Scriptwriting Format Guide | Industry-Standard Formatting

Proper screenplay formatting is essential for any screenwriter. Industry professionals expect scripts to follow a specific format — deviating from it signals inexperience and can get your script tossed aside unread.

Scene Headings (Slug Lines)

Every scene begins with a scene heading that tells the reader where and when the action takes place. Format: INT. or EXT., followed by the location, then time of day. Example: INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY

Action Lines

Action lines describe what happens on screen — what the audience sees and hears. Write in present tense, be concise, and focus on visual storytelling. Avoid directing the camera or describing internal thoughts.

Character Names

Character names appear centered and in ALL CAPS above their dialogue. The first time a character appears in action, their name is capitalized. Subsequent mentions in action lines use normal case.

Dialogue

Dialogue is centered beneath the character name with specific margins. Keep dialogue natural and purposeful — every line should reveal character, advance the plot, or both.

Parentheticals

Brief direction placed in parentheses between the character name and dialogue. Use sparingly — only when the intended delivery isn't clear from context. Example: (whispering), (to Sarah), (beat)

Transitions

Transitions like CUT TO:, FADE IN:, and FADE OUT are used to indicate how one scene moves to the next. In modern screenwriting, transitions are used minimally as cuts between scenes are assumed.

Page Layout and Margins

• Font: 12-point Courier or Courier New
• Left margin: 1.5 inches
• Right margin: 1 inch
• Top and bottom margins: 1 inch
• Dialogue margins: 2.5 inches from left, 2.5 inches from right
• Character name: 3.7 inches from left

Script.Movie handles all formatting automatically, so you can focus on writing your story.