Page Count

Term from Scriptwriting industry explained for recruiters

Page Count is a standard way to measure the length of scripts and screenplays. In the entertainment industry, one page equals roughly one minute of screen time. Writers and producers use page count to estimate how long a film or TV show will be, plan production schedules, and budget projects. For example, a typical feature film script is usually between 90-120 pages, while a 30-minute TV show script is usually around 30-40 pages. This term is essential in job descriptions because it helps determine project scope and writing requirements.

Examples in Resumes

Wrote multiple television scripts maintaining strict Page Count requirements for 30-minute episodes

Managed Page Count efficiently while adapting novel into 120-page feature screenplay

Delivered consistent Page Counts across season of sitcom episodes

Typical job title: "Screenwriters"

Also try searching for:

Screenwriter Script Writer Television Writer Feature Film Writer Story Editor Script Coordinator

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle page count requirements when adapting a complex novel into a screenplay?

Expected Answer: A senior writer should discuss techniques for condensing material while maintaining story integrity, including focusing on key plot points, combining characters, and restructuring scenes to fit standard industry page counts.

Q: How do you maintain consistent page counts across a TV series while ensuring story quality?

Expected Answer: Should explain balancing story needs with format requirements, understanding act breaks, and managing subplots to fit within standard episode lengths.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What strategies do you use to reduce page count without losing important story elements?

Expected Answer: Should discuss techniques like cutting redundant dialogue, combining scenes, and using visual storytelling instead of dialogue when possible.

Q: How do you handle script revisions while maintaining required page counts?

Expected Answer: Should explain the process of making cuts and additions while keeping the script within required length, and managing formatting to achieve optimal page count.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is standard script formatting and how does it affect page count?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of industry-standard script formatting and how proper formatting contributes to the one-page-per-minute rule.

Q: What are the typical page count requirements for different types of scripts?

Expected Answer: Should know standard lengths for feature films (90-120 pages), half-hour shows (30-40 pages), and hour-long shows (55-65 pages).

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic script formatting
  • Understanding standard page counts
  • Writing to length requirements
  • Basic revision skills

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Efficient story structuring
  • Managing multiple draft revisions
  • Adapting content to fit page requirements
  • Format-specific writing skills

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex adaptation work
  • Managing series consistency
  • Teaching/mentoring other writers
  • Advanced story compression techniques

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Unfamiliarity with standard script formats
  • Inability to meet page count requirements
  • Poor understanding of industry standard lengths
  • Lack of experience with script revision process