Radio Script (Examples of All Kinds)

A radio script is a document detailing the contents and structure of a radio program or segment. It can include everything from the exact words that will be said (in the case of announcements or news), to a general description of the topic that will be covered in a program or interview. In this article we will review the different types of radio scripts, formats, and create sample radio show scripts. Let's start!

What is the radio script for?

The radio script is used to organize and plan the content of a radio program, making sure that a consistent flow is maintained and that all important points or topics are covered. Scripts also help manage time, as radio shows often have to stick to specific times.

types of radio scripts

1. Continuous reading scripts: This type of script is used mainly in news programs and is characterized by being a text written to be read from beginning to end. You can include details such as pauses and emphasis on certain words.

2. Interview scripts: These scripts are used when the show format includes interviews. The script may contain a list of questions to ask, but it should also allow for improvisation and follow the flow of the conversation.

3. Dialogue or debate scripts: In programs that include debates or panel discussions, the script may include the topics to be covered, the time allotted for each panelist, and the questions to be discussed.

4. Music program scripts: In these scripts, the songs to be played, the announcer's interventions and the segments of interaction with the audience are detailed.

5. Radio Drama Scripts: For programs that tell stories or soap operas, scripts are similar to movie scripts or theater, with dialogues, descriptions of sounds and music, and instructions for the actors in voice.

Radio script formats

There are various formats for creating scripts. Each format has its own advantages and is better suited to different types of radio shows. The choice of format depends on the style of the show, the nature of the content, and the preferences of the production team.

1. Two Column Format: This is one of the most used formats in radio scripts. The left column is used to describe sounds, music, and sound effects. The right column is used for dialogue and prompts from the presenter.

   This format is especially useful for radio programs with a lot of sound effects and music, such as radio dramas.

2. Narrative format: This format is similar to writing a story or an essay. It is mainly used in radio shows where the host has a prominent role, such as talk shows or documentary-type shows.

   In this format, you type the exact words the presenter will say, as well as descriptions of any music or sound effects used.

3. Outline format or rundown script: This format is often used in live, dynamic radio programs such as music or variety shows.

   Rather than writing out exactly what the host will say, this format simply outlines the show's topics, sections, and main ideas.

4. Dialogue format: This format is used when there are multiple presenters or speakers on a show. Each line of dialogue is written with the name of the character or presenter who must say it, followed by what they must say.

   This format may also include prompts for sound effects or music.

radio script examples

Below are several examples of scripts for radio programs in different formats and with different themes.

Script for a Radio Program in Two Columns

This script format provides a clear view of how sound effects and music sync with dialogue, making it easy to perform in real time.

Below is a dramatic script for a fictional episode of

"Midnight Mysteries" (Drama)

SOUND EFFECTS / MUSIC	DIALOG / SPEECH INSTRUCTIONS
Soft and mysterious intro music	ANNOUNCER: "Welcome to 'Midnight Mysteries,' the show where the unknown becomes known. I am your host, Carlos Lobo."
music fades	ANNOUNCER: "Today we bring you the story of 'The Mansion of Oblivion'. Join me on this chilling adventure."
Sound of a creaking door	CARLOS: "I was at the entrance of the old mansion. Opening the door, a chilling screeching filled the silence..."
sound of footsteps	CARLOS: "I entered slowly, the steps echoing in the void. An unsettling sensation ran through my spine..."
sound of blown wind	CARLOS: "The wind was blowing inside, the curtains billowing like ghosts lost in time."
sound of slight blows	CARLOS: "Suddenly, a light knock came from the floor above. I decided to explore..."
Suspense music	CARLOS: "I went up the old wooden stairs, each step creaking under my feet. Arriving at the top, I saw a figure in the dark..."
commercial advertisements	ANNOUNCER: "We'll take a short break. Keep up the excitement, 'Midnight Mysteries' will be back after these messages..."
suspenseful music resumes	CARLOS: "The figure vanished, leaving me in the shadows. I decided to move on, entering the heart of the mansion..."
open door sound	CARLOS: "I opened a door, a gust of cold air hit my face. I was in an old library..."
Sound of leaves moving	CARLOS: "I found an old diary. The pages rustled with the secrets of the past..."
closing music	ANNOUNCER: "And thus concludes our visit to 'La Mansión del Olvido'. Thank you for joining me tonight on 'Midnight Mysteries'. Remember, reality can be stranger than fiction..."

Narrative Script for a Radio Interview Program

This format is useful for programs in which the presenter has a leading role. Includes dialogue, descriptions of sounds, and music.

Here is a radio script from a talk show:

The Interview with Celestina

[Intro] Upbeat and welcoming intro music.

CELESTINA: "Hello, hello, hello! I'm Celestina Ramírez and I welcome you to 'Talks with Celestina', the program where we talk with fascinating characters from our world. Are you ready for a friendly and insightful chat? I do! But first, let's go on a quick commercial break."

[Pause for commercial announcements]

CELESTINA: "And we're back! Today I have the pleasure of having Martín Guerrero, a prominent biologist and environmental activist, in our studio."

Applause sound.

CELESTINA: "Welcome, Martin. It's an honor to have you here."

MARTÍN: "Thank you for inviting me, Celestina. I'm excited to be here."

CELESTINA: "Martín, we would like to know more about your work in environmental conservation. Could you tell us how you started in this field?"

[Here follows the interview with various questions and answers]

CELESTINA: "Time for another short commercial break. Don't go away, 'Chats with Celestina' will be back in a moment."

[Pause for commercial announcements]

CELESTINA: "We continue our talk with Martín Guerrero. Martín, you have mentioned the importance of education in environmental conservation. What advice do you have for our listeners who want to contribute to this effort?"

[Here follows the interview with more questions and answers]

CELESTINA: "Unfortunately, we ran out of time. Martin, it has been a pleasure talking to you. Thank you for your time and for the important work you do."

MARTÍN: "Thanks to you, Celestina. It has been a pleasure".

CELESTINA: "And to you, dear listener, thank you for joining us today in 'Charlas con Celestina'. I look forward to seeing you at our next meeting. Until next time!"

[closing music]

Script in Outline Format for a Musical Radio Program

This format is perfect for live and dynamic radio programs, such as a music program called "Rhythms of the World":

This format provides a skeleton of the show, giving the DJ the freedom to improvise and adapt to audience responses in real time.

Rhythms of the world

1. Introduction

   • opening music
   • DJ greeting: "Hello everyone! Welcome to 'Rhythms of the World'. I'm DJ Luna, here to take you on a musical journey around the globe."

2. First Section: Rhythms of America

   • segment presentation
   • Song 1: "La Bamba" by Los Lobos
   • DJ commentary on the song/story/origin
   • Song 2: "Mr. Jones" by Counting Crows
   • DJ commentary and transition to the next segment

3. Second Section: Melodies of Europe

   • segment presentation
   • Song 3: "Wonderwall" by Oasis
   • DJ commentary on the song/story/origin
   • Song 4: "Dancing Queen" by ABBA
   • DJ commentary and transition to the next segment

4. Third Section: Sounds of Asia

   • segment presentation
   • Song 5: "Gangnam Style" by PSY
   • DJ commentary on the song/story/origin
   • Song 6: "Bad Boy" by Red Velvet
   • DJ commentary and transition to the next segment

5. Closing

   • Program Summary
   • Farewell to the DJ: "I hope you enjoyed this musical journey around the world. I'm DJ Luna, see you next time on 'Rhythms of the World'. See you soon!"
   • closing music

Script in Dialogue Format for a Conversational Radio Program

This format is ideal for programs where there are several presenters or interlocutors.

I leave you an example for a morning program.

morning coffee

[Sound of a coffee cup being poured, followed by introductory music]

ANA: "Good morning everyone and welcome to 'Café Matutino'. I'm Anna."

RAFAEL: "And I'm Rafael. Thank you for starting your day with us."

ANA: "How was your weekend, Rafael?"

RAFAEL: "It was great, Ana. I spent time with the family and got plenty of rest. And you what about?"

ANA: "Mine was a little more hectic. But let's talk about that later. Now, on to the news of the day..."

[News and comments]

RAFAEL: "Now, it's time for our favorite section, 'Tips for the day'. Ana, what advice do you have for our listeners today?"

ANA: "Well, Rafael, my advice for today is..."

[Tips and Discussion Section]

RAFAEL: "Excellent advice, Ana! Now, let's pause for commercial announcements. 'Morning Coffee' will be back in a moment..."

[Commercial announcements]

ANA: "And we're back! Thank you for being with us at 'Café Matutino'. Now, let's continue with our discussion about..."

[Discussion of a topic and comments]

RAFAEL: "It seems that our time is up. We hope you enjoyed your cup of 'Morning Coffee' this morning."

ANA: "Yes, thanks for joining us. We are waiting for you tomorrow at 'Café Matutino'. Until then, have a great day!"

[closing music]

You have doubts? Write them in the comments. I will gladly answer you.