How to Write a Script It is time for you to create your own drama. Your script will be at least 250 words. The task: write a dramatic script for a scene between Creon and Apollo. This conversation would take place at the beginning of Oedipus the King, after Oedipus sends Creon to seek Apollo's advice to save Thebes, and before Creon returns with directions for Oedipus. Your scene must be centered around a theme of your choice and have a specific mood or tone. Follow the steps below to craft your scene. Step 1: The 5 W's. Decide on the who, what, where, when, and why of your scene. Who is included in the scene? Who is speaking? What are they doing? What are they talking about? Where are they in this scene? Where is the setting? When does the scene take place in the course of the story? Why is this scene important? Step 2: Brainstorm. This can be done in many ways. You can create a brain web by placing your central idea or theme in the center, then drawing lines outward, adding supporting details at the end of the lines. Or, if you'd rather, you can simply freewrite your ideas. Put your pen or pencil to paper and begin writing. Consider setting a timer for yourself, and write the entire time. Do not edit as you write, simply get down as many ideas for your scene as you can. Step 3: Outline. Create an outline for your scene based on the six points of plot. Exposition Exposition Rising action Climax Falling action Resolution For your single scene, outline what will happen during each of these six parts. This will give you a solid starting point to work from. Step 4: Rough Draft. Formatting your script can be a little tricky. Follow the sample outline below as you begin to write your rough draft. LOCATION – TIME OF DAY (For example: EXT. FOREST – EARLY MORNING.) CHARACTER NAME IN ALL CAPS Dialogue is inserted here. Whatever you would like the character to say, write it centered in the middle of the page. If you would like to move your character, or add more description in the middle of the dialogue, do this: Character gets up and moves to the other side of the stage. He looks away. CHARACTER (CONT'D) Insert more dialogue here. If you are switching characters and someone is replying, simply change the name as you move on to the next section. For example: NEW CHARACTER'S NAME etc. Note that abbreviations are acceptable and encouraged for descriptors such as EXT for exterior, INT for interior, or CONT'D for continued. Follow this format to write a rough, first draft of your script. Step 5: Revise. A key element in the writing process is self-editing and revision. As the writer, you must review your writing for content issues and technical errors. Read through your script and complete the revision checklist below. Check each box if the statement applies to your paper. If you do not check a box, fix the issue in your script before moving on. My script follows the correct format explained above. My scene contains a well-developed beginning, middle, and end. My scene stays true to the characters of Creon and Apollo. My scene makes sense within the context of Oedipus the King? My scene explicitly states a theme. If not, there is a clear theme implied? My scene has a clear tone/mood. My scene maintains the same tone/mood throughout. My script is free from spelling and capitalization errors. My script contains no grammatical errors. Step 6: Final Draft. Once you have revised your script, submit a typed final draft below.