# Stage directions & custom pauses

> Control whether stage directions are read aloud, shown silently, or held for action.

- URL: https://www.offbook.com/help-center/guides/stage-directions-and-pauses

Category: Guides, in the [Offbook Help Center](https://www.offbook.com/help-center).

Video: [Stage directions](https://www.offbook.com/learn/stage-directions) (0:53)

## Stage direction modes

Offbook detects stage directions in your script and keeps them separate from dialogue. In **Scene Controls → Stage directions**, choose how they behave during practice:

- **Read aloud** (default): a narrator voice reads each direction, so you hear the action between the lines.
- **Hidden:** stage directions are taken out of the script and skipped.
- **Silent:** directions appear on screen but aren't read; the scene continues right away.
- **Silent with pause:** directions appear silently and the scene **holds** so you can play the action (cross the room, pour the drink) before the next line.

## How long is the pause?

In "Silent with pause" mode, the hold length is automatic: longer directions get longer pauses (between 1 and 8 seconds). Want an exact length? Set a custom pause on that stage direction line (see below) and Offbook uses it instead.

## Custom pauses on any line

You can add a **Delay before line** to any line in the scene, dialogue or stage direction:

1. Open **Edit Scene** (the pencil on the right).
2. Click the line's timing box.
3. Set **Delay before line**: the slider goes from **0 to 10 seconds**, and you can type a longer value in the box. Then click **Save**.

**Tip:** Custom pauses are great for beats: add a pause before a reply to practice holding a moment instead of jumping on your cue.