Preparing your final draft is crucial for making a strong impression in the film industry. From proper formatting to utilizing screenwriting software, every detail matters. These steps ensure your script looks professional and reads smoothly.

Proofreading and submission prep are the final touches that can make or break your script's success. By catching errors, crafting compelling supplementary materials, and following submission guidelines, you'll maximize your chances of getting noticed.

Final Draft Preparation

Screenplay formatting guidelines

• Adhere to industry-standard screenplay formatting basics
  • Use 12-point Courier font for easy readability and consistent page count
  • Set margins to 1.5 inches on the left, 1 inch on the right, top, and bottom
  • Aim for approximately 55 lines per page to maintain proper pacing and length
• Format scene headings correctly
  • Begin with INT. or EXT. to indicate an interior or exterior location
  • Follow with the location name to establish the setting (Cafe, John's Apartment)
  • End with the time of day, such as DAY or NIGHT, to set the scene's lighting and mood
• Introduce characters with properly formatted names
  • Center and capitalize character names above their dialogue for clear identification
  • Use character extensions like V.O. (Voice Over) or O.S. (Off Screen) in parentheses next to the name when necessary
• Write dialogue that is easy to read and follow
  • Center dialogue beneath the character name to visually separate it from action lines
  • Use parentheticals sparingly to indicate tone or action, keeping them brief and essential
• Craft action lines that are descriptive and concise
  • Left-align action lines, wrapping them to the right margin for readability
  • Write in present tense and active voice to create a sense of immediacy and engagement
• Employ transitions to signal changes in time or location
  • Right-align and capitalize transitions like FADE IN:, CUT TO:, or DISSOLVE TO:
• Number pages correctly to facilitate script navigation
  • Place page numbers in the top right corner, starting on the second page of the script

Screenwriting software utilization

• Take advantage of the benefits offered by screenwriting software
  • Rely on automatic formatting of elements like scene headings and dialogue to save time and ensure consistency
  • Utilize built-in templates for various script types (feature film, TV pilot) to streamline the writing process
  • Collaborate with writing partners using built-in tools for seamless teamwork and idea sharing
  • Keep track of revisions and navigate scenes easily with helpful organizational features
• Harness the power of Final Draft, the industry-standard software
  • Write efficiently with SmartType and ScriptNotes features that anticipate your needs and keep your notes organized
  • Customize templates and macros to suit your writing style and preferences
  • Ensure compatibility with other software and file formats for smooth file sharing and submission

Proofreading and Submission Preparation

Proofreading for professionalism

• Employ effective proofreading techniques to polish your script
  • Read the script aloud to catch awkward phrasing, unnatural dialogue, or pacing issues
  • Utilize spell-check and grammar-check tools to identify and correct errors
  • Review each page carefully for consistent formatting and visual appeal
  • Share your script with a trusted reader for valuable feedback and error spotting
• Watch out for common errors that can undermine your script's quality
  • Eliminate typos and misspellings that distract readers and suggest carelessness
  • Maintain consistent character names and scene locations throughout the script
  • Ensure proper punctuation in dialogue, such as using em dashes for interruptions
  • Avoid overusing adverbs or adjectives in action lines, keeping them concise and impactful
• Maintain formatting consistency from start to finish
  • Double-check that all scene headings, character names, and transitions adhere to proper formatting guidelines
  • Verify that margins and line spacing remain consistent across the entire script
  • Confirm that page numbers are accurate and properly placed in the top right corner

Script submission preparation

• Craft a compelling title page that includes essential information
  • Feature your screenplay's title prominently to grab the reader's attention
  • Credit yourself with a "Written by" line to establish authorship
  • Provide your contact information, such as email and phone number, for easy communication
  • Include your WGA registration number, if applicable, to protect your intellectual property
  • List your agent or manager's information, if you have representation, to lend credibility
• Develop a logline that succinctly captures your script's essence
  • Summarize your script's central conflict and premise in one compelling sentence
  • Keep it concise, typically under 50 words, to quickly hook the reader's interest
  • Introduce your main character, their goal, and the primary obstacle they must overcome
• Write a synopsis that highlights your script's key elements
  • Summarize your script's main plot points and character arcs in one to two pages
  • Employ present tense and third-person point of view for a clear and engaging narrative
  • Include the inciting incident, major turning points, and the story's resolution
  • Avoid revealing every detail, focusing instead on the most critical and compelling aspects
• Follow submission guidelines closely to demonstrate professionalism
  • Research the specific requirements for each recipient (agent, producer, competition) to tailor your submission
  • Adhere to proper script binding and packaging procedures, such as using brads or creating a PDF
  • Include a personalized cover letter that showcases your script's unique selling points and relevance to the recipient
  • Proofread all submission materials thoroughly for errors and consistency to make a strong first impression