“CUT TO:” can be a useful transition when you need to be extra-clear we’re moving to a new place and/or time. However, with the presence of scene headers, it is by no means necessary, and in modern screenplays it is often not used at all. In a 2003 blog post, John August names three situations […]
How do screenwriters use index cards?
Many screenwriters find index cards (aka notecards, note cards, or flash cards) valuable in both the outlining and pitching processes. They are a great way for visualizing story, and they are non-linear, so they can be moved and shuffled easily. Plus they come in different colors, which can be a big help with organization. When […]
Are scenes that take place in cars INT. or EXT.?
Car scenes often use camera placements that are both INT. and EXT., so INT./EXT. is usually appropriate for their scene headers. INT./EXT. STEVE BLACK’S CADILLAC – DAY [DRIVING] This is not a hard and fast rule. If your scene is obviously either INT. or EXT., use it. For example, if you have a movie about […]
What is the best way to handle flashbacks or dream sequences in a screenplay?
If you want the viewer (and therefore the reader) to know that a scene is or is part of a flashback or dream sequence, add the tag in brackets after the header. INT. TOM’S BEDROOM – DAY [FLASHBACK] If you don’t want the viewer to be immediately aware, omit the tag. This advice also applies […]
What constitutes a scene?
A scene is a unit of story that takes place at a specific location and time. If one of these changes, you have a new scene. This is two scenes: INT. PETE’S ROOM – NIGHT He turns off the lamp and quietly nestles himself under the covers... INT. PETE’S ROOM – DAY A SCREECHING alarm […]
How do you label a scene that takes place both inside and outside?
Screenwriting.io is under construction. This content is now available here. All future articles will be published in the Resources Section of the Quote-Unquote Apps Blog. More from johnaugust.com Int. and Ext. What does I/E mean? Various locations Transitions