Scene Headings
Every scene in your script should begin with a scene heading, which means they're definitely something you want to format correctly! In this article, we'll break down the anatomy of a scene heading, as well as go in detail about how they function in WriterDuet specifically!
What Goes in a Scene Heading?
A scene heading can be broken down into 3 distinct portions that are formatted in a very particular way:
- INT. or EXT.: Every scene heading should begin with either INT or EXT to indicate whether the scene takes place indoors or outdoors, followed by a full stop.
- Setting: Directly Next is the physical location where the scene is taking place. Aim for quick, concise descriptions that set a tone quickly. "SCHOOL HALLWAY" is much more efficient than "AMY'S LOCKER OUTSIDE OF MR. SHAW'S CLASSROOM."
- DAY or NIGHT: Simply note whether the scene takes place during the night or day. There are very few exceptions for this descriptor, and should only really be something other than these two if it would be a significant lighting change (i.e. "Golden Hour" or "Dawn"). Even then, don't overuse it!
There are creative ways to use scene headings, and many conventions that are recommended, but that simple breakdown should be all you need to get started. If you're interested in a more in-depth look at how to write scene headings, check out this article from our friends over at Screencraft!
How Do Scene Headings Work in WriterDuet?
There are a few different ways you can create a scene heading within WriterDuet:
- Click the Scene line type button in the left-hand side menu (in Simplified layout)
- Press Ctrl+1 on PC or Cmd+1 on Mac to convert your currently selected line into a Scene line type
- If you type "int." or "ext." at the beginning of a line, it will automatically convert into a Scene line type
Once you've created your scene line and begin typing the setting, you will see auto-fill options for other scenes that begin similarly in your script, this way if you have some common locations you can pull them up quickly.
And, once a scene line has been created, it will automatically have a card corresponding to that scene created for it. This will allow you to pop back and forth between cards and page views while outlining without ever needing to move your changes over to the actual script document. (For more info on how Cards view works, check out our article on it here).
