Script writer
Also known as: television writer, TV script writer, television script writer, film author, screen writer, movie author
About this occupation
Script writers create scripts for motion pictures or television series. They write a detailed story that consists of plot, characters, dialogue and physical environment.
A specialisation of writer.
Essential skills and knowledge
- writing techniques
- deliver a sales pitch
- follow work schedule
- use specific writing techniques
- screenwriting theories
- consult information sources
- copyright legislation
- consult with editor
- develop script bible
- consult with production director
- film production process
- write dialogues
Typical tasks and preparation
From the related US occupation profile Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers (O*NET 27-3043.05). Linked by an official crosswalk: related, not identical; details vary by country.
- Write fiction or nonfiction prose, such as short stories, novels, biographies, articles, descriptive or critical analyses, and essays.
- Develop factors such as themes, plots, characterizations, psychological analyses, historical environments, action, and dialogue to create material.
- Revise written material to meet personal standards and to satisfy needs of clients, publishers, directors, or producers.
- Choose subject matter and suitable form to express personal feelings and experiences or ideas, or to narrate stories or events.
- Prepare works in appropriate format for publication, and send them to publishers or producers.
- Conduct research to obtain factual information and authentic detail, using sources such as newspaper accounts, diaries, and interviews.
- Typical education (US)
- Bachelor's Degree
- Preparation
- Job Zone 4 of 5
- Interests
- Artistic, Investigative, Enterprising
Top skills: Writing, Reading Comprehension, Speaking, Critical Thinking, Active Learning, Active Listening
US median pay: US$76,910 a year (2025), 47,940 employed. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.
Subjects this work relies on
How important each subject's knowledge is in the job itself, rated by people doing it (1 to 5).
- English or Literature in EnglishO*NET: English LanguageExtremely important (4.7)
- Media StudiesO*NET: Communications and MediaVery important (4.0)
- Computer StudiesO*NET: Computers and ElectronicsImportant (3.4)
- Fine Art or Music or Drama and TheatreO*NET: Fine ArtsImportant (3.1)
O*NET data describe work in the United States; requirements differ by country. This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. CareerProof Global has modified all or some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.
Preparation needed
Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed
- Most common education (US)
- Bachelor's Degree
- Education
- Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
- Experience
- A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
- Training
- Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
O*NET data describe work in the United States; requirements differ by country. This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. CareerProof Global has modified all or some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.
Related occupations
Occupations O*NET links to this one by similar work, skills and knowledge.
- Writers and Authors
- Editors
- News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists
- Producers and Directors
- Technical Writers
- Film and Video Editors
- Proofreaders and Copy Markers
- Music Directors and Composers
- Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators
- English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
O*NET data describe work in the United States; requirements differ by country. This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. CareerProof Global has modified all or some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.