Fountain Guide

Learn the simple syntax that powers professional screenplays

Master Fountain format in minutes. Write like a pro.

What is Fountain?

Fountain is a plain-text screenplay format. Write in any text editor, and software like CoffeeDraft automatically formats it into a professional screenplay. No special software needed to write — just type naturally.

Key Principles

•Scene headings start with INT. or EXT.
•Character names are in ALL CAPS
•Dialogue goes directly below the character name
•Parentheticals use (parentheses)
•Action/description is regular text

Complete Example

You type:

INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY

MAYA enters, looking around nervously.

MAYA
(whispering)
Is anyone here?

The BARISTA looks up from behind the counter.

BARISTA
We're closed. Forever.

Result:

INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY Maya enters, looking around nervously. MAYA (whispering) Is anyone here? The Barista looks up from behind the counter. BARISTA We're closed. Forever.

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