Talk Your Way Into Stronger Scripts

One of the big parts of my job is to write scripts, review scripts, and give feedback on scripts. Working with scripts can be an intimidating and misunderstood process, especially if you’re not writing them for a living. One of the biggest challenges I see with clients is how to properly review a script. There’s a great method and all you need is your voice.

Writing for video is much different than writing for other mediums, such as print or online. The key difference is that scripts are meant to be HEARD, as in the words are meant to be SPOKEN by a person. We don’t naturally speak the way we write, so you have ot keep in mind how the words sound. If I were to compare scriptwriting to something most people in the corporate world are used to, it’s closer to writing a speech.

review with your voice

If you’re producing a video and it requires a script, the single best thing you can do when either writing or reviewing is to read it OUT LOUD. I cannot stress this enough. Many of us are training to simply write the words and our writing styles are crafted around the idea that the audience will simply read the words in their head. I’ve seen a completely different reaction to a script after reading it aloud in a meeting. Skepticism at the writing style is often replaced with, “Oh wow, that does sound much better!”

Sometimes what you think works great on paper might sound long-winded, complicated, or difficult to say and that’s what you’ll hear when you’re speaking it. You may not be a professional narrator, but hearing the words will give you an entirely new perspective on your story.

Often times I’m working to simplify scripts and use less words to get the same point across. As with great speeches in our history, less is often more. The Gettysburg Address said a lot in only 272 words. Taking extra time to read your script aloud will yield a tighter and stronger story, leading to a more engaging and memorable video.