The industry-standard screenwriting software for film, TV, and theater.
Visit WebsiteReviews onG2Capterra
75 reviews tracked·1 press mentionsThe Bottom Line
Entry price
From $199.99/mo
Biggest pro
Industry standard screenwriting
Biggest con
Expensive
TL;DR - Final Draft
- Industry-standard screenwriting software with automatic formatting.
- Comprehensive tools for planning, writing, and revising scripts, including collaboration.
- Ensures scripts are production-ready for film, TV, and theater.
Pricing: Paid only
Best for: Enterprises & pros
4.5/5 across review platforms
What is Final Draft?
Final Draft is the leading screenwriting software, trusted by professionals and beginners for over 30 years. It automatically formats screenplays to entertainment industry standards, allowing writers to focus on creative storytelling. The software provides comprehensive tools for planning, writing, and revising scripts, including features like Beat Board, Outline Editor, and Structure Lines for story development, and tracked revisions and commenting for editing.
Designed for screenwriters, filmmakers, producers, graphic novelists, and playwrights, Final Draft facilitates real-time collaboration, customizable workspaces, and automatic saving. It ensures scripts are production-ready for scheduling and budgeting, generating detailed reports on characters, locations, and props. Available on Windows and Mac, with a companion app for iPhone, Final Draft aims to streamline the entire screenwriting process from idea to production.
Available on: Web, macOS, Windows
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Industry standard screenwriting
- Good for film
- Active development
- Good features
- Professional tool
Cons
- Expensive
- One-time purchase costly
- Learning curve
- Better free alternatives
- Updates paid
Ratings Across the Web
4.5(75 reviews)
Ratings aggregated from independent review platforms. Learn more
Key Features
ScreenwritingIndustry standardScript formattingCollaborationStory mapsBeat board
Pricing Plans
Free TrialFinal Draft 13
$199.99/lifetime
Full version (20% off)
- Industry-standard screenwriting
- Unlimited projects
- All features
- Regular price $249.99
Upgrade
$79.99/lifetime
From any previous version
- All FD13 features
- 38% off regular upgrade
Educational
$99.99/lifetime
Students & teachers
- Full features
- Verification required
- 23% off
Volume Licensing
null
Organizations
- Custom quotes
- Schools, studios, enterprises
Reviews
4.5/5
Across 75 verified user reviews on G2, Capterra
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Final Draft FAQ
What is Final Draft?
Final Draft is the professional standard screenwriting software used throughout Hollywood and the entertainment industry for writing scripts.
Why do professionals use Final Draft?
Final Draft is the industry standard because production companies expect scripts in Final Draft format, it handles industry-standard formatting automatically, and it includes collaboration features.
How much does Final Draft cost?
Final Draft costs $249.99 for a perpetual license. Educational pricing and subscriptions are also available.
Source: finaldraft.com