Saturday, September 15, 2018

Try A Workbook For Screenwriters To Make A Better Plot

By Rebecca Williams


Although it is common to have a good idea in mind for a fantastic story, getting stumped about subplots and character development can be daunting. For some wordsmiths, it is not enough to jot down bits and pieces, then bring it all together. Creative guides, like a workbook for screenwriters, can help anyone churn out original stories that are engaging and hard to put down.

This is not cheating, nor are these designed to make a manuscript seem generic or dull. A good wordsmith has strong ideas and normally have a solid mental picture of things like character traits, settings, and other details that make a good story outstanding. The truth is that, as humans, it is sometimes impossible to churn out good scenes overnight.

Even if a person works full time or is a homemaker, real events can either affect how much of a script is completed or identify if something is missing. For instance, if the main character of a story is someone of wealth, it may be easy to forget things like how they travel, where they buy clothing or even the type of food they eat. Most writing classes tell students to give details without straying from the scene.

Another obstacle that wordsmiths on any level may face is being redundant. Although some feel that playing things safe may land them a deal faster, sometimes the opposite is true. Maintaining originality can take time but for many successful screenwriters who are always in demand, stepping out of the norm can result in positive feedback.

Whether the writer chooses to use a hard copy book or software, using this does not make them less authentic. Although some new writers may have influences that have a great impact on their voice, it is their responsibility to create a unique selling point that agents and studios will find interesting. Sometimes this takes a few years of steady writing to develop and make marketable.

Character development is something that many new screenwriters struggle with and sometimes the details are either inconsistent or too few. Things like personal interests or habits do not align with a particular personality. Sometimes readers can see through these things before putting the manuscript down for good.

Although most dread the editing process, other wordsmiths find it necessary. In the case of character definition, sometimes it is the small details that can make the difference between getting a nice contract and being told to try again. This is an industry where rejection is the norm but if a writer is unafraid to go over their work with a fine tooth comb, it can be educational.

Workbooks are also great for those who write a lot of notes or collect information to enhance their story. This could be a screenshot of a menu that serves upscale clientele, a regional dialogue, or even pet information. Sometimes a writer may find inspiration in a conversation they had with someone intriguing they just met.




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