Fundamental skills for aspiring screenwriters
- Written byCarys Thomas
- Published date 14 August 2025
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Writing a compelling screenplay isn’t just about having a great idea – it's about developing the right skills and techniques to keep your audiences engaged.
Our range of screenwriting short courses offer the perfect way to sharpen your skills and take the next step in your writing journey.
In this guide, we'll look at some of the fundamental skills for aspiring screenwriters, from visual storytelling to research.
We’ll also share some top tips from screenwriter and UAL Short Courses tutor, David Lemon. David teaches a number of our screenwriting courses including Writing a Horror Film Online Short Course, Writing a TV Pilot Online Short Course and Writing a Short Film Online Short Course. Read our interview with David.
What skills do screenwriters need?
Research
Research skills are essential for screenwriters - this is what will set your screenplay apart. Research will add authenticity to your story, whether it's about real or imagined events. Conducting background research into your character's profession, for example, will make them more believable and enable audiences to step into their world.
David recommends reading professionally produced scripts "to get a sense of what films and TV series looked like on the page before the cameras started rolling."
Visual storytelling
Visual storytelling engages audiences on a deeper level, making it a very important skill for aspiring screenwriters. Don’t be tempted to just describe a character’s internal thoughts or actions; focus on how to show them instead. Use vivid imagery and think about how visually impactful your scenes will be.
"If you have a great idea, pitch it to a friend," David advises. "When are they hooked? When does their interest wander?"
Scene construction
Producing a well-structured screenplay is all about building each scene with a clear objective. Think about how each individual scene will move the story forward and maintain the audience’s interest. Having a clear understanding of how to structure your story will help you create a practical framework for your writing.
"When watching films and TV, have a think about the underlying story structure," says David, "How does the story hook you? What’s at stake for the characters?"
Creative resilience
Creative resilience - perhaps the most vital skill for aspiring screenwriters. Breaking into the industry can be tough and rejection and setbacks are all part of the journey. It’s important to develop resilience and keep pushing forward. Remember, the creative process is full of ups and downs, but each one will bring you closer to finding your voice as a writer.
"Don’t beat yourself up if you don’t feel you have a story worth telling," says David. "All writers have those moments, so it’s important to feed your creativity with new experiences. Even taking a walk can spark an idea."
The art of screenwriting: essential techniques
Our top screenwriting tips on how to write a screenplay:
- Keep an open mind to find inspiration: read and watch as much as you can, expose yourself to new ideas and be open to new perspectives. This will build your understanding of different writing styles, genres and ideas, expand your vocabulary and improve your critical thinking skills.
- Be bold: whether you’re an experienced filmmaker or an aspiring screenwriter, writing takes courage. Be prepared to step outside of your comfort zone, take creative risks and follow your instincts. Stay true to your creative vision and make the choices that work for you. "Try to get in the habit of writing every day," says David, "even if it’s just a few loosely connected story ideas."
- Build your confidence by sharing your work: as a writer, sharing your work in progress can feel incredibly daunting, but it is also essential if you want to improve your writing and find out what works and what doesn’t. Many of our creative writing courses include practical group feedback sessions that offer the opportunity to share and receive constructive feedback in a supportive environment.
The benefits of taking a short course in screenwriting
From playwriting to storyboarding for animation, learn how to develop, visualise and communicate your screenplay effectively with a short course in screenwriting.
Taking a short course is a great way to demystify the creative process. Learn essential screenwriting principles for commercial and creative projects and discover how to produce your own original screenplay.
Our screenwriting short courses include:
Writing a TV Pilot Online Short Course
Taught through a combination of lectures, practical exercises and discussions, this 6-week course will give new writers a greater understanding of screenwriting and the challenges involved in writing a compelling pilot that leaves audiences wanting more. Find out more.
Writing a Horror Film Online Short Course
Dive into the fascinating history of horror on screen and its many subgenres and learn how to produce your own original screenplay with this online creative writing course. The course is led by screenwriter David Lemon, whose screenwriting credits include FAINTHEART (Film4) starring Eddie Marsan and CONTAINMENT, a pandemic thriller on Netflix. Find out more.
Ideas for Successful Scriptwriting Short Course
Learn how to generate and refine ideas for successful screenplays and plays with this practical short course at Central Saint Martins. Over 14 steps, this unique and innovative course offers techniques and skills to connect your writing with successful themes and ideas. Find out more.
Screenwriting Beginners Online Short Course
If you want to write a script but aren't sure where to start, this course is for you! Learn the tricks of the trade in a fun and supportive environment from a screenwriter and tutor (David Lemon) with writing credits on TV, radio and shorts and years of teaching experience. Find out more.
Writing a Short Film Online Short Course
Gain an understanding of the short film form with this inspiring online short course. Learn about the history of the short film and receive practical support in overcoming creative obstacles as you start to get your ideas onto the page or screen. Find out more.
Boost your writing skills and start your creative journey with a short course. Explore our upcoming short courses to see what’s coming up.
