Scriptwriting Terms

The name of a work of art or literary composition.

Indicates that a scene occurs outdoors

Words spoken by characters

Indicates that a scene occurs inside a building

When any character speaks, their name appears centered on the line preceding the dialogue.

Script instructions for camera operator and/or director for the position of the camera or shot

Introduces each new scene or location, identifies time and location which a scene takes place

The blank space that surrounds the text on a page.

Describes what is seen onscreen; the scene is set and the characters are introduced

The person who wrote the screenplay

Instructions in a script for actors, directors and stage crew regarding physical movement

Instructions in a script for actors, directors and stage crew about physical movement onscreen

The size, style, and design of text (12 pt Courier for scripts).

Voice of an unseen commentator or character that is involved in the action of the scene