Prompt · Scriptwriters
Create Script Formatting Checklist
Use this when you need a comprehensive checklist to ensure your script meets formatting standards before submission.
How to use it
- Copy the prompt and paste it into ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini or any other AI.
- Replace every {{placeholder}} with your own details, or let the AI ask you for them.
- 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
- Ask for missing context if not provided.
- 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.
- Organize the checklist into logical categories (e.g., page setup, scene structure, dialogue).
- 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?