8.5 Formatting and script presentation

Proper script formatting is crucial for playwrights. It ensures your work is professional and easy to read. From title pages to character lists, scene headings to dialogue, every element has specific rules to follow.

Readability is key in script presentation. Use white space, consistent indentation, and careful page breaks to make your script visually appealing. Industry-standard software can help, but alternatives exist for those on a budget.

Elements of proper script formatting

Title page essentials

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• Include the script title centered and in all caps about halfway down the first page
• List the author's name centered a few lines below the title
• Add contact information like phone number and email in the bottom left or right corner
• Copyright and registration information can be included at the bottom of the title page

Character list and descriptions

• Provide a list of characters after the title page, before the start of the script
• Include each character's name in all caps followed by a brief description
• Descriptions should note age, gender, occupation, and any other key traits
• Organize the character list in order of appearance or by importance

Scene headings and structure

• Begin each scene with a heading that indicates the location and time of day
• Scene headings are always in all caps and follow the format: INT./EXT. LOCATION - DAY/NIGHT
• Use INT. for interior locations and EXT. for exterior locations
• Separate the location and time with a dash and a space on either side

Dialogue formatting rules

• Each character's name appears in all caps centered above their dialogue
• Indent the dialogue 2.5 inches from the left margin
• If a character's dialogue extends beyond one page, add (CONT'D) after their name on the second page
• Denote interruptions or overlapping dialogue with a dash or an ellipsis

Stage directions and parentheticals

• Place stage directions in parentheses and italicize them
• Stage directions should be used sparingly and only when necessary to convey action or emotion
• Parentheticals provide brief notes on how a line should be delivered and appear in parentheses next to the character's name
• Keep parentheticals short (a few words) and use them infrequently

Page layout and margins

• Use standard 8.5 x 11-inch paper with 1-inch margins on all sides
• Set the top and bottom margins to between .5 and 1 inch
• Number pages in the top right corner, starting with "2" on the second page of the script
• Aim for a page count divisible by 4 for printed scripts to avoid blank pages

Font choice and size

• Use a plain, readable font like Courier, Courier New, or Arial
• Set the font size to 12 points for the main text
• Scene headings and character names can be slightly larger (12-14 points) for emphasis
• Avoid using fancy or decorative fonts that may distract from the content

Formatting for readability

White space usage

• Incorporate ample white space to create visual breaks and improve readability
• Add an extra line space before and after scene headings, as well as between scenes
• Use line spaces to separate action, dialogue, and parentheticals within a scene
• Avoid large blocks of dense text that can be difficult to read

Consistent indentation

• Maintain consistent indentation throughout the script for a polished, professional look
• Indent dialogue 2.5 inches from the left margin
• Indent stage directions and parentheticals 3.1 inches from the left margin
• Indent the first line of a scene heading 1.5 inches and the second line 1 inch from the left margin

Avoiding orphans and widows

• Prevent single lines of dialogue or action from appearing alone at the top or bottom of a page (known as orphans and widows)
• Adjust the spacing or formatting to ensure at least two lines of a paragraph appear together
• Use page breaks strategically to keep related content together on the same page
• Review the script carefully for any orphans or widows before finalizing the formatting

Page numbering practices

• Number pages consecutively starting with the first page of the script (excluding the title page)
• Place page numbers in the top right corner of each page, 0.5 inches from the top edge
• Use a plain font (such as Courier or Arial) for page numbers
• Avoid using page numbers on the title page or any other introductory pages

Industry standard script software

Final Draft features

• Offers a wide range of templates for various script types (screenplays, stage plays, TV scripts)
• Includes automatic formatting for scene headings, character names, and dialogue
• Provides collaboration tools for working with writing partners or production teams
• Integrates with other industry-standard software like Movie Magic Scheduling and Budgeting

Celtx vs Final Draft

• Celtx is a cloud-based scriptwriting software that offers a free basic version and affordable paid plans
• Final Draft is a desktop application with a higher upfront cost but offers more advanced features
• Both programs provide industry-standard formatting and templates
• Celtx includes additional pre-production tools like storyboarding and shot listing

Alternatives to paid software

• Free scriptwriting software options include Adobe Story, Highland, and Fade In
• Microsoft Word and Google Docs can be used with scriptwriting templates and macros
• Fountain is a plain-text markup language for writing scripts that can be used with any text editor
• Consider the specific needs of your project and budget when choosing a scriptwriting tool

Proper binding and presentation

Brass brads vs spiral binding

• Brass brads are the industry standard for binding stage play scripts
• Use two or three brass brads to secure the pages along the left edge of the script
• Spiral binding is more common for screenplays and allows the script to lay flat
• Avoid using staples or paper clips, as they can easily damage the pages

Title page as script cover

• Print the title page on heavier cardstock to serve as a durable cover for the script
• Ensure the title page includes all essential information (title, author, contact details)
• Use the same font and formatting as the rest of the script for consistency
• Consider adding a relevant image or design to the title page for a professional touch

Protecting script pages

• Print the script on high-quality, durable paper to withstand multiple readings and handling
• Use a clear plastic cover or sleeve to protect the title page and prevent damage
• Consider adding a cardstock back cover to provide additional support and durability
• Store scripts in a cool, dry place to prevent warping or moisture damage

Digital file naming conventions

• Use a clear, descriptive naming convention for digital script files
• Include the script title, draft number, and date in the file name (e.g., "MyScript_Draft3_2023-04-15")
• Avoid using special characters or spaces in the file name, as they can cause issues across different platforms
• Save scripts in a widely compatible file format, such as PDF or .fdx (Final Draft)

Formatting for different script types

One-act play formatting

• Follow the same basic formatting guidelines as full-length plays
• Aim for a script length of 25-60 pages, depending on the target runtime (typically 30-60 minutes)
• Include a title page, character list, and scene headings as with any other stage play
• Use page breaks to separate distinct scenes or moments within the one-act structure

Full-length play formatting

• Full-length plays typically run 90-120 minutes and span 80-120 pages
• Divide the script into two or three acts, depending on the structure and pacing
• Use act breaks to denote significant shifts in time, location, or narrative focus
• Include a title page, character list, and scene headings for each new location or time

Musical theater script formatting

• Format dialogue and stage directions as in a standard stage play
• Indicate song titles and musical numbers in all caps, centered on the page
• Include lyrics in italics, with each new line of the song on a separate line
• Specify the character singing each line or verse in parentheses before the lyrics

Screenplay vs stageplay formatting

• Screenplays use a three-act structure, while stage plays typically have two or three acts
• Screenplay scene headings include the location, time of day, and whether the scene is interior or exterior
• Stage plays use simpler scene headings that only indicate the location and time of day
• Screenplays use more detailed and frequent sluglines to describe camera angles and shots

Common formatting mistakes

Overusing parentheticals

• Parentheticals should be used sparingly to clarify a character's tone, intention, or action
• Avoid using parentheticals for every line of dialogue or for obvious emotions
• Trust the actor's interpretation and the context of the scene to convey meaning
• Excessive parentheticals can clutter the page and distract from the main text

Inconsistent capitalization

• Ensure character names are always capitalized, both in dialogue and action lines
• Capitalize sound effects, such as "GUNSHOT" or "PHONE RINGS"
• Use all caps for scene headings, act breaks, and transitions (e.g., "FADE IN:", "CUT TO:")
• Maintain consistent capitalization throughout the script for a professional appearance

Incorrect scene heading usage

• Always include a location and time of day in scene headings
• Use INT. for interior locations and EXT. for exterior locations
• Avoid using camera directions (such as "ANGLE ON" or "PAN TO") in scene headings
• Keep scene headings brief and descriptive, without including action or dialogue

Misusing ellipses and dashes in dialogue

• Use an ellipsis (...) to indicate a trailing off or unfinished thought in dialogue
• Avoid using multiple ellipses in a single line of dialogue, as it can appear cluttered
• Use a dash (-) to denote an interruption or abrupt change in thought
• Place a space before and after the dash for clarity and readability