There are only a few simple rules to remember when numbering a screenplay page:
Rule #1: The Title page has no page number.
Rule #2: The first page of your screenplay has no page number. This is the "FADE IN:" page that begins the first scene.
Rule #3: The second page and every page thereafter has a page number. Since you begin numbering on the second page, you start with the numeral "2."
Rule #4: The page number always goes in the upper right margin in the top margin (i.e., the top header section). You should vertically align the number in the header. Since the top margin is one inch, vertically align the page number at 0.5".
Rule #5: Include a "period" or "dot" after the number. EX: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Rule #6: Never boldface, italicize, or underline page numbers.
Standard screenplay format is:
Letter-sized paper: 8.5 x 11 inches.
Font: 12-pt. Courier.
Page Margins:
Left: 1.5 inches
Right: 1 inch
Top: 1 inch
Bottom: 1 inch
Here is a view of my Title page, first page, and page 15 of my screenplay:
TITLE PAGE SAMPLE:
SCREENPLAY FIRST PAGE:
PAGE 15 OF MY SCREENPLAY:
A larger view of page 15 with "blue" guides to show you how I positioned the page number.
I invite your comments or corrections.
Sincerely,
Brian Scott
