Coined by acclaimed television writer Javier Grillo-Marxuach, Operational Theme serves as a guiding principle that fuels the narrative and creates long-lasting, engaging TV stories.

Whether it's the camaraderie of a D&D party or the collaboration of a team of television writers, the synergy of creative minds coming together can result in storytelling magic.

“Television is about creating characters driven by internal forces that, melded to the right situation, can fuel every action, every line, every scene, and every plot for hundreds of successful episodes.” Javier Grillo Marxuach

Whether it's a bomb ticking down, a looming deadline, or the time-sensitive quest of Commando Arnie to save his daughter from kidnappers, putting a clock on critical story elements can raise the stakes and drive your narrative.

When it comes to crafting a compelling television season, taking inspiration from the structure of a movie can be a game-changer.

The act of walking has been recognized as a catalyst for fresh ideas and renewed imagination.

By embracing innovation and daring to be different, you can create something that captures the imagination and leaves a lasting impact on your audience.

The blank page can be intimidating, and it's easy to get stuck trying to come up with the perfect beginning, middle, and end. But there are certain scenes that are expected in almost every genre. By incorporating these scenes, you can create a solid foundation and get the ball rolling.

Let’s talk about the importance of identifying the emotions you want your audience to feel while watching your movie or show.

Is your main character active in the story? Do they have a specific skill set they are great at, and are they constantly screwed over by obstacles?

The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), is a personality assessment tool that can help you develop complex, nuanced characters that jump off the page.

The "5 Whys" technique is a problem-solving method that was developed by Sakichi Toyoda, the founder of Toyota. This technique can help you dig deeper into your characters' motivations and the underlying themes of your story.

Dictation can be a valuable tool for screenwriters looking to add variety to their writing process. Here are some ways dictation can enhance the craft

Some reasons why giving your characters a boss can be a valuable addition to your writing toolbox.

In this TL;DR world, the quicker your script reads, the more likely that people will read it. These tips should help you clean up that messy first draft.

Are your characters visually memorable enough to stand out in a sea of cosplayers at San Diego Comic Convention? It’s a question worth considering for any writer looking to create characters that will capture the imaginations of audiences both on and off the page.

Compelling introductions for your characters is your chance to make a lasting impression on your audience and set the tone for the character's journey.

From providing emotional support to offering comic relief, sidekick characters can add depth, complexity, and a layer of human connection to your screenplay.

Whether you're writing a thriller, romance, or comedy, consider how these 17 beats could help you craft a story that keeps your audience on the edge of their seat.