If you have a Mac, the easiest way to edit your PDF scripts is to use Highland. A major reason we recommend you send your script out as a PDF is that PDF scripts are not easily editable. And while that is usually an asset, it is an obvious problem if you need to edit […]
What is Fountain?
Fountain is a simple markup language for writing screenplays in plain text. With Fountain, you can write a screenplay in any text editor without worrying about spacing and margins and indentation. Once you put it through a conversion utility like Highland, it will come out in proper screenplay format. So this: JIRO (O.S.) Something smells […]
What format should my script be in when I send it out?
Generally, it’s best to send your scripts out as PDFs. PDFs are simple, not writeable or editable (unless you have Highland), and universally readable. With other formats, you run risks. For example, if you were to send your script out in FDX, it’s possible the recipient wouldn’t have Final Draft and wouldn’t be able to […]
How should you handle text messages (SMS) or instant messages (IMs) in screenplays?
There’s no standard rule for how one should format text messages or IMs in screenplays. As with all formatting advice, any way you handle it is okay as long as your intention is clear and you don’t confuse the reader. One simple way to handle text communication is to treat it like dialogue, but indicate […]
How should you handle numbers or confusing jargon in dialogue?
Numbers and jargon in dialogue should usually be spelled out in full, and as specifically as possible. If not, you run the risk of your actor saying something different than you intend. If you writer your scene: MARY How much is the bill? SHOP OWNER $1,329.00 We don’t know who this shop owner is, or […]
What are MORE and CONT’D used for in screenplays?
When a dialogue block is split, either by a page break or an action line, you will use the parenthetical (CONT’D) to indicate the second part of dialogue is a continuation of the first: CHRIS Blake! Get over here. He grabs his teammate’s jersey, pulls him over. CHRIS (CONT’D) This one’s coming to you. Be […]