Slug line

Definition

A slug line is a brief notation that appears at the beginning of a scene in a script, indicating the setting and time of day. It typically includes information about whether the scene takes place indoors or outdoors, the location, and the time, helping to set the stage for the action that follows. This essential tool aids writers in organizing their script and allows readers to visualize the context of each scene.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Slug lines are formatted in all caps and usually start with either 'INT.' for interior or 'EXT.' for exterior to indicate the scene's setting.
2. The clarity and brevity of slug lines are crucial for quickly informing readers and production staff about scene transitions.
3. Each slug line should be unique to avoid confusion and help maintain a coherent flow within the script.
4. Proper use of slug lines can enhance pacing by clearly marking shifts in scenes or locations, aiding in editing and revision.
5. During revision, writers often adjust slug lines to improve clarity or to better reflect changes in the script’s setting or time frame.

Review Questions

• How do slug lines contribute to the overall structure and organization of a script?
  • Slug lines play a vital role in structuring a script by clearly indicating when and where each scene occurs. They help writers maintain clarity throughout the narrative, allowing readers and production teams to quickly grasp the context of each moment. By providing essential details about the setting and time of day, slug lines facilitate smoother transitions between scenes, which is crucial during both writing and editing processes.
• Discuss how effective use of slug lines can impact the pacing of a script.
  • Effective use of slug lines significantly impacts pacing by guiding readers through scene changes efficiently. Clear and concise slug lines enable writers to create a rhythm within the script, making it easier for audiences to follow along. When done well, they enhance narrative flow by allowing natural pauses between scenes while also preventing confusion about shifts in location or time.
• Evaluate the importance of revising slug lines during the editing process and its effect on a script's readability.
  • Revising slug lines during editing is crucial for improving a script's readability and overall coherence. As scripts evolve, updating slug lines ensures that they accurately reflect changes in setting or time, which helps maintain clarity for both readers and production teams. This revision process not only enhances understanding but also supports smoother transitions between scenes, ultimately making it easier for audiences to engage with the story being told.

Related terms

Scene Heading: A line that introduces a new scene in a script, often synonymous with slug lines, providing crucial details about the location and time.

Action Line: A description of what is happening in the scene, written in present tense and providing detail about character movements and events.

Dialogue: The spoken lines by characters in a script, which reveal personality, advance the plot, and contribute to character development.