A great screenplay isn’t just about writing — it’s about structure, voice, and visual rhythm.
Whether you’re working on your first short or a full-length feature, ChatGPT can help you spark ideas, polish scenes, and break through creative blocks.
These 11 prompts are built specifically for screenwriters. Use them to plan, build, and refine stories for the screen.
Let’s start writing scenes that move people.
1. Crafting a One-Sentence Logline
#CONTEXT: You have a rough idea for a story and need a tight, engaging logline for pitching.
#GOAL: Write a one-sentence logline that captures your story’s core.
#RESPONSE GUIDELINES:
Include protagonist, goal, and main conflict
Fit genre: [insert genre]
Match tone: [insert tone]
Include a twist or unique element
Limit to 30 words
#OUTPUT: A single compelling logline.ChatGPT Output
2. Building a 3-Act Screenplay Structure
#CONTEXT: You’re outlining a script and want to follow a traditional 3-act structure.
#GOAL: Break the story into three acts with major turning points.
#RESPONSE GUIDELINES:
Describe the basic story or theme
Request Act 1 (setup), Act 2 (rising conflict), Act 3 (resolution)
Fit genre: [insert genre]
Match tone: [insert tone]
Keep each act under 100 words
#OUTPUT: Three structured paragraphs outlining each act.3. Creating a Memorable Protagonist
#CONTEXT: You’re developing your script’s lead character.
#GOAL: Build a vivid protagonist with depth.
#RESPONSE GUIDELINES:
Include backstory, goal, flaw, and motivation
Add unique quirks or contradictions
Fit genre: [insert genre]
Match tone: [insert tone]
Keep under 150 words
#OUTPUT: Detailed character sketch.ChatGPT Output
4. Writing a Hook Opening Scene
#CONTEXT: You want your screenplay to open with impact.
#GOAL: Draft a gripping first scene with clear visuals.
#RESPONSE GUIDELINES:
Describe setting and time
Fit genre: [insert genre]
Use a striking visual or unusual action
Match tone: [insert tone]
Format in standard screenplay style
#OUTPUT: Opening scene with scene heading and action.5. Brainstorming a TV Series Pilot
#CONTEXT: You’re building a concept for a TV show and want a solid pilot episode.
#GOAL: Outline a TV pilot with characters and main premise.
#RESPONSE GUIDELINES:
Include series title, setting, main character
Fit genre: [insert genre]
Match tone: [insert tone]
Mention series hook or conflict
Keep it under 5 sentences
#OUTPUT: TV pilot concept pitch.ChatGPT Output
6. Writing a Dialogue-Only Scene
#CONTEXT: You’re working on a script and want to create a scene driven entirely by dialogue.
#GOAL: Write a realistic, revealing conversation.
#RESPONSE GUIDELINES:
Include character names and relationship
Fit tone: [insert tone — witty, intense, romantic]
Add a central conflict or reveal
Keep under 10 exchanges
Fit genre: [insert genre]
#OUTPUT: Dialogue-only screenplay snippet.7. Creating a Plot Twist
#CONTEXT: You want to surprise the audience with a strong mid-story twist.
#GOAL: Create a plot twist that changes character dynamics or direction.
#RESPONSE GUIDELINES:
Describe current storyline and characters
Fit genre: [insert genre]
Match tone: [insert tone]
Include foreshadowing hint
Keep under 100 words
#OUTPUT: A mid-point or Act 2 twist idea.ChatGPT Output
8. Polishing a Character’s Voice
#CONTEXT: You’re writing dialogue and want each character’s voice to sound unique.
#GOAL: Refine a character’s speech patterns and tone.
#RESPONSE GUIDELINES:
Describe the character and scene context
Include original dialogue sample
Fit tone: [insert tone — sarcastic, formal, chill]
Match genre: [insert genre]
Ask for revised lines with stronger personality
#OUTPUT: Improved dialogue lines with clearer voice.9. Drafting a Flashback Scene
#CONTEXT: You want to show important backstory using a flashback.
#GOAL: Write a flashback that adds emotional weight.
#RESPONSE GUIDELINES:
Describe what the character remembers
Fit genre: [insert genre]
Match tone: [insert tone]
Include setting and emotional cue
Format in screenplay style
#OUTPUT: Flashback scene with visual and emotional details.ChatGPT Output
10. Writing a Montage Sequence
#CONTEXT: You want to compress time or show progress through a visual montage.
#GOAL: Create a short montage with 4–6 visual beats.
#RESPONSE GUIDELINES:
Describe purpose (e.g. training, falling in love)
Fit genre: [insert genre]
Match tone: [insert tone]
Include 4–6 events or moments
Keep each beat 1–2 lines
#OUTPUT: Formatted montage sequence.How to Use These Prompts Effectively
Customize Every Input: Fill in blanks like [tone], [genre], or [theme] for clearer output.
Layer Prompts: Start with structure → move to character → finish with scenes.
Treat Outputs as Drafts: Don’t copy, revise! Use results as stepping stones.
Save Strong Results: Build a personal prompt bank with your favorite versions.
Use Between Drafts: Refresh a stale draft with new angles and rewrites.
Wrap-Up
Every great screenplay starts with a great spark.
These ChatGPT prompts help you shape that spark into structured, cinematic storytelling.
Whether you’re polishing pages or starting fresh, let these prompts guide your screenwriting journey.
Now — action.