Scripting for Film Production
(If you have had a scriptwriting class, use the formatting you learned there. Otherwise, use the instructions below.)

General Rules

1. All copy is typed or prepared using a computer and printer.

2. Script should be printed on 8 1/2" x 11" paper.

3. Type should be on only one side of paper.

4. Make sufficient copies for all personnel as needed.

5. Use standard heading above script copy for each page. Title, date, length, producer,

director, page no., etc.
6. Type should be courier or courier new, 12 pt.

Film-style Script Overview

1. Usually, several pages at the beginning of the script will provide information concerning character descriptions, wardrobe, make-up, props lists, settings, etc..

2. All pages are numbered. Any revisions are noted with date of revision with the page number. Some scripts use colored paper for revisions and additions to the script.

3. Each scene is handled individually. A summary of the on screen action accompanies the description of any camera angle used for each part of the scene. Any dialog which takes place during the scene or camera shot will be written in after the camera angle description. (screenplays do not contain camera shots).

4. Scenes are numbered consecutively based on change in time or setting. Master-scene scripts describe and number only the scenes. The camera angles are decided upon by the director while shooting on location. A shot-by-shot script lists shots consecutively without regard to scene changes. Do not start a new page for a scene change. Continue next scene on same page if there is room. The example below just happens to start at the top of the page.

5. Scene descriptions, camera angles, and stage information are typed accross the page within the scene or shot numbers. Key information is typed using all caps.

6. Dialog is typed in a narrower format (2 indentions) below the scene information. Character names are centered and in all caps with the dialog in lower case below.

7. Double-spacing is used to separate one scene from another. It is also used to separate character dialog within the scene. Avoid jamming too much on one page. It is better to space out the information as needed.

EXAMPLE SCRIPT (top half of script page)

Page 4

SCENE 4 EXT. LIVING ROOM - JOHN'S HOUSE - MIDDLE AFTERNOON
JOHN is sitting in chair right talking on the phone. JANICE is standing left looking out the window.

                            JOHN
          Yes, I gave the money to Frank. (pause)
          Don't call me here again, understand?!

He slams phone on table. JANICE turns from window and faces JOHN right.

                           JANICE
          I think he knows what we did with the money.

JOHN looks at JANICE somewhat annoyed. Stands. Walks menacingly toward her, pointing his finger.

                            JOHN
          Don't start with the guilt trip! I've got it
          taken care of. (softens tone) You have to trust me.

JANICE becomes afraid and starts heading for the door. JOHN goes after her.

Additional script examples are available at http://www.imsdb.com/. However, some scripts are not in standard format at this site.
You can check out this site for free trial use of scriptwriting software on the web: http://www.scriptbuddy.com/products/.

Information above is adapted from the following texts: Broadcast Writing: Principles and Practice, 2nd Ed. by Roger L. Walters, 1988 and Broadcast Writing as a Liberal Art by Seth Finn, 1991.