Format for Writing a Screenplay - What You Need to Know

What format for writing a screenplay is one of the major stumbling blocks of the budding writer. But it doesn't have to be, as there are numerous scriptwriting aids, downloadable information and examples available, in all aspects of screenplay writing. Why then, you may ask, are questions still being asked on the web. For example I found this writer asking...

"Help! I've been told that one must use a 12pt New Courier font with page margins of 1.5" on left side (for binding) and 1" on the right side, top and bottom. I'm confused, because when I read sample scripts, they invariably seem to be able to cram more lines and character spaces on a page. How?

I agree that your script should be presented in the format the industry expects. It not only makes you look more professional, with the Final Draft being more pleasing to the eye, but more importantly YOUR HARD WORK will be less likely to be thrown out.

Your content and story maybe the next blockbuster, but without that presentation you will fall at the first hurdle.

Oh, I nearly forgot - Follow the rules yes, but if you look closely at some examples, you will see that they have reduced the line spacing slightly, to 'cram in more lines'. A good tip but don't overdo it. Remember it still has to be pleasing on the eye.

OK. It is true that you must format your screenplay, and it does not have to be hard; if you follow the rules. It will become easier the more you practice, and that is where your valuable time should be spent most.

Keep to the rules and learn the four main elements: Sluglines, Action, Character Names, and Dialogue. How to present them, and their positioning, are a subject in themselves and another article, but they are important, to the format and content.

Even if you use screenwriting software, it's important to have the basic knowledge of screenplay formatting so that your Final Copy looks thoroughly professional.

I hope this has been of help and I wish you well in your screenplay writing, whether it be for Film or Television, Drama or Sitcom.

Learning any skills, whether for business or pleasure, takes time, practice, and confidence in ourselves. We will never know everything in our chosen niche market, but we can accelerate and time manage our knowledge, to concentrate on the action of doing, rather than studying. Invest in yourself.