How to Write and Format a Script (for Beginners)

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A guide to screenplay and script writing
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Writing a script is a great way to stretch your creativity, whether you want to make a movie, TV show, or play. Each script starts with a good premise and an interesting plot that takes your characters on a life-changing adventure. With dedication, patience, and the correct formatting, you can write your very own script! We even spoke with professional screenwriters Lucy V. Hay and Melessa Sargent for expert advice on crafting the best possible screenplay.

How do you write a script?

  1. Find inspiration for your story and decide its genre.
  2. Craft compelling characters, including a protagonist and antagonist.
  3. Create an outline of all potential scenes using a three-act structure.
  4. Format your script manually or use a screenwriting software.
  5. Write a first draft over 8-12 weeks, then step away for 2 weeks.
  6. Get feedback on your script from trusted readers.
  7. Re-read and revise your script until you’re happy with it.
Section 1 of 6:

Creating a Story for Your Script

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  1. “Make sure you know what you want to write about” before you start drafting, emphasizes Sargent. You need a good idea that you’re excited to develop into a script. Find inspiration by reading great scripts, advises Hay. Rewatch your favorite films, shows, and plays, and jot down ideas for movies you want to see. Use a “What if?” question to generate ideas. You may also think about an overall theme for your story that you want to explore. [1]
    • For example, “What if you went back in time and met your parents when they were your age?” is the premise for Back to the Future . “What if a monster rescued a princess instead of a handsome prince?” is the premise of Shrek .
    • Carry a small notebook with you wherever you go so you can take down notes when you get ideas. Or, keep them in the Notes app of your phone.
  2. Genre is an important storytelling device that lets readers know what sort of story to expect—it’s the category your script falls under based on its style, content, and plot. [2] Look at the movies or TV shows that you enjoy most and try to write a script in a similar style, since you’re likely already familiar with the tropes and plot beats (main events) of those types of stories.
    • Advice for picking a genre: If you like big set pieces and explosions, consider writing an action film. If you want to scare other people, try writing a horror script. If you want to tell a story about a relationship, try writing a drama or romantic comedy . If you like a lot of special effects or wonder what could happen in the future, write a science fiction film.
    • Combine genres to make something unique. For example, you may have a western movie that takes place in space (like the anime Cowboy Bebop ) or a romance movie with horror elements (like the film Bones and All ).
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  3. Every character in your script needs to want something—that’s their goal. Choose a main goal your main character, called a protagonist, pursues throughout the script. Give your characters flaws to make them more relatable and interesting. Finally, brainstorm who your character is at the beginning of the story versus how the events would change them—that’s their character arc.
    • Don't forget to figure out a memorable name for your script’s protagonist!
    • If you’re having trouble crafting characters, write profiles of them that describe what they look like, what they want, their history, and their strengths and flaws. These short writing exercises go a long way in making your characters feel developed.
    • Most stories have an antagonist . Give them qualities similar to the protagonist so they’re equally matched, but make them opposing via their goals, beliefs, and methods of achieving goals.
      • For example, your protagonist may be trying to save the world, but the antagonist may think the only way to save it is to destroy it. [3]
  4. A logline is a short summary of the main events in your film. Use concise, descriptive language to make your logline sound snappy and intriguing. Make sure other people understand what the main idea of your story is, including the protagonist, the antagonist, the conflict, and the genre. [4]
    • For example, if you wanted to write a logline for the movie A Quiet Place , you may say, “A family is attacked by monsters,” but that doesn't give enough detail. Instead, if you wrote, “A family must live in silence to avoid being captured by monsters with ultra-sensitive hearing,” then the person reading your logline understands the main points of your script.
    • Loglines are used in the screenwriting industry to help agents and readers decide if they want to read your script. If you’re trying to sell your script, you’ll also need to write a treatment—a 1-2 page summary of the script. [5]
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Section 2 of 6:

Outlining Your Script

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  1. Write down each event in your script in a document—try to keep it to 1-2 pages. Then, brainstorm potential scenes that could connect each event on individual note cards. This way, you can easily reorganize or remove scenes from your outline as you write. Write down all of your ideas, even if you think they're bad, since you may not know what will work best in your final script.
    • If you don't want to use index cards, you may also use a word document or outlining software like Evernote or Scrivener .
    • Lay your cards out on the floor or table so you can see all the scenes at once. Think about how each one develops characters and drives the plot forward—each scene should accomplish at least one, if not both, of those effects.
    • Have events in the future take place early in your film if you want to make a mind-bending movie with twists, such as Inception .
  2. As you go through your outline, ask yourself questions such as, “What is the main point of this scene?” or, “How does this scene move the story forward?” Go through each of the scenes to see if they add to the story or if they're only there to fill out space. If the scene doesn't have a point or move the story, you can probably remove it. [6]
    • For example, if the scene is your character just shopping for groceries, it doesn't add anything to the story. However, if your character bumps into someone at the grocery store and they hold a conversation related to the main idea of the movie, then you can keep it.
  3. Act breaks help separate your story into three parts: setup, confrontation, and resolution. Screenwriters typically structure act breaks, or the ending of one part and the beginning of another, around high and low points in the story. Below is a more detailed look at each act and its break: [7]
    • Tip: TV scripts usually hit act breaks when they cut to commercials. Watch shows similar to the story you're writing to see what happens just before they go to a commercial break.
    • The setup , or Act I, begins at the start of your story and ends when your character makes a choice that changes their lives forever.
    • In the confrontation , or Act II, your protagonist works toward their goal and interacts with your antagonist, leading up to the story’s climax.
    • The resolution , or Act III, takes place after the climax and shows what happens afterward, as well as tying up any remaining plot threads.
    EXPERT TIP

    Melessa Sargent

    Professional Writer
    Melessa Sargent is the President of Scriptwriters Network, a non-profit organization that brings in entertainment professionals to teach the art and business of script writing for TV, features and new media. The Network serves its members by providing educational programming, developing access and opportunity through alliances with industry professionals, and furthering the cause and quality of writing in the entertainment industry. Under Melessa's leadership, SWN has won numbers awards including the Los Angeles Award from 2014 through 2021, and the Innovation & Excellence award in 2020.
    Melessa Sargent
    Professional Writer

    Create 3-5 acts depending on the type of script. A TV script should be 5 acts if it's for a commercial network like CBS, NBC, or ABC. A non-commercial script, such as for Netflix or Amazon, should be 3 acts. Feature scripts are also usually 3 acts.

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Section 3 of 6:

Formatting the Script

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  1. When formatting a script, use Courier 12-point font. Include the title of your script in all caps in the center of the page—not at the top but a few line breaks down. Put a line break after the title of your script, then type “Written by.” Add another line break before typing your name. Leave contact information, such as an email address and phone number, in the bottom left margins. [8]
    • Some people underline the title, while others bold it.
    • If the script is based on any other stories or films, include a few lines with the phrase “Based on the story by” followed by the names of the original authors.
    EXPERT TIP

    Melessa Sargent

    Professional Writer
    Melessa Sargent is the President of Scriptwriters Network, a non-profit organization that brings in entertainment professionals to teach the art and business of script writing for TV, features and new media. The Network serves its members by providing educational programming, developing access and opportunity through alliances with industry professionals, and furthering the cause and quality of writing in the entertainment industry. Under Melessa's leadership, SWN has won numbers awards including the Los Angeles Award from 2014 through 2021, and the Innovation & Excellence award in 2020.
    Melessa Sargent
    Professional Writer

    Try scriptwriting software to make formatting your script easy. It can help a lot, especially if you've never written a screenplay before.

  2. The screenwriting standard is any variation of Courier font because it's easy to read. Make sure to use 12-point font since it's what other scripts use and is considered industry standard. [9]
    • Use any additional formatting, such as bolding or underlining, sparingly since it can distract your reader.
    • Screenwriting software, like Celtx, Final Draft, or WriterDuet, all automatically format your script for you so you don't need to worry about changing any settings.
  3. Scene headings, also called sluglines, should be aligned to the left margin 1 1 ⁄ 2  in (3.8 cm) from the edge of the page. Type the scene headings in all caps. Include INT. or EXT. to tell readers if the scene takes place inside or outside. Name the specific location where the scene takes place, followed by a short dash, then the time of day it takes place. [10]
    • For example, a scene heading may read: INT. CLASSROOM - DAY.
    • Keep scene headings on a single line so they aren't too overwhelming.
    • If you want to specify a room in a specific location, you can also type scene headings like: INT. JOHN'S HOUSE - KITCHEN - DAY.
  4. Align action lines with the left margin and use a regular sentence structure. Use action lines to denote what a character does and to give brief descriptions about what's happening. Keep action lines brief so they don't overwhelm a reader looking at the page. [11]
    • Avoid writing what the characters are thinking. A good rule of thumb to think about is if it can't be seen or heard on-screen, don't include it in your action block. Instead of saying, “John thinks about pulling the lever but he's not sure if he should,” you may write something like, “John's hand twitches near the lever. He grits his teeth and furrows his brow.”
    • When you introduce a character for the first time in an action block, use all caps for their name. Every time after that, write it as normal.
  5. When switching from scene headings or action lines to dialogue, make sure the margin is set to 3.7 in (9.4 cm) from the left side of the page. Put the character's name in all caps so a reader or actor can easily see when their lines occur. When you write the dialogue, make sure it's 2 1 ⁄ 2  in (6.4 cm) from the left side of the page. [12]
    • If you want to make it clear how your character is feeling, include a parenthetical on the line right after the character's name with an emotion. For example, it may read (excited) or (tense). Make sure the parenthetical is 3.1 in (7.9 cm) from the left side of the page.
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Section 4 of 6:

Writing Your First Draft

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  1. Choose a date that's about 8-12 weeks away from when you start since these are the usual industry times that writers have to work on a script for TV or film. Mark the deadline on a calendar or set a reminder on your phone so it holds you accountable for working on your script. [13]
    • Tell others about your goal and ask them to hold you accountable for finishing your work.
  2. During your first draft, just write the ideas that come to your head as you follow along with your outline. Don't worry about spelling or grammar entirely—you just need to get your story written down. If you aim to do 1-2 pages each day, you'll finish your first draft within 60-90 days.
    • Choose a set time each day to sit down and write so you don't get distracted. Some people write more easily in the morning, while others produce their best work at night.
    • Turn off your phone or internet connection so you can just focus on writing.
  3. Make sure it flows well and doesn't sound confusing or awkward. If you notice any problem areas, highlight or underline the phrases and come back to them next time you edit.
    • Make sure each character sounds different and has a unique voice. Otherwise, a reader will have a hard time distinguishing between who's speaking.
  4. Think of each page as equalling 1 minute of screen time. To write a standard film script, aim to write something about 90-120 pages long so it would run for 1 ½-2 hours.
    • Short films should be about 10 pages or less.
    EXPERT TIP

    Melessa Sargent

    Professional Writer
    Melessa Sargent is the President of Scriptwriters Network, a non-profit organization that brings in entertainment professionals to teach the art and business of script writing for TV, features and new media. The Network serves its members by providing educational programming, developing access and opportunity through alliances with industry professionals, and furthering the cause and quality of writing in the entertainment industry. Under Melessa's leadership, SWN has won numbers awards including the Los Angeles Award from 2014 through 2021, and the Innovation & Excellence award in 2020.
    Melessa Sargent
    Professional Writer

    Feature scripts should be between 95-110 pages . TV scripts should be 30-35 pages for a half-hour show or 60-65 pages for a 1-hour show.

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Section 5 of 6:

Revising Your Script

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  1. If you've been working on your script for a long period of time, save the file and focus on something else for a few weeks. That way, when you come back to edit it, you'll be able to look at it with fresh eyes. [14]
    • Start work on another script while you wait if you want to keep working on other ideas.
  2. Open your script and read it from start to finish. Look for places where the story is confusing or where characters are doing things without moving the story forward. Write your notes down by hand so you can remember them better. [15]
    • Try to read your script out loud and don't be afraid to act out parts based on how you think they should be performed. That way, you can catch dialogue or wording that doesn't work as well.
    • Tip: If you can, print out your screenplay so you can directly write on it.
    • Also, keep an eye out for inconsistencies, like a character’s description or age changing, or someone referencing something that hasn’t happened yet. Flag these so you can change them during the next round of revision.
  3. Ask a friend or parent to look over your script to see what they think. Tell them what sort of feedback you're looking for so they know what to focus on. Ask them questions when they're finished about whether parts make sense or not. [16]
    • Not all feedback is helpful or necessary to accept, but if the same comment comes up over and over, consider making a change to address it.
  4. Work on story and character revisions first to fix larger problems in your script. As you work through each revision, work from larger problems, such as dialogue or confusing action sequences, to minor problems, such as grammar and spelling.
    • Start each draft in a new document so you can cut and paste parts you like from your old script into the new one. Name each version with a number after the title or the date you start making the changes so you can easily revisit old ones.
    • Don't get too nit-picky with yourself or you'll never finish the script you're working on.
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Section 6 of 6:

Frequently Asked Questions

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  1. 1
    What are common screenwriting mistakes? Common mistakes you may make when writing a script include using incorrect formatting, relying too heavily on tropes or cliches, leaving plot holes in the script, or having too much dialogue. [17] Here are a few ways to avoid these mistakes:
    • Review formatting guidelines before revising.
    • Ask your readers for feedback on whether the story feels predictable. While revising yourself, ask if there are new ways to present similar story beats or character arcs.
    • Make sure every plot thread you introduce is resolved.
    • Consider what dialogue can be conveyed in fewer sentences or in action and visuals.
  2. 2
    What’s the difference between a script and a screenplay? A script is the basis for several mediums, from plays and commercials to television shows and films. A screenplay refers specifically to a script written for television or film. Additionally, TV scripts may be referred to as teleplays. [18]
  3. 3
    What is a spec script? A speculative script, commonly called a spec script, is a script written without a commission. You choose to write it “on speculation” that someone will like it and buy it, whether it’s an agent taking you on as a client or a producer agreeing to shoot your film. [19]
    • A TV spec script is an imagined episode of a show that’s currently running, explains Sargent. You write it to prove your abilities while working within the confines of a known universe.
  4. 4
    How do you sell a script? Network with industry professionals who can help you find representation—an agent or manager that can put you in touch with networks and production companies looking for scripts. Research agents who are open for submissions and follow their guidelines to submit your script. [20]
    • Beware of scams. No one should ask for money to represent you or consider your script.
    • Consider entering a prestigious screenwriting competition like the Academy Nicholl Fellowship to get eyes on your script. If you place highly, you could get representation. [21]
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Script-Writing Help

Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    How do I start writing a script?
    Melessa Sargent
    Professional Writer
    Melessa Sargent is the President of Scriptwriters Network, a non-profit organization that brings in entertainment professionals to teach the art and business of script writing for TV, features and new media. The Network serves its members by providing educational programming, developing access and opportunity through alliances with industry professionals, and furthering the cause and quality of writing in the entertainment industry. Under Melessa's leadership, SWN has won numbers awards including the Los Angeles Award from 2014 through 2021, and the Innovation & Excellence award in 2020.
    Melessa Sargent
    Professional Writer
    Expert Answer
    Everything starts with an idea. Make sure you know what your idea is, what you want to write about. Have a character and focus on what the character is going to do. Then take your idea and write it down, from beginning to the end. Let it be just a few pages. Include locations, details, and everything that is on your mind; put the paragraphs. When you actually start to write a script, you would cover everything you have written on these pages, and they will help you to know how you want your story to flow.
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  • Question
    What is a good script writing software to download? Preferably free.
    wikiHow Staff Editor
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    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    Websites and software such as WriterDuet and Celtx are great programs that are free to use with the option to upgrade. If you want to try paid screenwriting software, Final Draft and Fade In have free trials you can use.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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  • Question
    What is the length of a TV pilot script (not the duration of the actual program)
    wikiHow Staff Editor
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    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
    wikiHow Staff Editor
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    TV pilots are usually around 30-35 pages for a 30-minute show and 60-70 pages for a 60-minute show.
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      Tips

      • There are no set rules for writing a screenplay. If you feel like your story should be told in a non-linear manner, or feature unconventional act breaks, do that.
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      • Read scripts for movies you enjoy to learn how they were written. Many PDFs can be found online with a simple search, or on databases like Script Slug .
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      • Read books like Save the Cat by Blake Snyder or Screenplay by Syd Field to get ideas and information about how to format your stories.
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      • Make sure that you give credit to everyone who helped and make your ideas original. Don't steal other people's ideas.
      • If you were to perform a play at school, you could try a play that has a warning or a moral.
      • The more you practice writing, the better you will be at it.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://youtu.be/uPHp7pmctRk?t=23
      2. ↑ https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/genre
      3. ↑ https://www.well-storied.com/blog/the-four-main-types-of-epic-antagonists
      4. ↑ https://www.scriptreaderpro.com/how-to-write-a-screenplay-2/
      5. ↑ https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/logline
      6. ↑ https://www.writerduet.com/blog/how-pro-screenwriters-outline-a-script/
      7. ↑ https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/three-act-structure/
      8. ↑ https://blog.celtx.com/screenplay-title-page/
      9. ↑ https://screenwriting.io/what-is-standard-screenplay-format/
      1. ↑ https://scriptwrecked.com/category/scene-headings/
      2. ↑ https://scriptangel.com/8-tips-to-writing-great-action-lines/
      3. ↑ https://screenwriting.io/what-is-standard-screenplay-format/
      4. ↑ https://screenwriting.io/how-long-should-it-take-to-write-a-screenplay/
      5. ↑ https://thescriptlab.com/features/screenwriting-101/9296-mastering-the-art-of-revising-and-editing-your-screenplays/
      6. ↑ https://screencraft.org/blog/revising-screenplay-rewriting-screenwriting/
      7. ↑ https://screencraft.org/blog/revising-screenplay-rewriting-screenwriting/
      8. ↑ https://screencraft.org/blog/ten-common-screenwriting-mistakes-avoid/
      9. ↑ https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/screenplay-vs-script/
      10. ↑ https://blog.finaldraft.com/what-is-a-spec-script
      11. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-sell-a-screenplay#1MctkKIIIINPS7fqd8pjoT
      12. ↑ https://www.indiewire.com/news/general-news/the-academy-nicholl-fellowship-program-partners-1235111187/

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To write a script, always start with a scene heading that's aligned to the left margin whenever you go to a new location. You should also include action blocks whenever you want to describe the setting and character's actions, which should also be aligned with the left margin. For example, you might write, "John takes a sip of his coffee and smiles." When you want to include dialogue, center the character's name in all caps, and center the dialogue under their name. To learn how to come up with a good story and realistic dialogue, read on!

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