Helping screenwriters succeed since 2007
Is my screenplay safe? Who sees it?
Your script is transmitted securely and analyzed automatically, and the file is deleted from our server immediately after your results are delivered to your inbox. We do not store your script.
Can I submit a script that is in active submission to studios or producers?
Yes, without concern. Your script is not saved and is never seen by a person. Submitting to this service does not affect any confidentiality agreement you may have with a producer or studio.
Can I submit a script that is registered with the WGA or copyrighted?
Yes. Your copyright is not affected by submitting to this service. We strongly encourage you to register your work.
What file format do I need?
The service currently accepts Final Draft “.fdx” files only. If you write in a different application, export to Final Draft format before submitting.
Which versions of Final Draft are supported?
Any version of Final Draft that produces a standard .fdx file. The returned file opens correctly in Final Draft 10 and later. If you experience any issues with an older version, contact us.
How long does the audit take?
Most scripts are processed and delivered within three to 10 minutes. Occasionally, server load may extend this slightly, but you can expect to receive your results by email fairly soon.
What if the audit flags something that isn’t an error?
The audit will occasionally flag something that the writer intended — a stylistic choice, a deliberately unconventional line, or a known exception to a rule. Every flag is a suggestion, not a mandate. Review each one and decide for yourself. The system is designed to flag conservatively. It always leaves final choices to you.
Is this a replacement for script coverage or story analysis?
No. The Script Audit is a proofreading and formatting tool — it does not evaluate your story, characters, pacing, structure, or commercial viability.
Does it work on TV pilots, shorts, and other formats?
Yes, as long as the file is a properly formatted .fdx file. The checks are based on standard screenplay formatting conventions, which apply across features, pilots, and shorts. Scripts from 10 pages to 150 pages will be accepted and processed. Please note that a spec script exceeding 130 pages should probably be trimmed, but our script audit will review it.
What does “unfilmable” mean?
An unfilmable line describes something the camera cannot show — an internal thought, emotion, or mental state. For example, “she thinks about her father” cannot be filmed. “She stares at the photograph, jaw tightening” can. The audit flags these so you can revise them into visual or audible action.
What are your credentials for offering this service?
Bill Donovan, who developed this app, has proofread and done story analysis on about 150 spec and professional screenplays and has also been a copy editor at daily newspapers and the Associated Press.
Also, in the course of managing 10 screenplay competitions, he developed the first online system for screenplay contest judges to enter scores and the reasons for the scores they gave to screenplays. He collected and analyzed these comments; they are a gold mine of data on what judges liked and disliked. In addition, for a 2017 book, he surveyed producers, directors, agents, and managers on what they disliked most in spec screenplays – a second gold mine of data on what should be fixed before sending your screenplay to a contest, producer, agent, or manager.
What is an audit credit?
One credit = one script submission of any length from 10 to 150 pages. You can use multiple credits on the same script at different stages or use them on different scripts.
Why do you charge the same price for 10 pages as up to 150 pages?
Frankly, to avoid having to write a much more complicated app and deal with multiple pricing tiers. Keeping it simple allows us to keep our cost and the price as low as possible.
Do credits expire?
No. Credits do not expire. Use them at your own pace.
Can I get a refund if something goes wrong?
All sales of digital credits are final. However, if a technical failure on our end prevents your audit from being delivered, contact us through the Contact form.
What if I don’t receive my results?
Check your spam folder first — delivery emails occasionally land there. If the email is not in spam, contact us through the Contact form with your submission details and we will investigate and re-deliver if needed.