How to Write a Short Film with SoCreate Screenwriting Software: A 5-Step Guide

Writing a short film can be daunting, especially if you're new to screenwriting. Just because it’s short doesn’t mean it’s any easier to write than a feature film!

Luckily, SoCreate Screenwriting Software makes the process a lot easier. In this blog post, we'll take you through a 5-step process on how to write a short film with SoCreate Screenwriting Software.

Short Film vs. Feature Film

The main difference between a short film and a feature film is their length. A short film is typically less than 40 minutes long, while a feature film is usually longer than 40 minutes, with the average length being around 90-120 minutes.

Short films are often made by independent filmmakers or film students, with limited budgets and resources. They are usually made to showcase the filmmaker's skills or convey a message in a succinct and impactful way. Short films may be screened at film festivals, online platforms, or as a part of a larger film anthology.

Feature films, on the other hand, are often produced by established production companies with larger budgets and more extensive resources. They are designed to be screened in movie theaters or through streaming services and are typically intended for wider distribution and commercial success.

Feature films usually have a more complex narrative structure, a higher production value, and a larger cast and crew.

In addition to their length, there are other differences between short films and feature films. Short films often focus on a single character or a specific moment in time, while feature films usually have a more elaborate plot and multiple storylines.

Feature films may also include subplots, character development, and more complex themes.

Both types of films serve different purposes, they can both be a powerful medium for storytelling and creative expression.

Step 1: Understand Your Story Idea

The first step in writing a short film is to identify your story idea. Think about the message you want to convey and what makes your story unique.

Need a story idea? Here are 4 ways to find one:

As you’re brainstorming, keep your notes in SoCreate or jot them down on a piece of paper.

To keep notes in SoCreate, we’d suggest saving them inside of a new scene like this:

Or, you can add notes within action or dialogue stream items, like this:

Step 2: Use SoCreate's Outlining Feature

SoCreate's outlining feature is a great way to organize your thoughts and structure your story. Start with your opening scene, and work your way through to the end. This feature helps you stay focused on the key points of your story and ensure you’re hitting all the key beats found in short films.

To outline in SoCreate, simply add as many acts, scenes, and sequences as you’ll need from the Tools Toolbar on the right-hand side. Then, label each structure item based on your story beats, and add notes about what’s supposed to happen in each scene.

An outline in SoCreate could look something like this:

Find an example of a short film beat sheet below.

Step 3: Write Your Script with SoCreate

Now that you have your story and outline, it's time to write your script. SoCreate Screenwriting Software has a clean and easy-to-use interface that lets you focus on your writing and stay immersed in your story!

First, start by adding the location where your first scene takes place. Change the image to match the location you’re envisioning, name it, then decide if your scene takes place inside or outside during the day or at night.

Now, what happens first in your opening scene? Consider adding “FADE IN” by adding a camera transition from your Tools Toolbar.

Now, it’s time to add some scene description! Use the Action Stream Item from your Tools Toolbar to add anything that’s not dialogue, such as scene description or action description.

Next, use the “Add Character” tool in the Tools Toolbar to build your first character. Once you click save, you can give them something to say!

In the future, quickly mention characters and locations or add new ones using your keyboard.

To add a new character or tag one that already exists, just use the @ symbol within any story structure, action, or dialogue stream item and a dropdown will appear.

To add a new location or tag one that already exists, just use the ~ symbol within any story structure, action, or dialogue stream item and a dropdown will appear.

Step 4: Refine and Revise with SoCreate

After you've written your script, it's time to refine and revise it!

Use SoCreate’s notes feature to make notes to yourself about what you’d like to change. To add a note, simple click the “N” icon within a structure, dialogue, or action stream item. Notes appear in blue text so they’re easily distinguishable from your story. To remove a note, simple click the trashcan icon next to it.

Need more tips on how to rewrite your screenplay? Here are some pointers:

Step 5: Finalize and Export

When you're happy with your final draft, it's time to finalize and export your script to the traditional screenplay format. SoCreate Screenwriting Software allows you to export your script in various formats, including PDF and Final Draft. This makes it easy to share your script with others and get your short film made.

Conclusion

Writing a short film can seem overwhelming, but with SoCreate Screenwriting Software, it's a lot easier. By following this 5-step guide, you can write a short film that is engaging and impactful. Use SoCreate's features to develop your story, outline your script, and refine your draft. With SoCreate, you'll be well on your way to creating a short film that stands out.