We already know how powerful and compelling an animation video can be for brands. But having a great concept in mind and the right tools to produce an animated video is equal to having the ingredients and cookware but without the recipe.
What else do we need to get started on your animated video? Answer: the script.
When you search for the definition through Google, you’ll get something like this: The script is the written text of a play, movie, or broadcast. But when you ask writers to define it, they would say it’s the process of creating life out of a great concept and, sometimes, out of nothing at all.
There are a lot of great ideas and concepts out there, but not everything can be produced into a script. Why? Because when you start putting your ideas on paper, you realize that some of it would not work the way you imagined it.
Writing what’s on your mind is not as simple as it sounds. Sometimes, no matter how beautiful a concept is when you start writing the script, you would notice that there are factors that would not work out. From there, you could either turn things around or ditch the whole idea altogether.
It takes a lot of hard work to put together a script. It serves as the blueprint for your creative team to start working on your animated video. And of course, you should already expect there would be lots of revisions along the way.
To get started on your script, here are key factors that you need to remember when you are writing for an animated video:
-
What is your goal?
The crucial part of scriptwriting is knowing what to write about and who you are writing it for. Being clear on these two aspects would set your mind straight on what your goal is. Also, knowing who your target audience is would make it easier for you to come up with a communication strategy that you can incorporate in the animated video.
-
Have an outline
This is the very backbone of your script. While some writers can work well without an outline, it is still a helpful tool that helps them remember the flow they want to achieve. When you decide to write on your own, always check if you have included all vital details before you flesh out the script.
-
Use a conversational tone
When you use a conversational style of writing for your script, it guarantees better communication with your target audience. It instantly gives your brand an edge when you convey your message in a way that you are having a conversation with your viewers. The key to achieving a conversational tone is to use simple words and keep it short.
-
Your first draft doesn’t need to be perfect
One common mistake about scriptwriting is that they want the script to be perfect on the first draft. Unfortunately, that’s not how it works.
Write everything while following the flow of your outline. Remember to include details that work for your brand, and always have another set of eyes to read your draft. And keep in mind, you are telling a story, so be sure to keep it short, concise, and aligned with your brand’s voice.
Again, just write, then breathe.
-
Revise
Lastly, don’t treat revisions as an attack on your skill or because your script for your animated video was not good enough. All writers, even the seasoned ones, revise scripts because they want better material.
The process of writing a script is not long. But it is mentally and creatively challenging for writers, and it requires a lot of back-and-forths. Accept it, embrace it even. Because when you set high expectations on the first draft, then chances are you are going to lose your fire. Not to mention, a lot of procrastinating!
There’s a lot more that goes into creating an animated video than just writing a script. Start now, and do it on your own! Or, if you want an experienced creative team to do it with you, get in touch with us.
Collaborate with us! For inquiries, just message us at info@motioncabin.com, and let’s turn your creative ideas into actions.
Motion Cabin is a full-service digital advertising agency that can produce creative high-quality content from stunning animation videos to on-trend graphic designs and articles that effectively engage with your audience.
