Five Tips for Successful Comic Scripts

Written By Stephanie Broder

Scripting for comics can be a bit challenging. Unlike scripts for other media (like films, plays, or animation), movement through the scene can not be implied throughout the page. You have to break down each instant that’s captured within the panels, like snapshots, and be careful not to overload them.

But if you read a lot of comics and graphic novels, you probably already have an intuitive sense of how much action can fit in one panel or on one page or in one chapter. Lean into that knowledge as you start writing your scripts! And if you are writing and illustrating the comic, start slow. Script a few pages and then thumbnail them to ensure the pacing works.

And while you’re getting started, here are five other tips to keep in mind that will help you have successful scripts:

  1. Describe each panel clearly and simply

Think of each panel as a snapshot. Say who or what’s in it and what’s happening. Be direct— write things like “Mimi sits on a log, looking tired” or “A cat sneaks past her.” This is the opposite of the advice when writing fiction! But remember, your goal is to make the imagery clear to the artist (whether you or a teammate). It comes to life for the reader in the art and dialogue. So don’t waste flowery language on a script.

2. Keep dialogue short and natural

People don’t always talk in complete sentences. Keep speech bubbles short and casual. Think about how people speak in real life, with pauses, slang, or unfinished sentences. Also, consider how dialogue changes situationally. We might speak more politely to a teacher than our friends or get sidetracked and outraged if we’re angry rather than calm.

3. Use clear action words

When characters are moving or doing something, use simple action words. You might want to consider describing the gesture (body language) and expression (face). For example, say a mug belonging to an ex induces nostalgia and anger simultaneously in a character. You might write: “Alec picks up the mug with a tight grip, his brows low but his mouth soft.” This provides enough details for the artist to note that Alec is warring between different emotions and adds tension and turmoil without being overly flowery or descriptive.

4. Focus on emotions and expressions

If a character’s feeling is important, say it plainly. For instance, “Alex looks angry” or “Maya is surprised.” This helps the artist know the tone without overloading on details. Emotions are key in graphic novels, so make them clear. Again - this is very different from writing fiction! In fiction, you want to show emotions, not tell the reader what the character feels. But remember, we are doing that in comics, too! Literally! The reader will be shown the expression on the character’s face, but only if the artist has a clear expression listed to draw.

5. Be consistent with format

Keep each panel description in the same order, like “Setting, Action, Dialogue.” Start with the setting (where they are), describe the action (what’s happening), and add any dialogue. Dialogue tags might include the character’s full name or you might use initials or abbreviations, just make sure that you are consistent and if you use any short-hand form of the name, there is a key to refer to. This keeps it easy to follow and makes your script clear for everyone. Narrative boxes or sound effects should go with the dialogue tags; label them just like you would with a character’s name except instead of “SOUND EFFECT” or “NARRATION.”

Whatever format you decide on, keep it simple. Skip the metaphors and overly lush language and use plain, actionable words for the artist to bring everything to life. If you have a very specific idea in your head, it may be more useful to insert a reference image rather than explain it in a thousand words!

Stephanie Broder
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