The first script of a film is the 'show script' - your script - in the prescribed format, see 'Formatting Your Script Like a Pro' at http://www.fishnet.net/~rgb/formatlikepro.html. For an archive of over 600 scripts visit 'Drew's Scripts' at http://www.script-o-rama.com. However, scripts should be no more than 130 pages in length - each page representing 1 minute of film. The first script is designed to attract 'front money' usually 10 per cent of the total budget and used to contract the services of a director, a star or stars. Armed with a script, director and stars obtaining further funds from specialist organisations will be easier.

The show script must be of sufficient quality to arm the producer with the tool he needs that propels the project forward. After which, the script is likely to undergo many changes before filming starts. The director who may involve you in the process will most probably write the 'final script'; this may depend on the type of contract you sign.

Armed with this fundamental knowledge you are still not ready to write your script. Oh! I hear you say. Well, if there is one market that needs research, this is it. Many would-be screenwriters with ideas for scripts go ahead with them believing because their idea is truly unique and original, it will result in a sale if the completed script is up to standard. One week lurking at alt.writing.screeplays will quickly dispel any such dreams.

To be salable, a script must have the following attributes:

• Budget-conscious and workable. There is no market for a ten-hour historic epic costing more £20 million.

• International sales potential: the US market accounts for more than 50 per cent of world gross. It should be a 'hot-subject', an idea with a good track record but do not imitate - one that the public will be interested in. Terrorism, Mystery and the Macabre for example.

• You should research everything being shot in Britain and the USA to determine whether your script will be new in six months? Visit Fade In Magazine at http://www.fadeinmag.com and Creative Screenwriting Magazine at http://www.creativescreenwriting.com where you may glean titbits of information.

• You should consider writing your screenplay as a made-for-TV film?

• If a producer likes the idea of your screenplay, they will ask for a 'treatment'. A treatment will range from a basic outline to a synopsis of the story with a breakdown of key characters and scenes. The aim of the treatment is to convey the style and general flavor of the screenplay.

For more information on screenwriting in America, visit http://screenwritersutopia.com and in the UK go to The London ScreenWriters' Workshop at http://www.lsw.org.uk.