Screenwriting guides
Plain-English answers to the questions every screenwriter asks, from formatting your first page to hearing your script read aloud.
How do you format a screenplay?
Screenplay format explained simply: Courier 12, margins, scene headings, action, character names, dialogue and transitions, with examples.
Read the guide →What is a scene heading in a screenplay?
What scene headings (sluglines) are, how to write INT. and EXT., locations and times of day, and common mistakes to avoid.
Read the guide →What does CONT'D mean in a screenplay?
CONT'D in a screenplay explained: when to add it after a character name, how it differs from (MORE), and whether you still need it.
Read the guide →What is a parenthetical in a screenplay?
What screenplay parentheticals (wrylies) are, where they go, good and bad examples, and why less is more.
Read the guide →What are transitions in a screenplay?
Screenplay transitions explained: FADE IN, CUT TO, DISSOLVE TO, MATCH CUT TO and SMASH CUT TO, where they go and when to use them.
Read the guide →What is a table read?
What a table read is, why writers and productions hold them, how to run one, and how to hear your script read aloud without a cast.
Read the guide →Can you write a screenplay on an iPad?
How to write a properly formatted screenplay on an iPad or iPhone: apps, keyboards, dictation, exporting to PDF and Final Draft, and backups.
Read the guide →Can you dictate a screenplay?
How to write a screenplay by voice: speaking cue words for scene headings, action, characters and dialogue, and tips for accurate dictation.
Read the guide →Which file format should a screenplay be?
PDF, Final Draft (.fdx) and Fountain explained: which to send to readers, competitions and collaborators, and how to convert between them.
Read the guide →How long should a screenplay be?
How many pages a feature film, short film, TV pilot and half-hour script should be, and why one page is roughly one minute.
Read the guide →What goes on a screenplay title page?
What to put on a screenplay title page: title, writer credit, contact details and draft date, and what to leave off.
Read the guide →Should a screenplay have scene numbers?
When scene numbers belong on a screenplay, how locked numbering works in a shooting script, and why spec scripts leave them off.
Read the guide →What is the difference between V.O. and O.S.?
V.O. (voice over) and O.S. (off screen) explained with examples, plus O.C. and when to use each extension after a character name.
Read the guide →How do you write good dialogue in a screenplay?
Eight practical tips for natural, sharp screenplay dialogue: subtext, distinct voices, cutting exposition, and reading it out loud.
Read the guide →How do you write a short film script?
How to write a short film script in seven steps: one idea, few locations, a clear ending, and formatting, with tips for festivals.
Read the guide →How do you outline a screenplay?
How to outline a screenplay: logline, beats, scene cards and story structure, so the first draft comes faster and holds together.
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