In the world of screenwriting, crafting a screenplay is not a one-and-done process. A script evolves through multiple stages of revisions, rewrites, and adjustments before it becomes the blueprint for a film. Each draft serves a unique purpose, and understanding the distinctions between these drafts is critical for screenwriters, producers, and filmmakers. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the 13 different types of screenplay drafts and what makes each one essential.

What Do The Different Drafts Of Scripts Mean?

1. Spec Script (Speculative Script) Definition

The spec script is the starting point for many screenwriters. Written on “speculation,” this draft is created without any guarantee of sale or production. Its primary goal is to showcase the writer’s storytelling ability, creativity, and unique voice.

• Characteristics:
  • No technical jargon or camera directions.
  • Focuses on story, characters, and dialogue.
  • Written to engage readers, often with a strong opening hook.
• Purpose:
  • To serve as a “calling card” for the writer.
  • Attract agents, producers, or studios interested in developing the script.

2. First Draft Definition

The first draft is the writer’s initial attempt to get the story down on paper. It’s often rough, unpolished, and imperfect, but it lays the foundation for future revisions.

• Characteristics:
  • May include plot holes or underdeveloped characters.
  • Focuses on completing the story structure and pacing.
• Purpose:
  • To create a baseline script that can be refined through subsequent drafts.
  • Allows the writer to see the full story from beginning to end.

3. Revised Draft Definition

A revised draft incorporates feedback from readers, collaborators, or the writer’s own review. This draft can go through several iterations to improve the story and address issues found in the first draft.

• Characteristics:
  • Refines dialogue, character arcs, and pacing.
  • May introduce new scenes or remove unnecessary ones.
• Purpose:
  • To elevate the script closer to a production-ready state.
  • Aligns the writer’s vision with creative or business goals.

4. Shooting Script Definition 

The shooting script is the version of the screenplay used during production. It includes detailed instructions for the director, cinematographer, and crew.

• Characteristics:
  • Contains scene numbers, technical directions, and camera angles.
  • Locked to prevent unauthorized changes during production.
• Purpose:
  • To serve as the definitive guide for filming.
  • Ensures all departments are aligned on how to bring the story to life.

5. Polish Definition 

A polish is a minor revision focused on enhancing specific aspects of the script, such as dialogue or scene transitions. It is usually done when the script is near completion.

• Characteristics:
  • Focuses on fine-tuning rather than structural changes.
  • Can involve rewriting a few lines or tweaking descriptions.
• Purpose:
  • To add the finishing touches before the script is finalized.
  • Ensures the script reads smoothly and professionally.

6. Rewrite Definition

A rewrite is a more substantial overhaul than a polish. It may involve reworking significant portions of the story, characters, or structure.

• Characteristics:
  • Can result in entirely new scenes, characters, or subplots.
  • Often responds to studio, producer, or director notes.
• Purpose:
  • To address major issues that a polish cannot fix.
  • To align the script with production requirements or creative vision.

7. Draft with Notes Definition

A draft with notes includes suggestions or feedback from producers, development executives, or other collaborators. These notes guide the next round of revisions.

• Characteristics:
  • Marginal comments or in-line suggestions.
  • Often includes specific directives, such as “make the protagonist more relatable.”
• Purpose:
  • To provide a clear roadmap for the next rewrite or polish.
  • Ensures alignment between the writer and key stakeholders.

8. Table Draft Definition

The table draft is used during a table read, where actors read the script aloud to gauge how it works in performance.

• Characteristics:
  • May include temporary changes based on initial feedback.
  • Focuses on dialogue flow and character dynamics.
• Purpose:
  • To identify pacing issues or unnatural dialogue.
  • Provides an opportunity to hear the script in a real-world context.

9. Final Draft Definition

The final draft is the version of the script considered ready for production. It’s “locked,” meaning no further changes are allowed without formal approval.

• Characteristics:
  • Polished and refined to the highest standard.
  • Includes all necessary elements for production.
• Purpose:
  • To serve as the definitive version of the script.
  • Acts as the official document for the production team.

10. Annotated Draft Definition

An annotated draft includes additional notes explaining creative or logistical decisions.

• Characteristics:
  • Marginal comments or appendices.
  • Often used to address questions from financiers or collaborators.
• Purpose:
  • To clarify intentions or justify specific choices.
  • Helps stakeholders understand the script’s potential.

11. Shooting Draft Definition

The shooting draft is a production-ready version of the script. It is distributed to the cast and crew and includes scene breakdowns, technical notes, and other production details.

• Characteristics:
  • Color-coded pages to indicate revisions.
  • Includes scene numbers and shooting schedules.
• Purpose:
  • To ensure the production team operates efficiently.
  • Serves as a practical guide for filming.

12. Post-Production Draft Definition

The post-production draft reflects changes made during filming, such as ad-libs or scenes cut on set.

• Characteristics:
  • Aligns with the edited version of the film.
  • Used to create subtitles or promotional materials.
• Purpose:
  • To match the final cut of the film.
  • Serves as a reference for marketing and distribution.

13. Production Draft Definition

The production draft is used by the production team to manage logistics such as shooting schedules and scene timing.

• Characteristics:
  • Includes detailed breakdowns of each scene.
  • Serves as a practical tool for production planning.
• Purpose:
  • To streamline the production process.
  • Provides clarity on budget and resource allocation.

Screenwriting is an iterative process, and each draft brings a script closer to its ultimate goal: becoming a compelling, cinematic story. Understanding the purpose and characteristics of each draft allows writers to navigate the development process with confidence. Whether you’re writing your first spec script or refining a final draft for production, each step is an opportunity to improve and polish your work.