I am writing a screenplay with Amazon Storywriter. I have noticed that when I write a scene heading, 2 blank lines are inserted prior to the heading. I was wondering if secondary scene headings should also be like that, or if I should label them as 'actions' with Amazon Storywriter to give them just 1 blank line.
To add to my confusion, I looked up a few random scripts of films I like, and they often had just 1 blank line before scene headings.
Can anyone advise?
Two blank lines is the standard. Secondary scene headings (mini slugs) are actually primary scene headings, just with less detail, they are the same element, so two blank lines as well.
I agree with Pierre, yes... it should be two lines. I have never used Amazon Storywriter, I use Final Draft, however, the standard format applies with any screenplay... so whatever screen writing program you use, should be the same! Very Best with your screenplay!
Thank you for your replies. I have done a bit more research since asking my question, and at https://www.storysense.com/format/slugs.htm it says ...
"While scene headings usually have two blank lines above them, slug lines always have just one."
This contradicts the 2 current replies to my question, so it is rather confusing.
Your question was asking for the difference in formatting between primary scene headings and secondary scene headings. My answer remains the same, they are the same element except secondary scene headings contain less detail/information.
Primary or master scene headings and secondary scene headings are both commonly referred to as sluglines. I have never used Story Sense as a reference point so I suggest you do a bit more research and you'll find they are referred to as one and the same. To be more precise, the origins of Scene Heading is purely within screenplays whereas the origins of Slugline (Slug Line) is from journalism, but regardless, your question was regarding scene headings and secondary scene headings.
Ooh, looking at Kay's first picture, I fear my terminology may be wrong. Maybe I should have said 'slugline'. When I said 'secondary heading', I was referring to the 'KITCHEN' in the following example, not 'LIVING ROOM'.
INT. BOB'S HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - DAY
Stuff is happening. Bob goes through a door.
KITCHEN
Bob opens the fridge.
Like Pierre said. They are both scene headings.
Yes, again... I agree with Pierre and now Dan. However, now that you said that you should have asked the question differently Andy, I can understand the confusion. I really like the very talented creative people on here and how they are so helpful! :)