How to Format a Play or Script for Print Layouts
Typesetting a stage play or screenplay? Learn margins, dialogue tabs, character headings, and scene layouts for print.
Eleanor Vance
Head of Digital Production
"Play and script formatting follows strict layout conventions. Dialogue, character names, stage directions, and scene transitions require exact alignments to remain readable for directors, actors, and printers."
Core Key Takeaways
- Standard Script Margins and Indentations
- Formatting Stage Directions and Parentheticals
- Managing Page Transitions and Act Breaks
1. Standard Script Margins and Indentations
Stage plays use unique indentations. Character names are centered, stage directions are indented in parentheses, and dialogue is aligned to the margins.
- Center character names in bold caps above dialogue.
- Indent stage directions 1.5 inches from the left margin.
- Keep page numbers consistently placed in the header.
2. Formatting Stage Directions and Parentheticals
Stage directions describe character movements. Use parentheses and italic styling to distinguish directions from spoken dialogue.
Transform Your Manuscript into a Retail-Ready Print & eBook Layout
Avoid margin rejections and broken reflows. Our senior book designers craft custom InDesign spreads, decorative chapter headings, and validated responsive EPUBs.
3. Managing Page Transitions and Act Breaks
Start every new act and scene on a fresh page. Place page transitions (like "Page Break") correctly to maintain layout structure.
The Takeaway
Script typesetting requires attention to layout details. Partner with the formatting experts at Golden Ivory Publishing to format your script.
Transform Your Manuscript into a Retail-Ready Print & eBook Layout
Avoid margin rejections and broken reflows. Our senior book designers craft custom InDesign spreads, decorative chapter headings, and validated responsive EPUBs.
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