THE SCRIBBLERS TOOLBOX

"My ever-expanding collection of tips, tools, observations, and topical ephemera for my fellow scribblers to peruse, apply, disseminate, or disregard."

Jesse Alexander

The “Antifragile” mindset.
Jesse Alexander Jesse Alexander

The “Antifragile” mindset.

The hero’s journey to scribbling success is fraught with rejection, criticism, and unpredictability. When you venture into the writing wasteland, it’s critical to tap that uniquely human trait: antifragility.

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You’re not alone!
Jesse Alexander Jesse Alexander

You’re not alone!

A tribe of fellow scribblers provides support, inspiration, and a sense of shared commitment.

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Learn the format to break the format.
Jesse Alexander Jesse Alexander

Learn the format to break the format.

You may have written the best script in Hollywood history, but without proper pro formatting, chances are it’s gonna buy you a one-way ticket on TL;DR airlines!

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Sentences of Successful Scribblers
Jesse Alexander Jesse Alexander

Sentences of Successful Scribblers

Successful scribblers have unique styles that may not strictly adhere to traditional rules and guidelines. However, some commonalities can be observed.

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Sentence Structure
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Sentence Structure

Regarding the structure of sentences, the various types, and how they can be used effectively.

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Nobody talks like that!
Jesse Alexander Jesse Alexander

Nobody talks like that!

Let's sharpen our scribbling skills and explore the four aspects that separate awesome dialogue from the not-so-awesome.

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Can AI facilitate “Deep Work”?
Jesse Alexander Jesse Alexander

Can AI facilitate “Deep Work”?

AI can be an incredibly powerful tool, but it's still a tool. The real power lies in the human capacity for deep work, creative thinking, and strategic decision-making, all complemented by AI.

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Scribblers &  “Deep Work”
Jesse Alexander Jesse Alexander

Scribblers & “Deep Work”

In his book “Deep Work,” author Cal Newport proposes theories and strategies critical for being productive scribblers.

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Caper Crew
Jesse Alexander Jesse Alexander

Caper Crew

Are you ready to dive into the captivating world of heists, schemes, and thrilling adventures? A world that serves as the perfect playground for a team of enigmatic and highly skilled individuals, the Caper Crew.

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Scene Surfing
Jesse Alexander Jesse Alexander

Scene Surfing

Transitions are an essential element of every scribbler's toolbox, serving as a critical bridge between the scenes of your screenplay.

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Procedural vs. Serial: What’s the Difference?
Jesse Alexander Jesse Alexander

Procedural vs. Serial: What’s the Difference?

Two distinct formats that have emerged in the television landscape are procedural and serialized dramatic series. Understanding the differences between these approaches is crucial for writers seeking to create compelling narratives that engage viewers.

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Spooky Scribbles
Jesse Alexander Jesse Alexander

Spooky Scribbles

By crafting scene descriptions that are rich in detail, sensory imagery, and evocative language, scribblers can transport readers to a world of nightmares.

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It’s not a typo, it’s Wabi Sabi.
Jesse Alexander Jesse Alexander

It’s not a typo, it’s Wabi Sabi.

In a world dominated by technology and automation, perfection may seem inevitable. Yet there is a profound value in the imperfect, the fleeting, and the human. This is the essence of Wabi Sabi.

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Gun on the table or under it?
Jesse Alexander Jesse Alexander

Gun on the table or under it?

Anticipation is the thread that weaves tension and emotion into the story, while surprise is the electric jolt, roller-coaster drop, and unexpected detour that catapults the story into uncharted territory.

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Zen vibes of Japanese Ma.
Jesse Alexander Jesse Alexander

Zen vibes of Japanese Ma.

As technology advances, it is essential not to forget the storytelling power of Ma, a Japanese concept that emphasizes the importance of pause, interval, and emptiness in time and space.

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Master your craft, not your tool.
Jesse Alexander Jesse Alexander

Master your craft, not your tool.

The technology of filmmaking can aid us in achieving visual spectacles and streamlining certain processes, but it is our storytelling prowess that truly captivates and moves audiences.

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Animated Scribbling
Jesse Alexander Jesse Alexander

Animated Scribbling

When writing for animation versus live-action, there are key differences and factors to keep top of mind.

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Safe spaces where scribblers “Let it suck.”
Jesse Alexander Jesse Alexander

Safe spaces where scribblers “Let it suck.”

When screenwriters feel safe to express their ideas and perspectives, they are more likely to take risks, challenge conventions, and bring fresh perspectives to the storytelling process. This leads to the creation of diverse, authentic, and resonant narratives that captivate audiences.

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Unleashing Operational Theme
Jesse Alexander Jesse Alexander

Unleashing Operational Theme

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.

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The League of Heroic Scribblers
Jesse Alexander Jesse Alexander

The League of Heroic Scribblers

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.

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