Write a Pro Level Screenplay in 15 Easy Steps!

Thinking about writing a screenplay but not sure where to begin?

Writing a screenplay might seem challenging but it’s easier than you think.

With a few steps and some guidance, you can turn your story ideas into a professional script.

It’s all about writing your imagination in words.

You easily create your own world full of adventures, trills and comedies etc.

There is a specific format to follow in writing a screenplay script.

Generally, professional screenwriters working on a feature film script typically take around 3-5 weeks to complete the first draft when working on assignment under a deadline.

In this article, you will get to know:

• Some steps to write a screenplay
• Writing a professional screenplay
• Few important things to keep in notice being a professional script writer

By following the above steps, you’ll become a professional screenwriter in less time.

Let’s get started discussing the main steps to write a screenplay.

Step 1: Find your story idea

Start by thinking about the kind of story you want to tell.

Is it a drama, comedy, thriller, horror story or romance?

What’s the message or theme you want your audience to walk away with?

Brainstorm some ideas, one strong idea for a screenplay could revolve around the last surviving member of an ancient, adventurous imagination or any moral story.

Strong ideas turn your words into a better script.

So, come up with ideas that are useful and suitable as a screenplay.

Step 2: Spec and shooting scripts for your screenplay

When you're writing a screenplay, you'll come across two main types of scripts.

The spec and shooting scripts.

A spec script is what you write to sell your idea.

It’s like your screenplay’s resume.

It's all about telling your story and showing off your writing skills to get noticed by people in the film industry.

In contrast, a shooting script is used during the actual filming of the movie.

This script includes detailed notes on scene numbers, camera angles, and directions for the actors and crew.

It’s all about making sure everyone knows exactly what to do on set.

Both types of scripts play important roles, but understanding their differences helps make sure your screenplay goes from a great idea to a finished film.

So, select between one of them to be professional.

Step 3: Develop your characters

Characters are the heart of any screenplay.

Give your characters depth by writing what are their desires, fears and motivations?

Make them relatable and real by thinking about their backstories, flaws and quirks.

Portray your character as a strong personality in front of an audience.

Developing strong characters is a critical part of writing a professional screenplay.

Each character whether the protagonist, antagonist and others must have depth and personal flaws that drive the story forward.

Keep refining characters as the plot develops and make sure they play a meaningful role in the overall storyline.

Step 4: Create short description line in beginning of script

Imagine you’re telling a friend about a movie you just saw.

What's the first thing you’d say to get them interested?

When you're starting a script, think of the short description line as your script's friendly introduction.

It’s like the opening line of a great story that attracts attention right away.

This brief line should give a clear, quick snapshot of what your script is about, setting the stage for what’s to come.

Let’s have an example: “A young woman starts a dangerous journey to find her missing brother, uncovering dark family secrets along the way.”

These story types are best to engage readers and bound the audience to sit in front of the screen.

Step 5: How to develop innovative storyline

Sketch out the plot with a basic outline.

This includes the beginning, middle, and end plus any major events or turning points.

An outline keeps you on track and helps you see the bigger picture.

List your main characters and briefly describe their roles, goals, and relationships.

Outline the key scenes that drive the plot forward.

Each scene should have a purpose and contribute to the story’s development.

Mix genres or twist traditional tropes to surprise your readers.

Don’t be afraid to let your imagination run wild; sometimes, the most unexpected ideas lead to the most captivating stories.

Think about what messages or emotions you want to convey and build your plot around that core.

Write subplots that add depth to your story.

These should complement the main plot and develop your characters further.

Like the protagonist of the story struggle to reconnect with his daughter.

Step 6: Decide the structure for your screenplay

A well-structured screenplay helps maintain a clear narrative flow and keeps your audience engaged.

Most screenplays follow a three-act structure that are best to engage the audience.

You also have to follow the below structure to make your script better.

• Act 1: Setup (introducing the characters and world)
• Act 2: Conflict (the main character faces challenges)
• Act 3: Resolution (the story reaches its climax and conclusion)

The structure you choose depends on your story’s needs and genre.

The Three-Act Structure is versatile and commonly used, while the Hero’s journey is great for epic tales.

The Four- and Five-Act structures offer more flexibility for complex narratives.

Step 7: Write a treatment

A treatment is a more detailed summary of your story, written in prose form.

It includes the major plot points, character development and how the story unfolds.

This step helps you flesh out your story before writing actual dialogue.

Treatment provides a clear overview of the story writing, focusing on the main plot points, character development, and thematic elements.

It’s designed to give a reader a comprehensive understanding of the screenplay’s direction without going into excessive detail.

Step 8: Start with the opening scene

The first few minutes of a movie set the tone for the entire film.

Begin with a scene that captures the audience’s attention, whether through mystery, humor or action.

Your opening scene should introduce the main character and the world they live in.

Start-up by writing all the descriptive details.

Show where and when the story is taking place.

The opening scene should be concise and to the point.

Avoid lengthy descriptions or unnecessary details.

Your goal is to quickly engage the audience and set up the rest of the screenplay.

Once you’ve written your opening scene, review it to ensure it effectively sets up your screenplay.

Make sure it’s engaging, informative, and aligned with the tone of the story.

Step 9: Write your script in screenplay format

When writing a screenplay, it's essential to follow the correct format.

This ensures that your script is easy to read and understand by industry professionals.

Describe what is happening in the scene, using present tense.

Keep it brief and focus on what the audience sees.

Professional screenplays follow a specific format that’s easy to read.

You have to make sure to:

• Use scene headings (e.g., INT. KITCHEN – DAY)
• Write action in the present tense
• Keep dialogue centered on the page
• Avoid excessive description—be concise
• Use 12-point Courier font, with 1.5-inch left margin, 1-inch right margin and 1-inch top and bottom margins.

There are plenty of tools like a story writer that can help you format your script properly.

It works efficiently on your given instructions.

Step 10: Conversational flow

Before writing dialogue, get to know your characters deeply.

What’s their background?

What motivates them?

How do they speak?

Like, a sophisticated lawyer will talk differently than a teenager.

Make sure each character’s speech reflects their unique voice and background.

Dialogue should sound like real people talking.

Avoid overly formal language or long-winded speeches unless it fits the character.

Dialogue that looks good on paper might sound awkward when spoken.

Read your dialogue out loud to see how it flows.

This helps you catch any unnatural phrasing or pacing issues.

Better yet, have someone else read it to get a fresh perspective.

Step 11: Turning intent into action

Turning intent into action is all about taking that spark of an idea and making it a reality.

If your screenplay is about a detective solving a murder case, show the murder or its aftermath early on to establish the stakes.

The stakes could be personal (e.g., a character’s life), relational (e.g., the end of a relationship), or external (e.g., the fate of a community).

Every scene should have some form of conflict, whether internal (emotional) or external (between characters or events).

Conflict keeps the audience engaged and wanting to see how things resolve.

Let’s have an example:

In romantic comedy stories, build tension by showing small but growing misunderstandings between the main characters that complicate their relationship.

Keep elements of your story uncertain and unpredictable.

This maintains suspense and forces the audience invested in finding out what happens next.

Step 12: Writing clear sentences with parentheticals

When writing a screenplay, parentheticals are a useful tool for adding extra details to a line of dialogue.

Like, if you want a character to say something in a sarcastic tone you can add “(sarcastically)” right after their line.

This helps actors and directors understand exactly how you want the line delivered.

Just remember not to overdo it, too many parentheticals make your script look messy.

Use them to give just enough extra info to keep your dialogue clear and effective, without making things too complicated.

Adjust the tone to suit the purpose of the paragraph whether it needs to be formal, conversational, or persuasive.

Step 13: Scene change

In screenwriting, scene changes are like the magic trick that keeps your story flowing and engaging.

Imagine you're watching a movie, and suddenly, the setting shifts from a bustling city to a quiet countryside.

This transition isn't just about moving from one place to another; it's about guiding your audience smoothly through the narrative.

When writing a scene change, it's crucial to ensure that it feels natural and purposeful.

Use clear, concise scene headings to indicate where and when the action is taking place, helping readers and viewers easily follow along.

For instance:

Instead of just writing "EXT. PARK - DAY," you add a touch of detail like "EXT. PARK - DAY - The sun casts a warm glow over the playground, where children’s laughter fills the air."

This not only sets the scene but also creates a descriptive image in the reader's mind.

Step 14: Using chyrons and title cards

Chyrons and title cards really enhance your story.

Chyrons are the little text overlays at the bottom of the screen.

They give viewers important details, like a character’s name or the location of a scene.

They help keep the audience informed without pulling focus from the action.

Title cards are often used at the start of scenes or to show new chapters.

And setting the scene or mood with a simple, impactful message.

They’re great for adding a bit of style or clarifying what's happening.

Both chyrons and title cards are useful tools that make your screenplay more engaging and easier to follow.

Step 15: Building impactful visual stories with montage

A montage is like a visual shortcut that helps tell your story in a smart and exciting way.

Imagine it as a quick series of scenes that show different moments or changes without dragging things out.

Let’s say, you use a montage to show a character going through training, or how time is passing, all in a few quick shots.

It's great for getting a lot of information quickly while keeping the audience engaged.

The trick is to make sure each part of the montage connects well and flows smoothly, so it feels like a natural part of your story.

With a good montage, you can pack a punch and make your screenplay really shine!

Final words

Writing a screenplay takes time and dedication but breaking it down into simple, manageable steps makes the process a lot smoother.

Remember, it’s all about taking it one step at a time, from developing your characters to polishing the final draft.

Don’t be afraid to rewrite and refine as great screenplays are built in the editing process.

The more you write, revise, and learn the better your scripts will become professional.

Now that you have a clear guide, start putting your ideas to paper and watch your story get rising!

Frequently asked questions

How to write a professional script?

Following the steps like drafting, plotting, focus, writing, formatting, editing or storytelling techniques etc helps you to write a professional script.

How to be a script writer?

You have the knowledge of the English language and excellent written communication skills. And also able to use your initiative and to come up with new ways of doing things. 

How to write screenplay format?

The standard font type and size for screenplays is a 12-point Courier and the left margin must be 1.5 inches while margins on the right, top, and bottom must be 1 inch each. Page number must appear at the top right corner of each page with a 0.5-inch margin from the top.