For creative storytellers hoping to see their work represented on television and in movies, becoming a scriptwriter could be an ideal career. Scriptwriters use their storytelling skills to develop engaging stories that captivate audiences. To become a good scriptwriter, it's helpful to understand the role and how they develop their writing skills. In this article, we define what a scriptwriter does, describe the qualities of a good scriptwriter and outline the steps for improving your scriptwriting skills.
What is a scriptwriter?
A scriptwriter, also called a screenplay writer or screenwriter, is a person who writes scripts for mass media productions such as movies, television shows and video games. Scriptwriters write original or adapted storylines to captivate, entertain, educate and inspire their audiences. Many work freelance and pitch their scripts to film studios or production companies that may purchase the rights and turn the scripts into productions. Though many scriptwriters work alone, others may work in a writer's room, where a group of writers works together to create scripts.
Qualities of a good scriptwriter
Scriptwriters can develop a variety of skills to produce and market their written content in the entertainment industry. Here are some qualities of effective scriptwriters:
Creativity:
Scriptwriters are typically creative individuals who use their imagination to develop characters, establish clear settings and tell engaging stories in their scripts. Their creativity can help them invent original content, portray complex issues through characters and storylines and tell dynamic stories that connect with their audiences. Creativity can be an important skill for scriptwriters to develop original ideas and write satisfying endings to their stories.
Professionalism:
Professionalism is an important quality for scriptwriters because the job often requires them to meet with network executives and producers. Having a professional demeanor can help scriptwriters make a good impression on these industry professionals. Some characteristics of professionalism include communicating politely with others, being punctual to meetings and showing respect to others in the industry.
Self-discipline: Though professional writers have different processes, many make a daily habit of practicing their craft and setting regular goals to improve their writing and complete projects. They may also write within certain time constraints to meet important deadlines, so self-discipline is an important skill for scriptwriters.
Persistence: It can take time, patience and persistence to become a successful scriptwriter, so it's important for new scriptwriters to continue to network, develop their craft and take opportunities to work with established industry professionals.
How to be a good scriptwriter in 9 steps
To become a good scriptwriter, it's important to develop your writing craft and understand industry best practices. Here are some steps for developing your craft and establishing yourself in the mass media industry:
1. Learn the fundamentals of storytelling
Understanding how to tell stories is essential to writing a script that engages an audience. Some storytelling fundamentals include:
Pacing your plotline
Developing a narrative arc
Establishing a clear voice
Defining a story's setting
Crafting memorable characters
Introducing narrative tension
Understanding genres, tropes and audiences
2. Take scriptwriting classes
If you're a beginner screenwriter, taking classes can be a great way to familiarize yourself with scriptwriting basics. Although scriptwriters may not need a formal education to succeed in the industry, taking classes can teach you the fundamentals of scriptwriting, provide you with opportunities to practice your craft and help you meet other writers. Taking classes with instructors who have experience working as scriptwriters may also help you make connections with people working in the industry.
3. Study creative content
To produce great content, you may find it helpful to study existing creative works. Books, television, movies, video games, music and visual art pieces can all be sources of inspiration. Try to be active while studying these forms of media, taking notes and analyzing the storytelling elements as you watch, listen or read. Inspiration can come from anywhere, so it's important to be open-minded and engaged in your experiences.
4. Develop good writing habits
It's important to develop good writing habits to improve your productivity and creativity. Writing is a skill that scriptwriters develop through study, practice and dedication, and you might try a variety of strategies to discover what methods work for you. For example, some writers may find it helpful to set daily or weekly word count goals and write at the same time each day. Being consistent in how your writing habits can help you maximize your time.
5. Write stories you care about
Although it can be helpful to know what kind of content is popular in the industry you plan to write for, it's often more important to write stories that you find interesting. Not only can it motivate you to work on your writing projects, but it can also help you produce better content. When you care about the stories you write, you may be more likely to put in the time and effort to produce quality content.
6. Finish your script
Having a completed draft of a script is an important step toward delivering your final product. A completed script can help you see the full arc of your story and know what to edit or revise in your next draft. If you're a new writer, finishing your first project can be an accomplishment that can help you feel confident about your work.
7. Format your script
Screenplays often follow specific formatting guidelines. By taking the time to format your script correctly, you can show your professionalism, attention to detail and commitment to your work. To learn how to format a script, you might take a screenwriting class or study existing scripts from successful screenwriters.
8. Find a mentor
A professional mentor with experience in the industry can help you refine your skills and make contacts in the profession. They may offer notes and feedback on your work, help you prepare your pitches and promote your work to others in the field. They can also help you meet deadlines and offer industry-specific career advice. You can ask a teacher or an experienced professional in your industry to be your mentor.
9. Understand the industry
By knowing industry expectations, you may feel more confident and prepared to pitch your work and make contacts. Some ways to learn about the industry include meeting professionals, taking jobs in the industry —even if not related to scriptwriting—subscribing to professional publications and studying existing screenplays.
