How to Become a Writer for TV

Becoming a TV writer requires talent, persistence and industry savvy

Finding a job as a writer in the television industry is a challenging feat, but once accomplished, it can lead to a highly rewarding career. As with all jobs in entertainment, there is not one set way to break into the industry. Natural or developed talent, persistence and a certain amount of professional connections are needed not only to demonstrate your abilities, but also to get your foot in the door.

Instructions

Suggested Steps For Success

1. 

   Watching television is the perfect research for writing television

   Research. Watch as much scripted television as you can. Then, choose one genre that interests you the most, and focus primarily on shows that fit into that category. While watching older shows or those in syndication can help inspire your writing style, pay close attention to successful, contemporary shows to understand what type of writing is currently in demand and where you could fill in the creative holes.

2. 

   Read television scripts, and review the rules for writing for TV before you start to write

   More research. Before you begin writing, read as many television scripts as possible. While television writing is very creative, it is also very technical, and specific rules must be followed. There are many helpful books that will educate you about television writing style guidelines. Consider picking up a copy of "Successful Television Writing" by Lee Goldberg and William Rabkin, or contact the Writers Guild of America (WGA) for its suggestions on the best, most up-to-date self-help books for television writers. The WGA is always happy to help union and non-union writers alike.

   Writers Guild of America, west
   800-548-4532
   http://www.wga.org/

3. 

   Take the time to write and polish one or two solid scripts

   Write. Once you have a solid understanding of how to write a television script, try writing a spec (speculative) script for a contemporary television show that you would like to work on or a show in the same genre. Write as many drafts as necessary in order to feel confident about your writing, and always share your work with trusted peers who can offer you sound advice. You might also consider joining a writers group, which will give you the opportunity to share your work and learn by critiquing others.

   It is also recommended that you write an original television pilot to showcase your fresh voice as a writer. Having an original pilot as well as a spec script in your portfolio will prove to a television writing team that you are self-motivated and one step ahead of the game.

   It is much better to write and rewrite one or two scripts until they are extremely solid rather than having a pile of semi-polished scripts.

4. 

   Demonstrate your abilities and make connections through an internship

   Network. Having a writing sample that demonstrates your talent is great, but without a contact to show it to, the effort may have been for naught. One of the best ways to network with television professionals is to participate in an internship. Interns often have more access to privileged information than entry-level employees, so the education gained is invaluable. In addition, being willing to work hard for free shows that you are serious about a career in television writing. Interns who make a good impression are often offered jobs at the end of their term, or at least walk away with industry contacts and another professional notch on their resume.

   You can visit the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Foundation on the web for more information about internship opportunities: http://emmysfoundation.org/internship-programs

5. 

   Film school is one way to prepare yourself for a career in writing for TV

   Further your education. While film school is not necessary to become a writer for television, it gives you opportunities to learn from seasoned professionals, to write your material under the guidance of experts, to get feedback from peers and to learn by critiquing others. Film school can also give you a certain amount of credibility among television professionals and invaluable connections during your studies and beyond.

   Keep in mind that undergraduate and graduate film programs can incur a hefty amount of student loan debt, so weigh your options before taking the leap. Education is a personal choice, so do your research, and make the decision that is best suited for your needs and desires.

Tips & Warnings

• Join local organizations such as Film Independent (http://filmindependent.org/), a non-profit that provides guidance, support and educational workshops for emerging writers and filmmakers. There are also a number of fellowships that you can apply to that may help you break into the industry. Keep in mind that these fellowships are extremely competitive and you are encouraged to apply more than once.

• Nickelodeon Writing Fellowship Program:

• http://www.nickwriting.com/

• Disney/ABC Writing Fellowship:

• http://www.abctalentdevelopment.com/programs/programs_writings.html

• WB Writers' Workshop:

• http://writersworkshop.warnerbros.com/

• Successful television writers are sometimes people who were in the right place at the right time with the right people and the right script. More often than not, they are writers who genuinely enjoy writing, practice every day and never give up even in the face of challenges and competition.

• Talent, persistence and industry savvy make a great combination for a successful television writer.

References

• Writers Guild of America, west