You’re not writing a research paper now!

Writing a script is different from any other kind of writing.

Do NOT try to apply techniques for essay writing or short story writing. It won’t work!

Scripts are written in a two column structure.

Video goes in the left column.Audio goes in the right column.The video must be paired directly across from the audio that goes with it.

Most script writers, no matter how different their topics, follow the same procedures.

Using your time wisely will make the process easier and will help your production be more efficient.

Sometimes you create an original idea.

More often, projects are assigned to you by your supervisors.

You must develop all the details by:◦Brainstorming with others◦Researching relevant information◦Mapping the actions and reactions

You must know who your intended audience is in order to hold their attention.

It affects all aspects of the video:◦The length of the video◦Language, graphic content, information included

◦Music and visual effects◦Editing style

Audio must match video, both ambient and voice over.

Make it easy for the talent to read & the audience to understand

Use a preliminary script as a plan for taping.

Don’t use abbreviations. Most of the time write out numbers.

Don’t break sentences between pages or words between lines.

Make sure all information is accurate.

Give the most important idea as the lead.

Use an appropriate tone, usually conversational.

Don’t overuse colorful writing (humor, metaphors, slang, etc.)

Underline key words so you stress the most important ideas.

Use phonetic spelling for difficult pronunciations.

Always practice and read a script aloud BEFORE going on the air.

Talk a little slower and more clearly than in normal conversations.

You only get ONE chance to grab the audience’s attention.

If you bore them or confuse them, you lose them.

Once you lose them, you rarely get them back.