Submission guidelines

Definition

Submission guidelines are specific rules and instructions that screenwriters must follow when submitting their completed scripts to production companies, agencies, or contests. These guidelines ensure that submissions are formatted correctly and include all necessary materials, increasing the chances of a script being read and considered for production. Following these guidelines is crucial for presenting a professional image and aligning with industry standards.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Submission guidelines often specify the required format for scripts, which typically includes using 12-point Courier font, one-inch margins, and proper scene heading conventions.
2. Many submission guidelines outline additional materials that may be required, such as a title page, synopsis, or character breakdowns to provide context for the script.
3. Deadlines are frequently an important aspect of submission guidelines, indicating when scripts must be submitted for consideration in contests or projects.
4. Ignoring submission guidelines can lead to automatic disqualification of a script, as it may be seen as a lack of professionalism or attention to detail.
5. Understanding submission guidelines can also include knowing the preferences of specific companies or contests, such as whether they accept unsolicited material or prefer queries first.

Review Questions

• How do submission guidelines enhance the chances of a screenplay being read and considered?
  • Submission guidelines enhance the chances of a screenplay being read and considered by ensuring that scripts are presented in a professional manner. By following these guidelines, screenwriters demonstrate their understanding of industry standards and respect for the recipients' time. Proper formatting, inclusion of required materials, and adherence to deadlines all contribute to making a positive impression on readers who might otherwise overlook poorly presented submissions.
• What are some common elements included in submission guidelines that writers must pay attention to?
  • Common elements included in submission guidelines that writers must pay attention to are formatting requirements, necessary materials like query letters and loglines, and specific instructions regarding how to submit (such as electronic versus hard copies). Additionally, many guidelines will specify any thematic preferences or genres that are sought after, along with any restrictions on unsolicited material. Ignoring any of these details can lead to missed opportunities for writers.
• Evaluate the impact of failing to follow submission guidelines on a screenwriter's career prospects in the film industry.
  • Failing to follow submission guidelines can significantly harm a screenwriter's career prospects in the film industry. Not only can it lead to automatic disqualification from competitions or opportunities, but it also reflects poorly on the writer’s professionalism and attention to detail. Consistently disregarding these crucial steps can create a negative reputation within the industry, making it harder to connect with agents or producers who value adherence to established protocols. Writers who take submission guidelines seriously are more likely to be viewed as serious contenders in a competitive field.

Related terms

query letter: A query letter is a brief letter sent by screenwriters to agents or producers to pitch their script and gauge interest before sending the full script.

logline: A logline is a one-sentence summary of a screenplay that conveys the main idea, characters, and conflict, used to attract interest from potential readers or producers.

formatting: Formatting refers to the standardized way in which a screenplay is structured, including font type, margin settings, and scene headings, which are essential for making the script readable and professional.