Having an idea in mind, a good idea, is the first step in writing a script. However, this is only the beginning. So that these ideas are transformed into something interesting, with structure, with meaning and that is attractive to the public, It is necessary to apply some tips like the ones we leave you below.
What is a script?
A script is a text that you write with a very different objective from that of other types of texts. The script aims to transform itself into a play, into a theatrical performance that other people will enjoy through all their senses. Unlike other texts, the script is designed to be transformed into a representation. That is, the viewer will not read your text, but will enjoy a dramatization of it.
In short, the script is a tool used to create an audiovisual project. Now, creating a good script from a great idea is not easy, unless you have a series of specific strategies for it. Because often, that idea that you have in your head, it does not materialize in the same way that you see it.
How can you write a script
For your idea to end up being a project truly faithful to what you dream of, you must take into account some keys such as structure, medium, genre, content and language. All of them are fundamental and interconnect. Based on gender, you will have to follow one structure or another. Based on the content, you will have to apply a certain language. Therefore, it is very important before starting, write down all the ideas to start organizing them.
A script must have a specific structure. Since it is not a novel, you cannot transcribe a text that will be read as such. You must organize your story by characters and by scenes, so that later it can be put into audiovisual practice. Nevertheless, to start writing a script it is not necessary to do it in this professional way, because frustration could ruin your idea.
Write on paper
Many renowned authors write their scripts by hand, rather than using the computer. This is because when writing by hand, it is easier to transform, add, remove and modify as your brain throws the ideas at you. Let your ideas flow take a pen and paper and start writing without thinking about the structure, you can do that later.
Choose a working title
Don't waste time choosing the perfect title, because it can come as you write your script. Doing it before writing the story can make it completely transform, without becoming what you had in mind. Put a provisional title, which includes words that identify the text. You will have time to think of the perfect title when everything is ready.
Characters
As there are parts of the script that can be postponed, in the case of the characters it is not like that. From the beginning, it is essential to have the characters well determined. Who they are, what they do and what they want. These are the main keys of each character, beyond their name or physical appearance, which are aspects that can be modified on the fly.
However, the more data you have on each character, the easier it will be to bring the story to life. Because it is not the same to write about a woman, whose age, interests or dedication is unknown, than to write about María, who is a publicist, is 36 years old and is looking for the perfect man to start a family. Having data on your characters makes it easier for you to create a good plot based on them.
The main character, what does he want?
In any good story or script, there must be a main character that marks the story, around which any event in history revolves.. The main characteristic of the main character should be, what does he want. Think of any of your favorite series, what is it that attracts you to the character?
One of the best known characters worldwide and who best defines this point is Homer Simpson. He wants to eat, sleep, hang out at Moe's bar, and go bowling. Those are his main aspirations and that is what marks the essence of the series. Based on what the main character wants, all kinds of plots are created. What has made it a very long-lived series with millions of viewers worldwide.
The order of the story based on each character
Now that we have the characters, it is time to place them in the story. For each character you have to answer several questions, which will help you to place them in your script in a coherent way. Give a story to each character, that is related to the main plot and then you can create a solid and meaningful structure.
Create a draft by hand
With the characters defined, the plot of the story, and the main idea, it's time to start creating a draft. Use colored pens for the characters and black for the plot. Start writing, don't worry too much about words, spelling or grammar, because afterwards you will have to correct everything by going digital.
Let the text rest for a few days before the final touch
When you finish your eraser, let it sit for a few days. Do not look at it, do not reread it, or become obsessed with adding, changing and modifying. After a few days, your ideas will dissipate and as you read your script, you will be able to see more clearly where the things that do not fit or they need some change.
The final step
To finish your script, it is time to convert it to digital format using the script format. Now you will have to follow the guidelines set by the professional format, but it will be much easier than doing it this way from the beginning. This also allows you to find bugs and correct bugs.
To write a good script, you must let yourself go. Let your ideas flow and become a text. Then you just have to shape them into a script that you can be proud of.