Screenplay Formatting Rules to Know for Intro to Screenwriting

Understanding screenplay formatting is crucial for effective storytelling in film and television. These rules ensure clarity, professionalism, and engagement, making your script easier to read and visualize, which is essential in advanced film writing and screenwriting courses.

1. Use Courier 12-point font

   • Standard font for screenplays, ensuring uniformity.
   • Easy to read and widely accepted in the industry.
   • Maintains consistent spacing for timing estimates.

2. Set proper page margins (1 inch top and bottom, 1.5 inches left, 1 inch right)

   • Ensures readability and professional appearance.
   • Allows space for binding and notes.
   • Adheres to industry standards for submission.

3. Include scene headings (INT./EXT., location, time of day)

   • Establishes the setting and context for each scene.
   • Helps the reader visualize the environment.
   • Indicates whether the scene is inside (INT.) or outside (EXT.).

4. Write action lines in present tense

   • Creates immediacy and engages the reader.
   • Describes what is happening as it unfolds.
   • Maintains a consistent narrative voice.

5. Capitalize character names when first introduced

   • Highlights new characters for easy identification.
   • Sets the stage for their dialogue and actions.
   • Aids in character tracking throughout the script.

6. Center and capitalize dialogue character names

   • Clearly indicates who is speaking.
   • Enhances readability and organization of dialogue.
   • Distinguishes character names from action lines.

7. Use proper dialogue formatting

   • Dialogue should be indented and aligned correctly.
   • Ensures clarity in character interactions.
   • Follows industry standards for professional scripts.

8. Include parentheticals for actor direction when necessary

   • Provides context for how lines should be delivered.
   • Used sparingly to avoid cluttering the dialogue.
   • Helps convey tone or emotion in specific lines.

9. Use proper transition formatting (e.g., CUT TO:, FADE TO:)

   • Indicates shifts between scenes or sequences.
   • Helps guide the pacing and flow of the screenplay.
   • Should be used judiciously to maintain narrative clarity.

10. Format montages and series of shots correctly

    • Clearly outlines sequences of related images or actions.
    • Maintains visual coherence and pacing.
    • Uses specific formatting to distinguish from regular scenes.

11. Use proper capitalization for sound effects and important props

    • Highlights key auditory elements and significant items.
    • Ensures they stand out in the action lines.
    • Aids in the production design and sound editing process.

12. Include "MORE" and "CONTINUED" for dialogue across page breaks

    • Indicates that dialogue continues on the next page.
    • Prevents confusion for readers and actors.
    • Maintains the flow of conversation.

13. Use "beat" or "pause" for brief pauses in dialogue

    • Indicates a moment of silence or reflection.
    • Adds depth to character interactions.
    • Helps convey emotional weight in conversations.

14. Format flashbacks and dream sequences appropriately

    • Clearly distinguishes these sequences from the main narrative.
    • Uses specific formatting to indicate shifts in time or reality.
    • Maintains clarity for the reader and production team.

15. Use proper page numbering (top right corner, starting from page 2)

    • Ensures easy navigation through the screenplay.
    • Helps keep track of the script's length and structure.
    • Standard practice for professional submissions.