Set Up a Script from Scratch in Act On Cue
Sometimes you won’t be working from a PDF—maybe you’ve been sent a scene over email, or you’ve typed out lines from a sides session. When you paste text directly into Act On Cue, the system will often detect the formatting automatically. But when you're starting from scratch, it's important to guide the app by identifying what each line of text represents.
Step 1: Create a New Script
From your dashboard, tap New Script and choose the option to start from scratch. You can either paste your scene directly into the editor or begin typing it out line by line.
Step 2: Assign Line Types
As you enter text, you'll need to label each line according to its purpose in the scene. Use the formatting toolbar or side panel to mark each line as one of the following:
- Heading – typically used for scene headings (e.g., INT. COFFEE SHOP – DAY)
- Action – physical description or stage direction
- Character – the name of the person speaking
- Dialogue – the actual line that character says
- Parenthetical – instructions that appear under the character’s name (e.g., angrily or beat)
- Transition – cues like CUT TO: or FADE IN:
Each of these helps the system structure your scene correctly and ensures the voices, cues, and line visibility features work as expected during rehearsal.
Step 3: Review and Finalise
Once you’ve tagged all the lines, take a moment to check the script for consistency. Make sure character names are spelled the same throughout and that each line of dialogue is correctly linked to the right speaker. If anything looks off, simply click on the line and reassign the correct type from the menu.
Step 4: Save and Move to Rehearsal
When the formatting looks good, save your script. You’ll then be able to assign your role, select an AI voice for your scene partner—or record your own—and begin rehearsing with all your settings in place.
Need more help?
For more in-depth guides on uploading scripts, managing credits, or choosing an AI voice, browse our Help Centre topics or contact our support team directly. We're here to help you get the most out of every rehearsal.