---
name: script-writing
description: >-
  Write structured shortfilm, ad, and YouTube scripts with clear beats,
  dialogue, and production notes. Use when the user asks for a script,
  screenplay draft, scene outline, commercial VO, or video narration.
---

# Script writing

Produce scripts an editor or director can shoot from. Skip vague story summaries. Prefer clear beats, spoken dialogue, and practical production notes.

---

## Before you write

Collect (or ask for) these inputs:

1. **Format:** shortfilm, ad/commercial, YouTube/talking-head, social hook
2. **Length:** target runtime or word count
3. **Audience:** who watches and what they should feel or do
4. **Tone:** dry, warm, hype, documentary, comedic
5. **Must-include:** product name, CTA, character names, brand rules
6. **Constraints:** no gore, single location, VO-only, etc.

If something critical is missing, ask once, then draft with stated assumptions.

---

## Output structure

Use this skeleton unless the user specifies another format:

```markdown
# Title
**Format:** …
**Runtime target:** …
**Logline:** one sentence

## Characters
- NAME — one-line role

## Beat sheet
1. Beat — what happens / why it matters

## Script

### Scene 1 — LOCATION / TIME
Visual action in present tense.

CHARACTER
Dialogue.

(Parenthetical only when necessary)

### Scene 2 — …
```

For ads and social, you may use:

```markdown
## Hook (0–3s)
## Problem
## Demo / proof
## Offer / CTA
## Super / end card
```

---

## Writing rules

- **One job per scene.** Enter late, leave early.
- **Dialogue sounds spoken.** Short lines, interruptions, subtext. Cut speeches that explain the theme.
- **Visuals first.** Write what the camera can see. Put theme in action, not monologue.
- **Beats before polish.** If the beat sheet is weak, do not decorate the dialogue.
- **Production notes stay practical.** Location, prop, VFX, or sound cue only when they change the shot.
- **CTAs are explicit** in ads and YouTube: what to click, where to go, what happens next.
- **Respect brand names and facts.** Never invent product claims.

---

## Length guide

| Format | Default target |
|--------|----------------|
| Social / Reels | 15–45 seconds |
| YouTube intro | 30–90 seconds |
| Ad / commercial | 15–60 seconds |
| Shortfilm | 3–8 minutes unless asked |

Estimate about 120–150 spoken words per minute for VO-heavy pieces. Less when visuals carry the story.

---

## Revision pass

After the first draft:

1. Cut any line that restates the previous line
2. Mark the hook in the first 3 seconds (or first half-page)
3. Confirm every scene earns the next scene
4. Read dialogue aloud. Fix anything you would not say
5. List open questions for the user (casting, locations, assets)

---

## Checklist

- [ ] Format, runtime, and audience stated
- [ ] Logline is one clear sentence
- [ ] Beat sheet exists before full dialogue polish
- [ ] Scenes have location/time and visual action
- [ ] Dialogue is speakable; no theme essays
- [ ] CTA present when the format needs one
- [ ] No invented brand claims or facts