Screenwriting Basics: How to Write Your First Script
By TagTwist Editorial Team10 min readScreenwriting
Screenwriting requires industry-standard formatting using software like Final Draft or WriterDuet, a three-act structure, and visual storytelling that shows rather than tells. The key difference from other writing is that screenplays are blueprints for visual media, requiring specific formatting rules, concise action lines, and dialogue that sounds natural when spoken aloud.
Essential Screenwriting Format
Standard Script Elements
- Scene headings (SLUG LINES): INT./EXT. LOCATION - TIME OF DAY
- Action lines: Present tense, visual descriptions under 4 lines
- Character names: ALL CAPS, centered above dialogue
- Dialogue: What characters say, no quotation marks
- Parentheticals: Brief action or tone indicators (sparingly used)
Free Screenwriting Software
- WriterDuet: Web-based, collaboration features
- Highland: Simple, distraction-free writing
- Trelby: Open source, basic formatting
- KIT Scenarist: Research and development tools
Professional Options
- Final Draft: Industry standard, $199
- Movie Magic Screenwriter: Robust features
- Fade In: Professional at lower cost
- Celtx: Pre-production planning included
Three-Act Structure for Screenplays
Act I (25%)
- Setup and world establishment
- Character introductions
- Inciting incident (pages 10-15)
- Plot point 1 (around page 25)
Act II (50%)
- Rising action and obstacles
- Character development
- Midpoint reversal (page 60)
- Plot point 2 (around page 85)
Act III (25%)
- Climax and confrontation
- Resolution of main conflict
- Character arc completion
- Final image/ending
Visual Storytelling Techniques
- Show, don't tell: Use visual action instead of exposition
- Active voice: "Sarah opens the door" not "The door is opened by Sarah"
- Present tense: Everything happens now, in the moment
- Minimal description: Only what the camera can see
- Subtext in dialogue: Characters rarely say exactly what they mean
Character Development in Screenplays
Creating Compelling Characters
- Clear motivation: What does the character want?
- Internal conflict: What prevents them from getting it?
- Character arc: How do they change throughout the story?
- Unique voice: Each character speaks differently
- Backstory (unwritten): Rich history that informs actions
Dialogue Writing Tips
Do's
- Read dialogue aloud
- Keep lines under 3-4 lines
- Use contractions naturally
- Give each character distinct speech patterns
- Include conflict and subtext
Don'ts
- Avoid exposition dumps
- Don't write how people actually speak
- Minimize "on the nose" dialogue
- Avoid unnecessary parentheticals
- Don't over-explain emotions
Script Length and Pacing
- Feature films: 90-120 pages (1 page = 1 minute)
- TV drama (1 hour): 50-60 pages
- TV comedy (30 min): 22-30 pages
- Short films: 1-15 pages depending on length
Getting Your Script Read
Industry Pathways
- Screenplay competitions: Nicholl Fellowship, Austin Film Festival
- Query letters: One-page pitches to agents and managers
- Networking events: Film festivals, industry meetups
- Script coverage services: Professional feedback before submission
- Online platforms: Black List, Stage 32, ISA
Common Beginner Mistakes
- Overwriting action lines: Keep descriptions concise and visual
- Camera directions: Avoid unless you're directing
- Passive protagonists: Your main character must drive the story
- Too much exposition: Trust the audience to understand
- Inconsistent formatting: Use proper screenwriting software
Start Your Screenwriting Journey
Screenwriting combines the art of storytelling with the technical requirements of visual media. Start with a simple short script to learn the format, then gradually work up to feature-length projects as you develop your skills and unique voice.