How to Prepare a Script for a Voice Over Artist: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating an effective script for a voice over artist is a critical step in ensuring your audio project achieves the desired impact. Whether it’s for a commercial, a corporate video, an audiobook, or an e-learning course, a well-prepared script sets the foundation for a successful voice over. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you craft the perfect script for your voice over project.

Step 1: Understand Your Audience and Purpose

Identify Your Target Audience

• Demographics: Consider the age, gender, location, and interests of your audience.
• Preferences: Understand their listening habits and preferences.

Define the Purpose of the Script

• Objective: Determine the primary goal of the script (e.g., inform, entertain, persuade).
• Key Message: Identify the main message or call-to-action you want to convey.

Step 2: Plan the Structure

Outline the Content

• Introduction: Start with a compelling introduction to grab attention.
• Body: Present the main content in a logical and coherent manner.
• Conclusion: End with a strong conclusion that reinforces the key message and includes any necessary calls to action.

Segment the Script

• Sections: Divide the script into clear sections or chapters for easier navigation and recording.
• Timing: Estimate the duration of each section to ensure the script fits within the desired time frame.

Step 3: Write Clearly and Concisely

Use Simple Language

• Avoid Jargon: Use clear, everyday language that is easy to understand.
• Short Sentences: Keep sentences short and to the point to maintain clarity and pace.

Be Specific and Direct

• Direct Address: Speak directly to the audience using words like “you” and “your.”
• Actionable Language: Use action verbs and clear instructions.

Step 4: Add Direction for the Voice Over Artist

Provide Pronunciation Guides

• Phonetic Spelling: Include phonetic spellings for difficult or unusual words.
• Audio References: Provide audio samples if necessary.

Indicate Tone and Emotion

• Annotations: Use annotations to indicate the desired tone (e.g., happy, serious, enthusiastic).
• Emotional Cues: Specify any emotional cues (e.g., pause, emphasis on certain words).

Include Pacing Instructions

• Pauses: Indicate where pauses should be for emphasis or clarity.
• Speed: Specify if any sections should be read more slowly or quickly.

Step 5: Review and Edit

Proofread for Errors

• Grammar and Spelling: Check for any grammatical errors and spelling mistakes.
• Consistency: Ensure consistency in style and terminology throughout the script.

Read Aloud

• Flow and Rhythm: Read the script aloud to check the flow and rhythm.
• Clarity: Make sure it sounds natural and is easy to follow.

Step 6: Format the Script

Use a Clear Layout

• Readable Font: Use a readable font size and type.
• Spacing: Use double-spacing to make it easier for the voice over artist to read.

Highlight Key Sections

• Bold or Italics: Highlight important words or sections using bold or italics.
• Sections and Subsections: Clearly mark different sections and subsections.

Step 7: Provide Context and Background

Include Background Information

• Project Overview: Provide a brief overview of the project and its objectives.
• Audience Insight: Share any insights about the audience that might help the voice over artist.

Share Visuals and References

• Storyboards: If available, share storyboards or visual references.
• Audio Samples: Provide any reference audio clips to guide the voice over artist’s performance.

Step 8: Collaborate and Communicate

Discuss with the Voice Over Artist

• Initial Briefing: Have an initial briefing session to discuss the script and expectations.
• Feedback Loop: Establish a feedback loop for reviewing and refining the performance.

Be Open to Suggestions

• Voice Talent Input: Be open to suggestions from the voice over artist regarding script improvements or performance tweaks.
• Flexibility: Allow for flexibility in the script to accommodate the artist’s natural delivery style.

Preparing a script for a voice over artist involves careful planning, clear writing, and effective communication. By understanding your audience, structuring your content logically, providing detailed directions, and maintaining an open line of communication with the voice over artist, you can ensure a smooth recording process and a high-quality final product. A well-prepared script not only makes the voice over artist’s job easier but also enhances the overall effectiveness of your audio project.