Welcome to the 21st century, where we no longer have to rely on corkboards and sticky notes for our storyboarding needs. Move over, physical boards; hello, digital tools!
From apps that let you color-code to your heart’s content to platforms that allow for seamless drag-and-drop functionality, the future of storyboarding is here…and it’s online!
How Digital Tools Can Help With Storyboarding
Digital tools remove the mess from your workspace and put it all in one neat, tidy virtual location. No more lost notes or smudged storylines. These tools often come with features to help you visualize and organize your plot more efficiently. Add in easy accessibility from any device, and we’re sold!
I use multiple digital tools to help with the process, each serving a different purpose. Some are for the early stages when I have a bucket of random ideas to organize. Others come in later when I need some visual inspiration.
Pros and Cons of Using Digital Tools for Storyboarding
Pros
- Mobility: Work on your storyboard wherever you are.
- Flexibility: Rearrange elements quickly and easily.
- No physical limitations: Your storyboard can be as extensive as you need it to be.
- Collaboration: Share and work on your storyboard with others.
Cons
- Overwhelm: With so many features, they can sometimes be complicated to navigate.
- Dependency: Most of these tools need a stable internet connection.
- Subscription costs: Some of the more advanced tools require paid subscriptions.
The Best Digital Tools for Storyboarding
There are plenty to choose from, but these are the best, in my opinion.
OneNote
This is my number one, go-to program. Microsoft OneNote is a fantastic tool for organizing your thoughts and plot points. Its notebook-like interface and ability to create sections and pages make it a great place to compile your story elements.
Scrivener
Tailored for writers, Scrivener’s corkboard view offers a digital space to map out your story. Its robust features make it a go-to tool for many authors, although it can be a bit overwhelming for newbies.
Google Docs
The simplicity and collaboration-friendly nature of Google Docs make it a solid choice for straightforward storyboarding. Plus, being free to use and cloud-based, it’s accessible from anywhere!
Wait, isn’t Pinterest for DIY and recipe ideas? Sure, but it’s also a goldmine for visual inspiration. It’s great for creating mood boards for your settings and characters. I create a new board every time I start plotting a new book and refer back to it a hundred times. Plus, it doubles as something fun to share with readers once the book is done.
Board It!
Whether you’re a traditionalist who loves the tactile process of physical storyboarding or a tech enthusiast who thrives in the digital space, remember the best tool is the one that works for you.