Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Voice-over • Logline • Three-Act Structure

Scene Heading

Term from Scriptwriting industry explained for recruiters

A Scene Heading, also known as a "slug line," is a basic building block in screenplay writing that tells readers where and when a scene takes place. It's like a location marker at the top of each scene in a script. Writers use it to clearly show if the scene is inside or outside (INT. or EXT.), the specific location, and the time of day. This helps everyone involved in making a film or TV show understand exactly where each scene should be filmed. When reading resumes, you might see it referenced alongside terms like "screenplay formatting" or "script writing."

Examples in Resumes

Formatted over 50 scripts ensuring proper Scene Heading placement and consistency

Trained junior writers in proper Slug Line formatting and industry standards

Reviewed and corrected Scene Heading formatting for major television productions

Typical job title: "Screenwriters"

Also try searching for:

Script Writer Screenplay Writer TV Writer Film Writer Script Coordinator Script Supervisor Story Developer

Where to Find Screenwriters

Online Communities

Job Boards

Industry Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle complex scene heading requirements in multi-location sequences?

Expected Answer: A senior writer should explain how they manage transitions between locations, maintain clarity in fast-paced sequences, and ensure consistency throughout the script while meeting industry standards.

Q: How do you train other writers in proper scene heading usage?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership experience by explaining their teaching methods, common mistakes to avoid, and how they maintain quality across a writing team.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the essential elements of a properly formatted scene heading?

Expected Answer: Should explain interior/exterior designation, location specifics, time of day, and when special notations are needed, with practical examples.

Q: How do you handle scene headings for unusual locations or time periods?

Expected Answer: Should discuss adapting standard formatting for special cases while maintaining clarity and industry standards.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the basic structure of a scene heading?

Expected Answer: Should explain the basic INT./EXT. format, location naming, and time of day indicators used in standard screenplay format.

Q: Why are scene headings important in a screenplay?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of how scene headings help production teams, readers, and other stakeholders quickly understand scene locations and timing.