How to write a screenplay: a guide for aspiring screenwriters

In the world of film and television, the screenplay is the backbone of the project. It’s where all the magic begins—from the spark of an idea to a fully realized script ready for the screen. Such creativity should not extend to the screenplay formatting, however. It’s crucial that the screenplay is formatted to industry standards. It’s a great idea to use software to take care of this annoying task, allowing you, the writer, to focus on the story, and not the distance of your character’s name from the edge of the page.

Getting Started

Plotten is more than just a writing tool; it’s a comprehensive platform that supports screenwriters from their initial concept to the final draft. Here’s how to get started:

Setting Up Your Workspace

• Download Plotten from the app store.
• Open the application and create a new project. You can select from one of our industry standard templates (we also support novels and magazines).

Exploring the Typewriter Mode

One of the standout features of Plotten 2.0 is the Typewriter Mode. This feature allows you to focus on the current line of text, minimizing distractions and simulating the experience of using a classic typewriter.This mode is perfect for writers who prefer a straightforward, distraction-free environment. It encourages a flow state, helping you churn out more pages with greater focus.Writing Your Script

Structure Your Story

Before you dive into dialogue and scenes, outline your story. Plotten’s outlining tools enable you to structure your screenplay’s acts, scenes, and sequences. This helps in maintaining pacing and building a strong narrative arc.

Write Compelling Dialogue

Dialogue is a crucial element of any screenplay. With Plotten, you can easily format dialogue and ensure it meets industry standards. The software automatically spaces and indents your lines as you type, which lets you focus on crafting memorable and authentic conversations.

Gather Your Research

Use Plotten’s research tools to add necessary details about settings, characters, and actions. Text and images are supported.

Sharing Your Work

Export and Format

Once your screenplay is ready, you can use Plotten’s exporting features to format your document into industry-standard scripts, which can be sent directly to studios, contest submissions, or your agent.