How to Write a Script in Windows XP
Formatting a script in the correct format is a key for any aspiring playwright or screenwriter. Having a script in the correct format will allow you to submit your work to agents, contests, and reviewers, and it will give your script a polished, professional look without needing to buy more expensive script formatting software. In addition, a script in the proper form will make a script easier to read and produce.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
Download a Template
-
1
Download a script template for use in Microsoft Word (See the Resources section below). If you chose the Microsoft Template and have Windows XP or later, you may get an Activex error page. Ignore it, and scroll down the page, then follow the directions under the heading "To download this template manually without solving this problem" and click the Download Now button.
-
2
Open Word, and then open the template (or, simply double click on the downloaded template file).
-
-
3
Following the template's style, enter stage directions, dialog, character's names and Act dividers.
-
4
Center all dialog under the name of the speaking character. Left justify and capitalize scene changes.
-
5
To view the styles, or make changes to the style, click Format > Styles and Formatting. Select the item you'd like to change or use, and then click "modify." The specifics will appear, and you can change them as needed.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
If you are submitting your script to a specific contest, check the contest's guidelines for additional formatting rules it might have, such as a separate list of scenes or sets, a separate list of characters, or other standards it follows.
Sample scripts of all sorts are available online for reference, if you have questions about specific types of formatting.
Scripts always use the Courier font. Don't change this in any template you chose to use.
