4 | Software Issues & Decisions

This section covers a number of issues and decisions that need to be resolved before we can get started.

Show File Extensions

Users need to make sure their systems are set to show file extensions. To make sure file extensions are showing, Google “show file extensions” and follow the appropriate instructions based on which operating system you use (Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, &etc.)

You just totally ignored that, didn’t you?

Seriously. If you are not absolutely positive your system is set to show file extensions, get busy googling. Make certain file extensions are showing.

ACTION: Make sure file extension are showing.

How To Show The Correct File Type

This is just a heads up: When attempting to open files in Notepad, Sigil and other editors, pay close attention to the settings in the Open pane. I once had an author friend call me at 1:19AM, in tears, because of the difference between these two menu selections shown in the image below.

Pretty much every Open pane has a similar 'show filetype' setting. If a file seems to have gone missing, check this setting before doubting your own sanity. Or calling your producer friend at 1:19AM with a question that will make her cry, too.

Select A Word-Processing Program

Most of the tutorial graphics show Microsoft Word features, but Word (any version) is not required.

• • Choose a word-processing program with a Find/Replace function capable of detecting special fonts and formatting or non-printing characters.

  • If you work in Scrivener or another specialty drafting program, export as a filetype suitable for the Find/Replace word-processor.

No. We will not use the so-called "filtered" HTML. Sinner.

Action: Formatting/Non-printing Characters

Once you've selected which word processor you'll use for Find/Replace, take a timeout to figure out how to turn formatting or non-printing characters on.

(Remember that Google is your friend.)

Select A Plain-Text Editor

We need a plain-text editor in order to create the raw HTML version of projectx.

Windows users:

• • Windows computers come with a kick-ass built-in plain-text editor: Notepad. If you can't find it on your system, Google is your friend.

  • Use NOTEpad. Not WORDpad.

  • NOTEpad is a plain-text editor. WORDpad is a rich-text editor.

  • We want only plain text. Plain text.

Mac users:

• • Mac users have TextEdit.

  • Make sure settings are for plain text, not rich text.

  • Now double-check it’s set for plain text, because I know how you Mackers live to be contrary.

  • We want only plain text. Plain text.

  • It uses only plain text or else it gets the hose again.

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