Writing Your First TV Series
If you have ever dreamed of writing a television series and didn't know where to start, this beginner's guide is designed for you. The course will start by exploring the different kinds of television and streaming series and how to write for each type. For example, is your series idea scripted such as Emily in Paris, Yellowstone, or Wheel of Time? Or is your series unscripted such as Love It or List It, Love Island or Project Runway? Next, the course will look at screenplays, how do you read a screenplay and why are they formatted the way they are. Using visual tools, this course aims to explore your creative ideas and put them into a recognizable television format. Writing assignments will focus on elements such as a series synopsis, episode ideas, character bios, storylines, overall series tone and your own personal statement of why you are the right person to create and write this series.
Hi, I’m Cynthia Hsiung
I have been a Television and Film professional for over 30 years with titles including Executive Producer, Director, Writer and Development Executive for companies including HBO, Warner Bros., Viacom MTV Networks, Renaissance Pictures under Universal Studios to name a few. My favorite title these days is Instructor and TV Career Mentor. I regularly teach courses for UCLA's Extension Writers Program and have been the International Expert and Trainer for the Singapore ProducersLab 2020 and 2021. Everyone loves television but having a creative career in TV can be an elusive prospect. I specialize in the areas of series development, screenplay writing, producing and showrunning. I can help you figure out how to get started, what skills you should learn and what steps you can take to make your television dreams become a reality. Looking forward to working with you!
New Original TV Series Each Year
There has been an upward demand for original television series every year for the last two decades (with the one exception being the pandemic year).
What is a Series Bible?
When conceiving a new original TV or streaming series, you will need to assemble multiple display documents. The Series Bible is one of these documents
Pilot Script vs. Spec Script
When creating an original series, you will need to have a good pilot screenplay ready. You may also need a spec script to serve as a writing sample.
Course Curriculum
Creating a Television or Streaming Series Starts Today!
