How to Write a Movie Script - Basic Tips

So you want to be a movie writer, but where on earth do you start? What tools and materials are essential to learn to become a screenwriter? Is it necessary to spend a lot of money to get started? Is screenwriting complicated? These are all typical questions, which I will answer in this article.

Basic tips about how to write a movie screenplay:

1) Read as many movie screenplays as you can. Educate yourself on the format and code of how movie scripts are constructed. For example, film scripts are always written in the present tense and often use minimal description to set scenes and produce ambiance. The rule of thumb is: never write more detail than you will need.

2) Make use of computer software to format your scripts. To ensure success in Hollywood, you have to use proper screenplay formatting. Those who work in the industry are used to screenplays following an authorized format and layout. If yours does not, you are out of the ball game before it has even started. If you've got money to spend ($100- 200), I suggest Movie Magic Screenwriter as the software of choice. In my opinion, it FAR SURPASSES the competition. If your budget is tight, there are also many economical software possibilities (under $100), as well as free templates that plug into MS Word.

3) Learn how to shape your stories. You can do this with a computer, or you can use the "traditional" method of breaking down your screen story through the use of index (3x5) cards. Either method will allow you to move your scenes about and find the proper flow of your story. With this process, you may discover "miracles" that will take your story to the next level... or you may discover that that "precious" scene you've been planning on is not even needed!

4) Get some screenwriting guides to help you learn the best process of storytelling and how to structure your story. William Goldman, screenwriter extraordinaire, is famous for stating that screenplays are, "Structure, structure, structure." Movies don't have time to meander like novels. They need to be tightly constructed, with no flab. There are some great books on the market. Hit your neighborhood book store to become acquainted with a few. One of my top picks on how to write a hit script is Blake Snyder's SAVE THE CAT!

Is screenwriting a difficult enterprise? In some ways, yes. Once you get good at the basics, you will be far ahead of the pack who never make the time to learn the correct elements of structure and formatting.

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