How to Become a Screenwriter 1-2-3
Screenwriters develop scripts for TV and movies. They come up with story ideas, but also write a shooting
script, so they need to be able to communicate details on lighting, camera instructions, etc. to directors and
producers.
Is Training Required to Become a Screenwriter?
You need to be educated in film and have a good amount of experience working as a writer or editor in the
field. Having a strong portfolio of your projects is important to landing jobs.
Completing a course in screenwriting is not required to become a screenwriter. However, a college degree or
completion of a film program is recommended, so you can gain a clear understanding of elements of a screenplay,
like plots and characters. Many colleges offer film programs.
There are also online classes in screenwriting, like the 10-week class offered by Gotham Writers' Workshop. There is also a screenwriting
book worth getting that costs less than $15 called Save the Cat! The Last Book on Screenwriting
You'll Ever Need.
Screenwriting Software
Screenwriting software can make writing screenplays easier. You don't have to understand script fomatting
because the software does the work for you. Software generally includes a variety of different formats like TV
show, screenplay, stage play and graphic novel templates. The latest versions even have the ability to let your
computer read the script back to you so you can hear how it sounds.
Movie Magic Screenwriter and Final Draft are two of the most popular
software programs for writing screenplays.
How to Write a Screenplay in 28 Days
Submitting Your Screenplay
When your screenplay is complete, you want to submit it to a production company (independent producer). This
independent producer will then package your screenplay and sell it to a studio. However, this task may not be
so easy, as some producers will not accept your screenplay unless they know you.
This is where an agent comes in. An agent can help get your screenplay read by a producer. The Hollywood
Representation Directory provides a list of names and contact information that you can use.
Send a short, one-page query letter to several agents. (There are also services that will submit your query
letter to multiple agencies.) Your letter should grab the agent's attention, raise their curiosity and request
their permission to submit your screenplay to them. The Writer's Store has a free article on how to write successful query letters.
It's also a good idea to set up a simple website that includes your contact information and a portfolio of
your work. You can set up a free website with
templates with Yola.
Screenwriting is one of highest-paying jobs a writer can do. That said, screenwriting can be a challenging
field to break into. Learning the ropes from professional screenwriters can be the best business decision you
make.
Angela Hynes is a professional writer and also has experience in script consulting. If you've
never written screenplay, Angela can show you the basics of writing one - she even includes her 10-step
screenplay checklist.
Whether you want to write your own story or adapt someone else's work into a screenplay, she has
instructions on what to do. What about formatting your screenplay or protecting your work? She's go tips on
those things too.
But maybe the most important
skill to succeeding as a screenwriter is selling your scripts. Angela interviews several
other screenwriters who share the inside scoop on pitching an idea, how to find agents, independent
producers and how to properly and successfully submit a manuscript.
How to Become a Screenwriter
