Summary

The web content provides guidelines on the use of capitalization in screenplays, emphasizing its role in enhancing readability and maintaining clarity.

Abstract

The article outlines six key elements that should be capitalized in a screenplay: character introductions, names above dialogue, scene headings and slug lines, character extensions for voice-over or off-screen dialogue, transitions such as FADE IN or FADE OUT, and integral sounds, visual effects, or props. It underscores the importance of using capitalization to aid the reader's comprehension, suggesting that while not all elements require capitalization, it should be used when it significantly enhances the reading experience. The article references the screenplay for "Forrest Gump" as an example and invites readers to engage in further discussion on the topic of capitalization in screenwriting. It also provides links to additional resources for writers seeking more information on screenplay formatting conventions.

Opinions

Capitalization in screenplays is not strictly defined and can vary based on individual writing style.
Capitalizing certain elements can enhance the reader's experience, but it should not be overused.
The capitalization of integral sounds, visual effects, or props is the most debated among screenwriters.
The priority is to make the script as easy to read as possible, and capitalization should serve this purpose.
Writers are encouraged to critically assess whether capitalizing a word will improve the script's readability before doing so.
The article suggests a conservative approach to capitalization, using it sparingly and only when it clearly benefits the script.
The article promotes community engagement and further research on the subject through provided links and an invitation to join a discussion.

6 Things to Capitalize in Your Screenplay

Unlike some of the other rules of traditional screenplay formatting, the rules of capitalization are not written in stone. While each writer’s unique style will influence their individual use of capitalization, there are 6 general things that you should capitalize in your screenplay.

1.) The first time that a character is introduced.

2.) Character names above their dialogue.

3.) Scene headings and slug lines.

4.) Character extensions for “voice-over” and “off-screen.”

5.) Transitions, including FADE IN, CUT TO, INTERCUT, FADE OUT.

6.) Integral sounds, visual effects, or props that need to be captured in a scene.

*All examples used are from the Forrest Gump screenplay, written by Eric Roth.*

Of the six uses listed above, #6 (“Integral sounds, visual effects, or props that need to be captured in a scene”) is by far the most disputed. Keep in mind that not every sound, visual effect, and prop needs to be capitalized. The number one priority is that your script is as easy to read as possible.

Ask yourself, “Does capitalizing this word enhance the reader’s experience?” if the answer to that question is a thundering “YES,” then capitalize. However, if your answer is “maybe” or “no,” it its best to not capitalize. Keep your use of capitalization for this scenario to a minimum.

There are a number of great blog posts and forum strings on this topic. Check them out here for more!:

What are you thoughts on capitalization? Feel free to share in the comments below!

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Cheers to writing! -Alli Director of Community Outreach at SoCreate!