Spencer Lanoue
Writing a play might seem like an artistic endeavor, but knowing how to format it properly is just as crucial. If you're using Google Docs to bring your script to life, you're in the right place. This article will guide you through formatting your play, ensuring it looks professional and is easy to read. Whether you're a seasoned playwright or just starting out, we've got you covered with practical steps and tips.
Setting Up Your Document
First things first, before typing away your masterpiece, you need to ensure your Google Docs is set up correctly. This will save you time and frustration down the line. Here's how you can do it:
- Open a New Document: Log in to your Google account and open Google Docs. Click on 'Blank' to start a new document.
- Page Setup: Go to File > Page setup. Set the page size to 'Letter' and margins to 1 inch. This is standard for most theatrical submissions.
- Font and Size: Use a readable font like Courier or Times New Roman, size 12. This is the industry standard as it mimics typewriter font, which is traditionally used in scripts.
- Line Spacing: Set line spacing to 1.5 or double. This ensures your script is easy on the eyes and gives room for annotations.
Once you've configured these basic settings, you're ready to start writing. This setup mimics traditional playwriting formats and is crucial for readability and professionalism.
Formatting the Title Page
The title page of your play is like the cover of a book. It sets the first impression, so it needs to be clean and informative. Here's what to include:
- Title: Center the title of your play on the page. Use bold font to make it stand out.
- Author's Name: A few lines below the title, type 'by' followed by your name. Keep it centered.
- Contact Information: At the bottom of the page, include your contact details, such as your email and phone number. This is crucial if you're submitting to agents or competitions.
Keep the title page simple and uncluttered. Remember, it's the first thing readers see, so make it count.
Writing the Character List
After the title page, the next step is to write the list of characters. This section provides an overview of who's involved in your play. Here's how to format it:
- Character Names: List all characters in order of appearance. Use all caps to differentiate names from descriptions.
- Brief Descriptions: Include a short description next to each name. This can be age, personality traits, or relationships to other characters.
For example:
JOHN SMITH - A young man in his twenties, eager and ambitious.
MARY JONES - Mid-thirties, John's older sister, protective and caring.
Providing these details helps actors and directors quickly understand the roles.
Structuring the Script
The main body of your play is where the magic happens. Structuring your script correctly is crucial for readability and flow. Here's how to do it:
Scene Headings
- Location and Time: Start each scene with a heading that describes the setting. Use all caps and align it to the left.
- Example: INT. JOHN'S APARTMENT - DAY
This immediately informs the reader where the action is taking place and sets the tone for the scene.
Action Descriptions
- What's Happening: Write action descriptions in the present tense. Keep them concise but detailed enough to paint a picture.
- Example: John enters the apartment, throwing his keys on the table. He looks exhausted.
Action descriptions set the scene and provide context for the dialogue that follows.
Dialogue Formatting
- Character Names: Use all caps for character names, centered above their dialogue.
- Dialogue: Dialogue should be left-aligned, with a standard margin. Use simple language that reflects each character's voice.
Here's how it should look:
JOHN
I can't believe this day.
MARY
(comforting)
It'll get better, I promise.
This format is clear and ensures that each line of dialogue is easily attributed to the correct character.
Managing Acts and Scenes
Plays are typically divided into acts and scenes. This structure helps to break the play into manageable parts. Here's how to organize them:
Acts
- Numbering: Label acts as ACT ONE, ACT TWO, etc. Center and bold the title at the start of each act.
- Spacing: Leave a few lines between the act title and the text to provide a visual break.
Scenes
- Numbering: Number scenes within each act. For example, Scene 1, Scene 2, etc.
- Transitions: Use transitions like 'End Scene' at the end of each scene to indicate a clear demarcation.
Organizing your play into acts and scenes makes it easier for the reader to follow the progression of the story.
Using Parentheticals
Parentheticals, or "wrylies," are brief descriptions that guide actors on how to deliver their lines. Here's how to use them effectively:
- Placement: Place parentheticals in parentheses, beneath the character's name and above their dialogue.
- Content: Keep them short, focusing on emotion or action. Avoid over-directing.
An example might look like this:
MARY
(sarcastically)
Oh sure, like that's going to work.
Parentheticals should enhance the script, not clutter it. Use them sparingly and only when necessary.
Including Stage Directions
Stage directions are an integral part of any play script. They give additional context to actions and settings. Here's how to incorporate them:
- Format: Write stage directions in italics to distinguish them from dialogue.
- Placement: Place stage directions either within the dialogue or as separate paragraphs when they are extensive.
Consider this example:
John crosses to the window, peering outside.
Stage directions should be clear and concise, offering just enough detail to guide the reader without overpowering the dialogue.
Proofreading and Polishing
Once you've finished writing, it's time to polish your script. Proofreading is crucial to ensure clarity and professionalism. Here's a checklist:
- Read Aloud: Read your script aloud to catch awkward phrasing or unnatural dialogue.
- Consistency: Check for consistency in character names, formatting, and style.
- Spelling and Grammar: Use Google Docs' spelling and grammar check to catch minor errors.
If you want to streamline this process, you can use Spell for a more efficient, AI-assisted proofreading experience. It's like having a second pair of eyes.
Collaborating with Others
Plays are collaborative by nature, often involving directors, actors, and producers. Google Docs makes it easy to share and collaborate on scripts. Here's how to do it:
- Sharing: Click 'Share' in the top right corner. Enter the email addresses of your collaborators and set permissions.
- Comments: Use the 'Comment' feature to leave notes or questions. This is great for feedback and revisions.
- Revision History: Access revision history to track changes or revert to previous versions if needed.
For an even more collaborative experience, try Spell. It allows real-time collaboration with the added benefit of AI-enhanced editing.
Exporting and Printing
Once your play is formatted and polished, you might need to export or print it for submission or rehearsal. Here's how to do it in Google Docs:
- Exporting: Go to File > Download and select the desired format, such as PDF or Word. PDFs are great for preserving formatting.
- Printing: Select File > Print to print your document. Ensure your printer settings match your Google Docs setup for consistency.
Having a hard copy can be useful during rehearsals or meetings, making this step essential for a playwright.
Final Thoughts
Formatting a play in Google Docs may seem daunting at first, but with these steps, you'll have a professional-looking script in no time. Remember, presentation is key when submitting your work. For those looking to streamline their writing process, Spell offers AI-powered tools that can help you draft, refine, and perfect your script efficiently. Happy writing!
