Online Class: Screenwriting 101

no certificate
with CEU Certificate*
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17Lessons
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31Exams &
Assignments -
1,965Students
have taken this course -
12Hours
average time -
1.2CEUs
Course Description
"Navigating the World of Screenwriting: Your Comprehensive Guide"
Stepping into the realm of screenwriting can often feel like venturing into a vast, uncharted territory. With its blend of creative artistry and technical precision, screenwriting can be as challenging as it is rewarding. Our course, "Navigating the World of Screenwriting: Your Comprehensive Guide," is designed for those budding storytellers who are passionate about crafting cinematic tales but might be unsure where to begin.
Why choose screenwriting? With the rise of streaming platforms and a growing appetite for diverse content worldwide, there's never been a better time to dive into the world of screenwriting. According to recent statistics, the global box office revenue is anticipated to reach over $50 billion by 2023. This boom in the industry offers an array of opportunities for screenwriters, both new and seasoned.
However, for those just starting, there are foundational principles to grasp. A well-structured script is paramount; without adhering to industry standards, even the most compelling stories can be overlooked. For instance, understanding the traditional three-act structure might seem rudimentary, but it's an essential framework, proven to engage audiences for decades. By mastering such basics, you enhance your chances of your screenplay getting the attention it deserves.
Our course doesn't just stop at the technicalities. While ensuring you're well-equipped with the nuts and bolts of screenplay format and structure, we delve deeper into the nuanced world of storytelling. Learn about the history of screenplays and how this art form has evolved over the years. Discover the different markets, current trends, and where emerging writers can find their niche. By understanding these aspects, you'll be in a better position to carve out a space for yourself in this competitive landscape.
Additionally, this course emphasizes the importance of integrity and sensitivity in storytelling. As a screenwriter, you wield significant power in shaping narratives and influencing audiences. Thus, it's crucial to approach topics with care and avoid unnecessary exploitation, ensuring that your stories are both impactful and respectful.
Here's a sneak peek into our curated curriculum:
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Why Get into Screenwriting and What are My Chances of Success?
- Understand the allure of screenwriting.
- Realistic expectations: success rates, challenges, and potential returns.
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A Brief History of the Screenplay
- Journey through time: from early theater scripts to modern cinematic screenplays.
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Markets, Current Trends, and Where Beginners Fit In
- Grasp the current industry landscape and find your unique spot.
... [The rest of the lessons continue as previously listed, but each will delve deeper into their respective topics, supported by case studies, real-world examples, and practical exercises.]
By the end of our 17 lessons, you'll not only have a robust foundational understanding of screenwriting but also gain insights into the professional world, from approaching agents to making your mark in Hollywood. Whether you're aiming for the big screens or finding solace in smaller projects, there's a place for every storyteller.
Remember, while winning an Oscar might be a dream for many, the journey of screenwriting offers its own set of joys – the thrill of creating characters, the satisfaction of completing a script, and the possibility of seeing your vision come alive on screen.
Join us on this comprehensive journey, and let's navigate the mesmerizing world of screenwriting together. Your story awaits!
- Completely Online
- Self-Paced
- Printable Lessons
- Full HD Video
- 6 Months to Complete
- 24/7 Availability
- Start Anytime
- PC & Mac Compatible
- Android & iOS Friendly
- Accredited CEUs

Course Lessons
Lesson 1. The Story Architect: Crafting Success in Screenwriting
In screenwriting, aspiring writers are advised to reflect on their motivations and understand the challenges ahead, including the solitary nature of the craft and embracing failure as part of growth. The journey is marked by personal satisfaction and the ability to captivate audiences through creative storytelling, regardless of financial gain.Lesson 2. Silent Scripts to Streaming Stories: An Evolution
Mastering the art of screenwriting involves learning from cinematic legends and applying practical techniques, like character development and screenplay formatting, to create vivid storytelling experiences. Aspiring writers can find success by aligning with industry standards, embracing feedback, and leveraging networking and new media platforms, immersing themselves in continuous learning and adaptation.Lesson 3. Navigating Industry Waters: Screenwriting & Market Strategies
Aspiring screenwriters must balance creativity with market awareness, strategically placing their unique stories in an ever-evolving industry. Adaptability to trends like biopics, diverse narratives, and technological advancements ensures scripts resonate with audiences and industry professionals.Lesson 4. Unlocking the Secrets of Professional Screenwriting
Screenwriting intertwines the visual and verbal, demanding rigorous adherence to a specific format that filmmakers can interpret seamlessly. By mastering this framework, a screenwriter not only shares their narrative vision but also ensures it is brought to life with fidelity and flair.Lesson 5. Innovative Genre Writing: Keys to Script Success
Navigating Hollywood's screenwriting landscape involves skillfully blending originality with tried-and-tested ideas, focusing on genres to enhance script marketability. Mastery in genre dynamics and effective pitching can boost a writer's chances of success by aligning with industry trends.Lesson 6. Crafting Compelling Narratives with Three Acts
Writers utilizing the three-act structure blend foundational storytelling principles with creative innovation, enabling narratives that resonate deeply, as seen in culturally significant films like 'Black Panther' and 'Crazy Rich Asians.'Lesson 7. Empathy and Authenticity in Character Creation
Character evolution—a reflection of personal transformation or stagnation—mirrors the human journey. These arcs, woven with catalysts and realizations, engage audiences by reflecting both life's challenges and triumphs.Lesson 8. Humor's Hidden Complexity: Mastering Comedy Writing
Comedy's heart lies in flawed characters, reflecting our quirks and mundanities back at us with a wink and a nod. Their self-reflection and imperfect journeys resonate universally, letting audiences laugh at their mirrored imperfections.Lesson 9. Beyond the Ordinary: The Magic of Juxtaposition and Contrast
Successful high concept pitches are concise yet evocative, highlighting unique hooks and emotional depth. They must articulate originality while ensuring the story's heart resonates through strong character arcs and relatable themes.Lesson 10. The Essence of High-Octane Storytelling
From pulse-pounding openings to climactic showdowns, action stories expertly blend narrative and spectacle in ways that challenge heroes and engage our senses. By integrating profound themes with breathtaking sequences, they leave audiences breathless yet reflective.Lesson 11. Unveiling Characters: Dialogue as a Revealing Tool
In screenwriting, dialogue should serve the dual purpose of exposition and emotional connection, subtly revealing character depth and plot intricacies. Key techniques include using rhythmic variations and subtext to maintain authenticity while avoiding clunky exposition.Lesson 12. Crafting a Cinematic Legacy: Strategies for Success
With advancements in technology, novice screenwriters now have unprecedented opportunities to break through with independent films, exemplified by films like 'Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow.' By presenting strong story elements and engaging with the independent film sector, writers can secure film credits that enhance their marketability.Lesson 13. Getting Serious About Writing
Professionalism can bridge the gap between creativity and career success for writers; establishing a conducive writing environment and adhering to disciplined practices ensures reliability and quality output. Embracing technology and cultivating creativity through varied experiences are key strategies for thriving in the ever-changing world of writing.Lesson 14. The Screenwriter's Roadmap: From Script to Sale
Crafting a compelling logline and treatment is crucial for drawing interest from potential producers, with a concise logline serving as a hook and a detailed treatment providing an overview of the screenplay. Engage actively with the industry and stay informed by attending events and leveraging online communities to broaden your network and understanding.Lesson 15. Getting Representation
Understanding screenwriting contracts is essential to protect creative assets, with option agreements being key in script negotiations. Involving attorneys in substantial deals can safeguard rights and ensure fair compensation and terms.Lesson 16. Hollywood Labyrinth: Navigating the Screenwriter's Path
Hollywood, a beacon of dreams, is riddled with challenges that test screenwriters' resilience and creativity. Embracing the industry's uncertainties with passion and strategic forethought can pave the way for fulfilling storytelling journeys.Lesson 17. Docu-Magic: Mastery in Video Scriptwriting
Scriptwriting in educational content demands making complex topics engaging and accessible, a vital skill amidst the rising tide of eLearning. Research is paramount, ensuring authenticity and relevance, thus empowering writers to create not just educational modules, but impactful, accessible stories.
Learning Outcomes
- Define your personal motivation for becoming a screenwriter by identifying key driving factors such as storytelling allure, potential fame, or personal expression.
- Demonstrate a clear understanding of screenwriting success by outlining realistic career goals and acknowledging industry challenges and opportunities.
- Define the evolution of screenwriting by identifying key historical milestones and influential screenwriters from the early 20th century to the present.
- Demonstrate understanding of contemporary screenwriting techniques by analyzing the role of narrative content and emotional resonance in modern screenplays, distinct from technical instructions.
- Define the current trends in the screenwriting market and evaluate how they can influence scriptwriting strategies.
- Identify successful networking strategies in the film industry and demonstrate their application in advancing a screenwriting career.
- Demonstrate proficiency in formatting dialogue blocks to ensure that character speech flows clearly and logically within the screenplay structure.
- Define and apply the correct use of scene headings (slug lines) to establish clear and concise settings within a screenplay.
- Analyze current trends in the film industry to tailor script pitches effectively and increase the likelihood of selling a screenplay.
- Define and categorize various screenwriting genres and demonstrate how blending them can create unique narrative experiences.
- Analyze how the midpoint in Act Two alters the protagonist's approach and increases the stakes of the narrative.
- Describe the role of the inciting incident in Act One and explain how it propels the protagonist into their journey.
- Identify and analyze key characteristics of a compelling character by evaluating their motivations and backstory within a given narrative.
- Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
Additional Course Information

- Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
- Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
- Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
- View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
- Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media

Choose Your Subscription Plan
No Certificate / No CEUs
This course only
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Includes CEUs | X |
Self-paced |
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Instructor support |
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Time to complete | 6 months |
No. of courses | 1 course |
Certificate & CEUs
This course only
Includes certificate |
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Includes CEUs |
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Self-paced |
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Instructor support |
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Time to complete | 6 months |
No. of courses | 1 course |
Certificates & CEUs
Includes all 600+ courses
Includes certificate |
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Includes CEUs |
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Self-paced |
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Instructor support |
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Time to complete | 12 Months |
No. of courses | 600+ |
Certificates & CEUs
Includes all 600+ courses
Includes certificate |
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Includes CEUs |
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Self-paced |
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Instructor support |
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Time to complete | 24 Months |
No. of courses | 600+ |
Student Testimonials
- "This course was fantastic, I'm looking to convert some books and short stories I have written into screenplays. This has been incredibly informative." -- Paul H.
- "This course was indeed helpful, and I had fun doing it. Near as I can tell, Screenwriting 101 doesn't need anything at all included - it's a fantastic experience as is." -- Berenger D.
- "Great course!" -- Latina F.
- "I loved this course. it was highly informative." -- Keith J.
- "This course was extremely helpful." -- Malinda M.
- "Great, thank you, I'm so glad I took this course." -- Jacinta L.
- "I loved the course and the instructor." -- Lanna L.
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