windows. The surprise "are you sure you want to quit?" prompt is gone.
* **A cleaner first launch.** Finishing — or skipping — the welcome screens now lands you on the start screen to choose a script, instead of dropping you into an untitled blank document.

## Fixed

* **The app quits when you ask it to.** Closing the start window or pressing ⌘Q now reliably quits Inkwell, instead of leaving it running with no window on screen.
* **The editor titlebar is clear.** "Inkwell Editor" no longer overlaps the controls at the top of your script.
* **Opening a script is dependable.** Opening a file from Finder, on launch, or from Recent Files reliably opens it in an editor — and an unsupported file sends you to the start screen instead of showing an error.
* **Your Writing Streak is back.** The streak card on the start screen again shows your real current streak, record, and total writing time. Signed out? It now offers **Log In** and **Create Account** right there.

***

<Tip>
  See [all releases](/whats-new/overview) for the full history.
</Tip>


# v1.1.3 — Smoother scrolling
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/whats-new/v1-1-3

Scrolling through long scripts is noticeably smoother, and the Characters sidebar no longer causes stutter.

<Note>
  Released **June 14, 2026** · [Download the latest version](https://inkwell.app/download)
</Note>

## Highlights

Scrolling is faster and smoother — especially in long scripts. Inkwell now does far less work on every frame as you scroll, so the editor stays fluid no matter how big your screenplay gets.

## Improved

* **Smoother scrolling in long scripts.** The editor now only draws what's actually on screen as you scroll, instead of working through the whole document each frame. The longer your script, the bigger the difference.
* **The Characters sidebar keeps up.** Having the Characters list open no longer causes the editor to stutter while you scroll.

***

<Tip>
  See [all releases](/whats-new/overview) for the full history.
</Tip>


# v1.1.4 — Sign-in recovery and shooting-script imports
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/whats-new/v1-1-4

Finish signing in by hand if the browser ever stalls, and import shooting scripts whose scene headings carry scene numbers.

<Note>
  Released **June 26, 2026** · [Download the latest version](https://inkwell.app/download)
</Note>

## Highlights

Signing in is more dependable, and there's now a way to finish by hand if the browser ever fails to hand you back. Plus, shooting scripts and sides that number their scene headings now import the way you'd expect.

## New

* **Finish signing in by hand.** When you sign in, Inkwell opens your browser and waits for it to pass you back to the app. On most setups that happens automatically. But a VPN, a non-default browser, or signing in across two machines can break that hand-off and leave you stuck. Now you can copy the sign-in token shown on the web page and paste it straight into Inkwell. Look for **Enter token manually…** next to the Sign In button, in the welcome screens, the startup window, and the **Account** menu.

## Fixed

* **Shooting scripts and sides now import.** A PDF whose scene headings start with a scene number, like `31 INT. CHAMBER - DAY`, was being read as having no scenes at all, so the import came back empty. Inkwell now recognizes those numbered headings, and scripts like these import properly.

***

<Tip>
  See [all releases](/whats-new/overview) for the full history.
</Tip>


# v1.1.5 — Better PDF imports
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/whats-new/v1-1-5

Scripts that used to import skewed or scrambled now come in clean, with a progress bar and the option to cancel.

<Note>
  Released **July 7, 2026** · [Download the latest version](https://inkwell.app/download)
</Note>

## Highlights

Importing a screenplay from PDF is far more dependable in this release. Scripts that used to come in skewed or scrambled now import cleanly, you can watch the progress while it works, and you can cancel a long import if you change your mind.

## New

* **See progress when you import a PDF.** Importing a long script now shows a progress bar so you can tell it's working, and you can cancel partway through instead of waiting it out.

## Improved

* **Cleaner line breaks from PDF imports.** Inkwell is smarter about where sentences really end when it rebuilds a script from a PDF, so fewer lines get wrongly stitched together.

## Fixed

* **PDFs no longer import skewed or scrambled.** Some layouts imported with lines shifted, slanted, or overlapping. Those now come in clean.
* **Character cues with two extensions are recognized.** A cue like `RICKY (V.O.) (CONT'D)` was being read as ordinary action. Inkwell now handles cues that carry two parentheticals, both when you import a script and as you type.
* **Dialogue near a page break is no longer covered up.** The `(MORE)` and `(CONT'D)` continuation markers were being drawn on top of your dialogue in the editor. They're gone from the editor now, and still print correctly when you export to PDF.

***

<Tip>
  See [all releases](/whats-new/overview) for the full history.
</Tip>


# v1.2.0 — Try Quill free for a week
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/whats-new/v1-2-0

Start with a free week of Quill Pro, no card required. Simpler pay-as-you-go pricing, and sign in with Apple or Google right in the app.

<Note>
  Released **July 9, 2026** · [Download the latest version](https://inkwell.app/download)
</Note>

## Highlights

Getting started with Quill just got a lot simpler. Every new account can now begin with a **free week of Quill Pro**: 500 credits, no card, nothing to cancel. It is enough to actually put Quill to work on a real draft and see how it fits the way you write before you decide anything. The editor itself stays free forever, and when you want to keep using Quill after the week, you choose how you pay for it.

## New

* **Start a free week of Quill Pro, no card.** When you create an account, you can start a seven-day trial of Quill Pro with one tap. You get 500 credits, there is nothing to enter and nothing to cancel, and when the week ends you simply drop back to the free editor.
* **Sign in with Apple or Google, right in the app.** No more bouncing out to a browser to create an account. Continue with Apple or Google straight from the welcome screen, and your account and any credits follow you across your devices.
* **A nudge to your free week when you need it.** If you reach for Quill before you have started your trial, Inkwell offers you the free week right there, instead of asking you to buy anything.

## Improved

* **Simpler, more honest pricing.** The full editor is free forever: writing, formatting, importing, exporting, unlimited scripts, all offline. Quill runs on credits, and you only spend them when Quill actually answers, never while you type. After your free week, keep Quill going with a $4.99 credit pack (150 credits, no subscription) or Quill Pro ($10/month, or \$100/year, for 500 credits a month).
* **A clearer welcome.** The first-run experience walks you through signing in and starting your free week without clutter, and explains up front exactly what Quill will and will not do.

***

<Tip>
  See [all releases](/whats-new/overview) for the full history.
</Tip>


# v1.2.1 — Try Quill free for a week
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/whats-new/v1-2-1

Start with a free week of Quill Pro, no card required. Simpler pay-as-you-go pricing, and sign in with Apple or Google right in the app.

<Note>
  Released **July 9, 2026** · [Download the latest version](https://inkwell.app/download)
</Note>

## Highlights

Getting started with Quill just got a lot simpler. Every new account can now begin with a **free week of Quill Pro**: 500 credits, no card, nothing to cancel. It is enough to actually put Quill to work on a real draft and see how it fits the way you write before you decide anything. The editor itself stays free forever, and when you want to keep using Quill after the week, you choose how you pay for it.

## New

* **Start a free week of Quill Pro, no card.** When you create an account, you can start a seven-day trial of Quill Pro with one tap. You get 500 credits, there is nothing to enter and nothing to cancel, and when the week ends you simply drop back to the free editor.
* **Sign in with Apple or Google, right in the app.** No more bouncing out to a browser to create an account. Continue with Apple or Google straight from the welcome screen, and your account and any credits follow you across your devices.
* **A nudge to your free week when you need it.** If you reach for Quill before you have started your trial, Inkwell offers you the free week right there, instead of asking you to buy anything.

## Improved

* **Simpler, more honest pricing.** The full editor is free forever: writing, formatting, importing, exporting, unlimited scripts, all offline. Quill runs on credits, and you only spend them when Quill actually answers, never while you type. After your free week, keep Quill going with a $4.99 credit pack (150 credits, no subscription) or Quill Pro ($10/month, or \$100/year, for 500 credits a month).
* **A clearer welcome.** The first-run experience walks you through signing in and starting your free week without clutter, and explains up front exactly what Quill will and will not do.
* **Under the hood.** Small reliability and diagnostics improvements so we can keep making Inkwell better. Your writing experience is unchanged, and analytics stay optional in Settings.

***

<Tip>
  See [all releases](/whats-new/overview) for the full history.
</Tip>


# v1.2.2 — Try Quill free for a week
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/whats-new/v1-2-2

Start with a free week of Quill Pro, no card required. Simpler pay-as-you-go pricing, and sign in with Apple or Google right in the app.

<Note>
  Released **July 10, 2026** · [Download the latest version](https://inkwell.app/download)
</Note>

## Highlights

Getting started with Quill just got a lot simpler. Every new account can now begin with a **free week of Quill Pro**: 500 credits, no card, nothing to cancel. It is enough to actually put Quill to work on a real draft and see how it fits the way you write before you decide anything. The editor itself stays free forever, and when you want to keep using Quill after the week, you choose how you pay for it.

## New

* **Start a free week of Quill Pro, no card.** When you create an account, you can start a seven-day trial of Quill Pro with one tap. You get 500 credits, there is nothing to enter and nothing to cancel, and when the week ends you simply drop back to the free editor.
* **Sign in with Apple or Google, right in the app.** No more bouncing out to a browser to create an account. Continue with Apple or Google straight from the welcome screen, and your account and any credits follow you across your devices.
* **A nudge to your free week when you need it.** If you reach for Quill before you have started your trial, Inkwell offers you the free week right there, instead of asking you to buy anything.

## Improved

* **Simpler, more honest pricing.** The full editor is free forever: writing, formatting, importing, exporting, unlimited scripts, all offline. Quill runs on credits, and you only spend them when Quill actually answers, never while you type. After your free week, keep Quill going with a $4.99 credit pack (150 credits, no subscription) or Quill Pro ($10/month, or \$100/year, for 500 credits a month).
* **Smoother sign-in.** Signing in from the app is more reliable, and your account connects to Inkwell more cleanly the first time.
* **Under the hood.** Reliability and diagnostics improvements so we can keep making Inkwell better. Your writing experience is unchanged, and analytics stay optional in Settings.

***

<Tip>
  See [all releases](/whats-new/overview) for the full history.
</Tip>


# v1.3.0 — Your free week, right where you write
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/whats-new/v1-3-0

The free week of Quill Pro is now offered throughout the app, so it is easy to find and start whenever you are ready.

<Note>
  Released **July 11, 2026** · [Download the latest version](https://inkwell.app/download)
</Note>

## Highlights

If you made an Inkwell account a while ago and never got around to trying Quill, your free week of Quill Pro is still waiting, and now it is easy to find. Quill offers you the week right inside the editor: when you open the panel, from the account menu, and from Settings. One tap starts it. 500 credits, no card, nothing to cancel.

## New

* **Open Quill to your free week.** When you open the Quill panel and a free week is waiting, the panel greets you with it instead of an empty page. Start your week in one tap and keep writing.
* **A quiet marker so you know it is there.** A small dot on the Quill button, with a one-time hello, points you to your free week the first time and then stays out of your way.
* **Start your week from anywhere.** Your free week is now offered from the account menu in the status bar and from Settings, not only when you first sign up.
* **Go Pro when you are ready.** If you would rather skip the trial and go straight to Quill Pro, there is now a direct path from the account menu and from Settings.

## Improved

* **Running low never loses your place.** If you run out of credits in the middle of a conversation, Quill keeps your chat on screen and offers your free week, or a quick top-up, right where you left off, instead of clearing the panel.
* **The right offer at the right time.** Writers who have a free week available are always offered the week first, never asked to buy something they could have for free.

## Fixed

* **Update prompts work again.** Inkwell now checks for new versions on its own and tells you when one is ready, so you are not left sitting on an old build. You can still check any time from Inkwell, Check for Updates.

***

<Tip>
  See [all releases](/whats-new/overview) for the full history.
</Tip>


# v1.3.1 — The reliability release
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/whats-new/v1-3-1

A deep polish pass across the whole app: dozens of fixes to writing, importing, saving, and Quill, so everything just works the way you expect.

<Note>
  Released **July 12, 2026** · [Download the latest version](https://inkwell.app/download)
</Note>

## Highlights

We went hunting. This release is the result of a full-app reliability sweep — from the keystrokes you type, to the PDFs you import, to the moment you quit with unsaved work. Nothing flashy, everything sturdier: your words, your formatting, and your revision marks now survive every path through the app we could think to test.

## Improved

* **Rename a character everywhere, actually everywhere.** When Quill proposes an edit that matches several places — like renaming a character across the whole script — accepting it now applies every occurrence, not just the first.
* **PDF import got noticeably smarter.** Paragraphs no longer merge together across page breaks, dialogue that continues onto a new page stays dialogue, cold opens and teaser pages before the first scene heading are kept instead of skipped, and scripts with tight top margins no longer lose their first line on every page.
* **Tab into parentheticals that stick.** Pressing Tab to turn a line into a parenthetical now wraps it in parentheses for you, so it reads correctly on the page and stays a parenthetical after you save and reopen.
* **Your old version history comes along.** Opening a script from the previous version of Inkwell now carries its saved version history into the new system instead of leaving it behind.

## Fixed

**In the editor**

* Typing `@`, `.`, `!`, `>` or `~` over selected text now replaces the selection like any other key, instead of leaving the old text in place.
* Marking, committing, or clearing revisions now counts as unsaved work — closing the window right afterward asks you to save instead of silently discarding it.
* Centered text and section heading levels now survive saving, reopening, and export.
* Locked scene numbers now stay put on the page, and locking or unlocking a number can be undone cleanly.
* Changing a character's highlight color no longer washes out revision marks.
* Find now sees characters who only speak in dual dialogue, and can filter by them.
* Dragging scenes in the outline no longer garbles text when your script doesn't end on an empty line.
* Text dropped or dictated into the script now formats every line, not just the last one.
* Undo now works when you change the type of an empty line.

**In Quill**

* Cancelling an answer and immediately sending a new message no longer makes your new message disappear.
* Accepting or rejecting a suggested edit is now a single, clean undo step — and no longer leaves stray blank lines behind.
* A brief hiccup mid-answer no longer leaves an error banner under a perfectly good response, and Retry now re-sends your attachments too.
* If your subscription info fails to load, Quill now says so and offers a retry instead of failing quietly.
* If a card payment is retrying, you keep Quill Pro during the grace period instead of being locked out.

**When importing**

* Fountain files with multi-line title pages now import their title page instead of dumping it into the script.
* Text inside `/* boneyard */` comments stays hidden on import.
* An all-caps action line ending in a period — THE ROOM GOES DARK. — no longer turns into a phantom character cue.
* Final Draft paragraphs that start a new page keep their text.

**Around the app**

* ⌘N opens the new tab in the window you're actually using.
* ⌘F reliably opens Find, and the zoom shortcuts behave consistently.
* The System theme now follows macOS light and dark mode the moment it changes.
* Quitting with several unsaved scripts open now asks about every one of them.
* "Install and Restart" for updates no longer tangles with the quit confirmation — and if you're not ready, the update politely waits.

***

<Tip>
  See [all releases](/whats-new/overview) for the full history.
</Tip>


# v1.3.2 — Updates greet you at launch
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/whats-new/v1-3-2

Inkwell now checks for updates the moment you open it, so new versions are offered before you start writing — not in the middle of a sentence.

<Note>
  Released **July 12, 2026** · [Download the latest version](https://inkwell.app/download)
</Note>

## Improved

* **Updates arrive at the right moment.** Inkwell now checks for a new version each time you open it, so if an update is ready you hear about it before you start writing — not from a mid-session prompt that lands while you're mid-sentence. If you're already up to date, launch stays completely silent, and the hourly background check still covers those marathon sessions where the app stays open for days.

***

<Tip>
  See [all releases](/whats-new/overview) for the full history.
</Tip>


# v1.4.0 — PDF import, rebuilt from the ground up
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/whats-new/v1-4-0

A brand-new PDF import engine that understands your script's layout — dual dialogue, stage plays, and shooting scripts now come in clean — plus writing streaks and condensed sides.

<Note>
  Released **July 23, 2026** · [Download the latest version](https://inkwell.app/download)
</Note>

## Highlights

PDF import got a complete rebuild. Instead of reading a PDF line by line and
guessing, Inkwell now looks at **where text sits on the page** — the way you
do — so scripts that used to come in scrambled now import the way they were
written. Dual dialogue stays side-by-side, stage-play formats keep their
dialogue, and shooting scripts keep their scene numbers. Imports are faster,
too.

And Inkwell now keeps your **writing streak**: see your run of writing days
at a glance, and tell Inkwell which days should count.

## New

* **Writing streaks.** Your writing-day streak now shows with your writing
  stats, with milestones as you hit them. In **Settings ▸ Writing** you can
  set your cadence — which days of the week you intend to write — and
  forgiveness, so a planned day off doesn't break your run.
* **Condensed sides (cue scripts).** When exporting sides, pick performers
  from a multi-select dropdown and export a condensed cue script — with
  optional yellow highlighting and a margin bar on your performers' lines,
  just like marked-up table-read sides.

## Improved

* **Dual dialogue imports correctly.** Side-by-side speeches used to import
  interleaved or collapse into one speaker. They now come in as two clean,
  paired speeches — every time.
* **Stage plays and theatrical formats.** Scripts with full-width dialogue
  and centered character names (common in stage-play templates) used to
  import as a wall of action. Inkwell now learns each document's layout, so
  dialogue is dialogue.
* **Reading order is trusted again.** Some PDFs put a character's name in
  the middle of the sentence beneath it, or split one line into scrambled
  fragments. Imports now follow the page's real layout, so sentences read
  in order.
* **Shooting scripts keep their scene numbers**, `SCENE 1`-style theatrical
  slugs are recognized as scene headings, and `OMIT` slugs come in clean.
* **Page-break speeches are stitched.** A speech split across a page break
  with `(MORE)` / `(CONT'D)` now imports as one continuous speech, and
  stray `(CONT'D)` markers no longer pile up on character names.
* **Cleaner text.** Running headers, doubled page numbers, and revision
  stars no longer leak into your script's text, and hyphenated compounds
  like "screw-ups" survive line wraps intact.
* **Faster imports.** The new engine imports large scripts noticeably
  faster than before.

## Fixed

* Transitions like "FADE TO BLACK" without a trailing colon are no longer
  mistaken for character names.
* Shouted all-caps dialogue ("TEN SECONDS.") no longer imports as a
  character cue.
* Your local file paths are no longer stored with writing-session data —
  sessions are tracked with an anonymous identifier instead.

***

<Tip>
  See [all releases](/whats-new/overview) for the full history.
</Tip>


# v1.5.0 — Encrypted cloud sync
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/whats-new/v1-5-0

Your scripts now sync across your devices, end-to-end encrypted with a key only your devices hold — plus faithful Final Draft round-trips and a cleaner PDF import.

<Note>
  Released **August 12, 2026** · [Download the latest version](https://inkwell.app/download)
</Note>

## Highlights

Inkwell now syncs your scripts across your devices — and it does it without
giving up your privacy. When you turn sync on for a script, Inkwell encrypts
it **on your Mac** before it ever leaves. The key that opens it lives only on
your devices, so the copy we hold is encrypted bytes we can't read. Write on
your Mac at home, and your work is waiting on your laptop at the coffee shop —
and on your iPhone and iPad in Inkwell Reader.

Sync is **opt-in and off by default.** You decide which scripts sync, one at a
time. And your `.ink` files are still real files on your Mac — sync is a
convenient encrypted copy, never a replacement.

## New

* **Encrypted cloud sync.** Turn on sync for a script and it's encrypted on
  your Mac, then kept in step across every device you're signed in on. Only
  your devices hold the key, so nobody else — us included — can read what's
  stored. Flip it on per script from the sync badge, or set a default in
  **Settings ▸ Sync**.
* **Your library, on every device.** The Startup window now shows the scripts
  from your other devices alongside your recent files, each marked with a
  cloud icon. Click one that isn't on this Mac yet and it downloads on the
  spot.
* **A recovery kit for peace of mind.** Save a one-time recovery code and you
  can unlock your synced library on a brand-new Mac — even if you've signed
  out everywhere else. Inkwell walks you through saving it after your first
  sync, and you can generate a fresh one anytime in **Settings ▸ Sync**.
* **Sign in on your Mac.** Signing in to your Inkwell account on macOS is now
  a smooth, one-click hand-off through your browser — no codes to copy.
* **Guided setup.** New to Inkwell? Setup now offers to turn on sync as you
  get started, with a plain-language explanation of what syncs and what
  doesn't. Not now is always one click away.

## Improved

* **Final Draft files round-trip faithfully.** Import a `.fdx` and export it
  back, and far more of the script survives the trip: **revision sets and
  their colored marks**, scene numbers and numbering options, `(MORE)` /
  `(CONT'D)` breaks, **inline script notes**, dual dialogue, title pages, and
  stage- and TV-style elements. Exports even carry the SmartType autocomplete
  lists built from your script, so they land ready to keep writing in Final
  Draft.
* **Sharper PDF import.** Bold and italic passages in a PDF now come in as
  real emphasis, location numbers stay inside scene headings instead of
  leaking into the text, and font changes mid-line no longer insert stray
  spaces.
* **A calmer, more honest sync status.** The little cloud badge on each script
  tells you exactly where things stand — syncing, synced, waiting for network,
  or needs attention — and never claims "Synced" while a change is still on
  its way up.

## Fixed

* A script that couldn't reach the sync service now says so plainly and offers
  **Try Again**, instead of leaving you at a dead end.
* Turning sync **off** for a script now genuinely stays off.
* Removing a script from the cloud is clearly separated from turning sync
  off, so the two are never confused.
* Imported Final Draft title pages and scene headings are no longer dropped or
  mangled on the way in.

***

<Tip>
  See [all releases](/whats-new/overview) for the full history.
</Tip>


# v1.5.2 — Sync that respects every account
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/whats-new/v1-5-2

Account switching now keeps each account's sync settings and keys cleanly separate, honest messaging when a script belongs to another account, and files built to welcome what's next.

<Warning>
  **Update: fixed in 1.5.3.** Versions 1.5.1 and 1.5.2 contained a bug that
  could crash Inkwell the moment it opened. Version **1.5.3** fixes it and is
  rolling out automatically — open **Inkwell → Check for Updates…** to grab it
  right away. If Inkwell won't open at all, reinstall from
  [inkwell.app/download](https://inkwell.app/download). Your scripts are files
  on your Mac — none of your writing was ever at risk.
</Warning>

<Note>
  Released **August 14, 2026** · [Download the latest version](https://inkwell.app/download)
</Note>

## Highlights

If you ever sign in and out of different Inkwell accounts on the same Mac —
a personal account and a work one, or a test account for a collaboration —
this release makes that switch behave exactly the way you'd expect. Each
account now keeps its own sync choices and its own encryption keys, and
nothing about one account ever leaks into another.

*(This page covers both v1.5.1 and v1.5.2.)*

## Improved

* **Sync settings follow the account, not the machine.** Turning sync on
  (or declining it) is now remembered per account. A new account signing in
  on your Mac gets a fresh choice instead of inheriting someone else's.
* **Encryption keys are account-aware.** Switching accounts can never
  unlock a library with the wrong account's key — each account's key stays
  its own, and signing out still never erases anything.
* **Honest messaging for scripts from another account.** If a script on
  your Mac is synced by a different account, Inkwell now says so plainly —
  "Not in this account's cloud library" — and the button reads **Upload a
  new copy**, because that's what it does. Your words are always safe in
  the file on your Mac either way.

## Under the hood

* **Your files are ready for what's coming.** `.ink` files saved by this
  version now carry along any data added by future versions of Inkwell —
  so when upcoming features arrive, opening a script in an older copy of
  the app won't lose their work. (It's groundwork. Something's coming.)


# v1.5.3 — A fix that couldn't wait
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/whats-new/v1-5-3

Repairs a bug in 1.5.1 and 1.5.2 that could crash Inkwell the moment it opened. Your scripts were never at risk.

<Note>
  Released **August 14, 2026** · [Download the latest version](https://inkwell.app/download)
</Note>

## Highlights

Versions 1.5.1 and 1.5.2 contained a bug that could crash Inkwell the
instant it opened — before you ever saw your script. We caught it the same
day, withdrew both updates, and shipped this fix within hours.

**Your writing was never in danger.** Your scripts are files on your Mac,
and this bug couldn't touch them — it only stopped the app from opening.

## Fixed

* **Inkwell opens reliably again.** A piece of the new per-account sync
  settings ran a fraction of a second too early during launch and could
  bring the whole app down with it. It now waits its turn.

## If you were affected

If Inkwell wouldn't open for you today, this update ends that — and if it
still won't, reinstall from
[inkwell.app/download](https://inkwell.app/download) and you'll be right
back where you left off. Everything from
[v1.5.2](/whats-new/v1-5-2) and [v1.5.0](/whats-new/v1-5-0) — encrypted
sync, account-aware settings — is included here and works as intended.


# v1.5.4 — Centered lines behave
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/whats-new/v1-5-4

Editing around centered text no longer breaks it, Final Draft files with acts round-trip cleanly, the update reminder stops nagging every hour, and PDF imports cancel more predictably.

<Note>
  Released **August 23, 2026** · [Download the latest version](https://inkwell.app/download)
</Note>

## Highlights

A polish release for two places where Inkwell could quietly mangle your
formatting: typing around **centered lines** (like `THE END` or a title
card), and **acts and sequences** in scripts that travel through Final
Draft. Both now hold their shape, keystroke after round-trip.

## Fixed

* **The update reminder takes a hint.** Dismissing the "update available"
  window now keeps it away until the next time you open Inkwell, instead of
  interrupting you again every hour. Checking from the menu still shows it
  any time.
* **Centered lines keep their center.** Typing `@`, `.`, `~`, or `!` right
  after the start of a centered line used to strip the centering — or
  swallow the character entirely. Those keys now type exactly what you
  pressed, and the line stays centered.
* **Enter at the start of a centered line does what you expect.** It adds a
  blank line above and leaves the centered line intact, instead of breaking
  it into fragments.
* **Centered lines survive edits elsewhere in the script.** An internal
  bookkeeping bug could leave a stray `<` in a centered line after nearby
  edits retyped it. The marker now stays invisible, and saves stay clean.
* **Acts and sequences round-trip through Final Draft.** Importing a script
  with act or outline headers, then exporting and re-importing it, no
  longer stamps `#` characters into the headers or quietly drops the
  spacing around them. What goes out is what comes back.
* **Starting a new PDF import cancels the old one.** If an import was
  somehow still running when you started another, the first is now shut
  down cleanly instead of finishing in the background.

***

<Tip>
  See [all releases](/whats-new/overview) for the full history.
</Tip>


# v1.5.5 — Know what you wrote
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/whats-new/v1-5-5

Authorship shows which words are yours, Production Highlight and Style Check read your action lines, Focus gets its own menu, and PDF imports stop inventing characters.

<Note>
  Released **September 26, 2026** · [Download the latest version](https://inkwell.app/download)
</Note>

## Highlights

The big one is **Authorship**: Inkwell now keeps track of which words you
typed, which came from Quill, and which you pasted in from somewhere else —
and can show you, at a glance, how much of a page is actually yours. It is
off until you turn it on, it never touches your file, and it never leaves
your Mac.

Alongside it, two new reading tools for your action lines. **Production
Highlight** tints the things a breakdown cares about — characters, props,
animals, vehicles, sounds. **Style Check** underlines the writing habits
that slow a page down, with a reason attached to each one.

And if you import from PDF, this release stops Final Draft's exports from
inventing characters that were never in the script.

## New

* **Authorship.** See which words are yours, which are Quill's, and which
  were pasted in. Turn the tint on from the Focus menu, and open the word
  count in the status bar for a breakdown by characters and percentage. Use
  **Mark As** in the right-click menu to correct anything Inkwell got wrong,
  and **Paste as Me** (⇧⌥⌘V) when you are pasting your own writing back in.
* **Production Highlight.** Tints characters, props, animals, vehicles and
  sounds inside action lines, so a page reads the way a breakdown reads.
  Each category has its own switch, and ⌃⇧⌘D turns the whole thing on and
  off. Nothing is written to your script — it is paint on the page, and
  exports never see it.
* **Style Check.** Dotted underlines under passive voice, adverbs,
  unfilmables, over-long action and speeches, and words you just repeated.
  Hover any one of them for the reason. Also switchable per category.
* **A Focus menu of its own.** Focus Mode (⌘D), how much stays lit — the
  paragraph, the element, or the scene — typewriter scrolling, and every
  overlay above, all in one place. The same menu is on the title bar, so you
  do not have to go to the menu bar to dim the page.
* **Back and Forward.** **Go ▸ Back** and **Go ▸ Forward** walk your jumps
  in order, so following an outline click or a search hit no longer loses
  your place.
* **Screen time in the status bar.** The estimated running time of the
  current scene, and of the whole script, without opening anything.
* **Icons in the menus.** Format, View, Go, Revision, Account and the
  right-click menu now carry symbols, so the item you want is easier to find
  at a glance.

## Improved

* **Your title page greets you.** Opening a script shows the title page
  rather than dropping you at line one, and clicking it opens the title-page
  editor.
* **Pasted text reads as pasted.** It now carries a cool two-tone tint
  instead of looking greyed out, so it is clearly marked without looking
  disabled.
* **Quill re-reads less.** When it needs to look at a scene again it reads
  that scene, not the whole screenplay, which makes long conversations about
  a long script noticeably quicker.
* **Character voice hints are yours to ask for.** The hints that flag
  dialogue reading unlike a character are now off unless you turn them on,
  and they live in the Focus menu with the other overlays. Writing someone
  out of character is often the point, and the app should not have an
  opinion about that uninvited.

## Fixed

* **PDF imports stop inventing characters.** Final Draft's PDF export
  overprints text to fake bold, which Inkwell was reading as real
  characters — so scripts arrived with doubled cues and people who do not
  exist. Those duplicates are now recognised and dropped.
* **Watermarks stay out of your script.** Text watermarks that run across a
  page, or down the length of one, are scrubbed on import instead of landing
  in the middle of your action.
* **Dialogue blocks survive the trip.** Importing from PDF, Final Draft or
  Fountain no longer splits a speech into fragments.
* **Character extensions survive Fountain import.** `JANE (V.O.)` stays
  `JANE (V.O.)`, and Inkwell stops adding a second `(CONT'D)` to a cue that
  already had one.
* **Undo puts your selection back.** Typing over a selection and then
  undoing restores the whole selection, not just the caret.
* **Dual dialogue gets its colors.** Character tinting now reaches both
  columns.
* **Find's character filter matches the sidebar.** Filtering by character in
  Find now normalises cue names the same way the sidebar does, so it finds
  the lines you expect.

***

<Tip>
  See [all releases](/whats-new/overview) for the full history.
</Tip>


# What's New in Inkwell Reader (iOS)
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/whats-new/whats-new-ios

Release notes and new features in the Inkwell Reader companion app for iPhone and iPad.

# What's New in Inkwell Reader (iOS)

The latest improvements to the Inkwell Reader iOS companion app — new features, refinements, and fixes.

***

## v1.2.1 — Open anything, and stay open

*Released September 7, 2026*

### Fixed

* **Opening a script no longer freezes the app.** Tapping a PDF stored in iCloud Drive that hadn't finished downloading could lock up Inkwell Reader and, if you switched apps while it was stuck, close it outright. Scripts now open in the background, with a quiet "Opening…" cue while a long PDF is read, so the app stays responsive no matter where the file lives.

### Improved

* **Watermarked PDFs come in clean.** A name or notice stamped across every page of a distribution draft used to leak into the script as stray action lines. Those stamps are now recognized and dropped, whether they run diagonally or straight across the page.
* **Dialogue stays together.** Long speeches imported from PDF, Final Draft, or Fountain no longer split into separate blocks partway through, so Sides highlighting and character line counts are accurate.
* **Character extensions are kept.** A Fountain script's `(V.O.)`, `(O.S.)`, and `(CONT'D)` tags now survive import, and continued cues are never doubled up.
* **Acts and sequences round-trip from Final Draft.** Section headers from a Final Draft outline open cleanly, and an action line that follows one is no longer dropped.

***

## v1.2.0 — Your library, on every device

*Released August 13, 2026*

### New

* **Encrypted sync arrives on iPhone and iPad.** Sign in with the account you use in Inkwell on the Mac and every script you have chosen to sync appears in your Reader library, end-to-end encrypted with a key only your devices hold. Turn sync on from the Mac editor; the Reader follows.
* **Sign in with an email link.** No password to remember: enter your address, tap the link we send you, and you are in. Sign in with Apple and Google remain available.
* **Recovery code unlock.** If a synced script can't be unlocked on a new device, enter the recovery code you saved on the Mac to restore access.
* **Two-column home screen in landscape.** Turn your iPhone sideways, or open the Reader on iPad, and the library uses the width for a two-column layout.

### Improved

* **One library, no duplicates.** A script that lives both in your Files and in sync shows once, with honest "last updated" timestamps and clear locked or loading states.

***

## v1.1.3 — Shooting scripts open as scripts

*Released June 26, 2026*

### Fixed

* **Shooting scripts and sides now open as navigable scripts.** A PDF whose scene headings start with a scene number, like `31 INT. CHAMBER - DAY`, used to open as a flat page image you could only scroll. Inkwell Reader now reads those numbered headings and opens the script with full scene navigation, search, and Sides highlighting.

***

## v1.1.0 — Launch of Inkwell Reader

*Released May 25, 2026*

We are thrilled to launch **Inkwell Reader v1.1.0** on iOS and iPadOS! This companion app to your native macOS Inkwell Editor is designed for screenwriters, actors, and directors to read, review, and navigate screenplays on set or on the go.

### Read anywhere

* **Sides Highlight**: Tap any character's name to bold their cues and highlight all their dialogue lines in bright yellow. Perfect for line memorization, rehearsals, and table reads.
* **Reading Themes**: Switch between Midnight, Sepia, or classic Paper themes to match your environment.
* **Offline Reading**: Open `.ink`, `.fountain`, or `.pdf` files from the Files app and read fully offline.

### Inkwell Pro, now in-app

* **Subscribe directly in the app** with a **7-day free trial**, then **\$14.99/month**. Tap Subscribe in Settings or open the Quill drawer. Cancel anytime in iOS Settings → your Apple ID → Subscriptions.
* **Mobile Quill AI**: Open the Quill AI panel right next to your script pages to review your draft's structure, search for scenes, brainstorm character arcs, or get a second pair of eyes on a tricky beat.
* **Already subscribed on the web?** Your existing Inkwell Pro subscription is recognized automatically — no need to subscribe again. Quill is unlocked the moment you sign in.


# Beat Board (Card Mode)
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/writing/beat-board

Outline your screenplay visually using virtual index cards.

Inkwell's **Beat Board** (also known as Card Mode) is a virtual index card organizer built directly into your writing workspace. It allows you to step back from your script pages and view your story structure as a flat grid of cards, where each card represents a scene in your screenplay.

## What is the Beat Board?

Index cards have been the gold standard for structuring screenplays for decades. Inkwell modernizes this workflow by linking your index cards directly to your screenplay text.

* **Scene Heading Cards**: Each scene heading (e.g., `INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY`) automatically creates a corresponding card on the Beat Board.
* **Dynamic Synopses**: The body of each card displays the scene's synopsis—lines in your script prefixed with an equals sign (`=`) that immediately follow the scene heading.
* **Two-Way Sync**: Any changes to the order of cards on the Beat Board instantly rearrange the scenes in your actual screenplay document.

## Accessing the Beat Board

To switch your center canvas from the editor to the Beat Board:

1. Locate the **View Mode toggle** in the status bar at the bottom of the window, or
2. Go to **View → Beat Board** in the menu bar.

To return to the script editor, click the toggle again or plain-click any card to jump directly to that scene.

## Working with Cards

If your script contains scene headings, you will see them rendered as distinct cards on the Beat Board. If you have no scenes yet, the board will show a helpful empty state.

### Adding Card Synopses

To add content (the "story beats") to your cards, use Fountain synopsis syntax in the editor:

```fountain theme={null}
INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY
= Alice confronts Bob about the missing USB drive. Bob denies everything.

Alice sits across from Bob, tapping her fingers.
```

The line starting with `=` becomes the synopsis and is displayed as the body of that scene's index card. If you don't add a synopsis, the card will display a note reminding you to add one in the editor.

<Tip>
  Keep your synopses concise (2-3 sentences). This ensures your index cards are easy to read and scan on the board.
</Tip>

### Selecting Cards

* **Plain Click**: Clears any active selection and returns you to **Script Mode**, placing the cursor directly on the selected scene.
* **Cmd-Click (`⌘-Click`)**: Toggles the selection state of a card. This allows you to select multiple cards without jumping back to the script editor.
* **Shift-Click**: Extends the selection from your last clicked card to the current card in chronological document order.
* **Background Click**: Clicking on the empty background space of the Beat Board clears all active card selections.

### Reordering Scenes via Drag-and-Drop

You can reorder your script's scenes directly from the Beat Board:

1. Click and hold the header strip of the card you want to move.
2. Drag the card to its new position in the grid.
3. Observe the drop indicator stripe:
   * Hovering over the **left half** of a card indicates it will drop **before** that card.
   * Hovering over the **right half** indicates it will drop **after** that card.
4. Release the mouse button to commit the move.

The text editor will automatically rearrange the scene heading and all of its associated action, dialogue, and parentheticals to match the new order.

<Warning>
  Reordering scenes is a major change to your script layout. Because Inkwell features auto-save, you can easily revert accidental moves by pressing `Cmd+Z` (Undo) immediately after returning to Script Mode.
</Warning>

## Out of Scope & Future Refinements

The current version of the Beat Board focuses on core scene outline view and reordering. The following features are currently handled directly in the script editor or outline drawer rather than inline on the cards:

* Editing card synopses text directly on the index card (this must be written in the editor using the `=` syntax).
* Color-coding individual cards (card outlines are driven by your overall active theme).
* Custom tagging or page counts per card.


# Formatting Basics
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/writing/formatting-basics

Understand screenplay elements, forcing characters, and common Fountain syntax.

Inkwell uses **Fountain**, a plain-text screenplay format that converts your typing into industry-standard screenplay layout. This guide covers all Fountain elements and how Inkwell interprets them.

## What is Fountain?

Fountain is a markup language for screenwriting. Instead of clicking buttons to format elements, you write naturally and Fountain converts your text into proper screenplay format.

**Benefits**:

* Write without interrupting your flow
* Plain text is future-proof and version-control friendly
* Works across any device or text editor
* Industry-standard output (identical to Final Draft)

<Tip>Inkwell auto-formats as you type. You rarely need to think about Fountain syntax—just write naturally.</Tip>

## Scene headings

Scene headings (also called slug lines) establish location and time of day.

### Auto-detection

Inkwell recognizes scene headings automatically when a line starts with:

* `INT.` (interior)
* `EXT.` (exterior)
* `INT./EXT.` (combined)
* `I/E` (shorthand)

**Example**:

```
INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY

EXT. CITY STREET - NIGHT

INT./EXT. CAR - CONTINUOUS
```

**Result**: Scene headings appear in **BOLD ALL CAPS** with proper spacing above and below.

### Force a scene heading

If Inkwell doesn't auto-detect your scene heading, force it by starting the line with a period (`.`):

```
.FLASHBACK - 1985
```

This is useful for non-standard headings like flashbacks, montages, or dream sequences.

<Note>Scene headings always appear in ALL CAPS. Type them in any case—Inkwell converts them automatically.</Note>

## Action lines

Action lines (also called description) describe what we see on screen. They're the default element—any regular paragraph becomes action.

**Example**:

```
Alice enters the coffee shop, scanning the crowded room. She spots Bob at a corner table.

Bob doesn't look up from his phone.
```

**Result**: Action uses standard sentence case and is left-aligned.

### Best practices

* **Keep it visual**: Describe what the camera sees, not what characters think
* **Short paragraphs**: Break long action into 2-3 line chunks for readability
* **Present tense**: "Alice walks" not "Alice walked"
* **Active voice**: "Bob throws the ball" not "The ball is thrown by Bob"

## Character names

Character names introduce dialogue. Type them in ALL CAPS on their own line.

**Example**:

```
ALICE
I wasn't sure you'd come.

BOB
I almost didn't.
```

**Result**: Character names are centered and appear in ALL CAPS.

### Character extensions

Add extensions in parentheses after the character name:

```
ALICE (V.O.)
I should have seen it coming.

BOB (O.S.)
Alice! Wait!
```

**Common extensions**:

* `(V.O.)`: Voice-over (character's internal thoughts or narration)
* `(O.S.)`: Off-screen (character is present but not visible)
* `(CONT'D)`: Continued (character keeps speaking after an action line)
* `(PRE-LAP)`: Dialogue begins before the scene starts
* `(FILTERED)`: Voice over phone, radio, etc.

### Character auto-complete

Once you've used a character name, Inkwell remembers it. Start typing the first few letters and press `Tab` to auto-complete.

**Example**: Type `AL` + `Tab` → `ALICE`

## Dialogue

Dialogue is what characters say. Type it directly below a character name.

**Example**:

```
ALICE
We need to talk about what happened.

BOB
There's nothing to talk about.
```

**Result**: Dialogue is indented and appears below the character name.

### Multi-line dialogue

Keep typing—Inkwell handles line breaks automatically:

```
ALICE
I know you think I betrayed you, but that's not what happened. I was trying to protect you. You have to believe me.
```

Press **Enter** twice to end the dialogue and return to action.

## Parentheticals

Parentheticals (also called wrylies) are brief actor directions inserted in dialogue. Wrap them in parentheses on their own line.

**Example**:

```
ALICE
(nervous)
I wasn't sure you'd come.

BOB
(not looking up)
I almost didn't.
```

**Result**: Parentheticals appear indented between character name and dialogue.

### When to use parentheticals

* **Actor direction**: `(angry)`, `(whispers)`, `(sarcastic)`
* **Brief action**: `(stands)`, `(checks watch)`
* **Tone**: `(defensive)`, `(joking)`

<Warning>
  **Use sparingly**. Over-directing actors with parentheticals is considered poor form. Only include them when the delivery isn't obvious from context.
</Warning>

## Dual dialogue

Dual dialogue shows two characters speaking simultaneously, with their dialogue appearing side-by-side on the page. This is used for overlapping speech or interruptions.

### How to create dual dialogue

Add a caret (`^`) **after** the second character's name:

**Example**:

```
ALICE
I didn't do it!

BOB ^
Yes, you did!
```

**Result**: The dialogue blocks appear side-by-side:

* **Alice's dialogue** on the left
* **Bob's dialogue** on the right
* Both at the same vertical position

### The trailing caret syntax

The `^` must be:

* **After the character name** (with a space): `BOB ^`
* **Not before**: `^ BOB` won't work
* **On the second speaker**: The first character is normal, the second gets the `^`

**Step-by-step**:

1. Write the first character's dialogue normally
2. Add a blank line
3. Type the second character's name + space + `^`
4. Write the second character's dialogue

### Multiple lines of dual dialogue

Each character can have multiple lines, including parentheticals:

```
ALICE
I'm telling you—

BOB ^
(interrupting)
No, you're not listening!
```

Both blocks will align side-by-side with their parentheticals intact.

### When to use dual dialogue

**Good uses**:

* **Overlapping arguments**: Two characters talking over each other
* **Phone conversations**: Both sides of a call shown simultaneously
* **Interruptions**: One character cutting off another
* **Comedic timing**: Simultaneous reactions or realizations
* **Chaotic scenes**: Multiple people speaking at once

**Avoid for**:

* **Alternating dialogue**: If they're taking turns, use normal dialogue
* **Long speeches**: Dual dialogue is hard to read if either block is more than 2-3 lines
* **Clarity**: If it confuses the reader, break it into sequential dialogue

### Dual dialogue examples

**Argument (overlapping)**:

```
ALICE
You never listen to me!

BOB ^
That's not true!
```

**Phone call (both sides)**:

```
ALICE
(on phone)
Where are you?

BOB ^
(on phone)
Stuck in traffic!
```

**Simultaneous realization**:

```
ALICE
Wait... you're the—

BOB ^
You're the one who—
```

<Tip>
  Dual dialogue is rare in professional screenplays. Use it sparingly for maximum impact. If you find yourself using it frequently, consider whether sequential dialogue would be clearer.
</Tip>

<Warning>
  Dual dialogue can be confusing to read. Make sure both blocks are short (2-3 lines max) and the overlap serves the story. When in doubt, use regular back-and-forth dialogue.
</Warning>

## Transitions

Transitions indicate how one scene moves to the next. Type them in ALL CAPS, right-aligned.

**Example**:

```
CUT TO:

FADE OUT.

DISSOLVE TO:
```

**Auto-detection**: Inkwell recognizes common transitions like `CUT TO:`, `FADE IN:`, `FADE OUT.`, and `DISSOLVE TO:`.

### Force a transition

If your transition isn't auto-detected, force it with a greater-than symbol (`>`):

```
> TIME CUT:
```

<Note>Modern screenplays use transitions sparingly. Only include them when the cut method is crucial to the story.</Note>

## Centered text

Center any text by wrapping it with `>` and `<`:

**Example**:

```
> THE END <

> TEN YEARS LATER <
```

**Result**: Text appears centered on the page.

**Use cases**:

* Chapter titles or act markers
* "THE END" cards
* Montage or dream sequence headers

## Sections and synopses

### Sections

Sections organize your script into acts, sequences, or chapters. Start a line with one or more `#` symbols:

**Example**:

```
# ACT ONE

## Opening Sequence

### Scene Group A
```

**Result**: Sections appear in the Navigation panel as a hierarchical outline. They don't appear in the final PDF export.

**Usage**:

* `#` = Top-level (Acts)
* `##` = Second-level (Sequences)
* `###` = Third-level (Scene groups)

### Synopses

Synopses are brief scene summaries. Start a line with `=`:

**Example**:

```
= Alice confronts Bob about the missing money

INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY
```

**Result**: Synopses appear in the Navigation panel next to scenes but don't print in the PDF.

<Tip>Use synopses as mini beat sheets. They help you track story structure without cluttering your script.</Tip>

## Inline notes

Notes are personal reminders or production notes. Wrap them in double brackets:

**Example**:

```
[[ TODO: Research 1980s coffee shop decor ]]

[[ Note: Bob's motivation unclear here—revisit in rewrite ]]
```

**Result**: Notes appear in the Navigation panel and can be hidden in exports. They're visible in the editor but don't print by default.

**Use cases**:

* Script notes during development
* Production notes for crew
* Revision reminders
* Research to-dos

## Rich text styling

Inkwell supports bold, italic, and underline for emphasis.

### Bold

Wrap text in double asterisks or use `Cmd+B`:

**Example**:

```
**BANG!** The door slams shut.

She sees the **MYSTERIOUS FIGURE** in the doorway.
```

**When to use**:

* Sound effects (`**BANG**`, `**CRASH**`)
* First character introductions
* Emphasizing important objects

### Italic

Wrap text in single asterisks or use `Cmd+I`:

**Example**:

```
She *remembers* the conversation clearly now.

*Flashback music intensifies.*
```

**When to use**:

* Emphasis in dialogue (use sparingly)
* Foreign words or titles
* Internal thoughts (though V.O. is preferred)

### Underline

Wrap text in underscores or use `Cmd+U`:

**Example**:

```
The sign reads _EMPLOYEES ONLY_.
```

**When to use**:

* Very rare in modern screenplays
* Sometimes used for signs or text on screen

<Warning>
  **Use formatting sparingly**. Over-styled scripts look amateurish. Let your words carry the emphasis.
</Warning>

## Scene numbers

Scene numbers are used in production for tracking shots and scheduling.

### Auto-number scenes

Go to **Screenplay → Number Scenes** to automatically number all scene headings.

**Example before**:

```
INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY
```

**Example after**:

```
1   INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY   1
```

### Manual scene numbers

Add custom scene numbers by wrapping them in `#`:

**Example**:

```
#42# INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY
```

### Clear scene numbers

Remove all scene numbers with **Screenplay → Clear Scene Numbers**.

<Note>
  Scene numbers are added during production. Don't include them in spec scripts or early drafts.
</Note>

## Title pages

Title pages are stored separately in **Script Info** (Project Panel → Script Info tab). Inkwell auto-generates a properly formatted title page when you export to PDF.

**Required fields**:

* **Title**: Your screenplay name
* **Written by**: Your name
* **Contact**: Email or representation

[Learn more about Script Info →](/project-panel/script-info)

## Page breaks

Inkwell automatically handles page breaks following industry standards:

* **1 page ≈ 1 minute** of screen time
* **Dialogue never splits** across pages (actor-friendly formatting)
* **MORE/CONT'D markers** appear when dialogue continues across pages

You don't need to manually insert page breaks—Inkwell handles this in the PDF export.

## Common formatting questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Do I need to memorize Fountain syntax?">
    Not really! Inkwell auto-detects most elements. Just write naturally and the editor formats it correctly. The forcing characters (`.` for scenes, `>` for transitions, etc.) are for edge cases.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I mix and match Fountain and manual formatting?">
    Inkwell only supports Fountain syntax. Manual formatting (like tabs or multiple spaces) won't work. Trust the auto-formatting—it follows industry standards.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What if Inkwell formats something incorrectly?">
    Use forcing characters to override auto-detection. For example, if action is mistaken for a character name, you can't force it, but you can rephrase. Most issues resolve by following Fountain conventions.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I see the raw Fountain code?">
    Yes! Export your script as **Fountain (.fountain)** from the File menu. This shows the plain-text markup behind the formatted view.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Are all Fountain features supported?">
    Inkwell supports all standard Fountain elements. Experimental or non-standard extensions may not work. Stick to the elements in this guide for best results.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Practice exercise

Write a short scene (5-10 lines) that includes:

1. A scene heading
2. Action description
3. Two characters
4. One parenthetical
5. One bold sound effect

**Example**:

```
INT. LIBRARY - NIGHT

Sarah tiptoes through the dark stacks. **CREAK.** She freezes.

SARAH
(whispers)
Who's there?

VOICE (O.S.)
You shouldn't have come here.
```

Preview your scene with `Cmd+P` to see the formatted PDF output.

<Check>You now understand all core Fountain elements! Keep writing and refer back as needed.</Check>

## Next steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Navigation & productivity" icon="map" href="/writing/navigation-productivity">
    Speed up your writing with shortcuts and navigation tools
  </Card>

  <Card title="Revisions" icon="pen" href="/writing/revisions">
    Track changes with revision marks and colors
  </Card>

  <Card title="Project Panel" icon="sidebar" href="/project-panel/navigation">
    Organize sections, characters, and script metadata
  </Card>

  <Card title="Export your script" icon="file-export" href="/managing-files/exporting-files">
    Save as PDF, Fountain, or Final Draft format
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Navigation & Productivity
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/writing/navigation-productivity

Use typewriter scrolling, the navigation minimap, and the navigation panel to move faster.

Inkwell includes powerful navigation tools to help you move through long scripts quickly and write more efficiently. This guide covers typewriter scrolling, the ScrollMap, the Navigation panel outline, and navigation shortcuts.

## Typewriter scrolling

Typewriter scrolling keeps your cursor vertically centered while you write, eliminating the need to look at the bottom of the screen as you type.

### Enable typewriter scrolling

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open View menu">
    Select **View → Typewriter Scrolling** from the macOS menu bar.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Start writing">
    As you type, the page scrolls automatically to keep your cursor in the center of the window. Your eyes stay in one place—no more looking down at the bottom of the screen.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Toggle off (optional)">
    Select **View → Typewriter Scrolling** again to disable typewriter scrolling and return to standard scrolling behavior.
  </Step>
</Steps>

### Benefits

* **Reduces eye strain**: No more scanning up and down the page.
* **Maintains focus**: Your active writing line always stays in the center of your vision.
* **Faster writing**: Less visual distraction means more words per session.

<Tip>
  Many professional screenwriters enable typewriter scrolling permanently. Try it for a writing session—you may never go back!
</Tip>

## The ScrollMap (Navigation Minimap)

The **ScrollMap** on the right edge of the editor is one of Inkwell's signature navigation features. It provides a visual, interactive overview of your entire script with intelligent highlighting.

### What the ScrollMap shows

* **Script structure**: Compressed visualization of all pages as a vertical canvas.
* **Viewport indicator**: A transparent bar showing your current visible pages.
* **Cursor position**: A thin line indicating where your typing cursor is.
* **Current scene length**: The left side highlights the full extent of the active scene.
* **Character distribution**: The middle section highlights all pages where a selected character speaks.
* **Unsaved changes**: The right side shows green lines representing modified, unsaved changes.
* **Search results**: Blue highlights show all instances of your active search term.
* **Revision indicators**: Shows where edits have been made in revision mode.

### How to use the ScrollMap

#### Jump to any location

Click anywhere on the ScrollMap to instantly jump to that part of your script. This is the **fastest way to navigate** long screenplays.

#### Balance scene lengths

The **left side** of the ScrollMap highlights the bounds of the current scene. If a scene block is exceptionally long (e.g., more than 10 pages), it's a visual cue that the scene might need splitting or pacing adjustments.

#### Find character distribution

Select a character in the **Characters** tab of the Project Panel. The ScrollMap will highlight every scene where that character appears. Click on any highlighted bar to jump directly to that character's scene.

#### Track unsaved changes

The **right side** of the ScrollMap shows unsaved edits as green lines. This helps you visually verify what parts of the script have changed before you save.

#### View search results

When you search (`Cmd+F`), the ScrollMap displays blue highlights for all matching instances, showing how a word, prop, or character is distributed across your story.

<Tip>
  Toggle the ScrollMap visibility by pressing `Cmd+Opt+M` or selecting **View → Scroll Gutter Map**.
</Tip>

## Navigation panel outline

The Navigation panel (Project Panel → Navigation tab) displays a hierarchical outline of your script's structure.

### What it includes

* **Sections**: Acts, sequences, or scene groups (marked with `#`, `##`, `###`).
* **Scene headings**: Every `INT.` and `EXT.` scene in your script.
* **Notes**: Inline developer notes marked with `[[ note ]]`.
* **Synopses**: Scene summaries prefixed with `=`.

### Collapse and expand sections

Click the arrow icon next to any section to collapse or expand its contents, allowing you to hide completed acts and focus on what's active.

### Drag and drop outline items to reorder

You can click and drag any scene or section in the Navigation outline and drop it to reorder scenes. Dragging a scene moves it and its nested dialogue and action blocks automatically in your script document.

### Filter by element type

Use the filter menu at the top of the Navigation panel to filter what's visible:

* **All**: Everything (sections, scenes, notes, synopses).
* **Scenes**: Just scene headings.
* **Notes**: Only inline notes.
* **Synopses**: Only scene summaries.

## Search and find

Inkwell provides native macOS search tools to locate text, character names, or dialogue.

### Basic search

1. Press `Cmd+F` to open the Find bar at the top of the editor.
2. Enter your search term.
3. Press **Enter** to jump to the next match, or **Shift+Enter** to jump to the previous match.
4. Press **Esc** to close the Find bar.

### Find and replace

1. Press `Cmd+Opt+F` or go to **Edit → Find and Replace**.
2. Enter the **Find** and **Replace** terms.
3. Use **Replace** to confirm single changes, or **Replace All** to replace every match in the document.

<Warning>
  **Use "Replace All" carefully**. Always preview replacements to avoid unintended changes.
</Warning>

## Go to scene or page

* **Go to Page…** (`Cmd+L`): Opens a quick dialog. Type a page number and press Enter to jump to it.
* **Go to Scene…** (`Cmd+J`): Opens a scene jump window. Type a scene number or search terms to jump to a scene heading.
* **Previous / Next Change** (`Opt+J` / `Opt+K`): Walk through your recent edit points.

## Keyboard shortcuts for navigation

Master these shortcuts to move through your script lightning-fast:

| Action                        | Shortcut                  |
| ----------------------------- | ------------------------- |
| Go to Page                    | `Cmd+L`                   |
| Go to Scene                   | `Cmd+J`                   |
| Find                          | `Cmd+F`                   |
| Find and Replace              | `Cmd+Opt+F`               |
| Scroll Gutter Map (ScrollMap) | `Cmd+Opt+M`               |
| Previous / Next Change        | `Opt+J` / `Opt+K`         |
| Jump to top of script         | `Cmd+Home` (or `Cmd+Up`)  |
| Jump to end of script         | `Cmd+End` (or `Cmd+Down`) |
| Scroll one page up / down     | `Page Up` / `Page Down`   |
| Toggle Project Panel          | `Cmd+[`                   |
| Toggle Quill Panel            | `Cmd+]`                   |

[See complete keyboard shortcuts →](/reference/keyboard-shortcuts)

## Productivity tips

### Use sections for outlining

Before writing, create a rough structure with sections:

```
# ACT ONE - ORDINARY WORLD
## Opening Image
## Introduction of Characters
## Inciting Incident

# ACT TWO - UPSIDE-DOWN WORLD
## Rising Action
## Midpoint Reversal

# ACT THREE - RESOLUTION
## Climax
## Resolution
```

### Leverage synopses as beat sheets

Add synopses above scenes to track your story structure:

```
= Alice discovers Bob's secret and confronts him

INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY
```

### Use notes for revision reminders

During first drafts, add inline notes for things to fix later:

```
[[ TODO: Add more tension to Bob's response ]]
```

Filter the Navigation panel to "Notes" to see all your TODOs in one view.

## Scene numbering

Scene numbers help productions coordinate script changes, track shots, and ensure everyone is referencing the same version.

### Add scene numbers

Go to **Screenplay → Number Scenes** to add scene numbers sequentially. They appear on both sides of scene headings:

```
1  INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY  1
```

### Clear scene numbers

Go to **Screenplay → Clear Scene Numbers** to remove all numbers. The scenes themselves remain unchanged.

## Common navigation questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="How do I see scene numbers in the editor?">
    Go to **Screenplay → Number Scenes** to add scene numbers. Remove them with **Screenplay → Clear Scene Numbers**.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I reorder scenes by dragging in the Navigation panel?">
    Yes! Drag and drop scenes directly within the Navigation outline to reorder the script content dynamically.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What's the fastest way to jump to a specific character's next scene?">
    Click the character's name in the **Characters** tab. Their scenes will highlight on the ScrollMap. Click a highlight bar on the ScrollMap to jump there instantly.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Next steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Beat Board" icon="table-cells-large" href="/writing/beat-board">
    Arrange scenes visually using index cards
  </Card>

  <Card title="Revisions" icon="pen" href="/writing/revisions">
    Track changes with revision marks and colors
  </Card>

  <Card title="Formatting basics" icon="book" href="/writing/formatting-basics">
    Master all Fountain elements and syntax
  </Card>

  <Card title="Keyboard shortcuts" icon="keyboard" href="/reference/keyboard-shortcuts">
    Complete list of navigation and editing shortcuts
  </Card>
</CardGroup>


# Revisions
Source: https://docs.inkwell.app/writing/revisions

Track line edits, mark and clear revisions, choose colors, and export/import revisions.

Revision tracking in Inkwell helps you mark script changes for production, rewrites, or collaboration. This guide covers revision marks, color coding, and exporting revised drafts.

## What are revisions?

In professional screenwriting, **revisions** indicate which lines have changed between drafts. Productions use revision marks to:

* Track script changes during shooting.
* Identify new dialogue or scenes.
* Coordinate updates across departments (actors, crew, etc.).

Inkwell's revision system follows industry standards, making your scripts production-ready.

## Enabling Revision Mode

Before you can mark revisions, you need to enable **Revision Mode**:

### Toggle Revision Mode

* **Menu Bar**: Select **Revision → Show Revision Mode** (toggle on/off).
* **Keyboard Shortcut**: Press `Cmd+Opt+R`.

### Choose Your Revision Color (Generation)

Inkwell offers 9 industry-standard revision generations:

1. **Blue** (1st revision) — marker: `*` (Shortcut: `Cmd+Opt+1`)
2. **Pink** (2nd revision) — marker: `**` (Shortcut: `Cmd+Opt+2`)
3. **Yellow** (3rd revision) — marker: `***` (Shortcut: `Cmd+Opt+3`)
4. **Green** (4th revision) — marker: `****` (Shortcut: `Cmd+Opt+4`)
5. **Goldenrod** (5th revision) — marker: `*****` (Shortcut: `Cmd+Opt+5`)
6. **Buff** (6th revision) — marker: `******` (Shortcut: `Cmd+Opt+6`)
7. **Salmon** (7th revision) — marker: `*******` (Shortcut: `Cmd+Opt+7`)
8. **Cherry** (8th revision) — marker: `********` (Shortcut: `Cmd+Opt+8`)
9. **Tan** (9th revision) — marker: `*********` (Shortcut: `Cmd+Opt+9`)

**To change colors**:

* Click the **pencil icon** in the window header toolbar (top-right) and select a color swatch.
* Use the **Revision → Generation** menu.
* Press `Cmd+Opt+G` to automatically advance to the next generation (color) in the sequence.

## Revision basics

### How revisions work

Marked lines appear with:

* **Colored highlights** behind the text in the editor.
* **Colored page stripes** on the ScrollMap.
* **Asterisks** in the right margin when exported to PDF or printed (e.g. `*` for Blue, `**` for Pink).

### Automatic vs Manual Marking

**Automatic** (Revision Mode ON):

* Any typing edits or additions are automatically marked with the active revision color.
* Deletions are tracked invisibly so they can be finalized.

**Manual Selection**:

* Select any existing text in the editor.
* Select **Revision → Mark Selection** to apply the current revision color manually.
* Select **Revision → Clear Selection** to remove revision tracking from the highlighted text.

### Navigation between revisions

* **Previous Revision** (`Cmd+Opt+[`): Jump the cursor backward to the previous revision block in the script.
* **Next Revision** (`Cmd+Opt+]`): Jump the cursor forward to the next revision block.

## Committing and clearing revisions

### Commit Current Generation

Once a revision pass is finalized and distributed, you can lock those edits:

* Select **Revision → Commit Current Generation**.
* This commits all additions and deletes any marked text from the current revision color level, preparing the script for the next draft color.

### Clear All Revisions

To strip all revision tracking data completely and start fresh:

* Select **Revision → Clear All Revisions**.

<Warning>
  **Clearing revisions is permanent**. Make sure you have exported a backup PDF or FDX file if you need to reference those change marks later.
</Warning>

## Exporting & Importing revisions

### Export to PDF with revisions

1. Press `Cmd+P` or select **File → Print Preview**.
2. Click **Export PDF**.
3. In the PDF settings sheet, make sure **Include Revision Markers** is checked.
4. Your PDF will print with colored overlays and/or standard asterisks (`*`) in the right margin.

### Export to Final Draft (FDX)

Exporting your script via **File → Export → Final Draft (.fdx)** preserves all revision colors and levels so that other production team members can open the file in Final Draft with your change history intact.

<Note>
  **Fountain plain-text exports strip revision formatting**. Use PDF or FDX if you need to share a revised script.
</Note>

## Common revision questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Can I mark individual words instead of whole lines?">
    No. In screenwriting, revision marks are tracked per line or paragraph element to ensure readability when printed on set.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What if I run out of colors?">
    After using all 9 colors (Blue through Tan), you can cycle back to Blue. However, if you are past revision 9, it is standard practice to commit all changes and establish a new "White" script baseline.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Next steps

<CardGroup>
  <Card title="Exporting files" icon="file-export" href="/managing-files/exporting-files">
    Save your revised script as PDF or Final Draft
  </Card>

  <Card title="Formatting basics" icon="book" href="/writing/formatting-basics">
    Master Fountain syntax and screenplay elements
  </Card>

  <Card title="Navigation & productivity" icon="map" href="/writing/navigation-productivity">
    Speed up writing with shortcuts and tools
  </Card>
</CardGroup>