Books or websites on formating rules for a screenplay.?

Question

I have been researching all these different formating software programs, honestly I think Id do just fine without them. I dont know for sure naturally, but Id like to learn what the rules are for formating and submission restrictions are for screenplays. Then try to get microsoft word 2007 to type it all up on my own.

Im reading books on what a screenplay is, how theyre written, how to plan them out, etc., and I know I still have plenty of learning to do with more books and research before I would even be able to start a screenplay, but I would like to know ahead of time either way. If anyone can help me out with this, Id appreciate it.

The book I have right now is The Complete Idiots Guide to Screenwriting 2nd edtion, Im not sure if it goes into detail about formating and all that.

Answer 1

Two links:

http://www.scriptologist.com/Magazine/Formatting/formatting.html

http://www.scriptfrenzy.org/howtoformatascreenplay



I'd also recommend snagging Open Office [openoffice.org] - It's fully compatible with M$ Word and can even save as a word document though not by default. Oh. And it's 100% free and legal.

Answer 2

I agree with getting Open Office, and the Storybook program. Optional, of course. But it's a great tool for keeping all your plot lines and characters in check and making sure there aren't any flaws in dates or whatever. It's free and legal as well.

Answer 3

I without doubt make my possess regulations. If this is a distinct obstacle wherein I need to move by way of the guide (for my possess well), then I will. But, I choose to make my possess regulations so I recognize that I am doing what I desire to do (and no person has to comply with mw if they do not desire to)