How to Write a Step Outline for a Screenplay
- 1). Write the slug line of a scene on the top of an index card. Give each scene its own index card. Write the action --- the basics of what happens in the scene --- on each index card. Create a card for each screenplay scene, regardless of how short a particular scene may be. Use concise, clear descriptions of the events. Imagine the impact of a well-crafted movie trailer and aim for this same effect in including key snippets of dialogue from the characters that are involved in each scene.
- 2). Tack these index cards on the wall, or line these cards up on the floor in front of you. Initially arrange the cards in the order in which you intend to place the scenes in your screenplay. Shuffle scenes around, checking the different effects of the scenes occurring in varied orders. Arrange the scenes into sequences, or a series of scenes that share the same theme. Mark all the scenes in one particular sequence, using a different colored marker for each sequence. Discard weak scenes and write new index cards for stronger scenes, and include those on the wall or floor.
- 3). Study the cards, scene by scene. Examine the function that each scene serves in the script. Does it have a clear purpose? Do the scenes flow with a good rhythm? Mark the most dramatic, plot-turning scenes in the cards with a specifically colored marker. Pay particular attention to these scene cards. Ask yourself if these scenes sufficiently propel the story forward. Are there enough surprise twists to keep the audience interested? Do the scenes "up the ante" enough to dramatically build and sustain tension?
- 4). Examine each character and his goals, development and relationships with other characters from scene to scene, and throughout the story spanning all the index cards. Are all your characters consistent in their actions? Does the main character exhibit a believable character arc and real change? Make sure each character is believable and adequately developed, without being stale, cardboard-cutout stereotypes from past movies. Examine the dialogue that you have included on each index card. Replace cliches and lazy, uninspired dialogue with crisp, colorful words to flow from your characters' mouths.
- 5). Consider the index cards from the first one to the last. Make certain the story has a clear beginning, middle and end, with a payoff that will leave the audience satisfied.
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