While there can be slight variations for different types of scripts (ie multicam sitcom teleplays), screenplays follow strict formatting rules. Fortunately, software like Highland, will do the heavy lifting for you. Here are the basics: More from johnaugust.com
Is there a standard screenplay format?
[Yes.](https://screenwriting.io/what-is-standard-screenplay-format/) There are slight variations based on the type of screenplay (i.e. feature, dramatic teleplay, [multicamera sitcom](https://screenwriting.io/how-are-multicamera-tv-scripts-formatted/), etc) and writer preference, but there is most definitely a standard screenplay format, which includes a standard [font, spacing, indentations, and more](https://screenwriting.io/what-is-standard-screenplay-format/). Examples of properly formatted screenplays can be found in the [johnaugust.com library](http://johnaugust.com/library). Scriptwriting software such as […]
Are there any free screenwriting applications?
Yes. [Celtx](http://celtx.com/) contains a screenwriting component, as does [Five Sprockets](http://www.fivesprockets.com/fs-portal/). In addition, some pay programs offer free demo versions with limitations, like a limited trial period or watermarked printing, for example. ### More from johnaugust.com * [Celtx screenwriting application shows promise](http://johnaugust.com/2005/celtx-screenwriting-application-shows-promise “Celtx screenwriting application shows promise”) * [Screenwriting software survey results are in](http://johnaugust.com/2004/screenwriting-software-survey-results-are-in “Screenwriting software […]
What is the difference between .fdx and .fdr?
Both .fdr and .fdx files are types of [Final Draft](http://www.finaldraft.com/) documents. Files with the .fdx extension come from Final Draft 8, while .fdr documents are from earlier versions of Final Draft. Final Draft 8 can open and save .fdr files, but older versions of Final Draft cannot open .fdx files. The .fdx format is based […]
What is Movie Magic Screenwriter?
[Movie Magic Screenwriter](http://www.screenplay.com/p-29-movie-magic-screenwriter-6.aspx) is a popular scriptwriting word processor, like [Highland](http://quoteunquoteapps.com/highland/), [Final Draft](http://www.finaldraft.com/) or [Celtx](http://celtx.com/). It is available for both Macintosh and Windows. Online, you may see the application referred to as: * “Movie Magic Screenwriter” * “Screenwriter” * “Movie Magic” * “MMS” * “MMSW” It is comparable in price and features to Final Draft. […]
Is Final Draft on the iPad?
Yes. As of August 2012, [Final Draft Writer](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/final-draft-writer/id526135686?mt=8) is available for iPad for $49.99. [FDX Reader](http://quoteunquoteapps.com/fdxreader) by Quote-Unquote Apps can be used to read Final Draft 8 documents (.fdx files) on the iPad or iPhone, but is not a script editor. ### More from johnaugust.com * [FDX Reader now in iPhone](http://johnaugust.com/2011/fdx-reader-now-on-iphone “FDX Reader now in […]