Your screenplay title page is the first impression you’ll make on readers, producers, and industry professionals. While it may seem like a simple element of your screenplay, getting it right signals your professionalism and attention to detail.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about creating the perfect screenplay title page that adheres to industry standards while allowing for appropriate creative expression.
Why Your Screenplay Title Page Matters
A properly formatted title page isn’t just about following rules—it’s your screenplay’s first opportunity to make a professional impression.
Before anyone reads a single line of your dialogue or action, they’ll see your title page. Industry professionals review hundreds of scripts and can spot an amateur submission immediately from the title page alone.
The title page establishes your screenplay’s identity and provides essential information about you as the writer. It also serves practical purposes, allowing readers to quickly identify your work and contact you if interested. Think of it as the cover letter for your creative endeavor—simple, professional, and purposeful.
Essential Elements of a Screenplay Title Page
Every properly formatted screenplay title page must include certain elements. Let’s break down each one:
The Screenplay Title
Your title should be centered on the page, typically positioned about 1/3 of the way down (approximately 4 inches from the top).
It should be in ALL CAPS and can be slightly larger than the standard 12-point font used throughout the script. However, avoid excessive font sizes or decorative fonts that might appear unprofessional.
Examples of properly formatted titles:
ETERNAL SUNSHINE OF THE SPOTLESS MIND
THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION
Author Credits
Author credits appear a few lines below the title, also centered on the page. The standard phrasing is “Written by” followed by your name, though variations like “Screenplay by” are also acceptable.
Written by
John Smith
Writing Teams and Credit Variations
When crediting multiple writers, proper formatting is crucial. Use an ampersand (&) between names of writers who worked as a team, and “and” between writers who worked separately.
For example:
Written by
Jane Doe & John Smith
This indicates Jane and John wrote the screenplay together as a team.
Written by
Jane Doe and John Smith
This suggests Jane and John worked on the screenplay separately (perhaps Jane wrote an earlier draft, and John did a rewrite).
Contact Information
Your contact information should appear in the bottom left or bottom right corner of the page. Include:
- Your name
- Your address (optional in the digital age)
- Phone number
- Email address
- Agent/manager information (if applicable)
Some writers now omit physical addresses for privacy reasons, which is becoming more acceptable in the industry.
Source Material Credits
If your screenplay is an adaptation, you must include appropriate credits. These typically appear a few lines below the “Written by” credit:
Based on the novel by
Author Name
or
Based on characters created by
Creator Name
Optional Elements
Other elements you might consider including:
- WGA registration number (though many professionals recommend against it)
- Copyright notice (also often recommended against by professionals)
- Draft information (date, color, etc.)
Step-by-Step Formatting Guide with Examples
Now let’s walk through creating a title page from scratch:
1. Setting Up the Page Dimensions and Margins
Before anything else, ensure your page is properly set up:
- Standard 8.5″ × 11″ page size
- 1″ margins on all sides (Left, Right, Top, Bottom)
- 12-point Courier font (the industry standard)
2. Positioning and Formatting the Title
Position your cursor approximately 4 inches from the top of the page (more precisely, about 33-40% down the page). Center your text and type your title in ALL CAPS.
3. Adding Writer Credits and Names
Skip 2-3 lines after your title, keep the text centered, and add “Written by” followed by your name on the next line.
4. Including Contact Information
Position your cursor at the bottom left or right corner of the page (about 1 inch from the bottom) and add your contact details, left-aligned or right-aligned depending on your preference. Include your name, phone number, and email address at minimum.
5. Adding Adaptation Credits (If Applicable)
If your screenplay is based on existing material, add the appropriate credit a few lines below the “Written by” credit, maintaining center alignment.
6. Optional Elements
If you choose to include additional elements like WGA registration numbers or copyright notices, place them in the bottom right or left corner (opposite your contact information) or centered at the very bottom of the page.
A Complete Example of a Properly Formatted Title Page
THE NIGHT WHISPERS
Written by
Sarah Johnson
Sarah Johnson
sarah.johnson@email.com
(555) 123-4567
Software-Specific Implementation
Most screenwriting software includes title page templates, making the formatting process much easier. Here’s how to create title pages in popular screenwriting applications:
Final Draft
Final Draft, the industry-standard screenwriting software, makes title page creation straightforward:
- Navigate to Title Page from the Document menu
- Use the provided template to insert your information
- Final Draft will automatically position elements according to industry standards
- Save your title page with your script
Final Draft allows you to save multiple versions of your title page, which is useful when submitting to different production companies or contests.
Celtx
Celtx offers a straightforward title page editor:
- Click on the Title Page icon in the navigation sidebar
- Fill in the fields for title, author, and contact information
- The software automatically arranges these elements in standard format
- Save changes to update your script’s title page
WriterDuet
WriterDuet provides a simple interface for title page creation:
- Select Title Page from the dropdown menu
- Enter your information in the provided fields
- Use the preview feature to ensure proper formatting
- Save changes to implement the title page
Arc Studio Pro
Arc Studio Pro features an intuitive title page editor:
- Click on Title Page in the main menu
- Input your title, name, and contact information
- Use the visual editor to adjust formatting if needed
- Save to apply changes
Highland
Highland offers a minimalist approach to title page creation:
- Select Title Page from the Document menu
- Enter your information in the designated fields
- Highland automatically formats according to industry standards
- Save changes to update your script
Microsoft Word/Google Docs
If you’re using a word processor instead of dedicated screenwriting software, you’ll need to create your title page manually:
- Set up an 8.5″ × 11″ page with 1″ margins
- Use Courier 12-point font
- Create appropriate spacing (about 4 inches from the top before the title)
- Center your title in ALL CAPS
- Skip 2-3 lines, then add “Written by” and your name
- Position your cursor at the bottom left or right for contact information
While possible, creating screenplays in word processors requires careful attention to formatting details that screenwriting software handles automatically.
Title Page Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced writers sometimes make title page mistakes. Here are common errors to watch for:
Common Formatting Errors That Signal Amateur Status
- Incorrect margins: Using non-standard page dimensions or margins
- Wrong font: Using anything other than Courier 12-point
- Improper spacing: Crowding too many elements or having too much empty space
- Inconsistent alignment: Failing to center titles and writer credits properly
Unnecessary Elements That Clutter Your Title Page
- Loglines: Save these for query letters or one-sheets
- Character lists: These belong in supporting materials, not the title page
- Draft numbers: Unless specifically requested by a producer
- Excessive contact details: Multiple phone numbers and addresses create clutter
Inappropriate Font Choices and Styling
- Decorative fonts: Avoid fancy fonts even for your title
- Multiple fonts: Stick with Courier throughout
- Colored text: Use plain black text only
- Excessive bold or italic styling: Use sparingly if at all
Wrong Placement of Essential Information
- Title too high or low: The title should be about 1/3 down the page
- Contact information in unusual locations: Keep it in the bottom corners
- Scattered information: Maintain clean spacing between elements
Over-Designing with Images and Graphics
- Background images: Avoid decorative backgrounds
- Logos: Unless you’re an established production company
- Borders or decorative elements: Keep it clean and professional
Title Page Variations and Special Cases
While standard formatting is important, certain situations call for variations:
Writing Partnerships and Multiple Authors
As mentioned earlier, use an ampersand (&) to denote a writing team and “and” to indicate sequential writers. For multiple teams, the format becomes more complex:
Written by
Jane Doe & John Smith
and
David Johnson & Sarah Williams
Adaptation Credits and Rights
When adapting material, proper attribution is both professional and legally necessary:
Based on the novel "Book Title"
by Author Name
If you’ve optioned or purchased rights, you might note this:
Based on the short story "Story Title"
by Author Name
Rights acquired by Writer Name
Spec Scripts vs. Assignment Scripts
For spec scripts (those written on speculation), a simple “Written by” credit is appropriate. For assignment scripts (written under contract), you might see:
Current draft by
Writer Name
Rewrite Credits and Revisions
When submitting a rewritten script, you might include:
Revisions by
Writer Name
Title Pages for Different Submission Contexts
Different submission destinations may require slight variations:
- Contest submissions: Often require anonymized title pages without contact information
- Agency submissions: May request agent information prominently displayed
- Production companies: May require additional information specific to their process
Always check submission guidelines for specific requirements.
Creative Touches That Won’t Hurt Your Chances
While adhering to standards is important, subtle creative elements can sometimes enhance your title page without breaking industry norms:
Title Fonts: When and How to Stylize Appropriately
If you want to add subtle style to your title, consider:
- Slightly larger font size (14-16 point, not larger)
- Minimal bold styling
- Maintain Courier font family
Remember that any styling should be subtle and professional.
Using Quotes and Epigraphs
Occasionally, a relevant quote can enhance your screenplay’s first impression:
"The truth will set you free, but first it will make you miserable."
- James A. Garfield
THE TRUTH SEEKERS
Written by
Jane Smith
Keep quotes brief, relevant, and centered above your title.
Minimalist Design Elements That Work
Some minimal design choices that won’t raise eyebrows:
- Subtle spacing adjustments
- Strategic use of white space
- Careful alignment of elements
Industry Examples of Successful Creative Title Pages
Some successful screenplays have used:
- Thematically appropriate font sizes for titles
- Strategic spacing to create visual impact
- Minimal but effective use of bold text
Guidelines for Knowing When Rules Can Be Bent
Consider these guidelines before adding creative elements:
- Is it subtle and professional?
- Does it enhance rather than distract?
- Would an experienced industry reader find it appropriate?
- Does it reflect the tone of your screenplay?
When in doubt, err on the side of standard formatting.
Title Page FAQ
Do I need to include my mailing address?
In today’s digital environment, many writers omit physical addresses for privacy reasons. An email address and phone number are usually sufficient, particularly if you have representation.
Should I include my WGA registration number?
Most professionals advise against it. Including your WGA registration number can signal inexperience, as established industry professionals understand that legal protection comes through multiple channels, not just WGA registration.
Can I use images on my title page?
Generally, no. Images, logos, or graphics on a screenplay title page are considered unprofessional in most contexts. The exception might be if you’re an established production company including your logo.
How do I format a writing team credit?
Use an ampersand (&) between team members who wrote together:
Written by
Jane Doe & John Smith
What if my screenplay is based on my own book?
Still include the source material credit:
Based on the novel "Novel Title"
by Your Name
This clarifies the relationship between the works and establishes your ownership of both.
Should I include a logline on the title page?
No. Loglines belong in query letters, one-sheets, or treatment documents, not on the screenplay title page.
Do I need separate title pages for different submissions?
Often, yes. Contests may require anonymized submissions, while agents may want their information included. Save different versions of your title page for different submission contexts.
Conclusion
A professional screenplay title page demonstrates your understanding of industry standards and attention to detail. While it may seem like a small element of your overall screenplay package, it creates a crucial first impression that can influence how readers approach your work.
The best title pages are clean, professional, and contain exactly the information needed—no more, no less. They follow standard formatting while allowing minimal creative expression where appropriate.
Remember that your screenplay title page is just the beginning. The real test comes with the pages that follow. However, by mastering this first element, you signal to industry professionals that you understand the business and respect its conventions—a promising start to any creative relationship.
As you continue developing your screenwriting career, maintaining this level of professionalism in all aspects of your work will help open doors and create opportunities. Your title page is the handshake before the conversation begins—make it firm, confident, and memorable for all the right reasons.
Next Steps in the Screenplay Submission Process
Once your title page is perfected, focus on:
- Creating a compelling first 10 pages that hook readers
- Developing a concise but powerful query letter
- Researching appropriate submission targets
- Building your screenwriting network through contests and events
With a professional title page in place, you’re ready to put your best foot forward in the competitive world of screenwriting.