FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is script coverage?
Coverage is a report that breaks down the various elements of a television or film script to get it ready for professional consideration or production. It is designed to highlight the strengths and weaknesses in written projects. Originally, coverage was used by agents and producers to filter out projects and writers who did not understand the basics of scriptwriting. Now, coverage is used by authors to hone their work and give it a better chance of moving to the next level.

Why get coverage?
In order to really nail a script, every element must be in place: dialogue, plot, characters, structure, format, pacing, continuity and even grammar. In short, you must remove the reasons that agents, producers, contests, and fellowships say “No!” We look at each of these aspects of your script and provide you with clear notes on what you did well, and what could be improved. We also pride ourselves on providing concrete examples and suggestions for improvement. Whereas most coverage services show you what you did wrong, we do our best to show you how to get it right!

At what point in development is my script ready for coverage?
Script coverage and analysis can benefit you at any stage in development, from rough draft to final polish. Early on, we can help you focus on your main character’s needs, the obstacles in their way, and keeping them proactive in achieving this goal. In later drafts, coverage can guide you when you aren’t sure about adding or removing a few plotlines, characters, themes, etc. And as you’re about to drop your script in the mail to that high-profile agent, coverage can make sure you script is error free, consistent, and at its tightest.

Why choose ScriptSmarts?
When you get coverage from ScriptSmarts, you get your project analyzed by someone actually working as a writer in the film and television industry. We understand the barriers and reasons that cause agents, producers, and contests to turn projects away, and we know how to provide practical, real-world solutions to your script problems. With over 400 scripts covered to date, ScriptSmarts works with you to bring out the full potential of your project.

How quickly can I receive my coverage?
Typically, script coverage is delivered within 3 – 5 days of payment, though when popular contest deadlines approach, or in the months before television staffing season (January – March) the turnaround time can be around 5 – 10 days. You can guarantee five day turnaround with our EXPEDITED SERVICE.

What forms of payment do you accept?
ScriptSmarts currently accepts all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, Diners Club, Carte Blanche, and JCB) and online checks through Paypal’s payment system. YOU DO NOT NEED A PAYPAL ACCOUNT TO MAKE YOUR PAYMENT. If you’d prefer, you can also pay by mail via personal check or money order/bank check. Click here for instructions on mailing your payment.

How can I make certain no one will steal my script or idea?
ScriptSmarts.com recommends that all submissions be copyrighted through the U.S. Library of Congress (http://www.copyright.gov/register/literary.html), or with the Writers Guild of America (https://www.writersguild.org/webrss/dataentry.asp). Registering your work with these organizations is a good idea before letting ANYONE look at your script. Doing so provides preventative measures against plagiarism or unauthorized use of an author’s material. For more information about the safety of your material with ScriptSmarts, please read our privacy policy.

If you have any other questions or concerns, please e-mail us at info@scriptsmarts.com