Formatting dialogue in a screenplay is an essential skill for any screenwriter. Proper formatting helps convey the flow of the story and ensures that your screenplay is easy to read and understand for producers, directors, and actors. Here’s a guide on how to format dialogue correctly in a screenplay, including key elements to consider.
- Screenplay Format Basics
Before diving into dialogue formatting, it’s crucial to understand the overall screenplay formatting. A typical screenplay is formatted in 12-point Courier font and follows certain margins:
– Left Margin: 1.5 inches
– Right Margin: 1 inch
– Top Margin: 1 inch
– Bottom Margin: 1 inch
- Character Names
– Placement: The character’s name appears centered and capitalized above the dialogue they are about to speak.
– Example:
“`
JANE
“`
- Dialogue
– Alignment: The dialogue itself is aligned to the left and indented about 2.5 inches from the left margin.
– Spacing: The dialogue lines are single-spaced.
– Example:
“`
JANE
I can’t believe we missed the train!
“`
- Using Parentheticals (Wrylies)
Parentheticals are used to clarify how a line is delivered or to give brief instructions about the action related to the dialogue, but they should be used sparingly.
– Placement: Parentheticals are placed directly under the character’s name, in parentheses.
– Example:
“`
JANE
(frustrated)
I can’t believe we missed the train!
“`
- Off-Screen (O.S.) and Voice Over (V.O.)
– Off-Screen (O.S.): This is used when a character speaks from a location off-screen.
– Voice Over (V.O.): Use this when the character’s voice is heard over the action while being separate from the on-screen action.
– Example:
“`
JOHN (V.O.)
I never thought it would come to this.
JANE (O.S.)
Hurry up! We’re going to miss it!
“`
- Dialogue Continuation
If a character continues their dialogue after a brief action or interruption, you can use a continuation line. Simply place a dash at the end of the first part of the dialogue.
– Example:
“`
JANE
I can’t believe we missed the train!
– I thought we had enough time.
“`
- Multiple Characters Speaking
If multiple characters are engaging in a rapid back-and-forth exchange, it’s best to keep their dialogue segments short and to the point. Indent each character’s name the same way as before.
– Example:
“`
JANE
Did you see that?
MIKE
What? The train?
JANE
Yes! It just left!
“`
- Using Action Lines with Dialogue
If there’s action between lines of dialogue, action descriptions should be written as a separate block or line. Make sure to keep the action description in present tense.
– Example:
“`
JANE
I can’t believe we missed the train!
She looks at her watch, panicked.
MIKE
We should have left earlier!
“`
- Ending Dialogue
When wrapping up your screenplay, ensure all dialogue formatting follows the established guidelines without variance unless warranted by specific character expressions or nuances relevant to the scene.
- Readability and White Space
Remember, a well-formatted screenplay should be easy to read. Prioritize clarity and maintain adequate white space. Avoid cluttering your dialogue with too many stage directions or parentheticals.
Conclusion
Proper dialogue formatting is essential for a professional-looking screenplay that is accessible and easy to understand. By following these conventions and guidelines, you will not only enhance the readability of your script but also convey your characters’ voices more effectively. Keep practicing, and your screenwriting skills will continue to grow!
