General Rules:
* Uppercase: All scene headings, character names, and dialogue are in uppercase.
* No quotation marks: Dialogue is presented without quotation marks.
* Parentheticals: Parentheticals are used to provide information about the delivery or action of the dialogue. They're always in lowercase and enclosed in parentheses.
* Line breaks: Each new line of dialogue is indented, with a new speaker on a separate line.
Scene Headings:
* Format: INT. [LOCATION] - DAY/NIGHT
* Example: INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY
* Notes:
* "INT." for interior, "EXT." for exterior.
* Location is specific (not just "room" or "street").
* Day/Night is always included.
Character Names:
* Format: [CHARACTER NAME]
* Example: JOHN
* Notes:
* Always in uppercase.
* Centered on the page.
* Followed by a colon (:).
Dialogue:
* Format: [CHARACTER NAME]
* (parenthetical)
* [Dialogue]
* Example:
* JOHN
* (smiling)
* This is amazing!
* Notes:
* Each new line of dialogue is indented.
* Parentheticals provide information about delivery (whispering, shouting, etc.) or action (looking around, laughing, etc.).
Action Lines:
* Format: [Action line description]
* Example: John takes a sip of his coffee.
* Notes:
* Describe the visual action taking place.
* Avoid using "he" or "she," refer directly to the character's name.
* Use present tense.
Transitions:
* FADE IN/FADE OUT: Used for scene transitions.
* CUT TO: Used to transition to a different scene or shot.
* Example:
* FADE IN:
* EXT. PARK - DAY
* A group of children play on the swings.
* CUT TO:
* INT. LIBRARY - DAY
* A woman browses the shelves.
Other Punctuation:
* Periods: Used at the end of action lines and scene headings.
* Commas: Used within dialogue and parentheticals.
* Semicolons: Used within action lines to separate multiple actions.
* Dashes: Used to indicate a pause or interruption in dialogue.
Remember:
* These are just general rules. There may be slight variations depending on the specific style guide you're following.
* The goal is to create a clear and concise script that is easy for a director and actors to understand.
It's always good to review industry-standard screenwriting books or guides for more detailed information on proper screenplay formatting and punctuation.