A Quick Guide to Television Writing

by Ray Morton

A Quick Guide to Television Writing is the ultimate reference manual to the art, craft, and business of writing for the small screen. In a series of brief but comprehensive segments, the book covers the entire process of creating a professional television script from conceiving the initial idea to polishing the final draft. Covered topics the three main types of teleplays; an overview of dramatic storytelling; adapting a dramatic story to the specific demands of television storytelling; the techniques of television storytelling; teleplay style and formatting; how to create a television series; important T.V. writing “dos” and “don'” the business of television writing, including an overview of the many jobs and positions available to T.V. writers; and how to bring your work to the attention of the industry. Written in smart, reader-friendly prose, the book is chock full of the vital information, helpful tips, and keen advice that will help you make your teleplay the best it can be.

120 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2013

About the author

A writer, film historian, and script consultant, Ray Morton graduated from New York University with a Bachelor of Arts in Film and Television Production, and from Pepperdine University with a Masters in Clinical Psychology.

Reviews

[Jenny Thompson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is exactly what it claims to be. I imagine it is more interesting to those of us who are merely curious and want an overview than it would be to anyone actually hoping to embark on a television screenwriting career.