TV Writing: Core Elements

Create an outline for your episodic TV pilot idea in eight weeks with an accomplished TV writer as your guide. In this introductory level self-paced course, you will take this important first step for your original pilot script and learn a set of tools to help you ask the important questions of every scene and character that will get you past "stuck" when writing future episodes.

This is a self-paced course. Self-paced courses allow you to watch pre-recorded lectures at your own pace, while working on deadlines to get individualized feedback on your work.

Along the way you will:

• find your most effective creative writing process.
• develop and hone your characters.
• learn how character drives plot.
• be able to identify three-act structure and have it be the backbone of your pilot.
• identify A/B/C stories and break story in your own pilot.
• create the tableau and tone for your pilot.
• write your beat sheet.
• develop your beat sheet into an outline.
• understand how to receive notes and approach a rewrite.
• identify a longer story arc for your series.

This course is ideal for:

• television writers with an idea for a series or pilot who could use help with structure, world building, character development, and deadlines.
• creatives new to TV writing who want structured direction for crafting their project with a flexible schedule for completing weekly lectures and exercises.

You will submit your work to a Sundance Advisor for written feedback at two points throughout the 8-week course. For an additional fee, you may elect to meet with your advisor for a 60-minute one-on-one session during the course term.

Do you have an idea for a feature film? Check out our course, Screenwriting: Core Elements (Self-paced).

A limited number of need-based scholarships are available and are considered on a rolling basis as they are received. Those who apply earlier will have a greater chance of getting support. To apply for a scholarship, please complete the registration form and follow the instructions on the left side to fill out a scholarship application.

Sundance Collab provides accommodations and support services to participants with disabilities. Accommodations and services are designed to meet the needs of each participant. Please email us at accessibility@sundance.org to arrange for services.