This document discusses different types of scripts for writing documentaries and other visual media. It outlines that scripts can be fiction or non-fiction. Fiction includes dramas, sitcoms, and commercials which come from a writer's imagination, while non-fiction is based on historical facts and includes documentaries, news, and training videos. It provides tips for preparing scripts, such as researching topics accurately from various sources and outlining the premise and synopsis. The document also describes common script formats and structures for fiction and non-fiction works.

1. Writing documentaries
• Fiction
• Non-fiction

2. FICTION
• From the mind of the writer.
• Dramas.
• Soaps.
• Commercials.
• Features.
• Situation comedies.
• Interactive games.

3. NON-FICTION
• Based on historical information.
• Based on supposed facts.
• News.
• Documentaries.
• Training video.
• Educational video.

4. VISUAL THINKING
• Script is a blue print.
• TV/Film - strong visuals
– Actions, not words
– Shown, not discussed
• Audio - strong aural sensations
– Verbal, sound effects
– Recognizable sounds
• Multimedia - balanced

5. PREPARATION
• Research
– Careful & accurate
– Libraries, digital sources
– Lexis, Nexis, Google, search engines
• Premise
– Concept reduced to simple statement
• Synopsis
– Few paragraphs-basic story

6. FORMATS
• Single column-master scene
– Drama
– Single camera
• Two-column
– TV, news, documentaries
• Semi-scripted
– Documentaries
– Commercials

7. FICTION SCRIPTS
• Three-act structure
– 1. Establish plot, characters, conflict
– 2. Introduce new characters, rising tensions
– 3. Build to climax, resolution
• Narrative structure.
• Characterization.
• Theme.

8. FICTION SCRIPTS
• Adaptation
• Sitcoms-commercials
• Multimedia
– Non-linear - branches
– Audience makes choices
– Each segment must fit
Games, interactive stories

9. NON-FICTION SCRIPTS
• Follow same structure as fiction
• Greater emphasis on argument
– Rhetorical
• Greater emphasis on factual material
– Expository
• Let’s viewer make choice
• Natural Interviews

10. NON-FICTION SCRIPTS
• News- accurate, simple.
• Talk shows- rigid format
• Spots- commercials, PSAs, Promos
• Instructional-clear & accurate
• Interactive training