How to Summarize a Storyboard
Storyboards are visual representations of the story told in a movie, play, television show or other visual media. Originally developed by Walt Disney, story boards typically resemble long comic strips and are frequently used to pitch screenplays. Students also occasionally use storyboards to present book reports and summarize projects. Summarizing a storyboard is no different than providing a summary of any other project. However, because storyboards focus on visual elements, it's important that a storyboard summary capture visual details that are important to understanding the story.
Instructions
-
-
1
Make an outline of the story told by the storyboard. Focus on determining the main characters, the areas of conflict and the resolution. The outline should be a very rough sketch; summaries need not be long and do not require unnecessary details. Instead, you should aim to capture the most central and most interesting points of the storyboard.
-
2
Craft a list of any important visual elements in the storyboard. For example, the appearance of characters, the geographic setting and the characters' body language might be important for understanding the story. Note any unusual visual elements that make the story told in the storyboard unique.
-
-
3
Devote a few paragraphs to describing the central traits of the main characters. Avoid unnecessary details; remember that you're aiming to capture the overall feel of the story, not every tiny detail. Write about the central premise or building conflict of the story. Address the moment of tension or conflict and discuss how the conflict is resolved.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
If you're a student summarizing a storyboard, pay careful attention to the instructions your teacher gives. She might want you to focus on a particular element in the storyboard, such as how characters' appearance help convey the story.
References
- Directing the Story; Francis Giebas
- The Art of the Storyboard; John Hart
