The most important part of an audio visual script is the narration text. The text encompasses all of the spoken and written words that happen during the video, from the voice over to the on-screen titles. The script is generally broken up by scene to make it easier to plan timing and editing for the overall project. Between the scenes, the project director may include transition text or directions to make logical connections. Depending on the type of project, a rough draft of the text is usually the first task; the text evolves over time to fit the video, imagery and audio pieces.
Scene notes are used to explain to employees what is going on in the video for each section of the script. Because many people are involved in the creation of an audio/video project, scene notes help keep everyone on the same page. The notes evolve over the course of script and video development; they may include a description of the images, video clips and the shots that are still missing. Depending on the workflow of the company, the scene notes might be replaced by a storyboard that also uses visual elements to accompany the script. They serve as direction for the people in charge of capturing the imagery for the project.
When an audio visual project involves music, sound effects or special audio editing, the script will usually include notes to guide the sound engineers. The notes might include directions about the type of music needed for the background or the desired feeling and atmosphere for each scene. If the voice-over reel needs editing for style or legal reasons, the project director will add instructions to create the correct effects.
Most audio-visual scripts include the rough timing for each section of text. The timing helps the video and audio engineers time their shots and song clips and gives an idea of the overall length. Although the text often changes over time, the basic timing guides the process. This section might also include signals to look for when matching up the timing audio and video reels, especially when the editing is done by an outside party.