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Import existing writing

Bring in a World file, Markdown folders, Scrivener projects, or individual documents.

Browser editing requires a purchased license and Workspace sync. Desktop writing needs an active trial or license, without sync. Reading, search, and export of available work remain accessible. Check access requirements.

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Choose the right kind of import

Importing creates writing data, so it requires write access. In the browser, both a purchased license and sync are required, including for Open file. Read-only access lets you download existing Worlds, not import another one. For desktop imports, use an active trial or license.

  • A .plotscribe file is an existing World. Use Import World on desktop, or Open file in the browser.
  • A manuscript import brings a folder of Markdown or a Scrivener project into a new World. Use the folder or project chooser offered by your browser or desktop app; the browser may ask you to allow access to the selected folder.
  • Import document brings an individual supported Word (.docx), plain-text, or Markdown document into a World as a chapter or note. Use Import in the writing toolbar, or find Import document with Search or jump to… (Ctrl/Cmd+K).

Preview a manuscript import

  1. In the Worlds library, open the More (…) menu and choose Import… to open Import a manuscript. Choose the source folder or Scrivener project offered by the importer.
  2. Read the preview before committing. Review the chapter order, grouping, and any warnings about content that cannot be represented.
  3. Choose the destination and complete the import. Then open a few representative chapters—including any with unusual formatting—and compare them with your original.

What to check after Scrivener import

The Draft becomes the manuscript. Other root folders, such as Research and Characters, are brought in as reference groups excluded from compile. Scrivener’s Trash is not imported.

Basic RTF formatting is handled within the importer’s supported subset; importing is not a promise of perfect Scrivener layout or compile-setting fidelity. Check the preview’s warnings and review complex documents yourself.

Import a single document

  1. Choose the source file and inspect the preview.
  2. Give it a title and choose Chapter or Note. For a chapter, choose its book and optional Part. For a note, review any proposed contextual attachment.
  3. Import, open the created item, and check the text. A failed or canceled import should be resolved before choosing another destination; don’t assume a preview has already saved the content.