Other rare line types

Other rare line types

Most of a script is action and dialogue: keys 0 to 9 cover them. For the rarer lines, use these keys on a keyboard while you record.

Parentheticals

A parenthetical is a short direction inside a character’s dialogue, like (whispering).

1. While a character is speaking, tap = (on the number row) or + (on the number pad).
2. Say the direction: “whispering”.
3. Tap the character’s key again and carry on with their line.

The direction appears in brackets on its own line under the character’s name. It only works while a character (keys 1 to 9) is speaking.

Transitions

A transition is a cut between scenes, like CUT TO: or DISSOLVE TO:.

1. Tap - (minus).
2. Say the transition: “cut to”.

It appears in capitals on the right, as in a screenplay.

Shots

Shot lines, like CLOSE ON, come in when you import a script that has them. They show in capitals, left-aligned. See Import a script or outline.