Outline

Here is just a general breakdown of subjects you will be learning in-depth in this course.

Week 1: Structure, Format & Action

  • 3 Act Structure - breaking a story into beginning, middle and end
  • Turning Points – take the action in different directions
  • Proper Formatting – learn industry standards and techniques
  • Writing Action/Description – the greatest mark of an experienced writer

Week 2: Character & Conflict

  • Building Your Protagonist – explore background, need(s), character flaw(s), and transformation
  • Building Your Antagonist – make your protagonist real, explore need(s) and downfall
  • Types of Conflict – the three major human strains
  • Hallmarks of Great Conflict – techniques to building greater conflict

Week 3: Plot & Subplot

  • Plot by Act – techniques for creating and sustaining the momentum of the film through Act One, Act Two and Act Three
  • The Functions of Subplot – how to use subplots to enhance your story
  • The Structure of Subplot – usually the source of most loose-ends in a story

Week 4: Dialogue & Rewriting

  • Good Dialogue – 6 techniques for improving your dialogue
  • Make It Even Better – a checklist for re-writing to a finished draft

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Help

Have a question? Read the Help page or call The Writers Store at 800-272-8927 (international callers dial 310-441-5151).

Upcoming Sessions

Breaking into Copywriting: Use your Creativity to Kick-Start a New Career

  • Session: Sep 13 - Oct 08
  • Enrollment: Jul 19 - Sep 12

Writing the Screenplay Treatment

  • Session: Sep 13 - Oct 08
  • Enrollment: Jul 19 - Sep 12

Storytelling: How To Write Stories That Will Grab And Hold Your Audience

  • Session: Sep 13 - Oct 08
  • Enrollment: Jul 19 - Sep 12

Testimonials

Breaking into Copywriting was my first online course. I knew it would be informative, but I had no idea how much fun I would have interacting with the superb instructor - and coach - Athena Schultz.

- Roger Delgado