ALL CAPS

Definition

In screenwriting, 'ALL CAPS' refers to the stylistic choice of writing certain elements, such as character names and important actions, in capital letters. This technique emphasizes key information and helps to differentiate it from the regular narrative text, guiding the reader's attention to critical aspects of the screenplay.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'ALL CAPS' is primarily used for clarity and emphasis, making it easier for directors, actors, and crew to identify important elements quickly.
2. When a character is introduced for the first time, their name is typically written in all caps to signify their entry into the story.
3. Scene headings or slug lines are always written in all caps to clearly indicate changes in location or time, allowing for smooth transitions between scenes.
4. Using 'ALL CAPS' can also help convey urgency or significance in certain actions or dialogue within a screenplay.
5. It's important not to overuse 'ALL CAPS' throughout the script, as it can become distracting and lose its intended impact.

Review Questions

• How does using 'ALL CAPS' for character names and actions enhance the readability of a screenplay?
  • 'ALL CAPS' enhances readability by creating visual cues that draw attention to essential elements like character names and key actions. This formatting allows actors and production teams to quickly locate important information, making the script easier to navigate. Additionally, it creates a consistent style throughout the screenplay that helps convey significant moments effectively.
• Discuss the implications of using 'ALL CAPS' for emphasis in a screenplay. What could be the potential drawbacks of overusing this technique?
  • 'ALL CAPS' serves an important function in emphasizing critical aspects of a screenplay, such as character introductions and significant actions. However, overusing this technique can lead to visual clutter and distract readers from the narrative flow. If everything is emphasized, it diminishes the impact of those moments that truly warrant attention, making it less effective as a storytelling device.
• Evaluate how 'ALL CAPS' contributes to the overall structure and pacing of a screenplay. What role does it play in guiding reader expectations?
  • 'ALL CAPS' contributes significantly to the structure and pacing of a screenplay by clearly delineating crucial elements that guide reader expectations. By marking character names and scene headings in capital letters, writers create a clear visual hierarchy that helps readers absorb the story efficiently. This formatting not only aids comprehension but also sets a rhythm for how scenes unfold and how characters are introduced, ultimately shaping audience engagement with the narrative.

Related terms

Slug Line: A formatted line at the beginning of a scene that indicates the location and time of day, often written in all caps.

Character Introduction: The moment when a character first appears in the script, typically indicated by their name in all caps.

Voiceover: A narrative technique where a character's voice is heard over the action but does not correspond to their visual presence on screen, often marked in all caps for clarity.