When it comes to pilots that make a big splash, Taylor Sheridan makes the biggest waves. The guy has become a TV cultural ...

But if you break it down into its discrete parts—the type of script, a strong premise, solid plot, believable characters, and clear structure—scriptwriting becomes less daunting. JUMP TO 1.

“Character, character, character!” “ Watchmen ” showrunner Damon Lindelof thinks if you repeat the word three times, “we can express exactly how important it is” to a great script.

3. Break down the script. Once you’ve finished your initial read (and taken a break), reread the script and break it down scene by scene. Consider arcs: Does your character change from ...