OSX: Revisions in Scrivener and output to Word

Scrivener Scrivener for macOS
1

I’m currently in the awkward position of having to import a 400-page Word document into Scrivener and proofread it there.

Importing isn’t a problem, nor is the proofreading.

But how can I provide the author with colour-coded revision-marks (as in Scrivener) as a Word document?

Java is installed, but exporting as ODT or DOCX doesn’t include any colour-coded changes. In compilation dialogue all settings for removing are ticked of.

I know that I don’t have the full functionality of Word’s track changes feature.

Or am I doomed to have to do the job in Word?

ps.: highlighted text is exported

2

Frankly, as I’m capable of messing with technology (and sometimes messing it up), for this job I’d use Word and its very good revision capability. Certainly easier for send back to the author, and surely easier for me (you).

3

I was afraid that might happen … :roll_eyes:

4

I’m not saying not possible, maybe it is. Just think using Word will work best, especially for the author receiving the revision suggestions. Word works really well for that sort of thing. I do it all the time with a collaborator for which I am the editor for his stuff – while still using Scrivener all the time for my stuff. I try to use the tool which is a best fit for the job at hand.

1 Like
5

Hm, I just tested by adding a “highlight” to a word and also entering Revision mode (third revision is green on my system):

Screenshot_2026-06-24-18-10-34
Screenshot_2026-06-24-18-10-34804×220 16.5 KB

Then compile to DOCX (Modern, don’t use the java converters) and I see both types of highlighting:

Screenshot_2026-06-24-18-09-24
Screenshot_2026-06-24-18-09-241570×718 18 KB

So it seems both highlight and revisions work?

EDIT: and Scrivener comments become margin comments so you can clearly annotate the revisions:

Screenshot_2026-06-24-19-32-26
Screenshot_2026-06-24-19-32-261096×248 32.6 KB

becomes

Screenshot_2026-06-24-19-31-56
Screenshot_2026-06-24-19-31-561440×286 7.87 KB

This is one of the few times where Scrivener’s native output beats a Scrivener+markdown solution!!! :rofl:

4 Likes
6

Interesting. Will dig that a bit deeper.

7

A reboot and it works.

Too hot here 33°C/91°F (inside)

1 Like
8

Oof yeah, that’s been the story of my life the past few days. Computer not working right? Oh yeah, the ambient temperature in my flat is 32°. Not a lot for the fans to work with!

1 Like