Heard back from a major player in tv. Had good and bad about the show. Ranked the concept of the show in the 98% but as usual the script always needs work. So here's my question. When do you know you need help? When is it time to call in a professional like a script Doctor? I understand I am still new to script writing and just want to improve the project
Screenwriting : High and low by Mark Mantastic
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What does 98% actually mean? U don't need a Script Doctor, u need a Champion of your work. Partner with a Producer or known TV Writer. Use their experience, fame, and Credits to get yourself in the door.
How many scripts have you written? Most writers improve as they go along, I think it's been discussed here before that the average amount of screenplays written before a writer really "gets" it are 8-10. So if you haven't hit that point yet, I'd say keep writing and working to hone your craft.
I'd seek a qualified professional script consultant's advice and guidance. Learning what I don't know is paramount if I want to compete against the professionals and have my work considered to be top shelf. And a great consultant could really identify story/ writing weaknesses, and really help compress that learning curve in ways that pay for itself, and really become invaluable. Good luck, Mark!
Someone else asked a similar question a few days back. Are you the studio or do you represent the studio? They're the ones who should be hiring a script doctor, not you. If you want to run your script past someone for advice, then use a consultant but if it's already in the studio system and you can't fix it, that's when they hire a script doctor.
Every writer needs someone to read their work! I don't think any of us get it all on the page without that. Most scripts are not ready to go out and need a lot of work. Once someone has looked at your script, they might not be ready to look at it again, so doing a couple of extra drafts is crucial. It's a craft, a marathon to get them there :) To me (I am a writer and I work as a script consultant), the difference between professional writers and beginners is often the willingness and ability to a) reach out and b) receive and work with notes. Depending on where you are in your career, you might find a screenwriters' group to be useful or to take a rewriting class before you are ready to spend the money on a consultant. When you are ready for the big time, don't be afraid to invest in someone who will push you and coach you as much as give you coverage!