A writer/producer often oversees the writing to ensure that what is
written can be filmed, weighing such considerations as sound stage avail-
ability and budget limitations. "You're responsible as a writer/producer
to trim the script down to budget and still keep it interesting," says
writer/producer Peter Dunne. "There is a way to write it that is just as
colorful and less expensive."
Episodic television writer/producers are responsible for the quality of
production, making budgetary choices that balance cost against value.
The writer/producer may also assign directors to the different episodes;
oversee casting, the hiring of crew, and all aspects of production; and
coordinate post-production. They also work with the writing staff.
Special Skills and Education
Write. Hone your craft by immersing yourself in writing spec scripts
over and over again. The way to develop your writing skills is to keep
writing.
Speaking of attending college or film school, Dunne says, "I think it's
great to study, because you find yourself [through] study, but it doesn't
guarantee you a job. It doesn't better your chances of getting a job unless
you make connections while you're in school. Like studying art, sooner
or later you have to go out and make your own paintings. All the study-
ing in the world isn't going to get you your first sale."
Advice for Someone Seeking This Job
Dunne suggests watching a lot of television to determine what type of
writing appeals to you most: drama, like Ed or the Gilmore Girls, some-
thing political like West Wing, or criminal like C.S.I: Crime Scene
Investigation or Law & Order, and start writing in that genre. "There are so
many screenplays available to every person now, at specialty bookstores
and online. Go to scripts.com and buy some, or visit the WG [Writer's
Guild] offices downtown and read scripts. Read episodic pilots. Immerse
yourself. The trick to writing and becoming a writer is to write. That's the
trick most people avoid. They want to plan around it and educate and
theorize and learn about writing theory. Sit down and write, and you
learn to write. Just write one screenplay after another, one episodic spec
script after another, and keep going. They don't take a long time to write.
Keep writing until you can attract an agent, and off you go."
It is a myth that you need to have sold something to get an agent.
Dunne says your writing will get you an agent, "then the agent will get
you the job, if your writing is any good at all." Check with the Writers
Guild to find out when they are hosting events where writers can meet
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