Tips for Writing a Screencast Script →
• Use a template. Try using the sample scripts TechSmith offers as part of their Camtasia Tutorial series, or developing your own custom template. Consistency in the design and layout of your scripts helps as you begin to produce more videos, especially if other stakeholders are involved.
• Take screenshots as you write. Match screeenshots to the narration in your video so you know what action to illustrate as each part of your script is spoken. Taking screenshots as you write forces you to walk through the process, which helps you write better and demonstrate your points when you share the script with others.
• Record yourself explaining the process, then transcribe the audio as a rough draft of your script. Use a program on your computer or a voice memo app on your smartphone to capture your audio.
• How would you explain it to someone over the phone? Write how you would talk it out. This results in conversational, natural-sounding narration.
• Provide context. Explain WHY the user is following these directions. Set up the scene before walking them through.
• As you write and edit the script, read it out loud. Do you sound natural? Is the sentence too long? This also helps you write transitions between actions.
• Narration should be straightforward and to the point.
• Consider writing a canned intro and/or conclusion for branding and consistency if you plan on producing a series of screencasts.
• Create a folder where you will save all of the assets of the screencast: the script, any images/screenshots and eventually, video clips and caption files. As you create more screencasts, good file management will be critical.
Useful notes on effective screencast scripting. Lots more in the PDF.
