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Scripts / Speeches / Storyboards

Conceptualize, write, and edit commercial scripts for media from TV pilots to film scripts; website content to paid social campaigns delivering to client brief. Find Scripts / Speeches / Storyboards WFH freelancers on January 21, 2025 who work remotely. Read less

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Top Frequently Asked Questions
How do you write a TV or Film script?


Key Principles in Scriptwriting:

1. Format:

Industry Standards: Scripts generally follow a specific format to ensure readability and professionalism. This includes:
Font and Margins: Courier 12-point font is standard, with one-inch margins on each side. This format ensures consistent timing (one page equals approximately one minute of screen time).
Scene Headings (Sluglines): These describe the location and time of day (e.g., INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY). They help in quick scene identification.
Action: Written in present tense, third person, and should be concise. It describes what happens visually.
Dialogue: Centered on the page with character names in all caps before their lines, ensuring clarity in who is speaking.
Character Names: Introduced in all caps the first time they appear with a brief description unless their appearance is key to the plot.
Software: Tools like Final Draft, Celtx, or even free alternatives like Trelby help maintain these standards automatically.

2. Structure:

Three-Act Structure: Most scripts adhere to this:
Act 1 (Setup): Introduces characters, settings, and the inciting incident that propels the story forward.
Act 2 (Confrontation): Character faces obstacles and grows, hitting a midpoint where the stakes rise.
Act 3 (Resolution): Climax, resolution, and denouement where the main conflict is resolved.
Plot Points: Key events like the inciting incident, plot point 1 (end of Act 1), midpoint, plot point 2 (end of Act 2), and climax are pivotal for pacing and narrative drive.
Character Arcs: Characters should undergo change or growth, aligning with the plot's progression.

3. Language Points:

Show, Don't Tell: Use action and visuals to convey emotions and plot rather than expository dialogue.
Subtext: Dialogue should often have layers, with characters saying one thing but meaning another, enriching interactions.
Natural Dialogue: Write how people actually speak, with pauses, interruptions, and colloquialisms where appropriate.
Economy of Words: Every line should serve a purpose, whether advancing the plot, developing character, or establishing tone.

4. Grammar Issues:

Consistency: Ensure consistent verb tense in action lines (present tense), and watch for consistency in character names and spellings.
Punctuation: Use commas, dashes, and ellipses judiciously to reflect speech patterns and pacing in dialogue.
Avoiding Overwriting: Scripts are read for action and dialogue; too much description or overly complex sentences can distract from the story.
Clarity: Avoid ambiguity in directions or dialogue, which could confuse actors or directors.

5. Online Resources:

Script Writing Guides:
Industrial Scripts offers detailed guides on structure and format.

NYFA provides insights into mastering script structure.

Software and Tools:
Celtx for script formatting.

Final Draft for professional scriptwriting, which is industry-standard.

Learning Platforms:
FutureLearn has an introductory course on screenwriting.

Kiev Kelvin discusses script editing and the broader principles of screenwriting.

Communities and Feedback:
Posts on X from professionals like @tonytost offer practical scriptwriting principles.

Educational Content:
Blog posts from Final Draft or WritersServices provide tips and tricks.

Here are some of the best online websites for learning scriptwriting, based on the references provided and general recognition in the field:

Educational Websites:

FutureLearn:
Course: "An Introduction to Screenwriting" - This course, offered in partnership with the University of East Anglia, provides a solid foundation in scriptwriting for both beginners and those looking to refine their skills.

edX:
Offers various courses related to scriptwriting that can help you learn from top universities. Courses cover script creation for different media, including TV, film, and web series.

Coursera:
Provides courses like "Script Writing: Write a Pilot Episode for a TV or Web Series" from Michigan State University, which is project-centered and includes peer feedback.

Class Central:
Aggregates a wide range of scriptwriting courses from multiple platforms, including those specifically aimed at creating compelling scripts for various formats.

Blogs and Educational Content:

The Script Lab: https://thescriptlab.com/
A rich resource for screenwriting techniques, offering insights into structure, character development, and plot construction. It's known for its comprehensive tools to elevate storytelling skills.

Script Reader Pro: https://www.scriptreaderpro.com/
Offers numerous articles, including "34 Best Screenwriting Websites Every Writer Should Know," providing a treasure trove of advice, interviews, and script analysis.

ScreenCraft: https://screencraft.org/
Known for its articles on screenwriting tips, industry trends, and best practices. Their blog also covers free screenwriting software in detail.

No Film School: https://nofilmschool.com/
Features lists like "The 16 Best Screenwriting Websites To Procrastinate on Daily," offering deep dives into scriptwriting resources and interviews with professionals.

John August: https://johnaugust.com/
The official site of screenwriter John August includes podcasts, transcripts, and resources for screenwriters, known for its practical advice.

The Black List: https://blcklst.com/
Provides not only script hosting but also educational content through its blog, with industry insights and writing tips.

Communities and Forums:
Reddit's r/Screenwriting: https://www.reddit.com/r/Screenwriting/
A community where screenwriters share resources, get feedback, and discuss various aspects of scriptwriting. It's a place for both learning and networking.

Software Learning:
Celtx.com:
While known for its scriptwriting software, their site also has educational resources on scriptwriting and pre-production.

WriterDuet.com:
Beyond being a scriptwriting software, their website offers guides on how to use their tool effectively for scriptwriting.

Miscellaneous:
Miracalize:
Lists 14 best screenwriting websites, including blogs and resources that focus on different aspects of screenwriting.

DigitalDefynd:
Curates a list of free courses for learning scriptwriting online, focusing on enhancing storytelling techniques.

StudioBinder:
Offers in-depth articles on scriptwriting alongside their software for film production, including "19 Best Screenwriting Websites to Level Up Your Screenplay."

These websites provide a mix of structured learning, community support, and professional insights, which are crucial for anyone aiming to improve their scriptwriting skills. Remember, consistent practice, feedback, and learning from both free and paid resources can significantly elevate your scriptwriting craft.

Using these resources can help scriptwriters not only understand the foundational aspects of scriptwriting but also stay updated with best practices and emerging trends. Engaging with online communities can provide feedback and peer review, which are invaluable for refining one's craft. Remember, the key to good scriptwriting lies in the balance of creativity with technical proficiency.

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