What is the purpose of an outline in screenwriting?

An outline in screenwriting serves to develop the scene-by-scene progression of the story. It acts as a roadmap for the writer, helping to organize the narrative structure, clarify the plot, and ensure that the story flows logically from beginning to end. By outlining, screenwriters can visualize the pacing, transition between scenes, and the overall arc of the characters and story, which is essential for maintaining coherence in the script. This structured approach allows writers to identify potential gaps in the narrative or areas that may require further development, ultimately leading to a more compelling screenplay.

The other options, while related to aspects of filmmaking, do not serve the primary function of an outline in screenwriting. Identifying main actors, determining filming locations, or creating the final script format are tasks that come after the story is outlined and developed, rather than being part of the outlining process itself.