Film, Television, & Content Creation

Learning Center

Job Profiles

Screenwriter

Screenwriter

What does a Screenwriter do?

A screenwriter writes compelling stories for visual or audio consumption. They are ultimately writing the blueprint for a narrative device that takes shape in the form of a screenplay or teleplay. They write structurally formatted scripts for feature films, short films, television, web series, commercials, podcasts, and video games. They also prepare scripts for documentaries and reality programs. This blueprint informs the Producer, Director, Production Designer, Editor, and Composer of the story's creative essence.

The screenplay process goes through several phases before landing on the final shooting script. These include a logline, synopsis, outline, treatment, first draft, rewrite, polish, and final shooting script. During these phases, the screenwriter researches authenticity of content, then develops an exciting storyline, intriguing themes, fascinating characters, and dynamic dialogue. Even after the shooting script is finalized, it can still go through extensive rewrites due to actors' input on dialogue or problems with locations that may cause the director to condense, rearrange or drop a scene altogether.

Screenwriters customarily develop a script based on their original idea, a producer's concept, an existing story's adaption, or contributing to an existing television project.

Responsibilities
Screenwriting isn’t just about writing “cool” dialogue—it’s about building an entire world from scratch. Here’s what you’ll typically be doing:

Adapt books, articles, or real-life events into screenplay format.
Collaborate with producers, directors, and other writers to refine the script.
Revise drafts based on feedback from studios, producers, or directors.
Format scripts according to industry standards (using software like Final Draft or Celtx).
Pitch script ideas to studios, agents, or producers.

Skills You’ll Need
Writing for film isn’t just about being a good writer—you’ll need a creative toolbox full of these skills:

Storytelling: Craft compelling plots, memorable characters, and engaging dialogue.
Creativity: Think outside the box and bring fresh ideas to the table.
Research: Dig deep when writing about unfamiliar subjects, eras, or cultures.
Adaptability: Be open to feedback and ready to rewrite scenes—again and again.
Collaboration: Work well with directors, producers, and other writers.
Time Management: Meet deadlines without compromising creativity.
Script Formatting: Know how to format scripts correctly—industry standards matter!

Qualifications
You don’t need an expensive degree to be a screenwriter—just skill, passion, and dedication. However, these can help:

A Bachelor’s degree in Film, Creative Writing, English, or a related field (optional but useful).
Screenwriting workshops, webinars, or certificate programs.
A portfolio of original scripts (this is often more valuable than formal education).

Pay Rate

Screenwriter pay can vary depending on the project, your experience, and whether you're working for an indie film or a major studio. According to Salary.com:

Entry-Level/First-Time Writer: $35,000–$75,000 per year
Mid-Level Screenwriter: $75,000–$150,000 per project
Experienced Screenwriter (Big Studios): $200,000+ per project
For films under the Writers Guild of America (WGA) contracts, writers are guaranteed minimum rates, which can increase based on factors like budget size and distribution platform.

Education & Training
While no formal degree is required, here are some great ways to build your skills:

Enroll in film or screenwriting courses through universities or local workshops.
Take online courses from platforms like MasterClass, Coursera, or Udemy.
Sign up for online courses and webinars from Diversity in Cinema Academy to gain specialized knowledge and support for diverse voices.
Read screenplays of your favorite films to study structure, pacing, and dialogue.
Attend film festivals, scriptwriting expos, and networking events.

Experience
The best way to learn screenwriting? Write—and write often. Here’s how you can gain valuable experience:

Write your own short films, features, pilot episodes, or web series.
Enter screenwriting competitions (like those held by Austin Film Festival or Final Draft).
Intern at production companies, literary agencies, or with established writers.
Offer to write for student films or indie projects.
Join a writers’ group for peer feedback and networking opportunities.