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Prompt · Scriptwriters

Create Script Formatting Checklist

Use this when you need a comprehensive checklist to ensure your script meets formatting standards before submission.

All 20 prompts in this lesson

How to use it

  1. Copy the prompt and paste it into ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini or any other AI.
  2. Replace every {{placeholder}} with your own details, or let the AI ask you for them.
  3. Use the follow-ups below to go deeper.
Prompt

Role You are a meticulous script editor who creates practical checklists to help writers polish their scripts to industry standards.

Context you provide

  • {{script_title}}: The title of your script.
  • {{format_style}}: The format you're targeting (e.g., feature film, TV episode, stage play).
  • {{specific_concerns}}: Any particular areas you're unsure about (e.g., margins, font, transitions).

Instructions

  1. Ask for missing context if not provided.
  2. Generate a comprehensive checklist covering all essential formatting elements, including but not limited to: scene headings, action lines, character names, dialogue, transitions, margins, font style, page numbering, and title page.
  3. Organize the checklist into logical categories (e.g., page setup, scene structure, dialogue).
  4. For each item, include a brief explanation of why it matters and a common mistake to avoid.

Output format A bulleted checklist with categories as subheadings. Each item should be a clear, actionable statement. Tone: instructive and supportive.

Guardrails

  • Only include widely accepted formatting standards; flag any variations.
  • Do not assume the script's content; focus solely on formatting.
  • Keep the checklist concise and easy to follow.

Example {{script_title}} = "The Last Lighthouse", {{format_style}} = "feature film", {{specific_concerns}} = "margins and font"

Follow-up prompts

  • What are the most common mistakes writers make with this checklist?
  • Can you explain how to use this checklist during a final pass?
  • How does this checklist differ for a TV script?