Understanding screenwriting terms is key to writing a script. Every profession has its distinct jargon or a standard lingo and terms. Doctors have their own terms and so are lawyers. The same goes through with screenwriters. They too are governed by their own set of screenwriting terms. To be able to get started with your dream of becoming a famous screenwriter, knowing these screenwriting terms should come first on top of your list.
Accordingly, a very unique format is observed in writing screenplays wherein the use of these terms are being used for uniformity. As such, the need to equip yourself with these terms is a must in order for you to work on a screenplay that will sell. Knowing when to use these screenwriting terms will give others the impression that you know exactly what you are doing.
Keeping a list of these terms is very helpful especially if you are just starting out. Of course, you are not expected to know everything in just one day but using them as appropriately and as often as you can help familiarize you with the basics. Believe me, but you will eventually get the hang of these words that you will even find yourself using them in your daily life.
Some of the most common screenwriting terms that you will most likely encounter are beat, V.O., fade in, Ext / In and a lot more. The list goes on that you just have to research for these words. Whenever you encounter a new word each day, add it to your list and find out if what it means. If you are not familiar with it, do not hesitate to ask. Rather than figuring it on your own and facing the embarrassment of using it differently asking someone will not hurt.
Time and again, the best screenwriters are those who can play with their wildest imagination and creativity. While this is such a big factor to reckon in screenwriting, technicalities should also be observed. That is where knowing the different screenwriting terms come in. Your knowledge of both and the passion to make beautiful scripts are your ultimate tickets to a very promising career in screenwriting.