We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.

Television Writer

The television writer is responsible for the concept, content, writing and rewriting of television scripts. They may work on a wide variety of projects, including dramas, comedies, documentaries, and reality shows.

Read more

The television writer is responsible for the concept, content, writing and rewriting of television scripts. They may work on a wide variety of projects, including dramas, comedies, documentaries, and reality shows.

The Role of a Television Writer

The television writer's job is to create stories that are both entertaining and informative. They must be able to develop characters that the audience can relate to, and to write dialogue that is both believable and engaging. They must also be able to work well with other members of the production team, including the director, producer, and actors.

Television writers typically work in a team environment. The head writer is responsible for the overall story arc of the show, and will work with a team of writers to develop individual episodes.

Skills and Qualifications

Television writers typically have a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or a related field. They must have strong writing skills, and be able to write dialogue that is both believable and engaging. They must also be able to work well with other members of the production team.

Tools and Tech

Television writers use a variety of tools to help them with their work. These tools include word processors, screenwriting software, and research databases. They may also use video editing software to create showreels or to help them visualize their work.

Career Growth Prospects

Television writers who are successful in their field may advance to become head writers or showrunners. They may also move into other areas of the entertainment industry, such as producing or directing.

Transferable Skills

The skills that television writers develop in their careers can be transferred to other areas of the entertainment industry. These skills include writing, storytelling, and teamwork.

The Day-to-Day of a Television Writer

The day-to-day of a television writer typically involves writing, rewriting, and meeting with other members of the production team. They may also spend time researching story ideas and developing characters.

The hours of a television writer can be long and irregular. They may have to work evenings and weekends to meet deadlines.

Challenges of the Career

One of the challenges of being a television writer is the pressure to create stories that are both entertaining and informative. Television writers must also be able to work well under pressure and to meet deadlines.

Projects

Television writers may work on a variety of projects, including dramas, comedies, documentaries, and reality shows. They may also work on special events, such as awards shows or sporting events.

Personal Growth Opportunities

Television writing can be a rewarding career that offers opportunities for personal growth. Television writers can learn about the world around them, and they can develop their creativity and writing skills.

Personality Traits

Television writers typically have the following personality traits:

  • Creative
  • Imaginative
  • Organized
  • Deadline-oriented
  • Collaborative

Self-Guided Projects

There are a number of self-guided projects that students can complete to better prepare themselves for a career as a television writer. These projects include:

  • Writing and producing short films
  • Writing and producing web series
  • Interning at a television production company

Online Courses

Online courses can be a helpful way to prepare for a career as a television writer. Online courses can teach you the skills you need to write, research, and produce television scripts.

Online courses offer a number of benefits, including:

  • Flexibility: Online courses allow you to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule.
  • Affordability: Online courses are often more affordable than traditional college courses.
  • Variety: Online courses offer a wide variety of topics to choose from.

If you are interested in a career as a television writer, online courses can be a valuable tool to help you prepare for this role.

However, it is important to note that online courses alone are not enough to guarantee success in this field. To be successful, you will need to supplement your online learning with practical experience and a strong portfolio of work.

Share

Help others find this career page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Salaries for Television Writer

City
Median
New York
$120,000
San Francisco
$135,000
Seattle
$95,000
See all salaries
City
Median
New York
$120,000
San Francisco
$135,000
Seattle
$95,000
Austin
$111,000
Toronto
$80,000
London
£104,000
Paris
€58,000
Berlin
€68,000
Tel Aviv
₪348,000
Singapore
S$80,000
Beijing
¥545,000
Shanghai
¥178,000
Shenzhen
¥17,301
Bengalaru
₹660,000
Delhi
₹322,000
Bars indicate relevance. All salaries presented are estimates. Completion of this course does not guarantee or imply job placement or career outcomes.

Reading list

We haven't picked any books for this reading list yet.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the playwriting process, from developing ideas and characters to writing dialogue and stage directions. It valuable resource for both aspiring and experienced playwrights.
This classic text on playwriting offers insights into the art and craft of writing for the stage. Gardner provides detailed advice on developing characters, creating conflict, and writing dialogue that is both natural and dramatic.
Save
Deep dive into the art of storytelling. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to write screenplays that are both entertaining and meaningful.
This popular book provides a step-by-step guide to writing a successful screenplay. It is known for its clear and concise writing style, and its focus on the essential elements of storytelling.
John Fiske's comprehensive analysis of television theory and practice, covering issues of representation, reception, and cultural significance.
A non-fiction account of the HBO television series The Wire, written by its creator David Simon, providing insights into the production, themes, and social impact of the show.
This classic book must-read for any screenwriter. It provides a comprehensive overview of the screenwriting process, from developing your story to writing your dialogue.
Offers a practical approach to writing drama, with a focus on developing characters, creating conflict, and writing dialogue that is both realistic and engaging. It is an excellent resource for both students and aspiring playwrights.
Explores the creative process of playwriting, from the initial idea to the final draft. McKee provides insights into the challenges and rewards of writing for the stage and offers practical advice on how to overcome writer's block and produce successful plays.
A comprehensive introduction to television studies, covering key concepts, methodologies, and debates in the field.
Comprehensive guide to the art of screenwriting. It covers everything from developing your story to writing your dialogue, and it is packed with practical tips and advice.
This classic text on dramatic writing offers a comprehensive guide to the art of creating compelling characters, developing conflict, and writing dialogue that is both natural and effective. Egri's insights have influenced generations of playwrights and screenwriters.
Examines the economic and political factors that shape television production, distribution, and consumption, offering a critical perspective on the industry.
Personal account of the life of a Hollywood screenwriter. It provides insights into the creative process and the challenges of working in the film industry.
While not specifically about playwriting, this book offers a valuable framework for understanding the structure of stories and how to create compelling characters and plots. It useful resource for playwrights who want to develop their storytelling skills.
Although this book focuses on screenwriting, it offers valuable insights into the principles of storytelling that are applicable to playwriting as well. Seger provides practical advice on developing characters, creating conflict, and writing dialogue that is both effective and engaging.
Provides a beginner-friendly introduction to playwriting, with step-by-step instructions on how to develop characters, write dialogue, and structure a play. It good resource for those who are new to playwriting and want to learn the basics.
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2024 OpenCourser