Subtxt QnA

Q: Can you explain the differences between the Basic and Unlimited subscription plans for Subtxt?

A: The Basic plan, which is included with the Cohort, offers access to GPT-3.5 (ChatGPT) and previously had token restrictions. However, these restrictions were removed when GPT-4 API access was released and GPT-3.5 costs were lowered. The Unlimited plan provides access to GPT-4, which offers extended bandwidth for a better experience. This plan allows you to access specific parts of your storyform during development and grants access to the full library of Subtxt examples. More detailed information can be found in the Subtxt Muse Guide.

Q: Why are there inconsistencies and changes in the Subtxt interface, and how can I adapt?

A: Subtxt is in active development, and updates are implemented to keep up with advancements in AI technology and improve user experience. While these changes may cause temporary confusion, they contribute to a more advanced and user-friendly experience compared to alternatives. To adapt to these changes, we recommend staying up to date with the latest updates by joining the Discord server and following the #updates channel. Becoming an active member of the community will help you adapt to changes more easily and stay informed about the evolving features of Subtxt.

Q: What happened to the Worldbuilding feature, and can I still access it?

A: The Worldbuilding feature has been archived due to Subtxt's focus on story structure and development. While it may be reintroduced in the future, it has been removed for the time being. If you still wish to use the Worldbuilding feature within Subtxt, you can access it by going to your Settings page and turning it back on.

Q: Why are there differences between Guide screenshots and the actual interface, and what is being done about it?

A: As Subtxt is constantly evolving due to advancements in AI technology and ongoing development, discrepancies between the Guide and the interface may occur. We understand the confusion this may cause and are actively updating the Guide to ensure it remains a helpful resource for our users, keeping pace with Subtxt's powerful features.

Q: Why are illustrations in Storybeats changing unexpectedly, and what is the new approach to Storyforms?

A: Illustrations can only change upon user request, either through a Brainstorming or Launch request. The new approach to Storyforms involves recent advancements in text generation and semantic search, allowing the application to understand the "gist" of what you're writing rather than relying on the exact words you enter. This provides greater flexibility when illustrating various parts of your story and enhances the overall experience.

Q: Why are some Events non-functional, and when will they be addressed?

A: Although not all Events are fully functional, over 80 Storybeats are, which is enough for most authors to build their story. Addressing the remaining Events is on our to-do list, but it is lower in priority due to the demand vs. customer base. We aim to eventually provide complete functionality for all Events, but currently, our resources are focused on delivering a comprehensive experience with the available Storybeats.

Q: Is Subtxt suitable for novelists, or just screenwriters? What should I know about using Subtxt for different formats?

A: Subtxt is suitable for both novelists and screenwriters, as there is no difference in narrative structure between formats. Subtxt focuses on developing the narrative structure, not the presentation of the story. The important point to understand is that the narrative structure of a story in a play, novel, or screenplay remains consistent. Subtxt is where you work out your thinking about how the story works, while the actual story is written in another application. By using Subtxt, you can effectively develop the narrative structure for any format, and then adapt it to your preferred medium, whether it's a novel, screenplay, or play.

Q: Why are examples in Subtxt mostly from films, and will there be more examples from novels and plays in the future?

A: Film examples are predominantly used due to accessibility and time constraints. Many users find it easier and quicker to watch a 1.5-hour film that encompasses all Four Throughlines rather than read through a complete novel and analyze it. Additionally, our current resources make it impractical to provide more examples from novels and plays. However, we hope to add more examples from different formats in the future as resources permit, offering a more diverse range of examples for users to draw inspiration from.

Q: How can I adapt to interface changes affecting my cognitive resources?

A: We understand that constant interface changes may strain cognitive resources, but we believe that the return on the strain is greater than leaving the interface stagnant. To adapt to these changes and minimize confusion, we suggest keeping up to date with the #updates channel in our Discord server and becoming an active member of the Discord community. This will help you stay informed about the latest changes and improvements, allowing you to adapt more easily and continue to benefit from the evolving features of Subtxt.

Q: What happened to the storybeat breakdown process, and how can I access this feature now?

A: The issue with the storybeat breakdown process has been fixed since February 2023. Advanced users can now access this feature by enabling "Always Show Storyform Details" in their Settings profile. Breaking down Storybeats is a feature for advanced users and only appears after you've taken the step to hit the Explain button. By using the "Always Show Storyform Details" setting, you can easily access this feature and benefit from its advanced capabilities.

Q: Why can't I assign specific players to OS storybeats anymore?

A: The ability to assign specific players to OS storybeats has been replaced with a more flexible and user-friendly feature. You can now assign players to storybeats using the Brainstorming AI box located beneath the Storytelling window. This new approach allows you to add multiple players to a single storybeat, offering a more versatile way to develop your story. You can find more information on this update in the Guide: https://guide.subtxt.app/illustrating/storybeats-and-players/

Q: How can I stay informed about interface updates and changes?

A: To stay up to date with interface updates and changes, join the Subtxt Discord server and participate in the community. Major announcements are posted in the #updates channel, making it the go-to place for information on the latest developments. Following this channel will help you stay informed and adapt to any changes.

Q: Why would someone prefer using other tools with GPT-4 and LLMs over Subtxt?

A: Some users may prefer other tools with GPT-4 and LLMs because they are more familiar with or drawn to writing paradigms like the "Hero's Journey" or "Save the Cat!". These approaches are often more approachable and straightforward. Subtxt and Dramatica theory, however, offer a more in-depth and accurate exploration of storytelling, which may be more challenging but ultimately more rewarding.

Q: Was Subtxt perceived as more developed than it actually is?

A: Some users may have perceived Subtxt as more developed than it currently is. However, Subtxt is in constant development and will always be evolving to keep up with advancements in technology and user needs. By embracing this iterative process, Subtxt can continue to provide cutting-edge features and an enhanced user experience.

Q: How can I receive notifications about updates and feature rollouts?

A: To receive updates and notifications about feature rollouts, join the Narrative First Discord community and follow the #updates channel. This channel is where all major announcements about new features and enhancements are posted, keeping you informed about the latest changes to the platform.

Q: Will AI-generated stories become a significant part of Subtxt in the future?

A: It's exciting to consider the potential of AI-generated stories in the future, and Subtxt is already embracing this concept through the Conceptualizing section. Features like "Teach Me a Complete Story" and "Launch a First Draft" provide users with a starting point for their creative process, streamlining the initial steps of story development.

While these features can be a helpful starting point, it's important to recognize that they are meant to introduce you to the creative process and approach used in Subtxt, rather than replace the entire writing process. These Launch features align with the syllabus of the AI-Powered Storytelling Cohort, guiding writers from their initial idea to a First Draft Outline.

However, Subtxt is designed to offer much more than just these initial launch features. By exploring the platform further, you'll find numerous tools and resources to assist you in crafting a compelling, well-structured narrative. The AI-generated elements are intended to support and inspire your writing process, rather than completely replace it.

Q: Is understanding Dramatica theory essential for using Subtxt?

A: It's understandable that some users may hope for a seamless Subtxt experience without needing a deep understanding of Dramatica theory. However, it's important to recognize that the integration of human creativity with AI technology is not solely about replacing the creative process, but rather enhancing cognition and understanding.

Working with LLMs effectively requires knowing the right questions to ask, and having a reasonable grasp of Dramatica theory concepts can significantly improve the quality of the responses you receive from the model. For example, understanding the difference between a Protagonist and a Main Character allows you to ask more precise questions and receive more meaningful, enlightening answers from Subtxt Muse.

While it's possible to use Subtxt without a thorough understanding of Dramatica theory, having that knowledge can only serve to improve an author's ability to craft meaningful and lasting stories. The AI-Powered Storytelling Cohort aimed to teach participants the types of questions they should be asking LLMs, rather than relying on simple button clicks and hoping for the best. In this way, learning about Dramatica theory can significantly enhance your experience with Subtxt and the development of your stories.