Why every screenwriter Needs to Outline their Screenplay

Some screenwriters love it, other writers hate it. But no matter where you stand on the topic, you can’t refute the benefits of the outlining phase of your script writing process. In this article, we are covering the importance of the outline with TPP Story Expert, Carlton.

WHY YOU NEED TO OUTLINE YOUR SCREENPLAY

Outlining is a very important step in your screenwriting process. You are able to make sure that your structure is solid and can track the beats of the screenplay. Once you complete the first draft of your screenplay and receive notes, you can return to your outline to begin to work out some of the issues. Knowing how to effectively outline is a great tool for any writer, no matter your level. We had the opportunity to have an exclusive interview with TPP Story Expert, Carlton, and get his take on why outlining is so important for the screenwriter.

ALL ABOUT OUTLINING WITH TPP STORY EXPERT CARLTON

Wow, we’re so excited to be able to have this chat with you! Before we dive into things can you tell us a bit about yourself? 
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My Name is Carlton and I'm a Story Expert at TPP. I handle Development Notes, Jam Sessions and Workshops. I've worked on primetime shows for Warner Bros., The WB (now the CW), Fox and Nickelodeon. I was also a Big Break Semifinalist and Austin Film Festival Second-Rounder. I currently have a 1-hour pilot being shopped around.

Oh, that’s exciting. Congrats! Clearly, you’re a writer, so I’m sure you have outlined many screenplays before. Can you speak to the importance of outlining and why writers shouldn’t skip this step?

Outlining is important for several reasons. In my opinion, the most important reason is it's the best way to effectively and efficiently get your story on the page in script form.
We definitely agree there! Outlining can save so much time for a writer in the long run. So tell me, what would you say to a new writer who decides to skip the outlining phase? 

I hear a lot of writers say, "I don't like to outline. It stifles my creativity," or "I'm a pantser." (I write by the seat of my pants). My advice would be to look at outlining as a way to enhance your creativity rather than stifling it. Outlining is writing too, so who says you can't be creative in your outline?

I love that philosophy! Outlining can be creative too. And it all leads toward the ultimate goal of having a well-crafted screenplay. So, you have a workshop coming up this week! What can writers expect to learn?

In this week's workshop, writers can expect to not only learn the importance of outlining, but, equally important, they will learn the nuts and bolts of HOW to outline effectively. Along those lines, we'll be reviewing examples of good and bad outlines so writers can see the difference, and really drive home why outlining is a necessary skill if you plan to make writing your profession.

Thank you for speaking with us and I’m sure it’s going to be an awesome workshop!

OUTLINING RESOURCES

Looking to up your outlining game? Then be sure to check out our Outlining Workbook Packages for features or television, the ultimate guide for setting up your screenplay!
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Happy Writing!

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author

Khadija Roane is a Magna Cum Laude graduate from the illustrious Howard University where she received her BFA in Theatre Arts. Khadija then graduated from UCLA's MFA Producers program where she interned in film and television development at MACRO, Vertigo Films, Gamechanger Films, and Pamplona Productions before working as a Scripted TV Assistant at WME. She has placed in the Pittsburgh Shorts Screenwriting Competition and the Atlanta Film Festival, and received the Barbara Boyle Promising Producer Award. Khadija lives in Los Angeles where she is an independent filmmaker and a Story Expert at The Professional Pen.