How to Present Story Idea for TV


                                        
There are three ways to present story ideas:

1.      Concepts

2.      Story lines

3.      Synopses

The above is not applicable for beginners. They should write the full script, at least for the first two three instances.  

Very briefly, I’ll describe each story idea.

Concept is the theme (subject) around which a TV series can be developed but which has still not been written. In less than 1 page, the theme should be presented. Concepts can be segregated into:

Situation comedies

Serials (daytime or night-time)

Episodic dramas

Anthologies

Children’s programmes

Religious / educational programmes

Comedy-variety shows

A story line is an elaboration of the concept. This should be done within 3 pages. It’s like the skeleton of the plot. It contains the problem, the names of main characters, and the major crisis and climax.

A synopsis shouldn’t exceed 1 page. The tele script which you have already written should be condensed within that requirement. Basically, you spell out the theme, the conflicts and the resolution.

-          NZ

16.8.2019

Note: For writing this blog, reference was made to The Television Writer's Handbook by Constance Nash and Virginia Oakey.        

       

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