Breaking into the screenwriting industry can feel overwhelming, especially when you don’t have any formal experience. But here’s the good news you don’t need big Hollywood credits to create an impressive screenwriting resume. A well-structured resume can highlight your skills, passion, and potential, even if you haven’t sold a script yet.
This guide will show you how to build a compelling screenwriting resume from scratch, step by step. You’ll also find unique examples, useful tips, and frequently asked questions to help you navigate your journey as an aspiring screenwriter.
1. Understand What a Screenwriting Resume Is
A screenwriting resume is different from a traditional job resume. Instead of focusing on past work experience, it emphasizes your writing skills, projects, and industry-related knowledge. This document helps producers, directors, and script coordinators understand what you bring to the table.
Key Sections of a Screenwriting Resume:
- Contact Information (Name, Email, LinkedIn, Portfolio Link)
- Summary or Objective
- Writing Experience (Even if Unpaid)
- Education & Training
- Skills & Expertise
- Awards & Recognitions
- Professional Memberships (if any)
- Portfolio & Samples
2. Start with a Strong Summary
Since you don’t have formal experience, your summary should highlight your passion, dedication, and writing strengths.
Example:
Passionate screenwriter with a strong ability to craft compelling stories. Skilled in creating engaging characters and dynamic dialogue. Completed multiple personal screenwriting projects, including short films and feature-length scripts. Eager to contribute creativity and storytelling expertise to industry professionals.
If you have a niche or specific genre you prefer writing in, mention that as well. For example:
Aspiring horror screenwriter with a talent for creating suspenseful narratives and unexpected twists. Enthusiastic about bringing fresh, spine-chilling stories to the screen.
This summary reassures potential employers that you are serious about your craft, even if you’re just starting.
3. Showcase Your Writing Projects
Even if you haven’t been paid for your work, include any scripts you’ve written. Employers want to see your writing skills, not just your experience.
Example Format:
Title of Script | Type (Short Film, Feature, Web Series) | Genre
Brief description (1-2 sentences about the script).
Example:
“Shadows of the Past” | Feature Film | Psychological Thriller
A struggling journalist discovers a hidden conspiracy that threatens to change history.
If you have uploaded any of your scripts on platforms like Coverfly, The Black List, or your personal website, provide links. If you haven’t, consider creating a portfolio on Google Drive or a personal blog.
Tip: Even a script idea or draft can be included if you describe it well.
4. Highlight Relevant Education & Training
If you’ve taken any screenwriting courses, workshops, or even attended free webinars, list them. Education shows your willingness to learn and improve.
Example:
- Screenwriting Masterclass by Aaron Sorkin – MasterClass (Online)
- Creative Writing for Film & TV – Coursera
- Beginner’s Guide to Scriptwriting – Udemy
- Film Studies and Storytelling Techniques – Local Community College
Even self-learning through books like Save the Cat or The Screenwriter’s Bible can be mentioned in a “Self-Education” section.
5. List Transferable Skills
Since you don’t have professional experience, focus on skills that are crucial for screenwriting.
Important Skills to Include:
- Strong storytelling ability
- Character development
- Dialogue writing
- Understanding of screenplay structure (e.g., three-act structure)
- Research and adaptation
- Collaboration and communication
- Script formatting (Final Draft, Celtx, or Fade In software)
Unique Tip: If you’ve written short stories, blogs, or even social media scripts, these can also showcase your writing skills.
6. Add Any Competitions, Awards, or Recognitions
Even if you haven’t won, submitting scripts to contests shows initiative and effort.
Example:
- Quarterfinalist – Austin Film Festival Screenwriting Competition (2024)
- Official Selection – Shore Scripts Short Film Contest (2023)
- Participated in NYC Midnight Screenwriting Challenge
If you haven’t submitted to any competitions yet, consider doing so. It’s a great way to build credibility.
7. Mention Memberships & Networking Efforts
Being a part of industry-related organizations adds professionalism to your resume.
Example Organizations:
- Screenwriters Network (Online Forums)
- The Black List (Screenplay Hosting)
- Stage 32 (Filmmaking Community)
- Local Writer’s Guild (If applicable)
Joining these communities helps in networking and learning from experienced writers.
8. Include a Portfolio or Writing Samples
Since experience is limited, showcasing your work is crucial. Create a simple portfolio:
- Personal website or blog with sample scripts
- Google Drive or Dropbox folder with PDFs of your best scripts
- Coverfly or The Black List profile
Add a link to your portfolio at the bottom of your resume.
9. Keep the Resume Simple & Professional
Tips for Formatting:
- Use a clean, professional font (Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri)
- Keep it one page long
- Use bullet points for easy readability
- Save as a PDF format before sending
Example Layout:
[Your Name]
[Your Email] | [Your LinkedIn or Website] | [Your Phone Number]
Summary:
Brief paragraph about your passion and skills.
Screenwriting Projects:
List of personal projects with descriptions.
Education & Training:
Courses, workshops, and self-learning.
Skills:
List relevant writing skills.
Competitions & Recognitions:
List any awards or script submissions.
Memberships:
Screenwriting groups and networking efforts.
Portfolio:
[Insert a link to your work]
FAQs
1. Can I include fan-fiction or YouTube scripts in my screenwriting resume?
Yes! If you’ve written scripts for YouTube videos, short films, or even fan-fiction in screenplay format, include them as writing samples.
2. Do I need a film degree to get hired as a screenwriter?
No, but having relevant coursework or training can be helpful. Many professional screenwriters are self-taught.
3. How can I gain screenwriting experience without a job?
Start by writing short films and collaborating with indie filmmakers. You can also participate in writing challenges and contests.
4. Should I include a cover letter with my screenwriting resume?
Yes! A well-crafted cover letter can help explain your passion and writing journey, making up for lack of experience.
5. How do I get my first screenwriting gig?
Network with independent filmmakers, participate in screenwriting competitions, and showcase your work on social media or screenwriting platforms.
Now go ahead and write your next great screenplay!