The grammatical rules of regular prose do not apply to screenwriting, so self-editing is not always a simple task. Once you learn the formatting and proper proofreading technique, however, it will become easier to do . Read on to learn how to proofread a screenplay.
- As a writer, much of your credibility lies in your mastery of spelling, grammar and punctuation. This is especially true in the competitive world of film and television writing. Even the best plot structure, character build-up and narration technique may be dwarfed by mechanical errors. What's more, there is a highly specific format for screenplays that is different than any other form of writing. If you don't nail it, you will look unprofessional. Proofreading your screenplay is the best way to avoid mistakes that will take away from the effectiveness of your script. For further information on how to write in this format check out How to Write a Television Pilot, How to Write a Screenplay, How to Write a Television Script and further suggested resources or videos below.
Expertvillage: How to Write a Screenplay : Spacing & Margin Tips for Screenplays
Tony Ramirez from Tampa, Florida explains how to prepare the spacing and margins for screenplays. He has 11 years experience in multimedia and film and gives examples to show how it works. This is a 3 minute video.
Tips
You may find it helpful to obtain a few good sample copies of screenplays in your personal collection and mark them up with your comments and notes so that you have good samples to refer to when proofreading screenplays. Specialty film and movie stores, bookstores or libraries may have these. Also check the resources suggested below.
You may want to find some book or books to keep in your personal library to refer to that covers all aspects of screenwriting so that you can use that for reference for consistency and know what is recommended. If working for a particular company check to see what if anything they suggest for their standard reference sample or book. Some suggestions are given below.
Beyond spelling, grammar, and formatting if you want to figure out whether the screenplay actually "works" as a screenplay rather than just "looks" like a good screenplay on the surface, here are a few ideas. Plan the action out on a rough story board, get volunteers to do a sit down read taking the various roles, do a walkthrough of the action with volunteers blocking it out, do a readthrough of words and action with experienced actors so they can comment on problems, get feedback from various professionals involved such as a cinematographer, director etc. and incorporate all feedback into a working copy with participants that will keep your material confidential.
Step 1: Learn the Format
It will be well worth your while to invest in a good book on the current standard format for screenplays. It is not like any other writing style, and if you don't conform you may find it extremely hard to be taken seriously in the professional arena. Scriptologist.com is a good site to help you get started, but it would be wise to read an in-depth instructional guide before you begin writing.
If your screenplay is already written, the first step in proofreading is to adjust your work so that it fits the standard format. Make sure you know the format well, and that every page of your script is written in the appropriate style.
Step 2: Proofread
Read the script aloud to catch mistakes that your eyes might skip over.
Run the script through a spelling and grammar program, selectively allowing it to change any errors.
Read it again silently, keeping an eye on redundancy, capitalization, punctuation, consistency, continuity, grammar, and formatting.
Put it away for a while.
Proofread one more time.
Step 3: Consider Hiring a Pro
If the intricate technical aspects of screenwriting are hindering your success, it may be best to seek the help of a professional proofreader. A quick Google search will offer links to a variety of businesses dedicated to screenplay editing. Here are some websites to check out:
Conclusion
Proofreading screenplays can be more time-intensive than with other forms of writing, but once you have a feel for the style you will be able to easily notice any formatting errors. Once the format has been checked, proofread as you would any other literature. Read it aloud, use a spell checker, and then read it again to make sure you have not missed anything.
