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Import Existing Script

Already have a screenplay? Import it into BeatBandit to enhance it with AI assistance, organize it better, or continue development.

Supported Formats​

BeatBandit can import:

  • Final Draft (.fdx) - Recommended
  • PDF - With text recognition
  • Celtx (.celtx)
  • WriterDuet (.wdu)

Import Process​

Step 1: Access Import Wizard​

From your dashboard:

  1. Click Import Script or New Project
  2. Select Import Existing Work
  3. Choose Upload File or Paste Content
  4. Follow the wizard prompts
tip

For best results, use Final Draft (.fdx) format. It preserves the most formatting and metadata.

Step 2: Upload Your Content​

  1. File Upload: Choose your screenplay file
  2. Text Input: Copy and paste your script content
  3. Review: Check that content appears correctly
  4. Continue: Proceed to analysis

Step 3: Review Analysis​

The Import Wizard analyzes your script and:

  1. Detects Format

    • Identifies screenplay formatting
    • Recognizes character names
    • Parses scene headings

  2. Extracts Structure

    • Creates scene list
    • Identifies acts (if marked)
    • Detects transitions

  3. Character Recognition

    • Lists all speaking characters
    • Counts dialogue instances
    • Suggests character descriptions

Step 4: Finalize Import​

After analysis, you can:

  1. Verify Characters

    ✓ JOHN SMITH (Lead) - 145 lines
    ✓ MARY JONES (Supporting) - 89 lines
    ✓ NARRATOR (V.O.) - 12 lines

  2. Check Scene Breakdown

    • Review scene detection
    • Merge or split scenes
    • Adjust scene headings

  3. Set Project Info

    • Title
    • Genre
    • Logline (if not detected)

  4. Complete Import

    • Click Import Project
    • Your content will be organized into BeatBandit's stage structure

Post-Import Features​

Organization Tools​

  1. Scene Cards

    • Each scene becomes a card
    • Add notes and metadata
    • Track revisions

  2. Character Profiles

    • Auto-generated from dialogue
    • Add relationships
    • Track character arcs

  3. Beat Mapping

    • Map scenes to story beats
    • Identify structure issues
    • Reorder scenes easily

Tips for Successful Import​

  • Check formatting before import for best results
  • Review character names for consistency
  • Verify scene headings use standard format
  • Remove production notes that aren't part of the script

Next Steps​

After successful import:

  1. Explore Your Project

    • Review how your content was organized
    • Familiarize yourself with BeatBandit's stages

  2. Continue Development

  3. Enhance Your Work

📤 Ready to import? Start by uploading your script and let our Import Wizard guide you!