Screenplay Formatting

Let’s go over the 9 basic elements that make up a screenplay. First is the scene heading which should always be written in all caps. This lets your reader know the location and time of day the scene takes place. “INT” represents interior or inside scenes while “EXT” represents exterior or outside scenes.

Second is the subheading, which is similar to the scene heading, but can more clearly dictate smaller locations within the broader scene heading location, like different rooms in a house as illustrated here.

Third is action. This is where you get to have all the fun of describing the scene. Just make sure you use present tense, third person, and physical descriptions only. Remember to show, not tell us what’s going on in a character’s head.

Fourth is character and this is usually the name of your character, but for smaller parts could be simply a short description, like “BOY,” “DOCTOR,” or “ZOMBIE UBER DRIVER.” A character’s name should always be in all caps when they are first introduced or when they are speaking.

Fifth is dialogue, and this comes below the character’s name when speaking. Sixth is parentheticals, which is sandwiched between the character’s name and dialogue when speaking. These can add a bit of direction on performance for the actor.

Seventh is extensions, which comes directly after a character’s name. These are most commonly either “VO” to represent a voice over, or “OS” to represent a character as being off screen. Eight is transitions, which help dictate editing decisions. These are always written in all Caps. Some common examples are things like FADE IN or OUT, CUT TO, or SMASH CUT.

And finally ninth is shots. Shots are usually only found in final shooting scripts and help dictate what camera angle is being seen on screen. Ok so know that you know the basics, let’s go over some proper formatting so you can really establish your script!

Let’s start at the beginning, your title page. Your title page should have the title of your film, written by, your name, and any historical or fictional information your script is based on. Also, note here that your font should be 12 point Courier to maintain screenwriting standards.

Next, let’s talk about page formatting. Your top, bottom, and right margins should all be 1 inch while your left margin should be 1.5 inches. Fun fact, this allows room for script to be hole punched!

Next your character names should be 3.7 inches from the left side of the page, parentheticals should be 3.1 inches from the left side of the page, and dialogue should be 2.5 inches from the left side of the page. And finally, transitions should be 4 inches from the left side of the page. All other elements should align with the left side of the page’s margins.

And that’s pretty much it for the basics on screenplay formatting. No expensive screenwriting software necessary! So get to writing and go film it yourself!

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