You want to write your TV show. Many writers are now turning to the internet to bring their TV ideas to life as web series. It’s a great way to share your work, improve your writing, and potentially advance your career.
Bizzo Casino Bonus has changed gaming by providing fast rewards. The digital world has also shifted how creators share their work. Web series give you a speedier and more flexible way to enjoy entertainment than regular TV.
How is writing a web series different from writing for traditional TV? We’ll examine how web writing differs from conventional TV formats. We’ll also explore what it means to be a screenwriter today.
The Audience
To build your audience and brand, effective marketing is essential. You need to understand who’s watching and where. This helps you know how traditional TV differs from web series. It also guides the type of content and stories you should create for your audience.
Who Watches Traditional TV?
Traditional TV aims to reach a broad audience, appealing to different ages and genders. Broadcast TV typically attracts an older audience. The median age is around 50 years. Most viewers are Baby Boomers and Gen X. Streaming services attract them too. Yet, Millennials and Gen Z prefer these platforms more. Who watches web series?
This is where youth rules. Gen Z and Gen Alpha, born between 1997 and 2024, often watch videos on YouTube and other online platforms. These include TikTok and Instagram Reels. Younger viewers usually prefer quick, short videos, so if you’re creating a web series, you’re likely writing for them.
The Story Engine
Just like your car engine, the story engine of your TV show keeps things moving. It powers the plot, characters, and themes. This promise gives rise to many storylines and episodes.
Traditional TV Story Engine
Some TV shows have aired for many years, running season after season. It’s commonly believed that longer shows bring more success to all parties involved. That’s why TV networks often ask for a series bible—a detailed guide to your show’s structure and direction. A series bible includes several key elements. First, it has a one-page pitch and a logline. Then, it details the story engine and character breakdowns. It also contains the pilot script. Additionally, it outlines future seasons and describes what those episodes will look like.
Shows that get greenlit for many seasons often have different writers join and leave. This can happen even if the series’ plot stays the same, or should. TV seasons usually include anywhere from six to 22 episodes each year.
Web Series Story Engine
A web series usually tells a complete story in one or two seasons, with 8 to 10 episodes per season. You don’t need to plan for many seasons or worry about long-term storylines. Unlike traditional TV, the focus isn’t on keeping the story going forever. You get to tell your story how you want, at your own pace.
The Format
Regardless of the format, compelling storytelling requires a strong structure. It must have well-developed characters, an engaging plot, and a convincing conflict. Yet, their execution is not the same.
The Format of Traditional TV
TV scripts are usually longer, especially for traditional formats. Sitcoms are about 25–40 pages, while dramas can go up to 65. Broadcast shows often include breaks for commercials. Streaming scripts, yet, don’t need these breaks. Most scripts still follow a three-act format, typically comprising A, B, and C plots. The A-story is the primary focus of the episode. The B-story runs alongside it and may connect with the A-story. The C-story is a short, light subplot. It’s a standard device in sitcoms and is often used for comedic effect.
The Format of Web Series
Web series episodes are usually shorter than traditional TV ones. Scripts can range from 5 to 50 pages, but most are kept under 20. If it’s a quick episode, think of it more like writing a short sketch. Keep your script under five minutes. A tighter script means a shorter format. You’ll likely use a small cast, one primary setting, and simple production. Your story needs a clear three-act structure. Concentrate on one central conflict. There’s no need for extra subplots, such as B or C stories.
For inspiration, check out how Video Game High School handled its format. Their script had 114 pages. Instead of a film, it was split into nine episodes. In that case, the whole script became the entire season.
Writing for the web is very different from writing for TV. It’s easier to share your work online. And that’s the most significant takeaway here. And if your goal is to break into the TV world, you’re on the right track! Write that pilot. Shop it around. Meet with as many people as possible. Yet, don’t sleep on the tremendous opportunity to get your writing produced on the web. Next time you write, try creating a funny skit. These skits often go viral on TikTok and YouTube.