Before writing the whole story, a writer should familiarize himself with different script properties. Properties dictate the format and length of the script. For instance, scripts are often written using an 8 1/2-inch x 11-inch white paper. Each page is numbered on the upper right hand corner except for the first page. Most screenplays use font size Courier 12, with a 1/2-inch margin on top and a 1-inch margin on the bottom. The margin on right should run between 1/2 an inch and 1 inch and the margin on the left should run between 1.2 inches and 1.6 inches. The normal length for feature screenplays spans ranges from 95 to 125 pages. In order to easily pitch a screenplay, it has to run a certain number of pages. Aside from the story itself, producers are also usually concerned with the length of the script. Longer scripts meaning longer production and running time; thus it becomes economically questionable. Writers should know how to tell a story within limited pages.
Screenwriters need to know to how write the screenplay in a way an industry reader can comprehend. After learning basic script formats, you need to learn the different elements of a screenplay, including: scene heading, action, character name, dialogue, parenthetical, extensions, transition and shot. Screenwriters write the scene at the top of the page, where it serves as a Slugline. It tells the readers the location of the scene (ex. bedroom, living room, etc). Action sets the scenes and series of events whereas character name differentiates one dialogue from another. It tells the readers who's speaking at the moment. Dialogue refers to the moment a character speaks and when a conversation takes places between characters. Parenthetical indicates the attitude, action and verbal direction whereas extensions indicate the effect of the character's voice. Transition indicates instructions on how one scene will end and how another will start, whereas shots dictate the angle from where scenes and characters should be captured.
In writing scripts, you need to learn different abbreviations. Some readers prefer abbreviations whereas others prefer otherwise. In most cases, abbreviations make it easier for writers to indicate instructions instead of detailing them. For instance, if the character is going to be computer generated, a writer simply indicates the abbreviation "CGI." Other examples include: SFX for sound effects, f.g. for foreground and SPFX for special effects.