How to Format Action in a Sitcom Script

Proper script formatting provides direction for actors and film crew members.

Television scripts, also known as sitcom scripts, are descendants of teleplays, which were radio program scripts. Because of this, the sitcom script's main focus is not on the action of the scene, but rather dialogue between characters. This is made clear by a sitcom script format. Dialogue is always double-spaced for clarity, and action notes are short and direct to the point. If you're interested in submitting a sitcom script to a production company, or are writing a script for your own personal use, formatting action is vital for readers to understand what is going on in the scene.

Instructions

1. Start the scene by typing the scene location and information in uppercase letters and underlining the description. To describe an interior scene write "INT." For an exterior scene write "EXT." Write the location of the scene followed by the time of day. For example:

   "INT. MUSEUM OF ART, HALLWAY -- DAY"

   or

   "EXT. MUSEUM OF ART, FRONT ENTRANCE -- MORNING"

2. Double-space after the scene introduction, and write beginning action of the scene. To do so, create a left parenthetical. Write out all of the action in uppercase letters. Close the action by placing a right parenthetical. For example,

   (CHILDREN RUN PAST THOMAS SMITH, 25, CHILD ONE, 10, BUMPS INTO THOMAS CAUSING THOMAS TO BRUSH AGAINST A VASE.)

   Always describe the character by his/her name, and the first time the character is mentioned place his/her age immediately after the name.

3. Double-space after finishing the action, and continue with the script.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a sitcom script writing software if you are unsure of how to properly format a script for submission to production companies.

• To include action within dialogue, close the action within a parenthetical and write the action in uppercase letters. In-dialogue action does not need to be on a separate line from the dialogue.

• Do not excessively elaborate on actions within a script. Only include basic information for each action.

References

• Industry Central; Screenplay vs. Teleplay -- How Hard Could it Be?; Emmett Loverde
• Scriptwriting Secrets; Sitcom Format Margins and Spacing