I have several screenplays in work at any given time. Some are in the 5th re-write others are only partially done and everywhere in-between. Do you do the same? It sounds like I bounce around a lot but I really I do try to stay focused on one script at a time, but sometimes it’s nice to cleanse the pallet especially after a mile stone like finishing a major re-write, or finishing the first rough draft or sometimes when I hit a roadblock in a story. However I don’t want to end up with a bunch of half finished products. So ... How do you write?
Screenwriting : How do you write? by Rick Hardin
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I stack my projects: 1 draft that I'm actually writing, 1 script that I'm doing prep work (bios, outlining, treatment, etc.) and 1 concept that I'm researching for future prep work. Sometimes I spend too much time finishing the first draft and that definitely takes the bloom off the rose on a project, so I'm teaching myself to vomit draft just to get it finished and on paper. My last vomit draft took 2-3 weeks, and that's fast for me. I don't like having half-finished scripts - it makes me feel like a quitter. Maybe the reason why you have a bunch of half finished scripts is because you're not really in love with them. This is where detailed prep work can filter out the half baked ideas versus the ones that have real potential. Anyway, just my 2 cents.
I do love the sense of completion so I don’t really hop around too much. Like Lyse said it’s often when I waiting for feedback and even after I get the feedback I need to mentally chew on it to figure out what I agree with and how I could make my script better. I need time to formulate a plan. Since most of that is done in my head and not on my computer I tend to jump to another script, especially one that I love to rejuvenate my creative juices. I’ve got three scripts in the re-write stages and like Lyse pointed out “they’re never really finished.” I’ve also got a couple others that are first drafts but I’ve hit a wall and until my brain figures out a solution they sit patiently until I can get back to them. I even have a couple of stories that I’ve been researching. Thanks for your comments!
One at a time. If another idea strikes me, I write it down and put in my idea file. I don't allow myself to be distracted from the task at hand otherwise I find it to easy to procrastinate. Discipline is the only thing that works for me.
Rick, I don't write screenplays, but I have written books and numerous other publications. I don't think there is a right or wrong way when it comes to writing. If it works, go with it. If it doesn't, then there are tips and tricks to get that creative mind processing again. Getting the words on paper is the first step, THEN editing, but I admit when it comes to writing articles and blog posts, I don't always listen to my own message, which is why I think I don't write very fast...although I can write faster when it's a marketing piece. Hmmm. Anyway, do what's right for you and learn tips from the rest. :)
Like you Rick, I tend to jump over the place. I currently have a thriller and a comedy side by side unfinished and sometimes when I hit a roadblock on both...I pen a short :D
Hey Rick, do what works best for you. :) I tend to work on one script at a time. However, I do play around with other ideas while writing that one script. I'll write log lines, figure out what's next, get 'em on deck.