How to Write a Series Script: A Short Guide!

I often find myself contemplating the narrative behind films and series. Recently, while viewing a scene from the series “From”, its story unravels the mystery of a city in the middle U.S.A. that imprisons everyone who enters.

I have compiled the following insights on how a script is written.

After conducting thorough research and asking ChatGPT, I have compiled the following insights on how a script is written.

1. Concept Development

• Premise: Start with a clear idea or premise. What is the central theme or storyline?
• Characters: Develop your main characters, including their backgrounds, motivations, and relationships.
• Setting: Establish the setting(s) where the series will take place.

2. Series Bible

• Overview: A summary of the entire series.
• Character Profiles: Detailed descriptions of each main character.
• Episode Guide: Brief summaries of the first season’s episodes.
• Themes and Tone: Describe the overall tone and themes of the series.

3. Pilot Script

• Outline: Create an outline of the pilot episode, breaking it down into acts and scenes.
• Script Formatting: Use industry-standard script formatting. This typically involves using screenwriting software like Final Draft or Celtx.
• Dialogue and Action: Write clear, engaging dialogue and detailed action descriptions.
• Act Structure: Most hour-long pilots are divided into a teaser and four acts, while half-hour comedies typically have a three-act structure.

4. Writing the Script

• Title Page: Include the series title, episode title, and your name/contact information.
• Scene Headings: Start each scene with a heading (INT./EXT. LOCATION — DAY/NIGHT).
• Action Lines: Describe what is happening in the scene, including character actions and settings.
• Character Names: Centered and capitalized above each line of dialogue.
• Dialogue: The actual spoken words, centered and indented.
• Parentheticals: Brief instructions for actors, placed in parentheses under character names.

5. Revision and Feedback

• Review: Go through multiple drafts, revising for clarity, pacing, and consistency.
• Feedback: Share the script with trusted peers or mentors for constructive criticism.
• Polish: Make final adjustments based on feedback and ensure the script is error-free.