11.4 Industry-Specific Formatting Requirements

Screenwriting isn't just about telling a great story—it's also about following industry-specific formatting rules. From spec scripts to shooting scripts, TV shows to feature films, each type of screenplay has its own unique requirements that writers must master.

Proper formatting isn't just about looking professional. It's a crucial tool that helps producers, directors, and crew members quickly understand and visualize your story. By nailing these details, you'll show that you're ready for the big leagues.

Script Formats

Spec Scripts and Shooting Scripts

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• Spec script format uses minimalist style focused on storytelling
• Spec scripts omit technical directions and camera angles
• Shooting script format includes detailed production information
• Shooting scripts contain scene numbers, camera angles, and transitions
• Both formats use 12-point Courier font and proper margins (1 inch top/bottom, 1.5 inches left, 1 inch right)
• Page numbers appear in upper right corner starting on page 2
• Scene headings, action lines, and dialogue follow standard formatting rules

Television Scripts and Page Count Standards

• Television script format varies slightly from feature film scripts
• TV scripts often include act breaks and commercial placement indicators
• Sitcom scripts may use dual-column format for dialogue and action
• One-hour drama scripts typically follow feature film formatting conventions
• Page count standards depend on script type:
  • Feature film spec scripts aim for 90-120 pages (1 page = ~1 minute of screen time)
  • Half-hour TV scripts range from 22-35 pages
  • One-hour TV scripts typically fall between 45-63 pages
• Page count variations exist for different genres (comedies tend to be shorter, epics longer)

Title Page and Scene Numbering

Title Page Formatting

• Title page contains essential information about the script
• Center-aligned elements include:
  • Script title (all caps, larger font)
  • "Written by" credit
  • Writer's name(s)
• Bottom left corner includes:
  • Writer's contact information or representation details
• Bottom right corner may include:
  • Draft date
  • Copyright information
• Title page excludes page number
• Uses same 12-point Courier font as script body

Scene Numbering and Revision Marks

• Scene numbers appear in shooting scripts, not in spec scripts
• Scene numbers placed on left and right margins of scene headings
• Consecutive numbering throughout script (1, 2, 3, etc.)
• Added scenes use suffixes (12A, 12B) to maintain original numbering
• Revision marks indicate script changes:
  • Different colored pages for each revision pass (white, blue, pink, yellow, green)
  • Asterisks in right margin highlight specific changes
  • Revised scene numbers marked with an asterisk
• Revision dates noted on title page for each new draft

Production and Coverage

Production Drafts

• Production drafts evolve from shooting scripts
• Include detailed technical information for each department
• Watermarked with draft number and date
• May contain colored pages indicating revisions
• Distributed to cast and crew with scene breakdowns
• Often accompanied by script supervisors' notes
• Can include:
  • Props lists
  • Wardrobe notes
  • Special effects requirements
  • Location details

Coverage Format

• Coverage summarizes and evaluates scripts for producers and executives
• Standard coverage format includes:
  • Title page with basic script information (title, writer, genre, page count)
  • Logline (one-sentence summary of the story)
  • Synopsis (1-2 page detailed summary of the plot)
  • Comments section analyzing:
    • Character development
    • Dialogue quality
    • Story structure
    • Marketability
    • Budget considerations
  • Numerical ratings for various script elements
  • Recommendation (pass, consider, recommend)
• Coverage length typically ranges from 3-5 pages
• Objective tone used throughout analysis
• Confidential document not shared with writers