By the end of this course, you will be able to develop a strong story idea using the five pillars of storytelling, build compelling characters, structure your screenplay with sequences and turning points, and prepare a professional logline, synopsis, and treatment to attract a producer.

Jump-Start to Screenwriting: Write Your First Script

Jump-Start to Screenwriting: Write Your First Script
This course is part of Film & Video Storytelling: Screenwriting, Shooting & Editing Specialization

Instructor: Skillshare
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February 2026
4 assignments
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There are 4 modules in this course
This module introduces the core principles behind modern screenwriting. Learners explore what makes a story work today, how strong ideas are built, and why audience engagement is central to every storytelling decision. By grounding creative instincts in clear narrative foundations, learners begin developing stories with intention and awareness.
What's included
4 videos1 reading1 assignment
This module focuses on how characters function within a story rather than how they behave in real life. Learners examine conflict, consequence, and transformation, while uncovering why audiences care more about meaning than outcomes. The lessons emphasize clarity, restraint, and purposeful storytelling choices that keep viewers engaged.
What's included
5 videos1 assignment1 discussion prompt
This module brings structure and intention to the writing process. Learners explore practical tools, sequence-based structure, and the forces that propel stories forward. By connecting plot mechanics to deeper meaning, learners gain strategies for shaping stories that feel purposeful, cohesive, and engaging.
What's included
4 videos1 assignment1 discussion prompt
The final module shifts from craft to career mindset. Learners focus on presenting ideas professionally, building consistent writing habits, and refining creative judgment over time. The module encourages learners to think beyond a single script and view screenwriting as an ongoing, evolving practice.
What's included
3 videos1 assignment1 peer review1 discussion prompt
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To access the course materials, assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience when you enroll in a course. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid. The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.
When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile.
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