Effective script writing tips

There’ve been occasions where I’ve had to read some challenging scripts.  Unless I’m given explicit permission to make corrections or suggestions regarding copy, it’s not my place to dictate what should or shouldn’t be done.  After you’ve sent in your scripts and production has started, I’m working for you. 

On the other hand, there are things the client may not know when putting together a script.  Without a little guidance, their copy may not be as effective as it could be.

I’ve seen scripts calling for an unnecessary “www” in front of a website’s name, poor grammar, and scripts written in an overly formal tone as opposed to the way people actually talk.  This isn’t the fault of the person writing the script.  They may not be trained in this area and wouldn’t necessarily know what works and what doesn’t.

With this in mind, I thought it would be a good idea to share some pointers for anyone who might be thinking about sending in a script.  These tips can also be found on my contact page.  Not only will you save time by taking these tips into account, you’ll also know how to write more effective copy, resulting in a better final product.

• Scripts must be in .doc or .docx formats.
• Avoid long sentences and overuse of commas. Short sentences are more effective!
• If your script includes a web address, don’t include the “www” portion of the address. It’s unnecessary and takes time away from your message.
• Stay away from any other form of alliteration. (Too many back-to-back “S” or “B” sounds.)
• Write in a conversational tone, not formal.  Write how people talk.
• Use contractions when possible. This helps provide that conversational tone. (”You’re” versus “you are.”)
• Don’t combine conversational and formal writing styles in the same script.
• Spell check! Also check for a/an/and or no/not/nor errors, too.
• Spell out numbers. (”Fifty” instead of “50.”)
• Write out symbols. (”Percent” instead of “%.”)
• Use dashes between letters in acronyms. (”N-A-S-A”)
• Check grammar.
• Provide pronunciation tips for any words that may be difficult to read.
• Let us know if your script is open to minor modifications by the voice talent.
• Always use double-spaced, capitalized, 12 point Arial font.
• Number multiple pages “page x of x.”
• Single-side scripts with 1″ margins.
• Include visual descriptions next to voiceover text, if applicable.

Finally, after making sure your script follows these guidelines, there are two more rules to remember to uncover any potential issues with your copy. 

• Read your script aloud. If you have trouble breathing as you read your script, you’ll know that you need to insert punctuation.
• Have someone else read your script aloud. 

There you have it.  If you have any questions as you write your scripts, or if you’re interested in our copywriting services, please feel free to give me a call. 

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Website unavailable 10/19 through 10/26

With preparations finally underway for the big move into my new recording studio, I am temporarily suspending access to rdbmedia.com.  Starting at 3:00 PM St. Louis time tomorrow, and running through 3:00 PM October 26th, visitors to rdbmedia.com will be unable to access any of the content on my site.  If you need to reach me for any reason between those dates, please email me at rob AT rdbmedia DOT com.

This message will be posted on a temporary splash page for all visitors to see.  Any changes to this outage window can be seen at rdbmedia.com.

This is an exciting time for me and RDB Media.  There has not been a lot of focus on attracting new business over the last several weeks as a result of this move.  The new studio will allow me to accomplish everything I’ve been working on for the last two years.  There are a lot of good things to come from RDB Media.  Thanks for your patience.

What’s new?

For those who have been wondering where the blog entries are, I’ve been busy putting the finishing touches on my new recording space.  I’ll be sure to share a tour with everyone as soon as I’m finished.  Regular blog entries should resume, along with moving forward with everything I have planned for RDB Media, in a couple of weeks.  Stand by for updates!

RDB Media welcomes TGI Friday’s

We’re especially excited to announce our latest client.  Rob Becker has been asked to emcee the TGI Friday’s Bartending Championships in Creve Coeur, Missouri.  The competition takes place Wednesday, August 18 at 8:00PM.  For more information, contact TGI Friday’s at (314) 878-2220.  Proceeds from auctioned items will benefit the Make a Wish Foundation.  Thanks to Rob Madden at TGI Friday’s for this exciting opportunity to host this event and to help support a great cause.

RDB Media welcomes Colliers Turley Martin Tucker

We’re excited to announce yet another new corporate client, Colliers Turley Martin Tucker.  CTMT is a commerical real estate firm based in St. Louis.  They’ve asked RDB Media to provide parody voiceovers of Saturday Night Live’s Deep Thoughts for a presentation they’re preparing to celebrate a 15 year partnership with one of their biggest clients.  Welcome aboard!

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