Action
When we type a scene heading in a Celtx script and hit the Enter key, Celtx automatically puts us into the Action element, as show in the following screenshot:
The Action script element is for narrative descriptions in which we show such things as (preceding example) setting, new character introduction, and action.
If you're new to writing scripts and unsure of what goes where in this unique form of visual storytelling, there are only three things that go in action. These are:
1. Action
2. Settings and characters
3. Sound
We write narrative description in present tense, such as:
Ralph says "write in present tense."
In other words, write Action as if it is happening at this very moment.
Note
Now here's an important tip! Keep action sparse and lean—never exceed four lines in length in either Action or Dialog. Two or three is even better. White space in scripts is good!
Be dramatic, don't just describe action—show it. The following screenshot shows an example from Portals of both keeping action...
