How to Start a Script: Outlining, Brainstorming and Research

Introduction

Scriptwriting is an essential skill for anyone interested in writing for film, television, or theatre. It requires a special set of skills that allow writers to create compelling stories, memorable characters, and engaging dialogue that can captivate audiences. But before you can write a successful script, you need to know how to start.

In this article, we’ll explore the different steps involved in starting a script. We’ll discuss the importance of outlining the plot, creating detailed character profiles, brainstorming ideas for scenes and dialogue, researching the genre and conventions of scriptwriting, and crafting a creative logline. By breaking down the process into smaller, more manageable steps, you’ll be able to start writing your script with confidence.

Outlining the Plot of Your Script

The first step in starting a script is to outline the plot. This involves identifying key scenes and events, breaking the story into acts, and connecting the pieces. According to screenwriter and professor Richard Walter, “the plot of a screenplay should have a beginning, middle, and end – the three-act structure.” He explains that each act should build on the previous one, with the climax of the story occurring at the end of Act 3.

To make sure your plot is well-structured, it’s important to consider what will happen in each scene and how they all connect to each other. You should also think about the main conflict or obstacle that your protagonist will face throughout the story. By outlining the plot of your script, you’ll be able to ensure that your story follows a logical progression and has a satisfying conclusion.

Creating a Detailed Character Profile

Once you’ve outlined the plot of your script, you need to create a detailed character profile for each of the main characters. This involves establishing their personalities, understanding their motivations, and developing their character arcs. Screenwriter John August explains that “the best way to get to know your characters is to ask them questions.” He suggests asking questions such as “What do they want? What are they afraid of? How are they similar to or different from the protagonist?” By getting to know your characters, you’ll be able to make sure their actions and decisions are consistent throughout the story.

It’s also important to think about how your characters will develop over the course of the story. Will they go through a transformation? Will they learn something new? Will they become a better person? Answering these questions will help you craft a compelling character arc that keeps readers engaged.

Brainstorming Ideas for Scenes and Dialogue

Once you’ve created a detailed character profile, it’s time to start brainstorming ideas for scenes and dialogue. Writing memorable dialogue is essential for creating believable characters and adding depth to the story. To write effective dialogue, it’s important to think about the characters’ motivations and how they would speak in a given situation. As Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright David Mamet says, “Dialogue is not conversation. It is a heightened version of conversation designed to convey both character and plot.”

You should also think about the unique settings you can use to make your story more interesting. What kind of locations will your characters visit? What kind of obstacles will they face? How can you create tension and suspense? Incorporating conflict into your scenes will keep readers engaged and make your story more compelling.

Developing a Timeline for the Story

Once you’ve brainstormed some ideas for scenes and dialogue, it’s important to create a timeline for the story. This involves establishing a chronological order, managing the pace, and keeping track of time. According to screenwriter and producer Robert McKee, “storytelling is the art of controlling time.” He explains that by creating a timeline, you’ll be able to control the pace of the story and make sure each scene flows smoothly into the next.

It’s also important to think about how long each scene should be and what should happen at each point in the story. By creating a timeline, you’ll be able to ensure that the story progresses logically and keeps readers engaged.

Researching the Genre and Conventions of Scriptwriting

Before you start writing your script, it’s important to research the genre and conventions of scriptwriting. This involves identifying common elements, studying popular scripts, and adhering to industry standards. According to screenwriter and professor William Froug, “the key to successful scriptwriting is to understand the conventions of the genre you’re writing in.” He explains that by studying the conventions of the genre, you’ll be able to craft a story that is familiar to readers and meets industry standards.

It’s also important to study popular scripts in the genre. This will give you an idea of what works and what doesn’t. By researching the genre and conventions of scriptwriting, you’ll be able to craft a story that resonates with readers and stands out from the crowd.

Identifying the Key Themes and Emotions You Want to Convey

Once you’ve done your research, it’s time to identify the key themes and emotions you want to convey in your script. Exploring your message will help you determine the overall tone and structure of the story. As director and writer Joss Whedon explains, “every story has to have a theme. It’s the thing that connects everything together and gives the story meaning.” He suggests exploring themes such as love, loss, betrayal, courage, and redemption.

You should also think about how you can create theme through action and dialogue. For example, if the theme of your story is courage, you could have your characters face difficult challenges and overcome seemingly impossible odds. Additionally, you can use subtext to enhance the story and add depth to the characters. By exploring the key themes and emotions you want to convey, you’ll be able to craft a story that resonates with readers.

Writing a Creative Logline

The last step in starting a script is to write a creative logline. This involves summarizing the story, capturing the essence, and crafting an engaging tagline. According to screenwriter and professor Blake Snyder, “a logline is a two-sentence description of your story that captures the essence of the plot and creates enough interest to make people want to read your script.”

To write an effective logline, it’s important to focus on the main conflict or obstacle faced by the protagonist. You should also think about the stakes involved and any twists or surprises that occur. By writing a creative logline, you’ll be able to grab readers’ attention and make them want to read your script.

Conclusion

Starting a script can seem daunting, but by following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to craft a compelling story. These steps include outlining the plot, creating a detailed character profile, brainstorming ideas for scenes and dialogue, developing a timeline for the story, researching the genre and conventions of scriptwriting, and writing a creative logline. By breaking down the process into smaller, more manageable steps, you’ll be able to start writing your script with confidence.

If you want to learn more about scriptwriting, there are plenty of resources available online. There are also courses and workshops you can take to gain a deeper understanding of the process. Regardless of how you choose to learn, remember to keep writing and never give up.