Field guide 05 · 7 lessons
Format & Workflow
Professional pages, useful tools and a writing process sturdy enough to carry a full draft.
Read in order, or pick what you need today
The format shelf
Screenplay Format
Start hereThe formatting readers expect, explained without fuss—from scene headings and action to dialogue and the final PDF.
Screenplay Template
Start hereWhat a clean screenplay template should take care of for you, and what still has to come from the writing.
Screenplay vs Script
Start hereA plain-English guide to screenplays, scripts, teleplays, spec drafts and shooting drafts.
Writing Action Lines
Core craftHow to write description that is quick to read, easy to picture and still sounds like you.
Dialogue Formatting
Start hereWhen to use parentheticals, voice-over, off-screen speech, dual dialogue and intercuts—and when to leave them alone.
Outlining and Beat Sheets
Start hereHow to plan enough to feel supported without planning so much that you never discover the film on the page.
Choosing Screenwriting Software
Start hereHow to choose a writing tool that quietly does its job, keeps your work safe and produces a dependable PDF.