3.1 Script Formats and Structure

Scriptwriting is all about structure and format. It's like building a house - you need a solid foundation and blueprint before you start decorating. This section breaks down the key elements of screenplay formatting and the three-act structure that forms the backbone of most stories.

From scene headings to dialogue, every part of a script serves a purpose. Whether you're writing a feature film, short, or TV show, understanding these formats helps you craft a compelling story that translates smoothly from page to screen.

Screenplay Formatting Elements

Industry-Standard Guidelines

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• Adhere to specific formatting guidelines using 12-point Courier font and precise margin settings
• Include essential information on title page (script title, writer's name, contact details)
• Place page numbers in top right corner starting from first page of actual script
• Utilize specific elements for visual storytelling (scene headings, action lines, dialogue)

Scene Headings and Action Lines

• Construct scene headings (slug lines) to indicate location, time of day, and interior/exterior setting
• Write action lines in present tense to describe visual occurrences in the scene
• Avoid including camera directions in action lines
• Balance action lines and dialogue for maintaining pacing and visual interest

Character and Dialogue Formatting

• Center character names in all caps when introducing dialogue
• Place dialogue centered beneath character name
• Use parentheticals sparingly for brief actions or directions within dialogue
• Align transitions (CUT TO:, FADE OUT) to the right margin, using judiciously

Three-Act Structure in Storytelling

Act Breakdown and Plot Points

• Divide story into three parts: Setup (Act One), Confrontation (Act Two), and Resolution (Act Three)
• Introduce main characters, setting, and inciting incident in Act One
• Develop bulk of story in Act Two, presenting obstacles and conflicts for protagonist
• Include significant plot twist or revelation at midpoint of Act Two to raise stakes
• Resolve story and provide closure in Act Three, featuring climax and tying up loose ends
• Utilize plot points (turning points) at end of Acts One and Two to propel story forward

Structure Benefits and Character Development

• Provide framework for pacing and maintaining audience engagement throughout narrative
• Allow for character development arc across three acts
• Establish clear progression of events and conflicts
• Enable effective build-up of tension and release through act structure

Script Formats: Feature vs Short vs Television

Feature and Short Film Formats

• Create feature film scripts ranging from 90 to 120 pages (each page roughly one minute of screen time)
• Develop short film scripts under 40 pages, focusing on single conflict or character arc
• Adapt pacing and story complexity based on script length

Television Script Variations

• Vary television script formats based on show type (sitcom, drama, limited series) and network requirements
• Include teaser and tag in sitcom scripts, marking clear act breaks for commercial placement
• Follow four or five-act structure for hour-long drama scripts, designed for commercial interruptions
• Allow more flexibility in structure and length for limited series or streaming platform scripts
• Mimic style and format of existing series when writing spec scripts for television shows

Script Elements: Scene Headings, Action, Dialogue

Scene Heading Construction

• Provide crucial information about location, time, and setting in scene headings
• Format scene headings with INT. or EXT. (interior or exterior), specific location, and time of day
• Use scene headings to orient reader and production team

Action Line Composition

• Describe visual elements of scene in action lines (character actions, expressions, environmental details)
• Write action lines concisely and vividly in present tense
• Avoid unnecessary details or unfilmable elements in action descriptions

Dialogue Crafting and Purpose

• Reveal character personality through dialogue
• Advance plot and convey information that cannot be shown visually
• Create distinct voices for each character, reflecting their unique background and motivations
• Use parentheticals within dialogue for brief directions on line delivery or small actions
• Employ parentheticals sparingly to avoid overwriting