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

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/script-writing

Introduction

### Course Review: Script Writing: Write a Pilot Episode for a TV or Web Series (Project-Centered Course) on Coursera **Overview** In the rapidly evolving landscape of television and digital series, storytelling has become more significant than ever. Coursera’s course, **Script Writing: Write a Pilot Episode for a TV or Web Series**, offers aspiring screenwriters a structured and thorough approach to creating their own unique pilot episodes, whether in the form of comedy, drama, or a hybrid that defies categorization. The course is project-centered, meaning participants will actively engage in crafting a series bible and a complete pilot episode, gaining hands-on experience that culminates in a polished, pitch-ready script. This course is not just theoretical; it emphasizes practical application, equipping students with the tools they need to express their creative ideas confidently and competently. --- ### What You’ll Achieve By the end of this course, students will have developed a series bible and written a complete pilot episode. This journey will enhance your understanding of the creative process, break it into manageable components, and instill a sense of confidence in your storytelling abilities. --- ### Course Structure & Syllabus **Module 1: Develop Your TV Series Concept** This foundational module dives into the initial steps of scripting. You’ll create a brief outline of your pilot episode, refine it through peer reviews, and ultimately develop a comprehensive series bible. This document will encapsulate your original idea, outline major characters, and provide brief descriptions of episodes for the first season. **Module 2: Write Act One of Your Pilot Episode** Within this module, you will flesh out the first act. It involves crafting a detailed outline, writing in screenplay format, and receiving constructive feedback from peers. The cycle of revision is critical here, as it helps to refine your ideas and ensure clarity in storytelling. **Module 3: Write Act Two** As you progress, you will apply the same systematic approach to your second act. By building on feedback and meticulously structuring your script, you’ll create a narrative that keeps viewers engaged. **Module 4: Write Act Three** Here, you will culminate your pilot episode by writing and revising the third act. The same principles of outlining and peer review will apply, allowing for a seamless, cohesive ending that ties together your overarching narrative. **Module 5: Polish Your Script & Create a Cold Open** The final module is dedicated to refinement. You will polish your entire script, create a compelling cold open, and finalize your series bible. Submitting your finished materials for final review will not only showcase your hard work but also give you valuable insights for future endeavors. --- ### What Makes This Course Special - **Peer Review System**: One of the standout features of this course is the incorporation of peer review. Not only will you share your work, but you will also engage with fellow writers, providing and receiving feedback that enhances your learning. - **Structured Learning Path**: The course is meticulously structured, making it accessible for beginners while providing seasoned writers with a fresh perspective on the writing process. - **Outcome-Focused**: By emphasizing the delivery of a complete and polished pilot, participants leave with a tangible asset — a script that they can take to potential producers, networks, or festivals. - **Instructor-led Guidance**: Led by experienced industry professionals, you will benefit from insights and tips that only seasoned writers can provide, enabling you to avoid common pitfalls and enrich your creative ideas. --- ### Conclusion: Recommendation If you’re an aspiring screenwriter with a desire to bring your unique stories to life, I highly recommend the **Script Writing: Write a Pilot Episode for a TV or Web Series** course on Coursera. Its project-centered approach not only fosters creative confidence but also empowers you with practical skills that are crucial in the industry. By the end of the course, you’ll have a finished product that you can be proud of and that represents your vision as a writer. With the guidance of experienced instructors and the collaborative aspect of peer reviews, this course is a fantastic stepping stone into the captivating world of screenwriting. So, gear up to unleash your creativity and start writing your own series today!

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.

In Module 2 you will complete the 1st act of your episode (or the 1st installment of your Web Series) You will: 1. create a brief outline of your pilot episode. 2. revise your episode outline following peer review, 3. create a detailed outline of your first act, 4. revise your Act One outline following peer review, 5. write your first act in screenplay format, 6. revise your Act One script after peer review.

In this module you will complete the second act of your episode (or the 2nd installment of your Web Series). You will: 1. write a detailed outline of the second act, 2. revise your outline following peer review, 3. write the second act in screenplay format, 4. revise your second act following peer review.

In module 4 you will complete the 3rd act of your episode (or the third installment of your Web Series). You will: 1. write a detailed outline of Act Three, 2. revise your outline following peer review, 3. Write Act Three in screenplay format, 4. Revise your act following peer review

In Module 5 you will 1. polish the completed script of your episode (or your three Webisodes), 2. create a Cold Open, 3. revise the Series Bible based on your finished script, 4 submit the Final Script and Series Bible for final review.