How to: Scripts

Before i begin to construct my own script, i need to know what aspects are needed within a script in order to make my own as authentic as possible.

Fade In (editing directions) - This should be the first item on the first page.

Scene Heading - A one line description of the location and time of day of a scene (e.g. Ext (exterior)- Trash Heap - Day or Int (interior) Hospital Room - Day), it should always be in caps (this is also known as a 'slugline').

Action - The narrative directions of the events of a scene (e.g. Lily runs quickly through the forest).

Usually there will be an in depth description of the location and setting in order to establish the narrative from the very first line of dialogue in the script. This will usually be a short paragraph giving some background information to what is happening in the scene.

Transition – This could include some specific editorial instructions that would be featured in the film and needed for the post-production of the film.

Character's First Appearance - A description of the character, their name should be CAPITALISED (e.g. the door opens and in walks in LILY, a twenty-something woman, escaping from something).

Character - A character's name always appears above their dialogue.

Dialogue - Lines of speech for the character.

Stage Directions - Should be placed before the dialogue to give the actors an idea of how to deliver their lines.

Example of a script that i have looked at and annotated: