I’m pretty new to screenwriting - I understand a feature submission should not use scene numbering - how about a TV/streamer screenplay submission?
During the drafting stage I’m finding scene numbers helpful - they can be easily removed of course. Just keen to know if they’re acceptable in a submission
Michael ThornMichael Thorn During drafting, scene numbers can definitely be helpful for organization, especially when you're restructuring or tracking changes.
For submissions though, it’s generally best to remove them whether it’s a feature or a TV/streaming script. Most readers prefer a clean script so they can focus purely on the story and flow.
Scene numbers usually come into play later in production drafts once the project is moving forward.
I always use them while writing; it’s so much easier to organize and lets readers reference specific scenes rather than just page numbers. However, for a spec submission (Feature or TV), you should definitely remove them.
In the industry, scene numbers usually signal a Production Script (or Shooting Script). Since a submission is for reading pleasure and not for a crew to schedule a shoot yet, keeping the pages 'clean' is the standard. I just toggle them off right before hitting export!
Many thanks Abhijeet Aade Phil Leasure - that's pretty clear - I'll remove the scene numbers for all formal submissions - and if it's a case of sharing for peer feedback I'll ask the recipient what they prefer
In my own limited experience of giving feedback notes I find scene numbers very helpful.