How to Become a Screenwriter

Writing scripts for films takes perseverance and passion.

Difficulty:

Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Answering Machines
• Fax Machines
• Plain-paper Fax Machines
• Postage Stamps
• Printer Paper
• Stationery
• Writing Papers
• Screenwriting Software
• Word Processors
• résumé paper

1. Consider applying to film school for both the experience and the contacts. (See "How to Apply to Film School" under Related eHows).

2. Seek an apprenticeship under an experienced and successful screenwriter, if possible. Do this through networking and letter writing.

3. Go to a film or theater bookstore and buy a book on screenwriting, such as "Screenplay" by Syd Field.

4. Complete one to three scripts and submit them to agents as "specs" (see glossary). Literary agents are listed in directories in New York City and Los Angeles.

5. Make the screenplays fit different genres - comedy, action, drama or romantic comedy - depending on your strengths.

6. Apply for a job working as a coveragist or story editor at a film studio. You'll read scripts that are sent to the studio, report on the plot and tone, and help determine if they're worth producing.

7. Send any industry contact (producer, actor, cameraperson, etc.) a copy of your latest screenplay. You never know who knows who in the film industry, and to improve your chances of getting your script produced, you want to expose your work to as many people as possible.

Tips & Warnings

• Register your screenplays with the Library of Congress and the Writers Guild of America to protect your ideas as your own property.

• Network! Meet as many people in the film industry as possible.

• A position as a coveragist gives you the opportunity to read lots of different scripts; it's an excellent way to research your craft.