Proper script format is the mark of a professional.
A Broadway script is written and formatted just like any other stage play script. While traditionally written on typewriters, scripts are now often created with word processing software that automatically formats the pages. However, for those who want to learn the basics of the form, those old margin settings are easy to discover. There are occasional differences in script format, but most hold to the same general guidelines.
Instructions
1. Set the font and type size using standard manuscript type size of 12-point and one of these acceptable fonts: Palatino, Times, New York, Courier or Courier New.
2. Create the title page. Type the name of the play in all capital letters and underlined about one-third of the way down the center of the page. Space down approximately four times and type how many acts are in the play. For example: "a play in three acts." Space down two times and type "by." Space down two more times and type the name of the author.
3. Write the character page. Center the word "Characters" in all capital letters at the top of the page. Type the name of the characters, in all capital letters on the left of the page. Tab and write a description of the each character next to their name. Align the beginning of each description down the page, regardless of how long or short the character's name is.
4. Write the dialogue pages. The margins should be approximately 1 inch all the way around. Center Act numbers and Scene numbers on the page. Type the action, or scene directions, 3.75 inches from the left margin enclosed in parenthesis at the beginning of a scene or act to indicate the setting. Type the character name in all capital letters 3.5 inches from the left margin. Type the dialogue beginning at the left margin. Type the parenthetical, or stage directions, at 1.5 inches from left margin, enclosed in parenthesis describing the characters' entrances, exits and what the actor is doing on stage. Use single spacing for each element except for between character's dialogue and new stage directions; use single spaces for stage directions if it is within a character's dialogue. Anything enclosed in parenthesis can also be italicized.
