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Anyone trying to seriously make it as a writer knows that the only way to get published is to submit your work--usually over and over again. Sonar is an easy-to-use program that lets you track submissions and responses, and we think it's an invaluable tool if you send a lot of work out and have trouble keeping up with the who, what, where, and when of the process.

The program's interface is plain and intuitive, and it took us no time at all to figure it out. Users first add works to the database; there are fields for … Read more

Inkscape is a popular open-source vector graphics editor that has earned high praise for its powerful features. Inkscape Portable takes these powerful features on the go, letting users store the program on a USB drive or other portable device for access anywhere.

Like its installable cousin, Inkscape Portable is not for beginners, unless you're a beginner who's ready to put some effort into learning about vector graphics. An array of toolbars line three sides of the interface, and they can be overwhelming if you don't already have some idea of what you're looking at. Experienced artists, … Read more

Many people believe their dreams reveal deeper insights. Dream journals or dream diaries let dreamers record their dreams while they're still fresh in their minds, which means as soon as they wake up. Lightened Dream is a freeware dream journal, but it also promises to help you understand, interpret, and even control your dreams. While the software is well-executed, the psychological concepts are less convincing. But we think skepticism is a sensible way to approach any such program, let alone one with as many unique twists as Lightened Dream.

LucidCode's highly unusual EULA requires users to swear not … Read more

Simple Alarm Clock is exactly what the name implies: an extremely easy-to-use program that lets you set different alarms for every day of the week. It's definitely not the most feature-filled alarm utility we've seen, but for simplicity, it can't be beat.

The program's interface is all business, with a list of the days of the week and check boxes and drop-down menus that let you make selections. Days can be enabled individually, which is handy if your work or school schedule varies and you need to get up at different times during the week. You … Read more

Converting JPEGs to PDFs is one of those sort-of-everyday tasks that you really don't think about until it's time to do it, and then you look for a tool to do the job; preferably freeware and easy to use, too. But suppose this is a frequent task, something you do often and in large batches? Same answer: easy is good, and free is better. HiHiSoft's JPG to PDF is the sort of tool that can cover all bases. This standalone freeware converts single images or batches of files and folders to PDFs without requiring Acrobat or other … Read more

Anyone who's used a computer for any length of time--especially anyone who installs and uninstalls software with any frequency--knows that it doesn't take long for your machine to become cluttered with invalid registry entries, broken shortcuts, and other junk that takes up space and slows system performance. Eusing Cleaner is a simple program that provides a variety of tools for tidying up your computer. As with any program that accesses the registry, proceed with caution, but used judiciously Eusing Cleaner can definitely take out the trash.

Eusing Cleaner has a straightforward interface that looks a little dated but … Read more

The Windows Desktop Background tool will change your wallpaper at regular intervals up to once a day. If you want to change your wallpaper daily, weekly, or monthly, you can do it manually or download a tool that adds the capability. Wallpaper Updater is just such a tool. This free utility runs in the background, changing your wallpaper at regular intervals of one day or longer (or at startup) from a system folder or a Picasa Web Album.

We installed Wallpaper Updater and opened it from its Start Menu folder, which also includes a Help file and uninstaller. The program'… Read more

You have more choices than ever in media center software. Moovida Media Center is a free media player that collects your movies, music, TV shows, and pictures in one easy-to-use interface. With built-in codecs, a media library, and automatic album art retrieval, Moovida's emphasis is on ease of use instead of being customizable and comprehensive. As such, it seeks to be a viable standalone alternative not only to Windows Media Center or Media Player but also VLC and the other popular free players.

Moovida's interface is based around gray tones, but its bright pastel highlights are a matter … Read more

Watermarking helps secure your images and documents from unauthorized use and theft. TSR Watermarking Image Software Portable is a totally portable version of TSR's basic watermarking package. It's free for individuals, but commercial users must buy a license when their 30-day trial expires. Since it's totally portable, it can run from a USB drive, compact flash drive, and similar media. That makes it a great choice for on-the-go photographers since it can watermark images from any compatible PC.

TSR Watermarking's user interface is businesslike, with few frills, if any. Three tabs handle the program's functions: … Read more