7 Open-Source Tools Students Use to Organize Research
December 15, 2025
6. Scrivener: Writing and Research Integration

While Scrivener is not entirely open-source, it offers an open-source ethos by providing extensive customization and flexibility for students. It is particularly useful for those undertaking large writing projects, like theses or dissertations. Scrivener combines research organization with writing, allowing students to keep notes, outlines, and drafts in one place. Its corkboard and outliner views help students visualize their work, making it easier to structure complex documents. The tool's ability to split the screen between research notes and writing drafts enhances productivity, ensuring that students can reference materials without losing focus. Scrivener's robust features make it an invaluable tool for student researchers.