Screenwriting FAQs
Do I have to start with an outline?
Absolutely not! Outlining is a powerful tool in the screenwriter's arsenal. It's like a secret weapon that can be used to great effect, but it's not for everyone. Just as each writer has their own unique artistic nature, some thrive with the structure and guidance of an outline, while others may find it stifling to their creativity. It's all about finding the right balance and understanding what works best for you.
Think of outlines as versatile instruments with different functions. There's the meditative outline, allowing you to delve deep into the inner workings of your story and characters, finding the hidden gems that make your screenplay truly shine. Then there's the improved outline, which acts as a flexible roadmap, giving you the freedom to explore new ideas and unexpected twists along the way.
But that's not all! We also have the working outline, a dynamic tool that helps you stay organized and focused during the drafting process, ensuring that your story stays on track. And let's not forget the sales outline, designed to capture the attention of potential buyers and showcase the commercial appeal of your concept.
Understanding when to employ each type of outline, based on your artistic nature and your goals for the draft, can be a game-changer. It saves you precious time and allows you to unleash your creativity in the most unique and captivating ways. In fact, we've discovered that spending an excessive amount of time crafting a 'logical' sales outline before exploring the rich depths of character and world-building on the page often leads emerging writers to produce mediocre and clichéd stories.
How do I not get lost in the second act of my script?
When it comes to writing, it's important to embrace the inevitability of getting lost, especially in longer works exceeding 15 pages. Rather than trying to avoid getting lost altogether, the key question you should ask yourself is how to enjoy and navigate through the experience of being lost. This perspective aligns with psychological research and offers valuable insights into the creative process.
Imagine surfing without wanting to get wet—it's like trying to write a screenplay without ever expecting to face moments of uncertainty. The truth is, just as falling off the surfboard is an inherent part of the surfing experience, getting lost is an integral part of the writing journey. It's not a matter of if, but when it will happen. The important thing is how you respond when it does occur.
It's worth noting that all suffering stems from expectations. By acknowledging that getting lost is a natural occurrence and preparing yourself mentally and creatively for it, you can minimize your suffering and find your way back to the path more efficiently. Aspiring to be a professional writer means encountering false starts, blocks, rejections, and numerous wrong turns. How you prepare for these inevitable challenges can become a tremendous asset.
Consider the analogy of a mountain climber. If you aimed to climb mountains without ever scraping your knee, you'd be setting unrealistic expectations. Instead, you would anticipate the occasional mishap and take necessary precautions, such as wearing knee guards and carrying a first aid kit in your supply bag. Similarly, as a writer, understanding that getting lost is part of the process empowers you to equip yourself with the tools and techniques to navigate those moments effectively.
So, my fellow writers, embrace the journey and the uncertainty it brings. Enjoy the process of finding your way back on track, armed with the knowledge that getting lost is not a setback, but an opportunity for growth and creativity. Remember, just as psychological research suggests, by shifting your mindset and preparing for the inevitables, you can emerge as a resilient and successful storyteller.
Do I have to read Save The Cat or Story or other screenwriting books?
Absolutely not! The beauty of screenwriting is that there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Just as people learn in different ways—through reading, classes, or hands-on experience—each writer has their own unique process. If someone claims there's only one way to write a screenplay, I suggest quietly backing away. Writing is an art, and while there are craft tools available, there's no single formula for painting a breathtaking sunset.
Sometimes, emerging writers lose the uniqueness of their voice when they attempt to follow a rigid, paint-by-numbers approach from a screenwriting book. However, this doesn't mean these books can't be valuable resources. If you find that reading them sparks ideas or provides helpful insights, feel free to dive in and pick out the bits that resonate with you. Embrace what works for your writing and discard what doesn't. Eventually, you'll develop a personal process that suits you best, and remember, it doesn't have to work for anyone else.
Writing a screenplay is akin to raising a child. Just as what works for one child may not work for another, the same applies to your stories. Instead of seeking the "right way" to write a screenplay, relish the journey of discovering the approach that works uniquely for you and each specific story. Once you accept this truth, the process becomes an exciting adventure.
So, my fellow screenwriters, don't feel obligated to read every screenwriting book out there. Embrace the diversity of approaches and find what inspires and motivates you to write. Enjoy the freedom of discovering your own path, and remember that writing is meant to be fun once you embrace your individual truth.
I have a brain difference, and how they taught me how to write a script in grad school doesn’t work for me. Should I give up?
Absolutely not! Having a brain difference or being neurodivergent does not mean you should give up on screenwriting. The traditional methods taught in grad school may not align with your individual needs, and that's okay. The most straightforward way of teaching artists is not always the most effective, especially for those with unique neurological perspectives. It's important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to writing a script.
The beauty of screenwriting lies in its versatility. Some writers find inspiration by starting with vivid images, while others may begin by sketching their ideas. Some prefer the improvisational approach, while some find solace in speaking their thoughts into a recorder. Exploring and discovering the unique way that works for you to create a screenplay is part of the exciting journey.
For instance, individuals with ADHD might thrive by working on multiple scripts simultaneously, as it harnesses their ability to multitask. On the other hand, someone with OCD might prefer focusing on one script at a time, utilizing their attention to detail. Everyone's process is different, and embracing these differences is essential.
Finding workshops or mentors who understand and appreciate your unique brain can be a valuable asset in enjoying and excelling in this art form. Surrounding yourself with individuals who recognize and cater to your specific needs will help you nurture your talents and develop your craft.
So, my fellow screenwriter with a brain difference, don't give up! Your neurodivergence brings a fresh perspective to the storytelling landscape. Embrace the journey of exploring alternative methods, and seek out supportive communities that understand and respect your unique way of creating. Remember, in the realm of screenwriting, diversity of thought and process leads to vibrant and innovative storytelling. Keep pursuing your passion with confidence and joy!
Check back next month for more!
Absolutely not! Outlining is a powerful tool in the screenwriter's arsenal. It's like a secret weapon that can be used to great effect, but it's not for everyone. Just as each writer has their own unique artistic nature, some thrive with the structure and guidance of an outline, while others may find it stifling to their creativity. It's all about finding the right balance and understanding what works best for you.
Think of outlines as versatile instruments with different functions. There's the meditative outline, allowing you to delve deep into the inner workings of your story and characters, finding the hidden gems that make your screenplay truly shine. Then there's the improved outline, which acts as a flexible roadmap, giving you the freedom to explore new ideas and unexpected twists along the way.
But that's not all! We also have the working outline, a dynamic tool that helps you stay organized and focused during the drafting process, ensuring that your story stays on track. And let's not forget the sales outline, designed to capture the attention of potential buyers and showcase the commercial appeal of your concept.
Understanding when to employ each type of outline, based on your artistic nature and your goals for the draft, can be a game-changer. It saves you precious time and allows you to unleash your creativity in the most unique and captivating ways. In fact, we've discovered that spending an excessive amount of time crafting a 'logical' sales outline before exploring the rich depths of character and world-building on the page often leads emerging writers to produce mediocre and clichéd stories.
How do I not get lost in the second act of my script?
When it comes to writing, it's important to embrace the inevitability of getting lost, especially in longer works exceeding 15 pages. Rather than trying to avoid getting lost altogether, the key question you should ask yourself is how to enjoy and navigate through the experience of being lost. This perspective aligns with psychological research and offers valuable insights into the creative process.
Imagine surfing without wanting to get wet—it's like trying to write a screenplay without ever expecting to face moments of uncertainty. The truth is, just as falling off the surfboard is an inherent part of the surfing experience, getting lost is an integral part of the writing journey. It's not a matter of if, but when it will happen. The important thing is how you respond when it does occur.
It's worth noting that all suffering stems from expectations. By acknowledging that getting lost is a natural occurrence and preparing yourself mentally and creatively for it, you can minimize your suffering and find your way back to the path more efficiently. Aspiring to be a professional writer means encountering false starts, blocks, rejections, and numerous wrong turns. How you prepare for these inevitable challenges can become a tremendous asset.
Consider the analogy of a mountain climber. If you aimed to climb mountains without ever scraping your knee, you'd be setting unrealistic expectations. Instead, you would anticipate the occasional mishap and take necessary precautions, such as wearing knee guards and carrying a first aid kit in your supply bag. Similarly, as a writer, understanding that getting lost is part of the process empowers you to equip yourself with the tools and techniques to navigate those moments effectively.
So, my fellow writers, embrace the journey and the uncertainty it brings. Enjoy the process of finding your way back on track, armed with the knowledge that getting lost is not a setback, but an opportunity for growth and creativity. Remember, just as psychological research suggests, by shifting your mindset and preparing for the inevitables, you can emerge as a resilient and successful storyteller.
Do I have to read Save The Cat or Story or other screenwriting books?
Absolutely not! The beauty of screenwriting is that there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Just as people learn in different ways—through reading, classes, or hands-on experience—each writer has their own unique process. If someone claims there's only one way to write a screenplay, I suggest quietly backing away. Writing is an art, and while there are craft tools available, there's no single formula for painting a breathtaking sunset.
Sometimes, emerging writers lose the uniqueness of their voice when they attempt to follow a rigid, paint-by-numbers approach from a screenwriting book. However, this doesn't mean these books can't be valuable resources. If you find that reading them sparks ideas or provides helpful insights, feel free to dive in and pick out the bits that resonate with you. Embrace what works for your writing and discard what doesn't. Eventually, you'll develop a personal process that suits you best, and remember, it doesn't have to work for anyone else.
Writing a screenplay is akin to raising a child. Just as what works for one child may not work for another, the same applies to your stories. Instead of seeking the "right way" to write a screenplay, relish the journey of discovering the approach that works uniquely for you and each specific story. Once you accept this truth, the process becomes an exciting adventure.
So, my fellow screenwriters, don't feel obligated to read every screenwriting book out there. Embrace the diversity of approaches and find what inspires and motivates you to write. Enjoy the freedom of discovering your own path, and remember that writing is meant to be fun once you embrace your individual truth.
I have a brain difference, and how they taught me how to write a script in grad school doesn’t work for me. Should I give up?
Absolutely not! Having a brain difference or being neurodivergent does not mean you should give up on screenwriting. The traditional methods taught in grad school may not align with your individual needs, and that's okay. The most straightforward way of teaching artists is not always the most effective, especially for those with unique neurological perspectives. It's important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to writing a script.
The beauty of screenwriting lies in its versatility. Some writers find inspiration by starting with vivid images, while others may begin by sketching their ideas. Some prefer the improvisational approach, while some find solace in speaking their thoughts into a recorder. Exploring and discovering the unique way that works for you to create a screenplay is part of the exciting journey.
For instance, individuals with ADHD might thrive by working on multiple scripts simultaneously, as it harnesses their ability to multitask. On the other hand, someone with OCD might prefer focusing on one script at a time, utilizing their attention to detail. Everyone's process is different, and embracing these differences is essential.
Finding workshops or mentors who understand and appreciate your unique brain can be a valuable asset in enjoying and excelling in this art form. Surrounding yourself with individuals who recognize and cater to your specific needs will help you nurture your talents and develop your craft.
So, my fellow screenwriter with a brain difference, don't give up! Your neurodivergence brings a fresh perspective to the storytelling landscape. Embrace the journey of exploring alternative methods, and seek out supportive communities that understand and respect your unique way of creating. Remember, in the realm of screenwriting, diversity of thought and process leads to vibrant and innovative storytelling. Keep pursuing your passion with confidence and joy!
Check back next month for more!
