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 […]
How are lyrics formatted in screenplays?
Lyrics in screenplays are written in italics. If it is not already clear from the context that the character is singing, it’s helpful to include the parenthetical “(singing)” the first time it comes up, as foreign dialogue and other special-circumstance dialogue is also put in italics. Some writers choose to put a “/” at the […]
What is the difference between an em-dash/double-hyphen and an ellipsis?
Both em-dashes (–) and ellipses (…) are used to indicate unfinished thoughts, but their uses differ slightly. Em-dashes are used to indicate a thought that ends abruptly, either because the speaker ended it that way for effect (“aposiopesis”), or because he or she was interrupted. THOMAS I was just about to tell your dad that […]
How do I write a screenplay?
Writing a [screenplay](https://screenwriting.io/what-is-a-screenplay/) is a large undertaking. In [not much more than 100 pages](https://screenwriting.io/how-long-should-a-screenplay-be/), a screenwriter must clearly and succinctly present a coherent and gripping story, complete with rich characters and interesting dialogue and action, all while following [standard screenplay format](https://screenwriting.io/what-is-standard-screenplay-format/). **Get a feel for how they work.** Screenplays are not stand-alone pieces of literary […]
In dialogue, how do you handle a character with a speech impediment?
If you have a character with a speech impediment, it most likely will be distracting — and quite possibly condescending — to try to mimic the impediment in all of his dialogue. Instead, include mention of the character’s speech impediment when you introduce him, and then write the dialogue as normal, doing your best to […]