Script Writing: Write a Pilot Episode for a TV or Web Series (Project-Centered Course) Course Reviews

Throughout the course, students will learn the fundamentals of scriptwriting, including character development, plot structure, and dialogue. They will analyze successful TV and web series pilots and examine how they are structured and crafted.

The course is divided into four main parts:

1. Introduction to Script Writing: Students will learn the basics of script formatting, as well as the elements that make up a successful TV or web series pilot episode.
2. Developing Characters and Story: Students will learn how to create compelling characters and develop a plot that will engage and entertain viewers.
3. Writing the Pilot: Students will apply the knowledge they have learned to create their own pilot episode script.
4. Refining Your Pilot: Students will receive feedback on their script and learn how to revise and refine it to make it even better.

Throughout the course, students will be encouraged to collaborate with their peers and share their work for feedback. By the end of the course, students will have completed a polished script for a TV or web series pilot episode.

Overall, this course is designed for aspiring writers who want to learn how to write a successful script for a TV or web series, and who are willing to put in the time and effort necessary to develop their skills.

Course Content:

The Script Writing: Write a Pilot Episode for a TV or Web Series (Project-Centered Course) course by David Wheeler on Coursera consists of 4 parts and a total of 24 lectures.

Here is the breakdown of the course:

Part 1: Introduction to Writing a TV or Web Series Pilot

• Lecture 1: Introduction to the Course
• Lecture 2: Understanding the TV Landscape
• Lecture 3: What Makes a Great TV Pilot?
• Lecture 4: Coming Up with Your Big Idea

Part 2: Developing Your Characters and Story

• Lecture 5: Creating Characters
• Lecture 6: Writing Your Logline
• Lecture 7: Creating Your Show's World
• Lecture 8: Mapping Out Your Pilot Story

Part 3: Writing Your Pilot Script

• Lecture 9: Formatting Your Script
• Lecture 10: Writing Act 1
• Lecture 11: Writing Act 2
• Lecture 12: Writing Act 3
• Lecture 13: Crafting Dialogue

Part 4: Revising and Pitching Your Pilot

• Lecture 14: The Revision Process
• Lecture 15: Giving and Receiving Feedback
• Lecture 16: Pitching Your Show
• Lecture 17: Building a Writer's Room
• Lecture 18: Finding Representation

Project: Writing and Pitching Your Pilot

• Lecture 19: Project Introduction
• Lecture 20: Project Milestones
• Lecture 21: Project Resources
• Lecture 22: Project Submission Guidelines
• Lecture 23: Peer Review
• Lecture 24: Course Conclusion and Next Steps

Reviews:

This course is designed to help aspiring writers learn the process of creating a pilot episode for a TV or web series. The course is taught by David Wheeler, who is an experienced writer and producer with credits on popular TV shows.

The course is structured around a project-based learning approach, where students work on developing their own pilot script throughout the course. The course covers topics such as developing characters, creating a compelling story, writing dialogue, and revising and pitching your script.

The course includes a mix of video lectures, quizzes, and peer-reviewed assignments. The course also provides students with access to various resources, including writing prompts, templates, and examples of successful pilot scripts.

Overall, the Script Writing: Write a Pilot Episode for a TV or Web Series (Project-Centered Course) course appears to be a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning how to write a pilot episode. The project-based approach and resources provided in the course can help students develop a solid foundation in scriptwriting and provide them with the skills necessary to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.

At this time, the course has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on over 694 ratings.

What you'll learn:

After completing the Script Writing: Write a Pilot Episode for a TV or Web Series (Project-Centered Course) course on Coursera, students will have developed several key skills that are essential to writing a compelling pilot episode for a TV or web series.

Here are some of the skills that students can expect to gain from this course:

1. Developing a compelling story: Students will learn how to create a story that engages the audience and keeps them hooked from beginning to end. They will learn how to structure their story, create compelling characters, and develop a unique world for their show.

2. Writing dialogue: Students will learn how to write dialogue that sounds natural and authentic. They will learn how to create distinctive voices for their characters and use dialogue to move the story forward.

3. Formatting a script: Students will learn how to properly format a script, including using industry-standard software, creating a title page, and writing scene descriptions.

4. Revising and receiving feedback: Students will learn how to revise their work and receive feedback from others. They will learn how to evaluate their work objectively and make changes that improve the overall quality of their script.

5. Pitching their show: Students will learn how to pitch their show to potential producers and investors. They will learn how to create a pitch document, deliver a pitch presentation, and handle feedback and questions from their audience.

Overall, the Script Writing: Write a Pilot Episode for a TV or Web Series (Project-Centered Course) course provides students with the skills necessary to develop and write a compelling pilot episode for a TV or web series. These skills can be applied to many different areas of the entertainment industry and can help students pursue a career as a writer, producer, or showrunner.

Author:

David Wheeler is a seasoned writer, producer, and teacher with extensive experience in the entertainment industry. He has worked on a wide range of television and web series, including "Insecure," "The Mindy Project," "Grown-ish," and "Dear White People."

Wheeler's expertise in the field of scriptwriting is evident in the Script Writing: Write a Pilot Episode for a TV or Web Series (Project-Centered Course) course that he teaches on Coursera. His teaching style is engaging and insightful, and he provides students with a wealth of knowledge and practical advice.

As a writer and producer, Wheeler has a deep understanding of the creative process involved in developing a successful television or web series. He knows how to create compelling characters, develop a unique world, and tell a story that resonates with audiences. He also has a strong grasp of the technical aspects of scriptwriting, including formatting, dialogue, and structure.

Wheeler's experience in the industry and his commitment to teaching make him an exceptional mentor for aspiring writers and producers. He is able to break down complex concepts and techniques into manageable steps, and he provides students with the guidance and support they need to succeed.

Overall, David Wheeler is a highly respected and accomplished professional in the field of scriptwriting. His knowledge and experience are invaluable resources for anyone looking to pursue a career in the entertainment industry, and his course on Coursera is an excellent way to learn from one of the best in the business.

Requirements:

The course requirements for Script Writing: Write a Pilot Episode for a TV or Web Series (Project-Centered Course) by David Wheeler on Coursera:

1. Access to a computer with an internet connection: Since the course is hosted online, students will need access to a computer and reliable internet connection to complete the course.

2. Basic knowledge of screenwriting: While the course is designed to be accessible to beginners, it is helpful for students to have some prior knowledge of screenwriting concepts and terminology.

3. Time commitment: The course is self-paced, but students should plan to spend 4-6 hours per week working on their pilot episode and completing course materials.

4. Active participation in course activities: Students will be expected to actively participate in course activities, including peer review sessions and discussions with fellow students.

5. Submission of a completed pilot episode: By the end of the course, students are required to submit a completed pilot episode for a TV or web series, which will be reviewed by the course instructor and peers.

6. Peer review assignments: Throughout the course, students will be assigned to review and provide feedback on their peers' pilot episodes.

7. Access to screenwriting software: While not required, students may find it helpful to have access to screenwriting software, such as Final Draft or Celtx, to format their script properly.

8. English proficiency: The course materials and discussions are conducted in English, so students should have a good command of the language to fully participate in the course.

Overall, the course requires a strong commitment to learning and a willingness to engage in the creative process of writing a pilot episode for a TV or web series. Students who meet these requirements will be well-equipped to succeed in the course and develop valuable skills in the field of screenwriting.