What is a .FOUNTAIN file?
A .FOUNTAIN file is a type of document used for writing movie scripts. It's made to be used with screenwriting software like Storyist, but because it's saved as plain text in UTF-8 format, you can actually open it with any basic text editor. This means you don't need special software to view or edit a Fountain file, making it very accessible. Programs like Trelby, Microsoft Notepad (which comes with your operating system), Slugline+, Highland+, and WriterDuet are some of the specific applications that can open and work with .FOUNTAIN files.
When you're writing in a .FOUNTAIN file, you'll use a simple set of rules to format your screenplay. For example, you'll write character names in all capital letters. Right after a character's name, you'll put their dialogue on the next line. Scene headings start with abbreviations like INT (for interior) or EXT (for exterior), and transitions between scenes end with "TO:". If a character's actions or emotions need to be described, you'll put that information in parentheses.
If you're using Storyist and you want to create a .FOUNTAIN file, you'll go to the File menu, choose Export, and then select the items you want to export. Make sure to choose "Fountain Script (.fountain)" from the format options, follow the prompts to select any specific export settings, name your file, decide where to save it, and then click Export. To bring a .FOUNTAIN file into Storyist, you'll do the opposite: go to File, then Import, find your .FOUNTAIN file, and follow the steps to import it with the settings you prefer.
In summary, .FOUNTAIN files are a straightforward, text-based way to write and share movie scripts, supported by a variety of screenwriting and simple text editing programs.
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