Screenwriters create scripts for TV or film productions. They write can write scripts not only for feature films and TV comedy and drama, but also for animation, children's programmes, computer games and corporate productions.

Screenwriters may develop their own original ideas, adapt existing books, or be commissioned by production companies to produce a script from a programme idea. They typically choose themes for their work; research background material; develop plots and characters; and check that the style is consistent, before submitting their work to a producer, production company or broadcaster.

A script is likely to go through several transformations from the original idea. Screenwriters often spend a lot of time negotiating with script editors or developers, producers or directors, rewriting and modifying their work to arrive at a final workable version.

Screenwriters also need to study current and future entertainment markets so they can tailor their work to target audiences. They also need to publicise themselves and their work by contacting and networking with agents, broadcasters and filmmakers.

Hours and Environment

There are no typical hours of work, as screenwriters are generally self-employed freelancers. However, they often need to keep to an agreed schedule and deadlines, particularly if they are writing for a television serial, making rewrites, or if they have received a financial advance for their work.

Screenwriters generally work alone and from home. They may also need to attend meetings with agents, script editors and producers.

Skills and Interests

To be a screenwriter you need:

• excellent writing ability
• creativity and imagination, to produce fresh ideas and bring novels and programme ideas to life
• storytelling skills, with an understanding of dramatic structure
• self-discipline and motivation
• willingness to accept criticism of your work and make any necessary changes
• organisation and the ability to meet deadlines
• good presentation and networking skills, for marketing and promoting your work.

Entry

There are no formal entry requirements for screenwriting, as talent and ability are more important than qualifications.

Some screenwriters are graduates in creative writing, English or journalism, although this is not essential. Others may have proven writing and storytelling experience from another field, such as journalism, advertising copywriting or acting.

Creative writing and screenwriting courses for all levels from beginners to advanced are widely available at colleges, adult education centres and universities. It can be useful to take a course to help to develop your technique, and understand dramatic structure and script layout. You do not need qualifications for many courses - even some advanced courses will accept you if you can prove your talent by showing examples of your work.

Some new writers enter screenwriting competitions and awards that are available to discover and promote new talent.

The Skillset Careers helpline can offer free telephone or face-to-face advice for graduates, new entrants or experienced practitioners. See contact details below.

Training

As a screenwriter you will usually develop your skills on the job with each piece that you write.

There are also training and development opportunities for experienced writers, such as postgraduate degrees and diplomas in screenwriting.

Full- and part-time film and television school courses give writers the opportunity to work with actors and directors and their work filmed.

There are some organisations that offer networking opportunities, script feedback and development training for new and experienced screenwriters. These include the Screenwriters Workshop, the Script Factory and TAPS (see the Further Information section for contact details).

Skillset and the British Film Institute jointly provide a database of media courses, including screenwriting and script development courses at all levels. See Skillset's website for more details.

Opportunities

Screenwriters mostly work freelance on a piece by piece basis: others will be commissioned and may receive a financial advance and royalties. Only a small percentage write full-time; many supplement their incomes by working in other professions. 

Grants may be available for the development of feature films and short films (known as 'shorts'). The UK Film Council may fund commissions, productions and professional development.

Annual Income

Freelance writers negotiate and agree a set fee for each piece of work.

The Writers' Guild of Great Britain has negotiated recommended pay rates for many groups of writers including screenwriters - see their website for information about current rates.

Further information

Welbeck House
66/67 Wells Street
London
W1T 3PY
Tel: 020 7323 1414 10 Little Portland Street
London
W1W 7JG
Tel: 020 7861 7861 15 Britannia Street
London
WC1X 9JN
Tel: 020 7833 0777 Prospect House
80-110 New Oxford Street
London
WC1A 1HB Tel: 08080 300 900 for England, Wales and Northern Ireland
Tel: 0808 100 8094 for Scotland 21 Stephen Street
London
W1T 1LN
Tel: 020 7255 1444 NPA Film Centre
1.07 The Tea Building
56 Shoreditch High Street
London
E1 6JJ
Tel: 020 7613 0440