Filmmaking is storytelling at its best. But the start of any movie happens not just from an idea, but the actual art of screenwriting.
The screenplay acts like the bible to the cinema. There is no shooting a film without knowing what to shoot.
This writing does not just cover the story, but also the finer details of the shot, the scene description, dialogues, and much more. They are like a user-manual that you can refer back to when you are stuck on the way.
So, if screenwriting is an art, why are we so dependent on software? Can a basic text-editor or a note-file not do that trick? Let’s find out.
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Software Vs. Note File
Sure, screen formatting does not have to be perfect, it’s the basic knowledge of screenwriting that makes you a great writer, but we cannot disregard the need for these applications. While the same is possible using any other writing tool, it takes more time and effort.
You can definitely use a paper cutter to chop wood, and with patients and time, you will get the results you need. But that does not make a paper-cutter and chain saw. Each purpose has its dedicated tools, and screenwriting software is the tool for film-writing.
There are both paid and free tools available online to get the job done. One does not need to invest a ton of money into this application before learning writing. You can use the free tools online to practice and then upgrade as per industry standards.
There are no hard and fast rules for screenwriting; at this point in cinema, people understand that the use of formattings like “EXT” and “INT” is a matter of convenience. As long as the message of the screenplay is vivid, you can write on any applications.
There are, however, some advantages to using software that cannot contend with the use of a note-file or a conventional tool.
Advantages Of The Tool
Let’s address some of the most significant advantages.
1. Pre-Installed With Templates
The screenplay format is one of the most prominent instruments for using the software. Writers need not type the whole formatting texts of the script when they use the software. The software will give them the face template to work.
This process means the formating and the subheadings do not need typing each time. One can use a menu-list to find the desired headings and just focus on writing the content.
2. Allow Collaborations
More than one writer often works on a single project, and most sophisticated software work online. This means more than one person can access a single script file. If there are different dialogue and story-writers, they could both work on the same sheet efficiently.
The same is also true for other people on the team who need constant access to the script. They can see the story, add pointers, and make changes. This practice will also ensure that there aren’t multiple copies of the screenplay.
3. Production Tools
A top-quality screenwriting software will give you a position to make production points in the main screenplay itself. These are helpful notes made by the writers or the production team about the shoot-day.
These remarks are about prop-requirements, set needs, special notes to the designers, data to the director, and much more. They are not included in the main script but can be accessed on the notes for each scene.
The pre-set formats and template of the screenplay occurs on the software naturally. This formating will ensure there is zero ambiguity in the script.
4. Industry Needs
More than just a choice, there is an industry need to learn this software. As more people lean into using this tech in writing movies, you must keep up with the changing needs. If you do not possess the knowledge of using these applications, it will place you at a massive disadvantage.
Additionally, each movie-crew will have its own preferred software. While each of these softwares is not too different, knowing at least the basic of film-writing is a must.
5. Time Saver
It’s hardly debatable that this software is a significant time-saver. These apps allow you to make scripts faster, use templates, and provide fast-speed exports. They are pre-set to the correct fonts, sizes, and formatting; one does not need to waste time adjusting settings.
6. Formatting Abilities
The last advantage of these apps is the ability to take multiple exports. It is possible to download them into any format that the whole team needs. For others using the app, they can use a sharing-link to collaborate on the script.
Where Can I Use Note file?
If you are still new to film writing, then using software is unquestionably intimidating. It is even frowned upon for new-comers to start generating ideas on the screen-writing software. Scripting is innately about writing, and if you are new, here is how you can learn using notes.
Learning Stages
We did emphasize the need for software, but if you have almost no idea about screenwriting, and giving it your first attempt, use any word-writing software. When the pre-set templates do not help you as gilding wheels, it forces more challenging work, which is better for learning.
Additionally, you need not get bogged down by semantics and formatting if you are looking to practice storytelling. Try to keep your mind away from the technicality and focus on the story.
Ideations and Supporting Documentation
If you are looking for palace thoughts or word your ideas, then a note-document is much better. This file will allow you to think outside of the formatting and plainly write a fundamental notion. They can also be used to make a list of props, shoot locations, creative character bibles, and much more.
Final Thoughts
Filmmaking is about having a great story, and the tools you use are needed to enhance this story. Screenwriting software is required in order to turn your story into a movie.
Not having the working knowledge of some of the essential apps will palace your writing career at a substantial disadvantage.
