Screenwriting : A Screenplay checklist by Chidi Ezeibieli

Hi, I was thinking, before you submit that screenplay to any screenplay contest, you might want to read it once more. I'm building a PROOF READ CHECKLIST to help rid screenplays of the common errors (technical errors) that make them drop out in the first round of judging. You could get some on the internet, but it's okay if we still build a list via this post. This list doesn't cover a check for story elements, such as improving on your concept, characters, emotional stakes, starting off with a strong moment etc. It's derived on the assumption that there is a good screenplay already written. Feel free to add your own thoughts as you post your responses. I think this could be fun. Check that your page settings meet with the standards specified by the contest organizers. Check that your Title page meets industry standards, or the standard requested by the contest organizers. Check that you have FADE IN on page 1. Check that your Master Scene Heading format is INT. LOCATION - DAY Check that you have not numbered your scenes. Check that your screenplay is void of technical cues (SHOTS, TRANSITIONS, etc). Use only when it is critically needed. Check and relax all CAPS on sounds and descriptions that would necessary call for attention. Check for and relax CONT'D after character slugs that have action in between except for dialogue at page breaks. Check that CONTINUOUS in Scene Headings are used correctly. Check for useless parantheticals. Please! Turn off the TV. Grammar and punctuation. That's a lot. But the list below would help checkmate some common errors. Check for proper use of commas. Check for correct use of tense for verbs -- present tense. Avoid using adverbs. Check for the use of words and phrases like "starts" "begins to" "continues to" "words ending with ...ing" "Suddenly". Use only when necessary. Check for redundant descriptions in scenes. Cut down long sentences. Action blocks shouldn't be more than four lines. Check if all new visuals start on a new paragraph. Check for dialogue blocks over four lines long. Check for multiple sentences per speech = Repetition (the brain actually does this unwittingly. It's my job to curb it), Trim first names in dialogue. Delete unnecessary chit-chat in dialogue. Check for and relax CAPS in dialogue, sounds, and unnecessary descriptions. Check correct use of ... (for continuation of thought showing that the speaker didn't finish his thought. Or when a character finishes another characters sentence.) AND of -- (used to indicate a sudden shift or break in thought. To show emphasis. When a character is interrupted by a sound or an action. etc.) Read aloud to yourself. Add yours... You might also wish to visit http://moviesonthemind.blogspot.com or the particular posts below. I found them very helpful http://moviesonthemind.blogspot.com/2014/03/how-not-to-write-screenplay-... http://moviesonthemind.blogspot.com/2014/05/how-not-to-write-screenplay-...