Chapter 15: Rewriting

As mentioned in the earlier chapter, screenwriting is rewriting – and this process can be both fun and daunting. The thing to remember is that your work is never really done – your goal is to get it “done enough” so that you can move from the writing phase into the producing phase, where you start to shop your script around, enter screenwriting contests or put it into production.

It’s important to keep in mind that screenwriting is a collaborative art. The writer gives birth to the script, but many key players will have a hand in bringing this “baby” to life on the big screen.

Tips for making the most of your rewrite

Proof it. The importance of proper grammar, punctuation, spelling and formatting in your screenplay can not be stressed enough. Every script is your calling card and your opportunity to show your industry colleagues that you’re a pro.

No matter how engaging your script is, if you have typos throughout, the reader, consciously or unconsciously, could consider your script subpar – and there’s no need for that.

Ask a friend or family member to read your work to correct any writing errors before you share it.

Hire a script analyst to give you professional feedback, not only on your story structure and character development, but on your writing as well.

Set your script aside for a few days and go back to it with fresh eyes. You’ll often catch some of those “hidden” errors this way.

Read your script through several times, each time focusing on a different aspect of the script:

• Typos
• Formatting errors
• Action and description
• Verb usage
• Dialogue
• Plot points/timing

Learn how to give and receive feedback

This is an important step in the process and will help you keep your sanity and your self-esteem as your work of art, that you’ve poured your heart and soul into, is judged, questioned and

Here’s a helpful guide on feedback etiquette.

Be polite – listen quietly and attentively when screenplays are read. You have the right to “pass” on reading a part, but be prepared to participate with feedback.

How to give feedback

Start with what you liked. What worked for you? How did the characters and the dialogue make you feel? Was the description/action clear and compelling?

If something didn’t work for you or was confusing, or you notice formatting errors, tell the writer, but be considerate. Thoughtful, constructive feedback goes a long way. And remember – soon it will be your turn to have your script read!

How to receive feedback

Listen with an open mind. Don’t defend or over-explain your story. If you have to, then it’s not clear to begin with.

Take notes and perhaps make changes in future drafts.

Genuinely consider all opinions – perhaps you’ll get a new perspective on your story or find that something you thought was clear isn’t coming through to the reader. Then, accept what rings true to you and leave the rest.