Slugline
A slugline is a formatting element that appears at the beginning of each scene in a screenplay. It's like a scene's headline that tells readers where and when the action takes place. Writers use sluglines to organize their scripts and help production teams quickly understand scene locations and time of day. Think of it as the "address label" for each scene in a movie or TV script. When someone mentions slugline experience on their resume, it shows they understand proper screenplay formatting and industry standards.
Examples in Resumes
Formatted over 20 feature screenplays using proper slugline standards for major studios
Taught slugline formatting to junior screenwriters in workshop settings
Developed sluglines for complex multi-location television episodes
Typical job title: "Screenwriters"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Screenwriters
Online Communities
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle complex scene transitions and multiple locations in your sluglines?
Expected Answer: An experienced writer should explain how they clearly indicate location changes, maintain consistency, and handle parallel action sequences while keeping the script readable for production teams.
Q: How do you adapt slugline formatting for different production needs?
Expected Answer: They should discuss how sluglines might vary between film, TV, and streaming formats, and how they adjust formatting based on specific studio or production company requirements.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What elements must be included in a properly formatted slugline?
Expected Answer: Should explain the three main components: interior/exterior (INT./EXT.), specific location, and time of day, plus when to use special notations for sequences or continuing action.
Q: How do you handle time progression in sluglines?
Expected Answer: Should describe various time indicators (LATER, MOMENTS LATER, CONTINUOUS) and when to use each one appropriately in a script.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the basic format of a slugline?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic INT./EXT. format, location description, and time of day components, with simple examples.
Q: Why are sluglines important in a screenplay?
Expected Answer: Should explain how sluglines help organize scenes, guide production teams, and maintain clear story progression.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic screenplay formatting
- Simple scene headers
- Standard time-of-day notations
- Script software basics
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex location descriptions
- Advanced time progression
- Multiple timeline management
- Production-friendly formatting
Senior (5+ years)
- Master scene formatting
- Complex sequence management
- Format adaptation for different mediums
- Teaching/mentoring abilities
Red Flags to Watch For
- Inconsistent formatting in sample scripts
- Lack of understanding of basic scene heading components
- Confusion about interior vs. exterior scenes
- No knowledge of industry-standard script formatting software
Related Terms
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