CHAPTER 6 The Script and Production Plan Basic Script Layout Formats Television scripts follow several standard layouts. Other studios prefer a single-column cinematic format, with transitions in a left margin, and all video and audio information in a single main column. Other versions use two vertical columns, with picture treatment (cameras, switching) on the left, and action and dialogue on the right, together with studio instructions and lighting/effects cues. Directors often mark up their script by hand with their own instructional symbols to indicate transitions and shots. SINGLE-COLUMN FORMAT Although there are different variations of the single-column format, all video and audio information is usually contained in a single main column. Before each scene, an explana- tory introduction describes the location and the action. Reminder notes can be made in a wide lefthand margin, including transition symbols (for example: X=cut; FU=fade-up), cues, camera instructions, thumbnail sketches of shots or action, and so on. This type of script is widely used for narrative film-style production and single-camera video, in which the director works alongside the camera operator. It is perhaps less useful in a mul- ticamera setup, in which the production team is more dispersed, with everyone needing to know the director's production intentions (Table 6.6).