ABSTRACT
As with the outline, if you want your script to be read by anyone in the industry, you absolutely, positively must put it in proper format. Beware: there are many rules to formatting a script. While it is definitely possible to type your teleplay in Microsoft™ Word or similar programs, if you are serious about becoming a television writer, you may want to invest in some scriptwriting software. Though not cheap, this software formats your script to industry standards with just a few simple keystrokes. In the end, it will save you much time and aggravation. If you are a student at a college or university, you can often find deals that will allow you to purchase the software at a discounted rate, sometimes up to as much as 50% off. I would only recommend buying this software if you are 100% certain that you want to be a television/film writer. It becomes an expensive venture unless this is a path that you are sure you want to follow. There are many different scriptwriting software programs available. The one that most writers seem to prefer is Final Draft®. This program is also compatible with the Writers Guild of America Script Registry, which will allow you to register your work online before sending it out. A word of caution: there are some script software programs out there that you can get for free (I am not going to name them!) but most of these are not entirely accurate in terms of professionally formatting a script. I would advise you to stay away from these as, in most cases, you get what you pay for.
