An Automated Project Replace based on a 'dictionary' sheet?

Scrivener
, ,
1

Feature Request: Project-Level Replacement Dictionary

Hi, I know… a new user and already a feature request. But it is just a request that would help me.

I’d love a feature that allows Scrivener to maintain a project-wide dictionary of text replacements.
The idea is simple: I could keep a list of placeholder → real text pairs (e.g., #c1# >> Maniacal Killer),
and Scrivener would apply all replacements across the manuscript in one operation.

This would help writers who use shorthand while drafting, especially those who write quickly,
use placeholders for characters or locations, or revise names later. It would also reduce the
risk of manual errors from running Project Replace repeatedly.

This feature fits Scrivener’s philosophy of supporting flexible drafting workflows and
make the revision process smoother for many writers.

Thanks for your time and consideration.

2

  1. Check out the right pane of the Compile dialog box. There is a tab for Replacements. You can there specify a list of (regex or) regular text-based replacements that will take place at Compile time.

  2. (Less directly pertinent, but) each individual Compile Format also has its own Replacements settings.

I think your wish came true before you even wished it – like magic!!

4 Likes
3

Another way to do it is on the fly with Substitutions: File > Options > Corrections > Substitutions > Edit Substitutions.

Make a shortcut list with the text to replace it with. You type the shortcut as you go along and Scrivener replaces it as you type it.

I use it to replace names with special characters. Works like a Boeing.

Works in multiple projects.

1 Like