Script Writing: Write a Pilot Episode for a TV or Web Series (Project-Centered Course) from Coursera

What you’ll achieve:

In this project-centered course*, you will design a series bible and write a complete pilot episode for your own unique television or web series, be it drama or comedy or something in between. You’ll learn to break down the creative process into components, and you’ll discover a structured process that allows you to produce a polished and pitch-ready script in just a few weeks. Completing this project will increase your confidence in your ideas and abilities, and you’ll feel prepared to pitch your first script and get started on your next.

Here is a link to a trailer for the course. To view the trailer, please copy and paste the link into your browser.

https://vimeo.com/423035246/6b3c18c4c5

This is a course designed to tap into your creativity and is based in "Active Learning". Most of the actual learning takes place within your own activities - that is, writing! You will learn by doing.

"Thank you so much for your direct way of teaching this course. It was encouraging for us all to creatively flow and find our own voice in writing and developing our scripts. This aspect was very important to me." Ingrid

The course curriculum is simple: you’ll write, revise your work, and share feedback with your peers.

I am a proponent of Experiential Learning (active learning). My lectures are short (sometimes just two minutes long) and to the point, designed in a step-by-step process essential to your success as a script writer. I will guide you but I won’t "show" you how to write. I firmly believe that the only way to become a writer is to write, write, write.

“David's lecture style for this course is inspired. The videos are succinct and engaging. When I watch the lectures I feel David’s sincere desire for me to create something truly amazing. He is teaching us how to write a script, and he is providing wisdom and tools that will help us do so in a compelling way - by writing; not by watching him talk at us.” - A R Adamson

What you’ll need to get started:

To begin with, any basic word processor will do. During week two, you can choose to download some free scriptwriting software such as Celtx or Trelby or you may choose to purchase Final Draft, or you can continue to use your word processor and do your own script formatting.

Learner Review: "I am in love with this course. Having never written a script before, or any substantive fiction since college (15 years ago) I had a small idea in my head that has now exploded into something I really believe in. David's guidance is spot on, he's his own compelling story teller, he gives you enough, and then you have to figure it out, make it happen, WRITE! WRITE! WRITE! "

If you have any concerns regarding the protection of your original work, Coursera's privacy policy protects the learner's IP and you are indeed the sole owners of your work.

*About Project-Centered Courses: This is a ‘project-centered course’, which means it is designed specifically to help you complete a personally meaningful real-world project, with your instructor and a community of learners with similar goals providing guidance and suggestions along the way. By actively applying new concepts as you learn, you’ll master the course content more efficiently; you’ll also get a head start on using the skills you gain to make positive changes in your life and career. When you complete the course, you’ll have a finished project that you’ll be proud to use and share.

Time: 1-2 hours of study, 30+ hours of active project work

What's inside

Syllabus

Develop your TV series concept

In Module 1 you will: 1. create a brief outline of your pilot episode, 2. revise your outline following peer review, 3. create a bible for the series: that is, you will develop your original idea for a series into a document that defines the concept, the major characters and brief descriptions of the episodes for season one.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Core audience being students seeking a writing foundation

Focus on concept development, a core skill for storytellers

Emphasis on project completion may accelerate a learner's ability to build a portfolio of their work

Instructor David Wheeler's guidance in the field of writing and development is recognized by students

Suitable for both beginners and those seeking to strengthen a writing foundation

Reviews summary

Project-centered script writing: write your pilot

According to learners, this is a project-centered course that effectively guides you to write a complete pilot episode for a TV or web series. Many found the instructor's approach motivating and practical, focusing on the essential task: writing. A key component is the peer review system, which students say provides valuable feedback when peers are engaged, though its quality can sometimes be variable. Finishing the course with a pitch-ready script and series bible is a major positive outcome for many. Overall, students describe it as a highly rewarding experience for aspiring scriptwriters willing to commit the significant time required for the hands-on writing project.

Course forces practical, consistent writing practice.

"The course really forces you to sit down and write, which is the only way to learn."

"This project-centered approach pushed me to actually complete a full pilot script."

"It's learning by doing; the focus is entirely on the writing itself, not just theory."

Instructor is guiding, concise, and motivating.

"The instructor's lectures are short and to the point, making it easy to stay focused."

"His guidance is spot on, gives you enough, and then you have to figure it out...WRITE! WRITE! WRITE!"

"I appreciated David's direct approach and genuine encouragement throughout the course."

Finish with a pilot script and series bible.

"Ending the course with a completed pilot episode and series bible felt like a huge accomplishment."

"Having a pitch-ready script at the end is a major plus for anyone serious about writing."

"I started with just an idea and finished with something concrete I can share."

Requires significant time investment for writing.

"Be prepared to dedicate a lot of time to the writing assignments each week."

"The course description says 30+ hours of project work, and they mean it!"

"Balancing the writing with the peer reviews requires careful time management."

Peer reviews are crucial but quality varies.

"The peer reviews are the core of the course, but the quality you receive can be inconsistent."

"I got some really useful feedback from peers, but also some that wasn't very helpful or seemed rushed."

"Relying on peer review means your experience depends heavily on who reviews your work."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Script Writing: Write a Pilot Episode for a TV or Web Series (Project-Centered Course) with these activities:

Review basic grammar and punctuation rules.

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Strengthen your foundation in grammar and punctuation.

Browse courses on Grammar

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Review online grammar and punctuation resources.
Take practice quizzes or exercises.

Read "The Writer's Journey" by Christopher Vogler.

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Gain insights into story structure and character development.

View The Writer's Journey - 25th Anniversary Edition... on Amazon

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Follow online screenwriting tutorials

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Supplement your learning with expert guidance.

Browse courses on Screenwriting

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Search for reputable online screenwriting tutorials.
Follow the tutorials and complete exercises.
Apply what you learn to your own writing.

Five other activities

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Show all eight activities

Writing exercises

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Practice writing screenplays to improve writing skills.

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Choose a topic or genre for your screenplay.
Develop your characters and plot outline.
Write the first draft of your screenplay.
Revise and edit your screenplay.
Get feedback from others and make revisions.

Peer feedback sessions

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Exchange feedback with peers to improve writing quality.

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Find a writing partner or group.
Exchange scripts for review.
Provide constructive criticism and feedback.
Incorporate feedback into your own writing.

Attend screenwriting workshops

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Gain hands-on experience and feedback from professionals.

Browse courses on Screenwriting

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Research and find relevant screenwriting workshops.
Register and attend the workshops.
Participate actively in discussions and exercises.

Write a complete pilot episode

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Create a tangible outcome to showcase your writing skills.

Browse courses on Screenplay Writing

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Develop your concept and outline.
Write the first draft.
Revise and edit your screenplay.
Get feedback from others and make revisions.
Finalize your pilot episode script.

Start a writing blog or vlog

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Share your insights and practice your writing skills.

Browse courses on Screenwriting

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Choose a platform and create your blog or vlog.
Develop a posting schedule and topics.
Write and publish your content.
Engage with your audience and get feedback.

Career center

Learners who complete Script Writing: Write a Pilot Episode for a TV or Web Series (Project-Centered Course) will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Writer

As a Writer, you will be responsible for creating the scripts for television series and other content. You will need to have a strong understanding of storytelling and character development. This course will help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Writer. You will learn how to develop and outline a story, create compelling characters, and write dialogue that drives the story forward.

See salaries and explore the career path for Writer

Script Analyst

As a Script Analyst, you will be responsible for evaluating the quality of screenplays and providing feedback to writers. You will need to have a strong understanding of storytelling, structure, and character development. This course will help you develop the skills you need to become an effective Script Analyst. You will learn how to read and analyze scripts, identify strengths and weaknesses, and provide constructive criticism that will help writers improve their work. Gain a deeper understanding of screenwriting fundamentals

See salaries and explore the career path for Script Analyst

Development Executive

As a Development Executive, you will be responsible for finding and developing new television series and other content for a network or studio. You will need to have a strong understanding of the television landscape and the creative process. This course will help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Development Executive. You will learn how to identify and evaluate new projects, develop and pitch your own ideas, and work with writers and producers to bring your vision to life.

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Screenwriter

As a Screenwriter, you will lead the creative vision for television and web series projects. You have the ability to develop an idea into a cohesive and engaging story that will capture the attention of audiences. This course will teach you the fundamentals of screenwriting, from developing your concept to writing a complete pilot episode. You will learn how to create compelling characters, write dialogue that drives the story forward, and structure your script in a way that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

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Director

As a Director, you will be responsible for translating a script into a visual medium. You will need to have a strong understanding of storytelling, cinematography, and editing. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Director. You will learn about the different types of directors, how to develop a shot list, and how to work with actors and crew to create a cohesive and visually appealing film or television series.

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TV Producer

As a TV Producer, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of a television series, from development to production to post-production. You will need to have a strong understanding of the creative process, as well as the business side of television. This course will prepare you for a career as a TV Producer. You will learn how to develop and pitch a television series, manage a production team, and work with writers, actors, and other creatives to bring your vision to life. Do you have aspirations to become a producer? If so, it is a plus that this course taps into your creativity.

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Producer

As a Producer, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of a television series or other content, from development to production to post-production. You will need to have a strong understanding of the creative process, as well as the business side of the entertainment industry. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Producer. You will learn about the different types of producers, how to develop and pitch a television series or other content, and how to manage a production team.

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Actor

As an Actor, you will be responsible for bringing characters to life on stage or screen. You will need to have a strong understanding of acting techniques and the ability to connect with audiences. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as an Actor. You will learn about the different types of acting, how to prepare for a role, and how to work with directors and other actors to create a believable and compelling performance.

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Public Relations Specialist

As a Public Relations Specialist, you will be responsible for managing the public image of television series and other content. You will need to have a strong understanding of public relations principles and techniques. This course will help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Public Relations Specialist. You will learn how to create and execute public relations campaigns, manage media relations, and protect the reputation of your clients.

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Marketing Manager

As a Marketing Manager, you will be responsible for developing and executing marketing campaigns for television series and other content. You will need to have a strong understanding of marketing principles and techniques. This course will help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Marketing Manager. You will learn how to create and execute marketing campaigns, manage a marketing budget, and measure the results of your campaigns.

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Talent Agent

As a Talent Agent, you will be responsible for representing actors, models, and other performers in the entertainment industry. You will need to have a strong understanding of the entertainment industry and the legal aspects of representation. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Talent Agent. You will learn about the different types of talent agents, how to find and sign clients, and how to negotiate contracts.

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Entertainment Lawyer

As an Entertainment Lawyer, you will be responsible for providing legal advice to clients in the entertainment industry. You will need to have a strong understanding of entertainment law and the legal aspects of the industry. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as an Entertainment Lawyer. You will learn about the different types of entertainment law, how to draft and negotiate contracts, and how to protect the rights of your clients.

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Manager

As a Manager, you will be responsible for managing the careers of actors, writers, directors, and other creatives in the entertainment industry. You will need to have a strong understanding of the entertainment industry and the business side of management. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Manager. You will learn about the different types of managers, how to find and sign clients, and how to develop and execute career plans.

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Agent

As an Agent, you will be responsible for representing actors, writers, directors, and other creatives in the entertainment industry. You will need to have a strong understanding of the entertainment industry and the legal aspects of representation. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as an Agent. You will learn about the different types of agents, how to find and sign clients, and how to negotiate contracts.

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Casting Director

As a Casting Director, you will be responsible for finding and hiring actors for television series and other content. You will need to have a strong understanding of acting and the casting process. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Casting Director. You will learn about the different types of casting directors, how to find and evaluate actors, and how to cast a television series or other content.

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Film and Video Editor

As a Film and Video Editor, you will be responsible for editing and assembling raw footage into a cohesive and engaging story. You will need to have a strong understanding of editing techniques and software. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Film and Video Editor. You will learn the basics of editing, including how to cut and assemble footage, add effects, and create transitions. You will also learn about the different types of editing software and how to use them effectively.

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