How to format a script for educational media part 2

Following on from our previous post, here is part 2 of our rough guide to how to format scripts for educational media projects.

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Parentheticals 

• Parentheticals guide tone or intention but only when it’s not obvious.

• Centred beneath character name.

• E.g. (sarcastic).

Reason: Prevents misinterpretation without micromanaging the actor’s performance.

Transitions

• Transitions between scenes are placed on the far right side of the page.

• E.g. CUT TO: or FADE OUT.

Reason: Used to show scene flow.

Shot

• Left-aligned, ALL CAPS.

• E.g. CLOSE UP:, POV:, PAN:.

Reason: Provides clarity for all.

Editing elements

• Left-aligned, ALL CAPS. 

• E.g. TITLES:, INTERCUT:, MONTAGE:, SERIES OF SHOTS:, TIME LAPSE:, FLASHBACK:, END FLASHBACK.

Reason: Helps the team to understand and visualise the writer’s intention.

Learning objectives

• State learning objectives at the top of the page.

Reason: This ensures editors, producers and crew understand the objectives of the video.

Target language or learning content

• Highlight in yellow.

Reason: Helps the team to clearly see that the target language has been included and highlights which parts of the dialogue are sacrosanct and where there’s room to play.

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