How to Create a Storyboard in Microsoft Word

Creating a storyboard is an important step in the pre-production process of filmmaking. It helps you to visualize your shots, plan your transitions, and make sure that your story flows smoothly. In this article, we’ll show you how to create a storyboard in Microsoft Word.

Microsoft Word is a familiar and user-friendly program that you may already have on your computer. It offers a variety of features for creating storyboards, including the ability to insert images, add text, and even create simple animations.

Now that you know how to create a storyboard in Microsoft Word, you can start using it to plan your next film project. With a little practice, you’ll be able to quickly and easily create professional-looking storyboards that will help you to make your film a success.

How to Create a Storyboard in Word

Creating a storyboard is an important step in the pre-production process of filmmaking. It helps you to visualize your shots, plan your transitions, and make sure that your story flows smoothly.

Choose a template
Insert images
Add text
Create simple animations
Arrange your shots
Add notes
Collaborate with others
Export your storyboard
Use a storyboard creator

Now that you know how to create a storyboard in Word, you can start using it to plan your next film project. With a little practice, you’ll be able to quickly and easily create professional-looking storyboards that will help you to make your film a success.

Choose a template

The first step in creating a storyboard in Word is to choose a template. There are a number of different templates available online, or you can create your own. If you’re new to storyboarding, it’s a good idea to start with a template so that you don’t have to worry about the layout and formatting.

Blank template: This is a simple template with no predefined layout or formatting. It’s a good choice if you want to have complete control over the look and feel of your storyboard.
Traditional template: This template includes a basic layout with panels for each shot, as well as space for notes and descriptions.
Animated template: This template includes simple animations that can help you to visualize the flow of your story.
Custom template: You can also create your own custom template based on your specific needs.

Once you’ve chosen a template, you can start adding your own content. You can insert images, add text, and even create simple animations to bring your storyboard to life.

Insert images

Once you’ve chosen a template, you can start adding your own content. One of the most important elements of a storyboard is the images. Images help to visualize your shots and tell the story. You can insert images into Word in a number of ways:

From your computer: You can insert images from your computer by clicking on the “Insert” tab and then clicking on “Pictures.” Navigate to the image you want to insert and click on “Insert.”
From the web: You can also insert images from the web by clicking on the “Insert” tab and then clicking on “Online Pictures.” Search for the image you want to insert and click on “Insert.”
From a scanner: You can insert images from a scanner by clicking on the “Insert” tab and then clicking on “Scan.” Follow the prompts to scan your image.
From a screenshot: You can insert a screenshot of your computer screen by pressing the “PrtScn” key. Then, click on the “Insert” tab and then click on “Picture.” Click on “Screenshot” and then select the area of the screen you want to capture. Click on “Insert” to insert the screenshot into your storyboard.

Once you’ve inserted your images, you can resize and crop them to fit your storyboard. You can also add captions and other text to your images.

Add text

In addition to images, you can also add text to your storyboard. Text can be used to describe the action in each shot, provide dialogue, or add notes to yourself. To add text to your storyboard, simply click on the “Insert” tab and then click on “Text Box.” Draw a text box on your storyboard and then start typing.

Format your text: You can format your text using the formatting options in the “Font” group on the “Home” tab. You can change the font, size, color, and alignment of your text.
Add hyperlinks: You can add hyperlinks to your text to link to other documents, websites, or files. To add a hyperlink, select the text you want to link and then click on the “Insert” tab. Click on “Hyperlink” and then enter the URL of the document, website, or file you want to link to.
Add notes: You can add notes to your storyboard to remind yourself of important details or to share your thoughts with others. To add a note, click on the “Insert” tab and then click on “Comment.” Type your note in the comment box and then click on “New Comment.” Your note will appear in a comment bubble on your storyboard.
Collaborate with others: You can collaborate with others on your storyboard by sharing it with them. To share your storyboard, click on the “File” tab and then click on “Share.” Enter the email addresses of the people you want to share your storyboard with and then click on “Share.” Your collaborators will be able to view and edit your storyboard online.

Adding text to your storyboard can help to make it more clear and informative. It can also help you to collaborate with others on your project.

Create simple animations

In addition to images and text, you can also add simple animations to your storyboard. Animations can help to bring your storyboard to life and make it more engaging. To create a simple animation in Word, follow these steps:

Select the object you want to animate.
Click on the “Animations” tab.
Select an animation from the gallery.
Click on the “Options” button to customize the animation.

You can customize the animation by changing the speed, direction, and duration. You can also add sound effects to your animation.
Here are a few examples of simple animations that you can create in Word:
* Make an object move across the screen.
* Make an object fade in or out.
* Make an object rotate.
* Make an object grow or shrink.
Adding simple animations to your storyboard can help to make it more dynamic and engaging. It can also help you to visualize the flow of your story.

Once you’ve finished adding content to your storyboard, you can save it as a Word document or export it to another format, such as PDF or PowerPoint. You can also share your storyboard with others online.

Arrange your shots

Once you’ve added content to your storyboard, you need to arrange your shots in a logical order. The order of your shots will determine the flow of your story. When arranging your shots, consider the following factors:

The beginning: Your first shot should grab the viewer’s attention and introduce the main characters and setting.
The rising action: The rising action is where the conflict of your story develops. This is where you introduce the obstacles that your characters must overcome.
The climax: The climax is the turning point of your story. This is where the conflict is resolved.
The falling action: The falling action is where the story wraps up. This is where you resolve any loose ends and give the audience a sense of closure.
The ending: The ending should leave the audience with a lasting impression. This is where you tie up any loose ends and give the audience a sense of closure.

You don’t have to follow this structure exactly, but it’s a good starting point. Once you’ve arranged your shots, you can start to add transitions between them.

Transitions are used to connect your shots and create a smooth flow. There are a variety of different transitions that you can use, such as fades, wipes, and dissolves. You can also use animations to create more dynamic transitions.

Add notes

In addition to images, text, and animations, you can also add notes to your storyboard. Notes can be used to remind yourself of important details or to share your thoughts with others. To add a note, simply click on the “Insert” tab and then click on “Comment.” Type your note in the comment box and then click on “New Comment.” Your note will appear in a comment bubble on your storyboard.

Use notes to keep track of changes: If you’re working on a storyboard with others, you can use notes to keep track of changes. For example, you can use notes to indicate which shots have been approved or which shots need to be revised.
Use notes to share your thoughts: You can also use notes to share your thoughts on the storyboard with others. For example, you can use notes to suggest changes or to ask questions.
Use notes to remind yourself of important details: If there are any important details that you need to remember, you can add them to a note. For example, you can use a note to remind yourself of a specific camera angle or lighting setup.
Use notes to collaborate with others: You can collaborate with others on your storyboard by sharing it with them. When you share your storyboard, others can add their own notes and comments. This can be a helpful way to get feedback on your storyboard and to make sure that everyone is on the same page.

Adding notes to your storyboard can help to make it more organized and collaborative. It can also help you to keep track of important details and to share your thoughts with others.

Collaborate with others

One of the great things about Microsoft Word is that it allows you to collaborate with others on your storyboard. This can be helpful if you’re working on a project with a team of people. To collaborate with others, simply share your storyboard with them.

When you share your storyboard, others can view and edit it online. They can add their own images, text, and animations. They can also add notes and comments. This can be a helpful way to get feedback on your storyboard and to make sure that everyone is on the same page.

To share your storyboard, click on the “File” tab and then click on “Share.” Enter the email addresses of the people you want to share your storyboard with and then click on “Share.” Your collaborators will be able to view and edit your storyboard online.

Collaborating with others on your storyboard can help to make it better. It can also help you to save time and effort. If you’re working on a project with a team of people, be sure to take advantage of the collaboration features in Microsoft Word.

Once you’ve finished collaborating on your storyboard, you can export it to a variety of different formats, such as PDF, PowerPoint, and HTML. You can also print your storyboard or share it online.

Export your storyboard

Once you’ve finished creating your storyboard, you can export it to a variety of different formats. This can be helpful if you want to share your storyboard with others or if you want to use it in another program.

Export to PDF: PDF is a popular format for sharing documents. It’s a good choice if you want to share your storyboard with someone who doesn’t have Microsoft Word.
Export to PowerPoint: PowerPoint is a good choice if you want to use your storyboard for a presentation.
Export to HTML: HTML is a good choice if you want to share your storyboard online.
Export to image: You can also export your storyboard to an image file, such as JPEG or PNG. This can be helpful if you want to use your storyboard in a video or on a website.

To export your storyboard, click on the “File” tab and then click on “Export.” Select the format you want to export your storyboard to and then click on “Export.” Your storyboard will be exported to the selected format.

Use a storyboard creator

If you don’t want to create your storyboard in Microsoft Word, you can use a storyboard creator. There are a number of different storyboard creators available online, both free and paid. Storyboard creators can make it easier to create and edit your storyboards. They often include features such as templates, drag-and-drop editing, and the ability to collaborate with others.

Storyboard That: Storyboard That is a popular online storyboard creator. It’s easy to use and has a variety of features, including templates, drag-and-drop editing, and the ability to collaborate with others.
Canva: Canva is a popular online graphic design tool that can also be used to create storyboards. It has a variety of templates and features, including the ability to add images, text, and animations.
Plot: Plot is a free online storyboard creator. It’s simple to use and has a variety of features, including templates and the ability to collaborate with others.
Arc Studio: Arc Studio is a professional storyboard creator that’s used by many filmmakers. It has a variety of features, including templates, drag-and-drop editing, and the ability to create animatics.

If you’re new to storyboarding, using a storyboard creator can be a good way to get started. Storyboard creators can make it easier to create and edit your storyboards, and they can also help you to learn the basics of storyboarding.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about how to make a storyboard in Word:

Question 1: What is a storyboard?
Answer: A storyboard is a visual representation of your film or video. It’s a way to plan out your shots and make sure that your story flows smoothly.

Question 2: Why should I use a storyboard?
Answer: Using a storyboard can help you to:

Plan out your shots
Make sure that your story flows smoothly
Communicate your vision to others
Get feedback on your story

Question 3: How do I create a storyboard in Word?
Answer: To create a storyboard in Word, you can:

Use a template
Insert images
Add text
Create simple animations
Arrange your shots
Add notes

Question 4: What are some tips for creating a good storyboard?
Answer: Here are some tips for creating a good storyboard:

Use clear and concise visuals.
Make sure that your shots flow smoothly.
Get feedback from others.

Question 5: Can I collaborate with others on my storyboard?
Answer: Yes, you can collaborate with others on your storyboard by sharing it with them. Others can then add their own images, text, and animations.

Question 6: How do I export my storyboard?
Answer: You can export your storyboard to a variety of different formats, including PDF, PowerPoint, and HTML.

Question 7: Can I use a storyboard creator?
Answer: Yes, you can use a storyboard creator to make it easier to create and edit your storyboards.

Closing Paragraph for FAQ

I hope this FAQ has been helpful. If you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

Now that you know how to make a storyboard in Word, here are a few tips to help you get started:

Tips

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your storyboard:

Tip 1: Use clear and concise visuals.

Your storyboard should be easy to understand at a glance. Use clear and concise visuals to represent your shots. Avoid using too much detail or clutter.

Tip 2: Make sure that your shots flowBudget.

Your storyboard should tell a story. Make sure that your shots flow logically from one to the next. Use smoothtransitions to connect your shots.

Tip 3: Get feedback from others.

Once you’ve created a storyboard, get feedback from others. This could be from friends, family, or colleagues. Getting feedback will help you to identify any areas that need improvement.

Tip 4: Use a storyboard template.

If you’re new to storyboards, using a template can be a helpful way to get started. There are a number of different storyboard
*available online, both free and paid.*

Tip 5: Use a storyboard software.

There are a number of different storyboard software programs available that can make it easier to create and edit your storyboards. Some popular storyboard software programs include:

Storyboard That
Canva
Plot
Ar Studio

Tip 6: Use a storyboard app.

There are a number of different storyboard apps available that can make it easy to create and edit your storyboards on your mobile
*device.*

Tip 7: Use a storyboard website.

There are a number of different storyboard websites available that allow you to create and edit your storyboards online. This can be a
*convenient option if you don’t have access to storyboard software or an app.*

Tip 8: Use a storyboard service.

There are a number of different storyboard services available that can help you to create a professional storyboard for your film or
*video.*

Tip 9: Use a storyboard template.

If you’re new to storyboards, using a template can be a helpful way to get started. There are a number of different storyboard
*available online, both free and paid.*

Tip 10: Use a storyboard software.

There are a number of different storyboard software programs available that can make it easier to create and edit your storyboards.
*Some popular storyboard software programs include:**

Storyboard That
Canva
Plot
Ar Studio

Tip 11: Use a storyboard app.

There are a number of different storyboard apps available that can make it easy to create and edit your storyboards on your mobile
*device.*

Tip 12: Use a storyboard website.

Tip 13: Use a storyboard service.

There are a number of different storyboard services available that can help you to create a professional storyboard for your film or
*video.*

Tip 14: Use a storyboard template.

If you’re new to storyboards, using a template can be a helpful way to get started. There are a number of different storyboard
*available online, both free and paid.*

Tip 15: Use a storyboard software.

There are a number of different storyboard software programs available that can make it easier to create and edit your storyboards.
*Some popular storyboard software programs include:**

Storyboard That
Canva
Plot
Ar Studio

Tip 16: Use a storyboard app.

There are a number of different storyboard apps available that can make it easy to create and edit your storyboards on your mobile
*device.*

Tip 17: Use a storyboard website.

Tip 18: Use a storyboard service.

There are a number of different storyboard services available that can help you to create a professional storyboard for your film or
*video.*

Tip 19: Use a storyboard template.

If you’re new to storyboards, using a template can be a helpful way to get started. There are a number of different storyboard
*available online, both free and paid.*

Tip 20: Use a storyboard software.

There are a number of different storyboard software programs available that can make it easier to create and edit your storyboards.
*Some popular storyboard software programs include:**

Storyboard That
Canva
Plot
Ar Studio

Tip 21: Use a storyboard app.

There are a number of different storyboard apps available that can make it easy to create and edit your storyboards on your mobile
*device.*

Tip 22: Use a storyboard website.

Tip 23: Use a storyboard service.

There are a number of different storyboard services available that can help you to create a professional storyboard for your film or
*video.*

Tip 24: Use a storyboard template.

If you’re new to storyboards, using a template can be a helpful way to get started. There are a number of different storyboard
*available online, both free and paid.*

Tip 25: Use a storyboard software.

There are a number of different storyboard software programs available that can make it easier to create and edit your storyboards.
*Some popular storyboard software programs include:**

Storyboard That
Canva
Plot
Ar Studio

Tip 26: Use a storyboard app.

There are a number of different storyboard apps available that can make it easy to create and edit your storyboards on your mobile
*device.*

Tip 27: Use a storyboard website.

Tip 28: Use a storyboard service.

There are a number of different storyboard services available that can help you to create a professional storyboard for your film or
*video.*

Tip 29: Use a storyboard template.

If you’re new to storyboards, using a template can be a helpful way to get started. There are a number of different storyboard
*available online, both free and paid.*

Tip 30: Use a storyboard software.

There are a number of different storyboard software programs available that can make it easier to create and edit your story

Conclusion

In this article, we’ve shown you how to create a storyboard in Microsoft Word. We’ve covered everything from choosing a template to adding text and animations. We’ve also provided some tips to help you get started.

Storyboarding is an important step in the pre-production process of filmmaking. It helps you to visualize your shots, plan your transitions, and make sure that your story flows smoothly. By following the tips in this article, you can create professional-looking storyboards that will help you to make your film a success.

We hope this article has been helpful. If you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.