How to Write a Teleprompter Script: Format and Example
Write a spoken script, estimate its length, format it for scrolling and revise it aloud. Includes a before-and-after example and final checklist.
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Write the way you'd explain something to another person. Put each new idea in its own paragraph, and write difficult numbers as you'll say them. Read the script aloud with a timer, then change awkward lines and cut anything you have to rush through.
How should you structure the script?
- Name the audience and the one thing they should understand or do.
- Write an opening, the points you want to cover and an ending.
- Say a rough version aloud, then draft in that speaking voice.
- Check facts, names, claims and any required exact wording.
- Estimate timing, format the reading text, then rehearse and revise.
The BBC Academy concision exercise focuses on simple language, short sentences and fact checking. Vary sentence length to suit what you're saying. You don't need to hit a fixed word count for each one.
How many words fit the duration?
Divide spoken words by your measured speaking rate, then reserve time for demonstrations and pauses. For example, 300 words at an assumed 150 words per minute is about two minutes before extra pauses. Time the complete read to find the actual duration.
INSEAD’s presentation advice suggests allowing time for pauses and changes in tone. Use that as a starting estimate, then time your own read. If you have to rush, shorten the script. The words-per-minute estimate doesn't set LilPrompter's scroll speed.
What does a revised script look like?
Before
“We are delighted to announce the implementation of a comprehensive process optimization initiative that has resulted in a 12.5% reduction in the duration of our weekly meeting.”
After
“We changed how we run the weekly meeting.
It now takes twelve and a half percent less time.
[PAUSE]
We now start each topic by saying what we need to decide.”
- The first sentence states the change without corporate filler.
- The number is written as it will be spoken, making the read easier to rehearse.
- A pause separates the result from the explanation.
- The last line explains what changed.
This is a made-up example. Check the numbers in your own script before recording.
How should you format pauses, names and numbers?
Use paragraphs and line breaks to separate ideas. Spell a tricky name phonetically in a rehearsal copy if useful, and write numbers as you intend to say them. Use bracketed [PAUSE], [LOOK UP] or [DEMO] cues sparingly; they're reminders for you, so you'll need to pause the scrolling yourself.
For an exact announcement, full sentences may matter. For conversation, a heading and bullets may leave more room to respond. Keep the editable source in a document and paste the final text into the app. Read it aloud, check the timing and revise any line that sounds unlike you.
Adapt the eight script templates, rehearse with the online script reader, then follow the recording setup.
Frequently asked questions
Do pause cues stop the app automatically?
No. Bracketed cues are visible reminders. Use the playback controls yourself when you need a pause.
How do I estimate script duration?
Divide spoken word count by your personal measured pace, then add time for pauses and demonstrations. A complete timed rehearsal is the final check.