Script Format Programs??

[xcult]

Does anyone here use any script writing programs?
Or just basic things like notepad, or text document.

I was thinking about downloading a demo for some programs, but who knows.

Right now I just have a folder with folders in it. And different Rich Text Documents for different scenes, ideas, rambles etc. I use this method for features to help break everything down, then when they are all done just throw them into 1.

I don't do that for shorts though. Just features and novels.

The problem with that, is I suck at formatting.
That is the main reason I am thinking about one, they look expensive though.

Also, If you have any pointers, or sites that will help with formatting, let me know.

Thank you

[nomicon]

I'm using Movie Magic software -- easy to use with lots of cool features, like being able to convert a screenplay into pdf format. If you're a student or teacher, you can get it for around 89 bucks at academic superstore.

[George Willson]

If you just have a word processor of some sort, that is usually enough, if you're diligent about it. Set your margins for 1" on all sides, and tabs at 1", 1.6", and 2.2". Depending on what you know already and what you need to know will depend on how long a formatting post needs to be, but here are the basics beyond the tabsets.

Slugs are always CAPITALIZED and never alone at the bottom of a page. They always contains INT. or EXT., a location, a dash (-), and then a time (which is usually DAY or NIGHT -- rarely is there a need for other times like DAWN, DUSK, TWILIGHT, unless the story needs dictate it).

Description should be as brief as possible and always show things, not tell thoughts, ideas, feelings, or anything that cannot be seen on screen. Do not let description exceed 4 lines. If it does, break it up into multiple paragraphs. One paragraph should ideally describe one action or sequence.

The character name is the 2.2" tabset and the names are always CAPITALIZED and the same name must be used consistently in every dialogue header for that character. Changes to the name should be very clear, and not done often.

Wrylies are the 1.6" tabset and should be used very sparingly. Dialgoue and action should dictate whether a character would speak angrily, sad, smiling, etc. Only if the reaction is a direct contradiction to the scene should these be used. Actions should be in descriptions, never in wrylies.

The dialogue is the 1" tabset, and should be between 3" and 3.5" wide.

Do not let dialogue be split across two pages, i.e. Character name and part of dialogue on one page only to finish at the top of the next page.

Camera directions (ANGLE ON, POV, CUT TO, etc) are generally frowned upon in spec reader circles, but if the script is for yourself, then it really doesn't matter. If it's for others to read and to submit to agents or producers, though, you'll want to avoid directing the camera.

Finally, please, oh please, never ever ever ever use the phrase "we see."

There's the basics. There are lots of variables and other stuff you can do. I recommend The Screenwriter's Bible, which gives a very thorough section on formatting in almost every instance. It is also useful to read lots of screenplays that are formatted well, to get a feel for what looks good. Personally, I have always used Word and never any scriptwriting program. Hope that helps.

[xcult]

Thanks man.
That does help.

[BoogaBooga]

www.dependentfilms.net/files.html

Their script maker template doesn't have the bells and whistles of Final Draft and such, but it's been working great for me for five years. They have a ton of goodies and tools up for grabs, all FREE.

[xcult]

cool I'll check it out.

I did download the demos for Final Draft and Sophcles.

They both look promising ... once I learn how to use them effiently, and to their best capabilities.

But, then thereis the money issue...

...i just checked it out ...
i don't have microsoft word, but it still looks like a good site.

[dedbonz666]

Hey guys, new here and just now taking my first crack at this, very helpful

[bcarnage]

I recommend Screenstyle ($35) www.screenstyle.com, it is just the hollywood standard format all in microsoft word. For the price it can't be beat. It has been really easy.
I wrote my last script in Final Draft, and it was awsome, but I can't afford my own copy at this time. I wish I had time to learn it better.

Good Luck

[DarkScreen]

For a decent screenplay formating software that is completely free check out www.page2stage.com/index.htm

[darksorcorer]

I use CINERGY SCRIPT EDITOR it's so easy to use. I use it to write scripts all the time! and its totally FREE!!! YEP U HEARD ME FREE!!!

[ectojedi]

Nothing really beats Final Draft, (www.finaldraft.com), though be prepared to fork over an insane amount of cash. Of course, there are other ways of acquiring such a program...