Write a Screenplay: Take Your Ideas to Big Screen

So you have a great idea for a movie or play? As soon as you sit down to write it out, you will realize that writing a screenplay is much different than any other form of writing. Since the formats are different than any other writing, the structure can throw you off your game quickly. The following tips can help you get your idea to the page and hopefully to a Hollywood producer, or at the very least your local theater director.

1. Basics. As in any story, you need characters, a setting and a plot. Simply put, who are you talking about, where do they live and what are they doing? Another very basic step is to determine who the story is for. Is it for children or adults? Each one of these aspects can be fleshed out a draft page so that you can refer back to keep you on track throughout the process.

2. Outline the action. Write out the framework for your screenplay. Having a clear picture of the beginning, middle and end, will help keep the story, balanced and flowing. In other words, what is the problem, how are the characters going to solve it and what is the outcome. Dividing the script into three acts or equal sections will be easier with an outline.

3. Write the first draft. Keep your character sketches, setting notes and outline handy and just write the story. Do not let yourself get hung up on minor details at this point. Just write it out from beginning to end.

4. Start over. No, not completely, but once the draft is complete, it usually has to be changed. Cut the excess and rearrange the story so that the screenplay begins with an exciting or otherwise gripping event. You want your audience to sit up and pay attention from the very beginning. Even if your story is not an action/adventure, you can hook viewers with a strong dramatic opening. In addition, add at least two major turning points.

5. Format the screenplay. Plug the screenplay into a screenplay template. Study samples of scripts to see how it is done, or use screenwriting software such as Final Draft. A program makes the process much easier since screenplays follow an exact set of rules regarding margins, font and placement of elements to show dialogue, actions and transitions properly.

6. Read out loud. Written dialogue can sound much different when spoken out loud. Be sure the words flow and sound like something a person would say. Double check the "voice" of the characters to be sure their style is consistent with their personality.

7. Get feedback. Have someone you trust read your screenplay. Be open for questions and suggestions. If there are parts that are hard to understand, explain and then make changes to your screenplay so that it is clear.




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