Transitions
A change in scene. The change is immediate.
Cut To
One image. Can last for a split second, to a couple minutes.
Shot
Background of a scene.
b.g.
Used to suggest an actor should pause before continuing with their lines. Used with parentheses.
Beat
An event that takes place in one location or time.
Scene
A transition where an image gradually disappears.
Fade Out
Close-up; a shot focusing on something very closely.
Close on or C.U.
A scene taking place outdoors.
Ext.
The voice of someone not seen on-screen. Usually the character's thoughts.
V.O.
Extreme close-up.
E.C.U.
A transition where an image gradually appears.
Fade In
Shows the viewer where the characters are. A shot from a distance.
Establishing Shot
Int.
Direction in a way the actor can deliver their lines.
Parenthetical
A scene that indicates a scene from the past.
Flashback
The camera moves across something.
Pan
What the camera sees.
Angle On
Describing a scene, character movement, and sound displayed in the screenplay.
Action
All caps text at the beginning of a scene that describe location and time. Usually start with Int. or Ext.
Slug Line
The position from which an action of subject is seen.
P.O.V.
A change in scene. The change is drawn out.
Dissolve To
A series of shots.
Montage
Refer to spoken dialogue, but the person speaking is not in frame.
O.C. or O.S.
A name that appears in all caps the first time someone is mentioned in screenwriting.
Character
Bonus Question:
Shots taken in an airplane or helicopter.
Aerial Shot