| name | fountain-syntax |
| description | Complete Fountain screenplay format syntax reference.
Covers scene headings, action, character names, dialogue, parentheticals,
transitions, dual dialogue, notes, title page, emphasis, and page breaks.
Use when: writing or editing .fountain files, validating screenplay format,
converting between formats, or teaching Fountain syntax.
|
Fountain Syntax
Overview
Fountain is a plain text markup language for writing screenplays. Files use the .fountain extension.
Core Elements
Scene Headings
INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY
EXT. CITY STREET - NIGHT
INT./EXT. CAR (MOVING) - CONTINUOUS
Must begin with INT, EXT, or INT./EXT. followed by location and time of day.
Action
Plain paragraphs become action/description:
Sarah enters the crowded coffee shop, scanning the room. She spots MIKE at a corner table.
Character Names
Character names in ALL CAPS on their own line:
SARAH
Hello, Mike. It's been a while.
Dialogue
Follows character name, indented automatically:
MIKE
(surprised)
Sarah? I didn't expect to see you here.
Parentheticals
Direction within dialogue, in parentheses:
SARAH
(sitting down)
We need to talk.
Transitions
End with TO: or force with >:
CUT TO:
> FADE OUT.
Dual Dialogue
Use ^ for simultaneous speech:
SARAH
I can't believe you—
MIKE ^
Let me explain—
Notes
[[This is a production note]]
/* This is a hidden comment */
Title Page
Title: SCREENPLAY TITLE
Credit: Written by
Author: Writer Name
Draft date: January 2025
Scene Numbers
Force scene numbers with #:
INT. OFFICE - DAY #1#
Emphasis
*italics*
**bold**
***bold italics***
_underline_
Page Breaks
Three or more equal signs:
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