Slug Line
A slug line (also known as a scene heading) is a brief line of text at the beginning of every scene in a screenplay that tells where and when the scene takes place. It's like a location and time stamp that helps everyone involved in making a film or TV show understand the basic setting of each scene. Think of it as the "who, where, and when" label that appears before any action or dialogue begins. When people mention this in their resumes, it shows they understand proper screenplay formatting, which is essential in the entertainment industry.
Examples in Resumes
Formatted over 50 scripts ensuring proper slug line placement and formatting standards
Trained junior writers on proper screenplay formatting, including slug lines and scene descriptions
Reviewed and corrected scene heading formatting for multiple award-winning television episodes
Typical job title: "Script Coordinators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Script Coordinators
Online Communities
Professional Organizations
Learning Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle multiple timeline shifts in slug lines for a complex narrative?
Expected Answer: A senior writer should explain how to clearly indicate different time periods, maintain consistency throughout the script, and ensure the audience can follow the story easily through proper formatting and clear time indicators.
Q: How do you train junior writers on proper slug line usage?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating style guides, reviewing common mistakes, explaining industry standards, and providing practical examples of both correct and incorrect usage.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the essential elements of a properly formatted slug line?
Expected Answer: Should explain the three main components: interior/exterior indicator, location, and time of day, plus when to use special indicators for continuing scenes or sequence breaks.
Q: How do you handle montages and quick cuts in terms of slug line formatting?
Expected Answer: Should describe how to properly format a series of quick scenes, maintain clarity in montages, and when to use secondary slug lines versus master scene headings.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What's the difference between INT. and EXT. in a slug line?
Expected Answer: Should explain that INT. means interior (inside) scenes and EXT. means exterior (outside) scenes, and provide basic examples of when to use each.
Q: When do you need to specify time of day in a slug line?
Expected Answer: Should explain the basic time indicators (DAY, NIGHT, MORNING, etc.) and why they're important for production planning and visual consistency.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic screenplay formatting
- Understanding of standard slug line components
- Ability to use screenwriting software
- Basic scene description writing
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced formatting techniques
- Handling complex scene transitions
- Script supervision and continuity
- Training others on proper formatting
Senior (5+ years)
- Managing multiple timeline narratives
- Creating formatting style guides
- Supervising script departments
- Mentoring junior writers
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unfamiliarity with basic screenplay formatting standards
- Inconsistent use of time and location indicators
- No knowledge of industry-standard screenwriting software
- Lack of understanding about production considerations in formatting
