How does Scriptation handle watermarks?
Watermarked scripts work fine in Scriptation — as long as the watermark is a vector image and the PDF isn't flattened. Most major script distribution platforms create watermarks that Scriptation handles cleanly.
What makes a watermark "Scriptation-friendly"
Two things, both controlled by whoever creates the PDF:
- The watermark is a vector image, not text. Vector watermarks sit on top of the script without interfering with the text underneath. Text-based watermarks get mixed in with the script text and can confuse features like Text Highlight and Auto-Highlighting;
- The PDF is exported non-flattened. Flattening a PDF removes the ability for any app — Scriptation or otherwise — to recognize text. See What is a Flattened PDF? for more.
Services that handle watermarks well
These commonly used tools and platforms produce Scriptation-friendly watermarks by default:
- Final Draft
- Adobe (Acrobat, InDesign)
- DAX
- Doczilla
- SetKeeper
What to do if a PDF won't take annotations
If Text Highlight doesn't recognize any text in a watermarked file, the PDF has likely been flattened during the watermarking step. There's no way for Scriptation (or any PDF app) to undo flattening — the file's creator will need to re-export a non-flattened copy. Share What is a Flattened PDF? with your production office if you need to make the case.
What's Next
What is a Flattened PDF?
Auto-Highlighting or Character Names not working correctly
Why aren't the Annotation tools recognizing text in my script?
How does Scriptation work with Final Draft?
Updated on: 26/06/2026
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