Script writing templates are a handy tool for writers.
They provide a structure and framework that can be helpful in both the writing process and the finished product.
But what exactly is a script writing template?
And how do you effectively use them?
A script writing template is simply a document that outlines the critical elements of a screenplay.
This includes everything from character names and descriptions to scene locations and action beats.
Essentially, it’s a road map for your script.
What Is a Script?
A script is a written work by a screenwriter that contains all the dialogue and instructions for a movie, video game, or television show.
It is also the blueprint upon which the entire production develops.
Script Examples
- Moulin Rouge (2001)
- Desperado (1995)
- Back To The Future (1985)
What Is the Difference Between a Script and a Screenplay?
A screenplay is a specific type of script written for the screen.
It includes all the required elements of a story, such as exposition, character development, and resolution.
On the other hand, a script can be anything from a play to a movie.
A screenplay is a specific format used to write a movie or television script.
The primary difference between a script and a screenplay is the format.
What Are Script Writing Templates?
Script writing templates are documents that provide a preformatted structure for a screenplay.
This includes everything from character names and descriptions to scene locations and action beats.
These are pre-formatted documents used to write a script.
They include all the necessary elements of a script, such as the characters, setting, plot, and specific instructions for the camera work, sound, and other technical aspects of the production.
What Is the Purpose of Using Script Writing Templates?
A script writing template helps you organize your thoughts and plot points into a cohesive story.
It can also work as a guide during the actual writing process.
Another purpose is to save time and effort when writing a script. Using a template lets you be sure that all the necessary elements exist in your script and that the format is correct.
A common purpose is to make sure that the script is correctly formatted so that it can be sent to agents or producers.
Also, script writing templates help the writer format their script to be easy to read and understand.
You can customize templates to fit your specific needs.
Examples of Script Writing Templates
Characteristics of the Ideal Script Format Template
What makes a great script format template?
There are several vital elements that every writer should look for when choosing a template.
One element is convenience.
The template should be easy to use and simple to follow.
It should also be customizable to add or remove elements as needed.
Another element is flexibility.
The template should accommodate a variety of different story structures and formats.
Accuracy is also essential.
The template should be based on industry standards and should be up-to-date with the latest trends in screenplay writing.
Finally, the ideal script format template should be affordable.
There is no reason to spend a fortune on a template when so many great options are available for free.
What Is the Proper Format of a Script Template?
The proper script writing format of a template includes:
- 12-point Courier font
- 1.5 inch left margin
- 1-inch right margin
- 1 inch top and bottom margins
- Approximately 55 lines per page, excluding page numbers
- Parentheticals 3.1 inches from the left side of the page
- Dialogue speakers 3.7 inches from the left side of the page
- Capitalize transitions
- Dialogue is indented 2.5 inches
- Page numbers in the top right corner
- No page numbers on the title page and first page
The best way to learn how to format a script is to find a good script writing template and follow it.
Important Features of a Script Template
The first item in a properly formatted script template is the scene heading or slugline.
Sluglines indicate the location and time of day of a scene – where and when.
Scene headings are all capital letters.
The next item is subheaders.
Subheaders transition between scenes or locations.
They are written in lowercase letters and are indented five spaces from the left margin.
Action lines come next. Action lines describe what is happening in a scene.
They are written in the present tense and should be no more than two lines long.
Dialogue is the next item.
Dialogue is the conversation between characters.
It is indented ten spaces from the left margin and should be in proper grammatical format.
Character names are written above dialogue to indicate who is speaking.
Character names are written in all capital letters and are indented five spaces from the left margin.
Extensions are next.
Extensions add additional information about a scene or character.
V.O. means voiceover, and O.S. means off-screen.
Parentheticals provide additional information about a character’s delivery of dialogue.
They are indented fifteen spaces from the left margin.
Finally, transitions move the story forward.
Transitions are written in all capital letters and are indented five spaces from the left margin.
CUT TO and DISSOLVE TO are common examples.
Where To Find Script Writing Templates?
There are multiple different places where you can find script writing templates.
The first is online.
Many websites offer free and paid script writing templates.
The second is in libraries.
Many libraries have various types of writing templates available for checkout.
The third is through software programs.
Some different software programs offer script writing templates.
You can use a template that is specific to the software you choose.
For example, if you are using Microsoft Word, there are many templates that are already available.
Free Script Templates
There are many free script templates available online.
Some good options are TemplateLab and Templates Supply.
Script Writing Template Using Word
You can utilize Microsoft Word to create a script writing template.
- Open Microsoft Word and select “New”
- Choose the “Templates” option
- Search for “Script Writing”
- Download a template
Script Writing Template Using Google Documents
- Go to Google Workplace Marketplace
- Search for “Screenplay”
- Choose one of the options like Screenplay Formatter or Fountainsize
- Install the tool and open Google Docs. You can find your new tool under Add-Ons
Best Script Writing Template for Students
There is no single best script writing template for students.
The template should be easy to use and be used with a variety of different software programs.
There are some excellent options available online.\Searching Pinterest for “Script Writing Template” returns many valuable results.
Wrapping Up
A script writing template can be an excellent tool for helping you to write your screenplay.
There are several different types of script writing templates available, and you can find them in various places.
The idea is to locate an option that fits the needs of your project, and that is easy to use.
When you are looking for script writing templates, keep in mind the purpose of the template and the needs of your project.
This will help you to find the perfect template for your needs.
