Screenwriting : Should I pay for someone to teach me how to write a screenplay? Or just buy software? by Yvonne Herr

If you're serious about it definitely invest in the software, a professional can spot when scripts are written in a program not designed for screenwriting. However -- don't rely on the software to teach you 'how to write a screenplay' it's more than proper formatting.

I agree with Nick. Download Celtx for free and read scripts (not shooting scipts). That's how I learnt.

Thanks Nick that was very helpful. I have been wondering about the same thing.

If you're happy to self learn - go to the library and get out books on how to write scripts. There is heaps out there and some a really helpful. Another free software out there is Trelby. Happy writing

There are a great many free resources available to learn the mechanics of writing, and don't discount the public library. Since you've written plays, you might find that grabbing some scripts and reading them might suit you just fine. Stay away from shooting scripts, which probably include technical details unnecessary for your purposes. And take all "rules" advice with a grain of salt. Screenwriting "rules" debates sometimes get as heated as with political ones, with equal results; everyone gets worked up, no one changes their minds, and egos get bruised. :-)

Indeed, I borrowed my screenwriting books from a library. The more of them you read, the more Shelley's point about R.U.L.E.S gets hammered home.

Great question Gwendolyn and many thanks! I come from a stage play background myself and am now writing my own screenplays. I didn't take any training, just used common sense and asked help where needed. I am working with a director now on my web series and the insights are refreshing. So my advise would be and as said so nicely by others as well: just try a free program as said and start writing. And if I may add RawScripts.com. The biggest difference is the directors notes are styled differently and the action is more upfront then in a play. Good luck and please feel free to ask me a question if you like to communicate on this topic further!

Check out Scrivener as a formatting software. It will do any kind of writing format (including plays and screenplays) and it will do a relatively quick job of converting one to the other. And it's not a subscription service, either (my only complaint about Celtx - otherwise, I love it for production).

Proper software will definitely help you. I personally love Final Draft, but have several producers who use the free version of Celtx, so I'm familiar with both. If you have a background as a playwright, you've got the foundations, although there are differences between writing for stage and for screen. Start by reading television/or film scripts... a LOT of scripts...to get a feel for the flow of dialog/description. Check out a bunch of screenwriting resources, like Screenwriting 434 by Lew Hunter. There are tons of great blogs devoted to screenwriting with superb tips. It is also helpful to have at least one other screenwriter you trust to beta-read for you, and run ideas by.

I believe final draft nine is the best to go with, it industry standard , but movie magic is also industry standard. take it from me, do it properly the first time,other wise it will cost you. I made so many mistakes because of it, so eager to rush. But the say better to take your time and do it right the first time, then to have to go back later

Get David Trottier's "The Screenwriter's Bible" and Celtx or Final Draft ( which is on sale right now for $80 bucks!)

Hi Gwendolyn, Yes, get Trottier's Bible. I also suggest you invest in a six month course from screeenwritingu.com. In terms of learning a professional skill set in everything from craft to marketing, it is in my estimation the best 800 you could ever spend. It forces you to write every day, and to learn what makes a high concept that can result in a commercial success.

Writerduet is free. I would also suggest the Screenwriter's Bible. Don't bother with Save the Cat.