Hi all, I'm wanting to buy a device for downloading and reading pdf scripts on the move. I normally use a kindle - font is too small/layout poor - or an iPad but can't save pdfs. Laptop is a bit cumbersome when I'm reading in bed/on the move. Any one got a preferred device? Thanks Cheryl.
Screenwriting : Best device for reading scripts by Cheryl White
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I like the iPad as well. Took my wife's battered old one for that exact purpose. If I find a script online, I just hit the "open in Ibooks" in the corner and it saves the PDF to my Ibooks library.
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Ah, I didn't know that about Ibooks - thanks Marcus for pointing it out. I'll check it out.
Standard ipad or tablet is IMO too small. There's a good reason for Courier 12 pt on 8-1/2x11". One can buy the iPad Pro of cour$e... ?? I save and read pdfs on my iPad all the time, but not usually for reading scripts. BTW for early proofing passes I export to either RTF or PDF, then import into the Voice Dream app. Reading at 235 wpm makes for an average 1 minute per page, but one can crank it up to 325-350 wpm for a zippy read. This way I can get in a good daily walk and not have to risk tripping over obstacles. It's especially good for debugging crappy dialog and overwritten action.
I use a Kindle Fire and and WPS Office that can read PDFs. I can change fonts and font sizes to make it more readable but the default seems fine to me.
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Paper?
Eyes.
I too use my tablet with a kindle app.... you can change the font size on kindle ebooks... but I'm not sure about PDFs... I think you can use your fingers to ZOOM IN on the page.
I use my iPad and my iPhone using John August's Weekend Read app which he specifically designed for reading screenplays, it works great.
A. S. Templeton Any update on your reading software or devices since this post? I’m updating my methods from paper to digital (too many scripts to read and too little paper). Loved the Voice Dream recommendation and looking for others like it. Also, on another tack, wondering (from anyone) if there’s a good source for recorded table reads or professionally read scripts anywhere. Thanks a thousand.
Nothing beats hard copy...
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Reading glasses work for me. After 4 years, I hope you've figured it out by now.
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I use an 8" Kindle Fire. It accepts PDFs (after download and install of a PDF reader) and you can change fonts and font sizes to make the pages easier to read. I've even used it to do some writing and editing while using WriterDuet screenwriting software, since its internet based. I like to write on the go.
Thanks Anthony Moore. It sounds like the Kindle Fire does not require zooming around on a PDF (very annoying after a few dozen pages) and it can change the size of the font but keep it roughly in screenplay format. I'd love to hear if that's correct, if you're back on, though I appreciate the tip either way.