If you want to write screenplays for film, be ready to play by the rules. Whether you're just starting out or already have experience, knowing the professional screenplay format is a must — it’s the common language between you and the people who can bring your story to life.
Story Architect takes care of the formatting for you, but it’s still important to understand how each part of the script structure works — and why it matters.
1. Scene Heading
This line tells us where and when the scene takes place. It’s written in ALL CAPS and starts with INT. (interior) or EXT. (exterior), followed by the time of the scene — for example, DAY or NIGHT.
2. Action
This part describes what’s happening in the scene. Only write what can be seen or heard on screen. Avoid long, flowery descriptions — this isn’t a novel. Use present tense verbs and describe details the way the audience would experience them.
3. Character
To have a character speak, start by writing their name. After the action line, go to a new line, hit Tab, and type the name. As you keep writing, Story Architect will suggest character names automatically to speed things up.
4. Parenthetical
These are short notes placed right before a line of dialogue, usually in parentheses. They help clarify how a line is spoken — sarcastically, quietly, yelling, etc. Use them sparingly — too many make the script hard to read. If you need to include more detailed context, it’s better to do so in the action lines.
5. Dialogue
Dialogue comes either after a parenthetical or directly under the character's name. It’s automatically centered on the page. If two characters speak at the same time, you can use double dialogue in two columns. To do this, press Ctrl (or Cmd) + D.
These are the main elements, but let’s go over a few additional ones:
- Scene Characters – A list of characters appearing in the scene, similar to how it's done in plays; usually located right after the scene heading.
- Shot – A director’s note indicating a change in the camera angle or movement.
- Transition – Describes how scenes or shots shift (for example, FADE OUT).
- Lyrics – The words to a song or poem included in the script.
- Inline Note – An internal note used during writing, editing, or reading that won’t appear in the actual script or action.
- Unformatted Text – Unformatted text, like you’d write in a basic notepad.
- Sequence – A structural element similar to a chapter in a novel, which can contain several scenes.
- Act – A major section of the script that includes several scenes leading up to a turning point (for example, Act One or the Setup).
Story Architect also automatically applies the correct margins, spacing, and fonts — all according to industry standards. And if you're working on something specific, there are templates available in the app settings for different use cases.
Format matters — a lot. It helps readers quickly assess the script: producers get a sense of the budget, actors understand how to deliver lines, and the crew sees how scenes might be shot.
So don’t underestimate the importance of proper formatting — especially if you dream of making it in the industry. Luckily, STARC takes care of 99% of that for you.