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Final Draft Smart Type: A Secret Tip for Screenwriters

Final Draft is the go-to software for many screenwriting professionals. It's packed with powerful features and tools that streamline the writing process.

But did you know that there's a hidden gem within Final Draft called SmartType?

final draft smart type screenwriter tip

Uncovering the Power of SmartType

SmartType is a feature that remains largely unknown to many Final Draft users.

It offers a range of categories, including characters, extensions, scene intros, locations, times, and transitions.

By leveraging SmartType, you can streamline your writing process and ensure consistency throughout your screenplay.

The Secret Tip: Rebuilding with SmartType

Here's the secret tip: Whenever you make changes to your script, whether adding new characters or tweaking existing elements, it's crucial to rebuild the script using SmartType.

Head to the “Document” menu, click on “Rebuild,” and watch as the magic happens.

SmartType automatically adjusts the order based on the number of lines for each character, ensuring your screenplay remains organized and cohesive.

The Importance of Rebuilding

Now, you might wonder why this tip is so important.

Well, it all comes down to generating accurate and reliable reports. Final Draft provides various reports that offer valuable insights into your script. From scene locations to character analyses, these reports can be game-changers.

However, for the reports to be truly effective, it's imperative to rebuild the databases after making changes to your script. Failure to do so may result in inaccurate information and misrepresenting your screenplay's structure.

Enhancing Your Screenwriting Process

To recap, SmartType in Final Draft is a powerful tool that can significantly improve your screenwriting process.

By rebuilding the script and leveraging SmartType's capabilities, you'll maintain consistency, order, and accuracy throughout your screenplay.

The reports generated will offer a clear picture of your script's structure, enabling you to make informed decisions and refine your work further.

Conclusion

So, the next time you work on your Final Draft screenplay, use SmartType and rebuild the databases.

It's a simple yet effective way to elevate your screenwriting game. If you're hungry for more filmmaking insights and tips, check out my screenwriting course.

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ARTICLE BY Tom Malloy

Tom Malloy is a film producer, actor, and writer. Over the course of his career, he has raised over twenty-five million dollars to produce, and distribute multiple feature films. If you're ready to "level up" your film producing, make sure to check out Movie Plan Pro. The video training and downloadable film business plan template will provide you with the same tools Malloy uses when approaching prospective film investors.