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I am almost done a script, once done I will buy post-it notes and write waht happens in a scene and stick it to the page. I will do this for every scene, then read the post-its and see if I find any plots holes, issues with characters, slug lines, and yes TYPOS and MISSPELLINGS.
Are there any other tricks of the trade to check a first draft?
Anthony's list is a good guide but also remember it's not a bible. They're guidelines and I'd say a large proportion of Pro scripts contain these no-no's and still read well. Some don't of course, and that's cause a great story will often carry some not so perfect writing.
My tip: read your script out loud, preferably with someone, but even on your own is better than nothing, to listen to your dialogue. I think the voices in FD are robotic and often don't have the right inflections so I steer clear of that.
Proofread. Proofread again. Get someone else to proofread.
Check for orphaned words. Remove if you can. Keep your description/action lines to a four line max.
Go with the 'new shot' 'new line' mantra.
Post here. You'll definitely get an objective POV.
Proofread a printed copy. You'd be amazed what you pick up on hard copy as opposed to on your computer monitor.
I try to edit page by page, or every few. I've been lucky in that I've weeded out the "passive" voice stuff when it comes to my writing, finally. I still need to learn when to stop an action line, or when the multi-sentence action line should be split in two.
Something that I like to do is actually print out the entire script, and go over it with pen. I also lend the script to trustable people who would give me honest feedback and let them pile up on my own coments.
Third for printing a hard copy and editing with a pen. Underrated. Also, once you've finished your script, set it aside for at least two weeks, go and live your life and/or work on something else, then come back to it with fresh(er) eyes.
Third for printing a hard copy and editing with a pen. Underrated. Also, once you've finished your script, set it aside for at least two weeks, go and live your life and/or work on something else, then come back to it with fresh(er) eyes.