Jul 3, 2024 from Inside the Room
Getting Started with Your First Draft
- Trust Your Instincts: Believe in your story and your ability to tell it.
- Be Flexible: Understand that your script will evolve as you write.
- Be Concise: Focus on what’s important and avoid over-describing scenes.
- Maintain Good Pacing: Keep your scenes tight and engaging.
- Overcome Writer’s Block: Reevaluate and adjust when you hit roadblocks.
- Finish Your Script: Stay committed and push through to the end.
Scene-by-Scene Approach
- Questions to Ask Before Writing Each Scene:
- Why does this scene exist? Is it necessary?
- Are the characters in the scene essential?
- Does the scene have adequate conflict?
- Is it clear what the driving character wants?
- Is the location appropriate and utilized well?
- If it’s an act-out scene, does it leave the reader eager to continue?
- If it’s part of a B or C story, is it thematically linked to the A story?
- Is there something surprising or memorable about the scene?
Celebrating the First Draft
- You’ve completed your first draft—congratulations!
- Now it’s time to write the second draft, but this time the notes are from yourself.
Gain Some Perspective
- Take a break from your script to gain distance.
- Use the time off to catch up on your show’s recent episodes.
- This break helps in identifying areas of concern with more objectivity.
Read Your Script
- Read the entire script in one sitting with a pen for notes.
- Expect the first draft to be too long; trimming will improve it.
- Make notes on trims, dialogue improvements, and inspirations.
Evaluate and Implement Notes
- Evaluate small notes and focus on tightening the script.
- For substantial changes, consider revisiting the outline before rewriting.
- Address scenes that don’t work by asking key questions:
- Why does this scene exist?
- Are the characters necessary?
- Is there adequate conflict?
- Is the driving character’s want clear?
- Is there something surprising about the scene?
- If it’s an act out, is it a cliffhanger?
Keep Writing
- Once you’ve finalized your draft, continue learning your craft:
- Watch TV and read scripts.
- Join writers’ groups and take classes.
- Always keep writing, no matter the challenges or setbacks.
By following these guidelines, you’ll navigate the daunting task of scriptwriting more effectively, from the initial draft to polished completion. Happy writing, and remember, each draft brings you closer to your vision!