Filmmaking Techniques - Scriptwriting

There are numerous different techniques used all to successfully write a script.

It should always start with 'Fade In - Transition', as this introduces the scene via a transition, so that it doesn't appear jarring to the viewer, and they are slowly introduced to the production, rather than simply 'thrown in'.

Scene Headings should be present, a simple, one-line description of the location and time of day that a scene is taking place in. These may also include abbreviations such as EXT. (for exterior) and INT. (for interior).

Narrative Descriptions of the events within a scene are also necessary, detailing briefly what is happening to provide context for the dialogue and actions. This can take place either at the beginning of a scene, between dialogue during a scene, or at the end of a scene.

Transitions should also be clearly labelled within the script - simply 'film editing instructions', they provide the editors with the necessary information to edit the transitions in-between scenes. Verbiage may include:

CUT TO:

DISSOLVE TO:

QUICK CUT:

FADE TO:

A Character's First Appearance should also be clearly detailed. A description of the character with a capitalised name should be present. (e.g.  The door opens and in walks RICHARD, a twenty-something upper-class gentleman with...)

The character's name must always appear capitalised above the dialogue.

The dialogue is the lines of speech for each character. and used any time a character is heard speaking, even if said character is not on-screen at that time. They are also used for voiceovers, but in these instances, the dialogue is in brackets.