Script Writing
Screenwriting fundamentals from initial concepts through to character development and dialogue. Articles address plot structure, scene construction, narrative choices and writing effective short scripts.
Establishing and Developing Character
Build compelling characters for scripts by showing who they are through action and dialogue rather than description.
Plot vs. Character
How plot and character work together in screenwriting, and why forcing them apart weakens your story.
Script Writing Dialogue and Description
Scripts need clear dialogue and visual descriptions that filmmakers can actually shoot, not flowery prose that won't make it on screen.
Script Writing: Formulating the Treatment
A treatment is a written summary that helps filmmakers pitch their script idea and work through story elements before writing the actual screenplay.
Script Writing: Realism or Alternate Strategies
Realism works for scripts, but it's not your only choice—explore why other styles might better serve your story.
Script Writing: The Concept
A screenplay starts with a simple concept that can be pitched in two sentences, but the real challenge is telling your story through images rather than words.
The Scene-by-Scene
Breaking down how to use a treatment and scene-by-scene breakdown to structure your screenplay before writing.
Understanding Which Decisions Are Yours
As a scriptwriter, knowing which creative decisions are yours to make and which to hand over to producers and directors actually makes your work more appealing.
Writing a Narrative Script
A narrative script needs a strong story and simple plot, or it'll bore your audience just like a retelling of an old family anecdote.
Writing Comedy Scripts
Writing comedy scripts takes practise and patience, but finding your own funny voice is what sets you apart from other writers.
Writing Short Screenplays
Short screenplays aren't just practice, they're a distinct skill that requires specific techniques and can genuinely advance your writing career.