L&L Practice E.A
L&L Practice E.A
Script writing
Many of us have seen scripts before. A script is a narrative piece written in the form of
dialogue, which is basically a play written down on paper. A script is mainly comprised of:
● The title: The name of the play or movie
● The playwright: The writer of the play or movie
● The Characters: The people in the play. Giving this information and the beginning of a script
helps the director in casting. The most common characters in a play are:
➔ The hero (Protagonist)
➔ The heroine (Could also be a protagonist)
➔ The comedian/sidekick
➔ The villain
➔ Hero/Heroines friend
● The setting: The backstory of the play/scene and where and when the play takes place
● The dialogues of characters in the play
● The stage directions: Light, sound and prop directions
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What goes into a good script?
❏ A script is basically a bulleted narrative. Therefore, the 7 elements of a narrative should be
present in the script
❏ The script must have a theme. The theme is the main objective of the play, the message
behind the narrative that is implicit throughout the play but becomes explicit during the conflict
or climax of the plot.
❏ Implicit and explicit details must be taken into consideration. In real life, there is always so
much going on behind the face of a situation. In your play, you are recreating life on stage.
Therefore, you must take into consideration the fact that everything is not said and something
must lie beneath your characters dialogues. This “Hidden beneath text” is called subtext in
drama, used for actors to understand their character.
❏ Stylistic devices should be used APPROPRIATELY. Devices such as similes, metaphors and
personification can be used for plays with dramatic themes or set in earlier ages. Such devices
are used in Shakespearean drama and others of the same era. If you look towards creating a
more modern play, one set during these times, use devices that YOU would use in daily life,
sarcasm, irony and such.
❏ Do not make your writing flowery. Keep everything in your script simple and to the point.
The main point to remember when writing a script is the fact that a drama or play is life
reproduced on stage. When you write a script, imagine that scene in real life. This will make
sure you keep your writing to the point and realistic. (This of course depends on what kind of
script you are writing.)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Decide If You Want to Adapt a Story or Write an Original Story
Although screenwriters are responsible for turning a story into a script, they are not necessarily
responsible for writing the story. A screenwriter might adapt a story written by someone else or
use history and literature to adapt a story. Many of Shakespeare’s plays were based on
Plutarch’s Parallel Lives. On the other hand, screenwriters may want to create a script from
scratch and not a pre-existing story.
Structure of a Screenplay
There are several ways to structure a screenplay. The classic structure is to divide a screenplay
into three acts: the set-up, conflict, and resolution. Countless stories adhere to this format, and
there’s a reason why it has been the go-to structure for films pretty much since cinematography
began.
Another format is to divide the screenplay into connected sequences, treating each sequence
as a self-contained story that leads into another story.
Be Aware Of Different Script Styles
For example, a film script will not have the same format as a television script. Each script has to
be tailored to its medium. A television screenplay needs to be aware of commercial breaks and
thus prepare the audience to return after the break. A film screenplay has the luxury of longer,
uninterrupted scenes.
Use Proper Format - A script is not only a story; it is a technical document and has to meet
certain formatting requirements. For instance, scripts must be printed in 12 pt. Courier. Other
basic formatting requirements include the following:
● A scene is prefaced with a heading that indicates whether the scene is internal or external,
where the scene takes place, and the time of day – in that order. For example: EXT. HOT
DESERT – DAY.
● A character’s name is first introduced in all-capitals: WILLY WONKA welcomed the guests to
his factory.
● Dialogue is centered and begins with the character’s name in capitals. Descriptions of the
character are put between parentheses on a line just under the character’s name. Dialogue,
without quote marks, comes next:
WILLY WONKA (Sarcastically)-So nice to see you’re smiling faces.
Scene Headings (Slug lines): Each scene starts with a scene heading that indicates whether it's
interior (INT.) or exterior (EXT.), the location, and the time of day. Example: INT. LIVING ROOM
– NIGHT
Action Lines: Describe the scene's setting, characters, and actions. They should be concise
and vivid, capturing key details. Avoid over-describing.
Mention entries and exits
Character Names: When introducing a character, capitalize their name in action lines. In
dialogue, center their name above the lines they speak. Example: JOHN
Dialogue: Centered under the character's name, with normal indentations and clear spacing.
Use parentheticals sparingly for short instructions or tone indications.
Parentheticals: Small instructions within parentheses that indicate how a line should be
delivered or additional context. Example: (whispering)
Transitions: Often used to indicate cuts or scene changes, typically aligned to the right margin.
Common examples are Enters and Exits.
Screenplay Format:
Give a title and the writer's name (-by XYZ).
List of characters (Cast of Characters) with brief descriptions of them.
Acts and scenes should be mentioned.
Example: ACT 1
SCENE 1: Description of what is happening in the scene
Scene Headings (Slug lines): Each scene starts with a scene heading that indicates whether it's
interior (INT.) or exterior (EXT.), the location, and the time of day. Example: INT. LIVING ROOM
– NIGHT
Action Lines: Describe the scene, characters, and actions. They should be concise and vivid,
capturing key details. Avoid over-describing.
Character Names: When introducing a character, capitalize their name in action lines. In
dialogue, center their name above the lines they speak. Example: JOHN
Dialogue: Centered under the character's name, with normal indentations and clear spacing.
Use parentheticals sparingly for short instructions or tone indications.
Parentheticals: Small instructions within parentheses that indicate how a line should be
delivered or additional context. Example: (whispering)
Transitions: Often used to indicate cuts or scene changes, typically aligned to the right margin.
Common examples are FADE IN, CUT TO, DISSOLVE TO. End the screenplay with FADE OUT:
(right aligned).
this format can be used for script, screenplay and theatrical play scripts
An opening that captures interest: It suggests a significant event taking place and raises
questions in a reader as to the nature of this, as well as curiosity and anticipation about what the
speaker will do.
Paragraphing: The relatively short nature of these suggests the anxiety of the speaker and
reflects how his or her thoughts are going in different directions. The use of brief paragraphing
at the end provides a sense of climax as the speaker finally decides on action. The
paragraphing also helps to convey the divided nature of the speaker's thoughts and feelings,
and the clear uncertainty he or she feels about what to do.
Transitions: The linking of the paragraphs is clear, as the speaker uses the beginning of each
paragraph as a reaction to, or reflection on, the previous one. Within paragraphs too, sentences
transition coherently from one to the other, despite the abrupt nature of these at times.
Coherence: Even though the uncertainty of the speaker is clear in what is said, his or her
thoughts are conveyed in a manner so they build on each other, and build to a climax at the
end. The monologue maintains coherence, even while reflecting some of the less-structured
thoughts.
Sentence structure: A variety of sentence lengths and types are
used. Very short sentences convey the speaker trying to take control of his
or her feelings and actions.
Questions convey the speaker's fears and uncertainty about what to do. Some sentences are
grammatically incomplete, reflecting the nature of personal thoughts at times. Meanwhile, the
ellipsis (...) used at the end of one sentence indicates the speaker losing control of his or her
thoughts again, as if the speaker has moved in a direction he or she is fearful of going.
Podcast format:
A great podcast might sound or look effortless, but there’s a lot of prep work that goes into the
show before the host hits “record.” A key component of that prep work is a podcast script.
A podcast script is an outline or sketch of what takes place during your episode. It’s not like a
movie script, where every word and scene are mapped out and strictly adhered to. Rather, it’s a
set of guardrails that keeps your show focused while also leaving room for spontaneity. Podcast
scripts can be as minimal or as detailed as you want, depending on the type of show you have,
your experience level, and how much structure you prefer. Podcast scripts can put your mind at
ease while recording since you know in advance what you’ll talk about. They also give your
show structure, which helps you maintain a consistent style that listeners and viewers will grow
to love. Sticking to a script can even shorten your editing time because you won’t be straying
into off-topic conversations, which you might then remove. If you’ve never written one before,
don’t sweat it. This guide has all the templates and tips you need to write well-structured
podcast scripts, no matter what kind of show you create.
The specifics of podcast scripts vary depending on whether you host a solo show, interview
guests, or have a co-host. However, there are some basic podcast script elements that most
creators should be familiar with:
· Intro: A short message that welcomes your audience, introduces you (and your co-host, if you
have one), and top-lines what you’ll discuss in two to three sentences
· Guest introduction: A few sentences explaining who your guest is and why they’re joining your
show
· Segue/transition: A spoken phrase or sound effect that indicates a new segment of the episode
· Recap: A brief summary of the main ideas you discussed in the episode
· Outro: A message that marks the end of the episode, whether that’s a simple “thanks for tuning
in” or a catchphrase you’ve developed
· Call to action (CTA): Favors you ask of your listeners and viewers, such as subscribing, rating,
reviewing, or sharing on social media
Now it’s time to assemble these elements into a podcast script.
If you host a show by yourself, podcast scripts are a great way to prepare your talking points in
advance, so you don’t have to gather your thoughts mid-episode. Before you start writing, take a
minute to consider: What are the main points I want to convey in this episode? Once you
identify those, the smaller details can flow from there. Let’s say your podcast is about running,
and you’re planning an episode where you talk to the audience about choosing the right pair of
shoes. Organize your thoughts in your script document, starting with the main points and
progressing to supporting points. Here’s what that could look like:
· Intro
· Segue
· Running mileage
· Outro
· CTA: Share this episode with a friend and follow on Twitter for running tips
Podcast scripts for interviews can boost your confidence going into the show knowing you’ll
have plenty to talk about. But they’re equally important to put your guest at ease, so they know
what to expect—at least loosely. Outlining your interview questions in advance ensures you’ll
cover all the questions and topics you want to address. As many hosts can attest, it’s easy to
drift off-topic during an engaging conversation. Consider sharing your questions with your guest
ahead of time, so you stay on the same page throughout the episode—pun definitely intended.
If your conversation sparks some impromptu
questions, that’s great! The script is there, so you have a basic foundation to work from (or fall
back on if the conversation isn’t as free-flowing as expected). Maybe you host a podcast where
you interview founders of female-owned businesses. You have the founder of Kayleigh’s Cake
Pops coming on the show. Here’s what your script might look like:
· Intro
· Guest introduction: Today’s guest is Kayleigh Smith, the founder of Kayleigh’s Cake Pops. She
recently won an award for XYZ, and she’s here to tell us how she turned her side hustle into her
main hustle within a year.
· Segue
· How did you know you were ready to run your business full-time?
· Outro
· CTA: Rate and review the show and make sure to visit Kayleigh’s website
If your podcast has multiple hosts, loosely scripting your episodes is a great way to make sure
your talking points are distributed evenly and that you don’t interrupt or talk over each other. The
key is mapping out the main segments while leaving room for free-flowing conversation. Think
of it as a crossover between a solo podcast script and an interview podcast script. Perhaps you
co-host a movie-review podcast, and you have an upcoming episode about a (fictional) movie
called Penelope in Paris.
· Intro: Overview of movie, including release date, lead actors, director, etc.
· Segue
· Host #1 thoughts
· Feedback
· Host #2 thoughts
· Feedback
· Host #1 thoughts
· Feedback
· Host #2 thoughts
· Feedback
· Outro
No matter your podcast’s format or genre, these tips will help you write top-notch scripts, so
your show can reach its potential.
Your audience won’t see your podcast script, so feel free to mark it up with notes to yourself like
“dramatic pause here” or “emphasize here.” These little reminders will help your delivery feel
more natural.
testimonial format:
What is a testimonial?
A testimonial is a statement from a past customer that describes how a product or service
helped them. Testimonials are often written by the business based on specific questions they
ask satisfied customers. They usually show impact through before-and-after comparisons or
provide specific improvement statistics. Testimonials are different from reviews because reviews
are generally unguided and are written directly by the customer. Testimonials can help build
trust and credibility with your customers, especially if they are used to overcome skepticism.
Companies usually display them on the front page of their website, marketing materials and
social media profiles.
How to write a testimonial
1. (Introduction) Begin with a brief welcome or greeting – First impressions are everything,
so spend time crafting your opening line. It’s a good idea to use direct address to get
them involved.
2. Outline what you are going to talk about –Make sure to be clear and concise with the
purpose of the speech. introduce the key points you would like to speak about in your
speech.
3. (Body) Chronological order – Make sure your present your ideas in a logical order. The
key points mentioned in the introduction should be explained/ elaborated in a
chronological order, one per paragraph.
4. (Conclusion) End with something memorable or interesting – Now that you have
presented your ideas, you don’t want your audience to wander off and forget what you
said. Think carefully about your final words. and remember to acknowledge the audience
once more at the end
● Structure:
● PAFT:
○ Purpose
○ Audience
○ Form
○ Tone
● Audience: Academic
● Format: Analytical essay
● Structure:
● Structure:
● FLIRT:
○ Form/Structure
○ Language
○ Imagery
○ Rhythm/Rhyme
○ Tone/Theme
● Format: Essay
● Structure:
● Structure:
○ Resolution – Conclusion.
● Tips:
7. Descriptive Writing
● Structure:
9. Dialogue Writing
● Format:
● Tips:
● Format:
● Structure:
12. Poetry
● Structure:
○ Greeting
○ Hook
● Structure:
○ Title
○ Conclusion
○ Headline
○ Byline
○ Lead (5Ws)
● Structure:
○ Eye-catching title
● Structure:
○ Intro (thesis)
● Structure:
○ Engaging lead
○ Creative conclusion
● Language: Persuasive
● Structure:
○ Sender’s Address
○ Date
○ Receiver’s Address
○ Salutation
○ Signature
● Structure:
○ Title
○ Hook/intro
○ Subheadings
● Structure:
○ Title
○ Problem statement
○ Proposed solution
○ Methodology
○ Conclusion
23. Podcast Writing
● Structure:
○ Intro music
○ Segments/Interviews
● Tone: Conversational
● Format:
○ Title
○ Q&A format
● Structure:
○ Title
○ Beliefs
○ Goals
○ Actions
○ Call to action
● No formal format
● Format:
○ Date
○ “Dear Diary”
○ Personal tone
● Structure:
○ Brief summary
● Structure:
○ Company name/vision
○ Mission statement
○ Team/Values
○ History
○ Contact info
● Structure:
○ Product name
○ Introduction
○ Features
○ Final verdict
● Structure:
○ Who you are
○ Results/outcome
● Structure:
○ Destination intro
○ Personal experience
● Structure:
○ Early life
○ Key achievements
○ Impact
○ Legacy
● Third-person perspective