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Script Format: Margin Settings

What follows is a sample page from a screenplay, as it might appear on your computer monitor. Use it as a guide for setting your margins:

Sample script page, as it might appear on you computer

Element

Left Margin

Right Margin

Width

Action

1.5

1

6

Dialogue

2.9

2.3

3.3

Character Cue

4.2

1

3.3

Parenthetical

3.6

2.9

2

Transition

6

1

1.5

The following table shows the standard margin settings for screenplays:

All measurements are in inches, based on a page size of 8.5 inches by 11 inches (21.5 cm by 27.9 cm).


To make formatting your script easier and more consistent, use dedicated screenwriting software, such as Final Draft® or Movie Magic® Screenwriter™. Surprisingly, the default margin settings in these programs deviate from Industry standards. Be sure to change the default settings according to the above table.

Next: Scene Headings