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Why you need to use proper formatting when screenwriting

10 years, 1 month ago - Shore Scripts

As a reader at Shore Scripts, I still can't believe it when I get handed a script, which isn't properly formatted. My heart drops, as I know it's going to be a slog to get through it. Incorrect formatting almost always means the script is way longer than the page count suggests, therefore it's going to take up more of my time to read it. And that's something that puts the script into an immediately bad light.

Any script that you’re prepared to submit, whether to an agent, a production company, or a competition, is expected to meet some basic requirements. If you’re not adhering to the industry standard, not only could you be coming across as an ‘amateur’, you also risk having your screenplay dismissed before it’s even been read.

Getting to grips with the correct margin length and spacing can be tricky, especially for those of us who are still typing scripts out on word processors like Microsoft Word. It becomes all the more important that the document looks as close to the expected layout as possible so check out the adjoining guidelines to help achieve that professional look.

The easiest way to get a handle on layouts is to use screenwriting software, which does all the hard work for you. Although some programs such as Final Draft or Movie Magic can be expensive, the benefits and ease of use can free up a writers time immeasurable. There are cheaper alternatives out there too.

CELTX for instance is a free online screenwriting tool, which does everything you need to create that professional look at minimum cost. Properly spaced out text, clean looking title pages, the all-important courier 12 font. It comes in a handy mobile app too so you can literally use it anywhere you have an internet connection. There's even a collaboration feature so two or more writers can be working on the same script at the same time! For the filmmakers, they also offer an all-in-one studio subscription, where you can create storyboards, production budgets and create shooting lists etc.

A Celtx subscription is one of the prizes in this years Shore Scripts Screenwriting Competition (www.shorescripts.com) but you anyone can sign up for free and start using the screenwriting software right now. So if you have a brilliant idea for a script but don't have access to any screenwriting software, give your script a better chance at getting past the reader when submitting and give Celtx a go. You don't want make any readers immediately loath the prospect of reading your script. Trust me.

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