So, you’re probably here because you have an idea that you’re itching to craft into a movie script, right?
Well, you’ve come to the right place, and what a wonderful profession you’ve chosen to pursue, either as a hobby or career! From creating some of our favorite movies, TV shows and even video games, screenwriters are behind it.
But there’s more to being a screenwriter than first meets the eye, and that’s where our blog comes in. In today’s installment, we’ll be answering all your burning questions on how to become a screenwriter.
What kind of jobs exist in the field? How can you turn your passion for storytelling into a paid gig? What skills do you need to thrive? What software do you need? What steps do you need to take if you’re serious about going pro?
Read on, and learn all the answers to these questions, and much more.
In this Article:
- What Is a Screenwriter?
- What Does a Screenwriter Do?
- Types of Screenwriting Jobs
- Essential Skills for Screenwriters
- How Screenwriters Use Software
- Next Steps: Becoming a Paid Screenwriter
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions about Screenwriters
Let’s FADE IN on the basics:
What Is a Screenwriter?
A screenwriter is a writer who creates scripts for visual storytelling mediums such as film, television, commercials and video games.
Their core responsibility is writing the words that guide what audiences see and hear on screen. Think everything from characters to dialogue and action – a screenwriter will have crafted it.
All your favorite movies and TV shows start from the same place – the page.
To make a great film you need three things – the script, the script and the script.”
Alfred Hitchcock
However, remember that we said there was much more to it than this? Well, let’s take a closer look into what the writing process actually looks like.
What Does a Screenwriter Do?
You may have heard a screenplay also be referred to as a blueprint. Essentially, a screenwriter’s job is to create the blueprint of a movie, from which the other key members of the crew interpret.
Renowned screenwriter Paul Schrader once said:
“Screenplays are not works of art. They are invitations to others to collaborate on a work of art.” – Paul Schrader
Now, I know many other screenwriters would disagree with this statement. Having put my own blood, sweat, and tears into my own work, I do see them as art in some format.
But the sentiment of Schrader’s statement is correct in the sense of collaboration. The script is not the end product, allowing others to make their own interpretations and bring their own ideas to the table. It’s only then that you produce the final product, whether that be a movie, TV show or another medium altogether.
So, what does the screenwriter do to create this ‘blueprint’?
- Idea Generation (they develop original ideas or adapts existing ones into screenplays)
- Story Structure (to craft the idea into a story, they follow classic storytelling frameworks (such as the three-act structure or hero’s journey)
- Formatting (they follow industry-standard conventions consisting of scene headings, character names, action lines and dialogue lines)
- Revisions and Polishing (they often revise drafts based on feedback from producers, directors and studio executives)
- Collaboration (collaborating with other screenwriters and producers to bring the story to life in a writers’ room environment)
- Pitching (selling their scripts and other ideas to executives in pursuit of having their work picked up by studios and/or agents for representation)
As you can see, it’s not all about the writing! But while screenwriters are creating the ‘blueprint’ to a movie, it’s important for them to always be aware of their idea and what they’re trying to achieve. Let’s hear from screenwriter, director, and actor Mike White in this interview from The Off Camera Show about how important it is to be confident in a story idea and to run with it.
Types of Screenwriting Jobs
Screenwriting isn’t just for films and TV! While the Hollywood feature film may be the first thing that comes to mind, screenwriters can apply their skills in many areas.
Film
Many screenwriters do work in the bright lights of Hollywood, developing superhero epics, gripping dramas – mostly the next big thing.
Indie screenwriting is becoming more popular, with independent studios and production companies relying less on the big names and developing their own material.
Whichever avenue they choose to go down, you’ll find film writers pitching original ideas or being hired to adapt books, true stories, or other material into 90 to 120-minute movies.
In another interview with The Off Camera Show, writer, actor and director Seth Rogan tells all about writing a movie.
Television
While films are generally written by solo screenwriters, TV writing is a highly collaborative field, often involving a writers’ room. It’s here where a team of writers, usually headed by a showrunner, work on everything from pilot scripts to episode outlines, writing scenes and dialogue coordinated with a season-long arc.
You’ll find various positions in a television writers’ room including staff writers, story editors, and the showrunner.
The brains behind Breaking Bad, Vince Gilligan talks here about the writers’ room and how they come up with ideas for episodes, also known as ‘breaking a story’.
Commercials
Even an advertisement needs a script. Here, screenwriters create short form but impactful scripts that focus on conveying a message or brand story in 30 to 90 seconds.
While their work may be in short bursts, commercial screenwriters’ work is no less challenging. It’s tight and clever work that involves working closely with marketing teams and clients.
Video Games
In recent years, the role of narrative designers has exploded. With narrative games taking center stage, such as Baldur’s Gate 3, Horizon: Zero Dawn, and most recently Kingdom Come: Deliverance II, the appreciation and awareness has grown.
Video game writers will usually find themselves responsible for character dialogue, plot progression, branching narratives, and in-game text. It does require further considerations, with writers needing to think both like a storyteller and a gamer.
Web Series and Digital Content
It’s not just streaming services that have grown exponentially in popularity, but online sites like YouTube and TikTok are now also becoming mainstream storytelling hubs.
Screenwriters are increasingly hired to create scripts for short-form series, branded content and influencer collabs on social media.In this interview with Film Courage, writer Kathie Pong Yoneda discusses the steps you need to take if you’re keen to develop your own web series.
Script Doctors and Ghostwriters
Some writers are hired to polish or rewrite existing scripts, both in Hollywood and for indie projects. This is often without formal credit (hence the term ‘ghostwriter’).
Other ghostwriters are hired to write for high-profile individuals or teams.
Try Celtx for free — scriptwriting software made for every project.
Essential Skills for Screenwriters
While screenwriting becomes a more popular career choice, there are some skills that will separate a good screenwriter from a great one.
The key is to stand out. But how do you do that? Let’s look at the five essential skills you need to give yourself the best shot possible.
1. Storytelling
Storytelling is at the core of everything you do as a screenwriter! You must be able to engage an audience emotionally, build suspense in your work and end with a satisfying resolution that leaves a lasting impression.
2. Structure
Always a contentious debate between screenwriters! But if you’re just starting out, it’s important to understand structure, whether you follow Syd Field’s three-act structure, Blake Snyder’s beat sheet, or a more experimental form, knowing how to shape a script’s rhythm and flow is crucial.
If you choose to break the rules in the future, that is totally your prerogative!
“A story should have a beginning, a middle, and an end, but not necessarily in that order.” – Jean-Luc Goddard
3. Dialogue
Great screenwriters can write dialogue that both sounds natural but also reveals key character detail and advance the plot.
Ideally, dialogue shouldn’t feel like ‘writing’ but like you’ve been eavesdropping on a real conversation with a purpose.
“Dialogue is a symphony of words.” – Robert McKee
4. Collaboration
We go on a lot about collaboration here at Celtx (sorry, but you should get used to it!). Even if you’re a solo screenwriter, you’ll rarely work in isolation for long.
Taking feedback, working in a writers’ room, and communicating with producers, directors, and actors will be an important part of your job.
5. Adaptability
Projects change and evolve all the time. Scripts are re-drafted; scenes are cut, and even entire characters can disappear.
Be prepared to roll with the punches and revise with grace. Of course, you also want to stay true to your original vision as much as possible, so you must also stand up for your ideas where necessary.
It’s all about compromise!
How Screenwriters Use Software
So, you have a killer story idea and are ready to start writing.
Leave your word processors where they are and download yourself some screenwriting software. After all, screenwriting involves both creative and technical work, and that’s where the right software is critical!
Programs like Celtx are essential tools for modern screenwriters and can help you in your writing process.
Our software will help you with:
- Story planning
- Script formatting
- Collaboration
- Revisions
- Production tools
Story Planning
Celtx’s built-in tools such as storyboards, beat sheets, and index cards help get your idea off the ground. Organize your plot and track character arcs with our comprehensive suite of planning resources.
Here, we run through how to use Celtx beat sheets to plan out a movie:
Collaboration
Our platform is all cloud-based, making it easy for you and a writing partner to work together in real-time and omit the need for countless emails and drafts.
You can also provide feedback and notes in the script itself, making the collaboration process seamless.
Revisions
Track changes in each of your script drafts using Celtx’s version tracking tool. This means you can easily manage rewrites and see how your story evolves draft by draft.
Production Tools
Did you know that Celtx isn’t just for writing? We also support you with pre-production, scheduling, budgeting and creating shot lists, allowing you to focus on the good stuff. It truly is a one-stop shop for all you pre-production and production needs!
Sign up for Celtx today – it’s free!
Next Steps: Becoming a Paid Screenwriter
As the industry becomes increasingly competitive, it can feel daunting to break into a screenwriting career. But with the right approach and attitude, you can succeed!
Let’s look at some practical things you can do to heighten your chances.
1. Read Scripts
To write screenplays, you need to read them. Read widely across genres that interest you, and analyze how scenes are constructed, how character speak, and how acts are structured.
Consider what works and what doesn’t and apply this to your own work.
2. Write Often
This should be non-negotiable. While you don’t need to write every single day, building a routine is going to set you up well. Write everything from short scripts to full length screenplays.
Don’t worry about perfection in the early stages but focus on developing a portfolio. Use Celtx to build your script library and create a professional and polished set of scripts ready to pitch.
3. Take Courses and Join Groups
Screenwriting classes both in-person and online can be valuable resources for both knowledge and networking.
You could also join writing workshops in your local area or participate in online forums and groups like r/Screenwriting or Stage32. You’ll learn more and at a faster pace by talking with like-minded people and sharing ideas.
4. Enter Screenwriting Competitions
Contests such as the Nicholl Fellowship, Austin Film Festival, Final Draft Big Break and The Black List’s annual list can give your work exposure and even lead to representation.
For our full run down of screenwriting contests you should consider entering, click here.
5. Network, Network, Network
Get your face out in the industry by going to film festivals, pitch events, and writing meetups. It’s not necessarily all about the schmoozing but finding your tribe in the industry who you could collaborate with in the future.
For more career resources, check out the Writers’ Guild of America who represent thousands of screenwriters.
Conclusion
Screenwriting is both an art and a profession. Whether you’re writing the next great indie film or crafting quests for a fantasy video game, screenwriters shape the stories that captivate the world.
It’s not always a glamorous path but it’s a meaningful one. With the right skills, tools like Celtx, and a drive to learn and grow, anyone can develop the craft and start turning stories into screen-ready scripts.
Try Celtx Script Writing Software for free today
Frequently Asked Questions About Screenwriters
A screenwriter is responsible for crafting the script for a film, TV show, or other visual medium. Their work forms the foundation of the production, providing the storyline, characters, dialogue, and sometimes even specific camera directions. Screenwriters create original stories or adapt existing works into scripts. They also collaborate with directors, producers, and other production team members to revise and refine the script as needed. Their ultimate goal is to write a compelling narrative that engages the audience and serves the project’s vision.
The terms “screenwriter” and “scriptwriter” are often used interchangeably, but there can be a slight distinction depending on the context. A “screenwriter” typically refers to someone who writes scripts specifically for visual mediums like film or television. On the other hand, a “scriptwriter” is a more general term that can apply to anyone who writes scripts, not just for film or TV, but also for radio shows, video games, stage plays, and other performances. So, while all screenwriters are scriptwriters, not all scriptwriters are necessarily screenwriters.
The income of a screenwriter can vary widely based on numerous factors, including experience, reputation, the nature of the project, and the market in which they’re working. Some screenwriters can earn substantial amounts, especially if they’re established in the industry and working on high-budget films or popular TV shows. However, it’s important to note that many screenwriters, especially those just starting out, do not earn large sums. Many screenwriters also supplement their income by working on multiple projects, doing script consulting, or having a separate day job.
Up Next:
How to Become a Screenwriter: A Guide for Aspiring Writers
Learn how to become a screenwriter with our 8-step guide. From honing your craft to breaking into the industry, we’ve got you covered.
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