Getting Started
What is a screenplay?
A screenplay is a written script for a film or TV show, detailing dialogue, actions, and directions for production.
How is a screenplay different from a novel?
A screenplay focuses on visual storytelling and dialogue, while novels delve deeper into internal thoughts and descriptions.
What are the basic elements of a screenplay?
Scene heading (Slugline): Indicates location and time.
Action: How the action plays out onscreen.
Dialogue: What characters say.
Parentheticals: Small directions for how lines should be said.
What are some tools I can use to write a screenplay?
Resources include Final Draft, Celtx, and Scrivener. Free alternatives include Trelby or Google Docs.
How long should a screenplay be?
A standard feature-length screenplay is 90–120 pages. One page is usually about a minute of screen time.
Story Planning and Structure
What is the three-act structure?
Act 1: Setup (Introduce characters, setting, conflict).
Act 2: Confrontation (Build tension and stakes).
Act 3: Resolution (Climax and conclusion).
How do I write a great opening scene?
Start with a hook—a moment that gets the audience’s attention, launches key themes or conflicts .
What is a logline, and why am I supposed to care?
A logline is a one-sentence summary of your story, spotlighting the protagonist, goal, and stakes. It’s killer for pitching.
Should I outline my screenplay before writing?
Yes, an outline is a roadmap. It ensures that your story has a logical flow and hits the right beats.
What are story beats?
Story beats are crucial moments in your story that forward the plot and character arcs.
Character Development
How do I develop interesting characters?
Give characters clear goals, flaws, and unique voices. Backstories should inform all of their actions and decisions.
What makes a great protagonist?
A believable character with good motivations, meaningful conflicts, and character growth.
What is an antagonist?
The antagonist is the opposing force to the protagonist, which creates conflict. They should have their own motivations and depth.
How do I write realistic dialogue?
Listen to real conversations for inspiration. Keep dialogue concise and avoid exposition-heavy lines.
Can minor characters be memorable?
Absolutely. Give them quirks, specific goals, or moments that contribute to the story.
Writing Process
What is the ideal way to begin a screenplay?
Start with a hook, logline, and key scenes as an outline to write from
Do I write every day?
Yes, consistent writing, no matter how much, is key. It helps create discipline and builds momentum.
What do I do when writer’s block sets in?
Take a break, or change environment
Review the outline or brainstorm new ideas
Write through it without perfection.
What is the difference between a spec script and a shooting script?
A spec script is written to pitch, focusing on story and readability. A shooting script contains technical directions for production.
How do I format a screenplay correctly?
Use standard screenplay formatting, including Courier 12-point font. Software like Final Draft ensures correct formatting.
Polishing and Feedback
How many drafts should I write?
Most screenplays go through multiple drafts—expect at least 3–5 before it’s polished.
How can I get constructive feedback?
Share your script with peers, join screenwriting groups, or hire professional script readers.
What does a script doctor do?
A script doctor edits or polishes an existing screenplay to make it better.
How can I identify weaknesses in my screenplay?
Look for slow pacing, inconsistent characters, or unclear stakes. Other people’s feedback can also pinpoint areas.
When is a screenplay ready to pitch?
When it’s really, really polished, formatted correctly, and has a strong logline and synopsis.
Industry and Marketing
How do I pitch my screenplay?
Prepare a logline, short synopsis, and elevator pitch. Practice saying all this stuff confident and concise.
Where should I submit my screenplay?
Screenwriting competitions (Nicholl Fellowship, Austin Film Festival).
Production companies, agents.
Online platforms: Coverfly, or The Black List.
Do I need an agent to sell my screenplay?
While not necessary, an agent can help guide you through the industry and get you in front of buyers.
What rights do I keep if I sell a screenplay?
That depends on the contract. Generally, selling a script relinquishes most rights, but be sure that the terms are spelled out.
How do I protect my screenplay?
Register it with the Writers Guild of America or the U.S. Copyright Office to protect your work.