BBC Screenplay Guide
The definitive UK television and film formatting standard. Everything you need to pass BBC Writersroom compliance.
What Makes BBC Format Different?
Think of BBC format as the "Queen's English" of screenplay formatting. While Hollywood uses US Letter paper and brass brads, the BBC has its own distinct rules that the entire UK industry follows.
This isn't just BBC being picky, this format ensures every script has the same timing (1 page = 1 minute), making it easier for producers to schedule shoots and budget production. Get it wrong, and your brilliant story might never get read.
What Our Engine Does For You
- Automatically sets A4 paper size (not US Letter)
- Applies exact 2.5cm margins on all sides
- Uses proper Courier 12pt throughout
- Double-spaces everything correctly
- Positions page numbers top-right
- Formats dialogue with BBC-specific indentation
You write. We handle the formatting.
Official Source: BBC Writersroom — Guidelines verified December 2024
1 Page = 1 Minute
When formatted correctly, each page of your BBC script equals approximately one minute of screen time. This makes it incredibly easy for producers to know if your 30-minute episode is actually 30 pages.
When You Need BBC Format
If you're writing for any UK broadcaster or production company, BBC format is your friend:
Production Types
- BBC Television (all dramas)
- ITV & Channel 4 submissions
- UK Independent Productions
- British Film Scripts
- BBC Radio Drama
- Streaming services (UK-based)
Script Types
- Spec Scripts (new shows)
- Pilot Episodes
- Single Dramas (one-offs)
- Series Episodes
- Mini-Series
- Comedy & Drama
BBC vs Hollywood: The Key Differences
Here's what catches writers out when they switch between US and UK formats:
BBC Format 🇬🇧
- A4 paper (210 × 297 mm)
- 2.5 cm margins on all sides
- Double-spaced everything
- Paper clip binding (top-left)
- No scene numbers on specs
- Dialogue indented, not centered
Hollywood Format 🇺🇸
- US Letter (8.5 × 11 in)
- Variable margins by element
- Single-spaced action
- Brass brads (three-hole)
- Scene numbers on shooting drafts
- Dialogue centered on page
75,000× Faster
1/10th the Cost
Most services take on average 7 days turnaround and $200+ price tag
See It In Action
5 pages of raw text → 8 pages of perfect BBC screenplay
Focus on Your Story, Not Formatting
Why read the rules when we can just apply them for you? Free preview, pay only for your DOCX download.