If you’re new to the world of screenwriting, you may find yourself overwhelmed by the technical terms and abbreviations used in the industry.
Understanding these terms is crucial for effective communication with other writers, producers, and directors. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive glossary of screenwriting terms to help you navigate the language of the industry.
Screenwriting is a unique form of writing that requires a specific set of skills and knowledge. One of the most important aspects of screenwriting is understanding the technical terms and abbreviations used in the industry.
These terms are used to describe everything from camera angles and shots to character development and plot structure. By familiarizing yourself with these terms, you’ll be able to communicate more effectively with other writers and industry professionals, and you’ll be better equipped to write compelling and engaging screenplays.
Table of contents
Basic Concepts of Script Writing
Scriptwriting is the art of creating stories for film, television, or theater. It involves the use of technical terms and abbreviations that are specific to the craft. In this section, we will explore the basic concepts of script writing to help you understand the terminology used in the industry.
Script Formats
There are several script formats used in the industry, including screenplays, teleplays, and stage plays. Screenplays are used for films, teleplays for television shows, and stage plays for theater productions. Each format has its own set of rules and guidelines that must be followed.
Screenplay Structure
A screenplay is typically divided into three acts, with each act consisting of specific plot points. Act one is the setup, where the characters and their world are introduced. Act two is the confrontation, where the characters face obstacles and challenges. Act three is the resolution, where the story is brought to a conclusion.
Story Development
Story development is the process of creating a plot and developing characters for a script. It involves creating a synopsis, which is a summary of the story, and a scene description, which is a detailed description of each scene in the script. The plot should be well-structured and engaging, with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
In conclusion, understanding the basic concepts of scriptwriting is essential for anyone interested in pursuing a career in the industry. By familiarizing yourself with the technical terms and abbreviations used in the craft, you can improve your writing skills and create compelling stories that captivate audiences.
Key Script Elements
When it comes to scriptwriting, there are several key elements that you should keep in mind. These elements are essential to creating a well-structured and engaging screenplay. In this section, we will discuss the three main elements of a script: character development, dialogue and action, and scene headings and transitions.
Character Development
One of the most important elements of any screenplay is character development. This includes creating well-rounded and believable characters that the audience can connect with. In order to achieve this, it is important to give your characters depth and complexity. This can be done through their actions, dialogue, and backstory.
Dialogue and Action
Dialogue and action are also essential elements of a script. Dialogue should be natural and realistic while also moving the story forward. Action should be clear and concise, providing the reader with a visual representation of what is happening on screen. It is also essential to consider the pacing of your dialogue and action, as well as the use of beats to break up more extended scenes.
Scene Headings and Transitions
Finally, scene headings and transitions are essential to creating a well-structured screenplay. Scene headings should be clear and concise, providing the reader with information on where the scene is taking place.
Transitions should also be used to transition between scenes smoothly, whether it be through a fade in/out or a cut.
Overall, these key script elements are essential to creating a successful screenplay. By focusing on character development, dialogue and action, and scene headings and transitions, you can create a well-structured and engaging script that will captivate your audience.
| Entity | Importance |
|---|---|
| Character | Important |
| Dialogue | Important |
| Action | Important |
| Scene Heading | Important |
| Transition | Important |
| Beat | Important |
| Slugline | Important |
Technical Aspects of a Script
When it comes to script writing, some specific technical terms and abbreviations are commonly used to convey specific instructions to the production team.
Here are some of the technical aspects of a script that you should be familiar with:
Camera Directions
Camera directions are used to describe the specific shots and angles that the camera should capture during filming. Some standard camera directions include:
- ECU (Extreme Close-Up): A shot that focuses on a small detail, such as a person’s eyes or mouth.
- Close-Up: A shot that shows a person’s face in detail.
- Angle On: A shot that emphasizes a particular object or person in the scene.
- Angle: A shot that shows the scene from a specific angle, such as a low angle or high angle.
Using camera directions can help you communicate your vision for the scene to the production team and ensure that they capture the shots you have in mind.
Editing Notations
Editing notations are used to describe how the shots should be edited together to create a cohesive scene. Some standard editing notations include:
- Cut To: A transition between two shots that is abrupt and quick.
- Dissolve To: A transition between two shots that is gradual and slow.
- Editing: The process of selecting and arranging shots to create a cohesive scene.
By including editing notations in your script, you can help guide the editing process and ensure that the final product matches your vision.
Sound and Music Cues
Sound and music cues are used to indicate when specific sounds or music should be added to the scene. Some familiar sound and music cues include:
- Sounds: Any non-musical sounds that should be included in the scene, such as footsteps or a door closing.
- Music: Any musical cues that should be added to the scene, such as a specific song or instrumental track.
Using sound and music cues can help enhance the overall mood and tone of the scene and ensure that the final product is engaging and impactful.
In conclusion, by including these technical aspects in your script, you can ensure that your vision is communicated clearly to the production team and that the final product matches your expectations.
Formatting Standards
When it comes to script writing, adhering to formatting standards is essential for ensuring that your script is easy to read and understand.
Here are some key elements to keep in mind:
Page Layout
The standard format for a script page is to have one-inch margins on all sides, with the text aligned to the left.
The page number should be located in the top right corner of the page, and the title of the script should be centered at the top of the page.
Text Elements
When introducing a new character, their name should be written in all caps the first time they appear in the script. After that, their name should be written normally.
Dialogue should be written in the center of the page, with the character’s name written above it. Action lines should be written in the present tense and should describe what is happening on screen.
Parentheticals and Extensions
Parentheticals are used to provide additional information about how a line should be delivered. They should be written in lowercase and enclosed in parentheses. Extensions are used to indicate that a character’s dialogue continues from one page to another. They should be written in all caps and located at the end of the dialogue.
In terms of abbreviations, “INT” is used to indicate that a scene takes place indoors, while “EXT” is used to indicate that a scene takes place outdoors. “CONTINUOUS” is used to indicate that a scene takes place immediately after the previous scene, without any time passing.
Overall, following these formatting standards will help ensure that your script is easy to read and understand, which is essential for getting it noticed by producers and directors.
Common Terms and Abbreviations
When it comes to script writing, various technical terms and abbreviations are commonly used. Understanding these terms and abbreviations is essential to communicate effectively with other professionals in the industry.
In this section, we will cover some of the most common terms and abbreviations that you may encounter in script writing.
General Abbreviations
- b.g.: Stands for “background.” This abbreviation is used to indicate that a character or action is happening in the background of a scene.
- Ellipsis: Denoted by three dots (…), an ellipsis indicates that a sentence or thought is trailing off or being intentionally left unfinished.
- Dash: A dash (-) is used to indicate a sudden break or interruption in dialogue or action.
Directional Abbreviations
- Fade in: This abbreviation is used to indicate the beginning of a scene, where the image gradually appears on the screen.
- Cut to: This abbreviation is used to indicate the end of a scene, where the image abruptly changes to a new scene.
- Editing transition: This abbreviation is used to indicate a change in scene or time, such as a dissolve, wipe, or fade out.
It’s important to note that while these abbreviations are commonly used in script writing, it’s always best to clarify with your team or collaborators to ensure everyone is on the same page.
By understanding these technical terms and abbreviations, you can effectively communicate your vision and convey your message to the audience.
Advanced Scriptwriting Techniques
As a scriptwriter, you have the freedom to experiment with advanced techniques to make your screenplay stand out. Here are a few techniques that can help you take your scriptwriting skills to the next level.
Non-Linear Narratives
A non-linear narrative is a storytelling technique that presents events out of chronological order. This technique can be used to create suspense, add complexity to the plot, and keep the audience engaged. Flashbacks are a typical example of non-linear narratives, where a character recalls past events that are relevant to the current situation.
Visual Storytelling
Visual storytelling is a technique that uses images and visuals to convey the story. Establishing shots, for example, can be used to set the scene and give the audience a sense of the location. Crawls, on the other hand, can be used to convey information that is not immediately visible on the screen. Using visual storytelling can help you convey information more engagingly and memorably.
Subtext and Themes
Subtext refers to the underlying meaning or message that is conveyed through the dialogue and actions of the characters. Themes, on the other hand, are the broader ideas and concepts that the story explores. By incorporating subtext and themes into your screenplay, you can add depth and complexity to the story and make it more meaningful and impactful for the audience.
To help you incorporate these advanced scriptwriting techniques into your screenplay, you can use a beat sheet. A beat sheet is a tool that breaks down the story into its key moments or beats. It can help you structure the story, ensure that each scene has a purpose, and keep the story on track.
By using these techniques, you can elevate your screenplay and make it more engaging and impactful for the audience.
Industry Roles and Terminology
As a scriptwriter, it’s essential to understand the various roles and terms used in the film and television industry. Here are some key terms to keep in mind:
Production Team
The production team is responsible for bringing the script to life. This includes the producer, production manager, and line producer. The producer is in charge of overseeing the entire production, while the production manager handles the day-to-day logistics. The line producer is responsible for managing the budget.
Writing and Directing
The writer is the person who creates the script. They may work alone or as part of a team, depending on the project. The director is responsible for bringing the script to life on screen. They work closely with the actors to ensure that the vision for the project is realized.
Commission and Development
Commissioning editors are responsible for finding and developing new projects. They work for production companies or broadcasters and are always on the lookout for fresh talent. Development executives work with writers to help them develop their ideas into scripts that are ready for production.
It’s important to understand these roles and terms in order to navigate the industry and communicate effectively with colleagues. As a writer, you’ll work closely with the production team, director, and actors to bring your vision to life. And if you’re looking to break into the industry, understanding the commissioning and development process can help you get your foot in the door.
Remember, the more you know about the industry and its terminology, the better equipped you’ll be to succeed as a writer.
Script to Screen Process
When it comes to turning a script into a finished product, there are three main stages of the process: pre-production, production, and post-production. Each stage involves different technical terms and abbreviations that are important to understand.
Pre-Production
During pre-production, the script is developed and prepared for filming. This stage includes tasks such as casting actors, scouting locations, creating storyboards, and creating a shooting schedule. Some technical terms and abbreviations used during pre-production include:
- Screenwriting: The process of writing a script for a film or television
- Bill: A breakdown of the estimated costs for a production
- Book: A detailed plan for a film or television series, including character descriptions and plot points
- Stage play: A script intended for live theater performances
Production
The production stage is where the actual filming takes place. This stage involves using a variety of equipment and techniques to capture the footage needed for the final product. Some technical terms and abbreviations used during production include:
- Shot: A single, continuous take captured by the camera
- Take: A single recording of a shot
- Rushes: Raw, unedited footage captured during filming
- Blocking: The process of planning and rehearsing the movements and positions of actors and cameras for a scene
Post-Production
After filming is complete, the post-production stage begins. This stage involves editing the footage, adding special effects, and creating the final product. Some technical terms and abbreviations used during post-production include:
- Cut: A transition between two shots
- Montage: A sequence of shots edited together to convey the passage of time or a change in mood
- CGI: Computer-generated imagery used to create special effects and other visual elements
- ADR: Automated dialogue replacement, used to re-record dialogue in a studio setting
Understanding these technical terms and abbreviations is essential for anyone involved in the script-to-screen process. By learning these terms, you can communicate more effectively with others in the industry and ensure that your vision is accurately translated into the final product.
