What is a storyboard and what purpose does it serve in pre-production?

• A. A storyboard is a budget document.
• B. A storyboard is a sequence of drawings depicting shot composition, blocking, and action to pre-visualize scenes and communicate the director’s vision to the crew.
• C. A storyboard is a list of actors.
• D. A storyboard is a script annotated with sound effects only.

Answer: (B)

A storyboard is a sequence of drawings that shows how each shot will look, how actors will move (blocking), and what actions will occur, so the scene can be pre-visualized and the director’s vision can be communicated to the entire crew. It serves as a visual plan that guides framing, camera angles, lens choices, camera movement, and timing, helping the cinematographer, production designer, editor, and others align on how a scene should feel and flow. By laying out the sequence ahead of time, it clarifies pacing, transitions between shots, and the practical needs of the shoot, from lighting to special effects, and supports scheduling and continuity.

It isn’t a budget document, a simple list of actors, or a script marked only with sound effects. A storyboard focuses on visual storytelling and how the shots will be composed and executed, using drawings and notes to convey movement and camera setup rather than just lists or textual details.