by In the highly competitive world of entertainment industry, having an impressive screenwriter resume is crucial for showcasing your skills, experience, and creativity.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a newcomer, a well-crafted document is key to standing out.
This article offers a comprehensive guide to creating an effective resume, featuring detailed samples of resume tailored to various types of screenwriters and the unique skills they bring to the table.
Screenwriter resume examples
TV screenwriter resume
TV screenwriter resume template
TV screenwriter resume sample | Plain text
Jessica Rhodes
Los Angeles, CA
Email: jessica.rhodes@gmail.com
Phone: (389) 854-6345Resume Summary
Dynamic and creative TV Screenwriter with experience writing compelling scripts for prime-time network and streaming television. Proficient in creating complex characters, engaging dialogue, and intricate plotlines across various genres, including drama, comedy, and thriller.
Experience
Staff Writer
The People’s Network, Los Angeles, CA
January 2021 – Present
- Write and develop original scripts for a prime-time TV series, contributing to the development of plotlines and character arcs.
- Collaborate closely with the head writer and producers to ensure story consistency across multiple episodes.
- Participate in writers’ rooms, offering creative input and revising scripts based on feedback from the team and network executives.
- Research topics, themes, and characters to ensure accuracy and relevance in storylines.
Freelance TV Screenwriter
Self-Employed, Los Angeles, CA
May 2016 – December 2020
- Wrote pilot episodes and spec scripts for television series, securing options for several scripts with production companies.
- Developed detailed outlines, character breakdowns, and episode synopses.
- Collaborated with agents and managers to pitch ideas and secure writing assignments for established shows.
- Worked with directors and actors to adapt scripts during the filming process, adjusting dialogue and pacing for on-screen dynamics.
Education
Master of Fine Arts in Screenwriting
University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, CA
Graduated: May 2016
Bachelor of Arts in English Literature
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA
Graduated: May 2012
Certifications
TV Writing and Showrunning
Masterclass
Certification Date: January 2022
Professional Screenwriting Certification
Script University
Certification Date: March 2020
Skills
- Expertise in multi-episode story arcs and character development
- Proficient in Final Draft, Celtx, and screenwriting software
- Strong collaboration skills with writers, producers, and directors
- Ability to write across genres: drama, comedy, thriller, and procedural
- Excellent dialogue-writing and character voice development
Why this TV writer resume example is effective?
- Jessica’s current work as a staff writer at a major TV network highlights her credibility and relevance in the industry.
- Emphasizes her ability to deal within a team and adapt to feedback, which is crucial in the TV industry.
- The certifications demonstrate her commitment to continuous learning and keeping up with trends.
- How to format a resume for screenwriter?
- Use plain fonts. A font like Arial or Calibri is modern, while Times New Roman can give a more classic look.
- The standard size for the body text is 10-12 pt. For headers, use a slightly larger one to distinguish sections.
- Set 1-inch margins on all sides (top, bottom, left, right). This ensures the text is well-aligned.
- If you're an entry-level screenwriter or have fewer than 10 years of experience, aim for a one-page resume.
- At the top of the paper, include your name, title, phone number, email, and a link to your online portfolio.
- Write active verbs to describe your role in each project.
- Do not add personal details like age, marital status, or an SSN.
- Apply short bullet points to convey your experience and skills.
- Proofread your application multiple times to catch any mistakes.
- Utilize relevant keywords to pass through ATS filters.
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Feature film screenwriter resume
Feature film screenwriter resume example
Matthew Stone
New York, NY
Email: matthew.stone@filmwriter.com
Phone: (394) 839-4449Resume Summary
Award-winning feature film screenwriter with a passion for crafting emotionally compelling narratives and intricate character studies. Specializing in drama and independent films, with a strong portfolio of produced works and recognition from industry festivals.
Experience
Screenwriter
The Silver Lantern Films, New York, NY
June 2020 – May 2025
- Wrote and co-wrote original screenplays for independent films, including a feature that premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival.
- Collaborated with directors to refine scripts and bring character-driven stories to life on screen.
- Worked closely with producers to ensure budget-friendly storytelling without compromising creative integrity.
- Managed script revisions, incorporating feedback from studio executives, cast, and crew.
Freelance Screenwriter
Self-Employed, New York, NY
January 2016 – June 2020
- Developed and sold multiple screenplays to production companies, some of which have entered pre-production.
- Specializing in creating compelling, complex characters for low-budget independent films.
- Worked with directors and producers on script rewrites to fit specific genre requirements, budget constraints, and production schedules.
- Built relationships with agents and managers to pitch scripts and negotiate deals.
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film Production
New York University (NYU), New York, NY
Graduated: May 2015
Certifications
Film Scriptwriting Masterclass
Film School Online
Certification Date: June 2021
Screenwriting Workshop Certificate
The Writers Guild of America
Certification Date: September 2019
Skills
- Expert in character-driven storytelling and emotional narrative arcs
- Proficient in Final Draft, Movie Magic Screenwriter, and Celtx
- Strong script editing and rewriting abilities
- Knowledge of film production processes, including budgeting and scheduling
- Strong ability to collaborate with directors and producers to adapt scripts
Awards
- Tribeca Film Festival – Best Screenplay Nominee (2021) for "The Heart of the Storm"
- Independent Spirit Award – Best Emerging Screenwriter (2020)
- New York Film Festival – Winner, Best Short Screenplay (2018) for "Whispers in the Dark"
Portfolio
- Personal Website: www.matthewstonefilms.com
- IMDb: /name/nm1234567/
- LinkedIn: /in/matthewstone
Languages
- Italian: Conversational proficiency
Why this sample screenwriter resume works?
- Including awards from prominent festivals establishes the candidate as a recognized talent in the industry.
- By providing links, the document offers immediate access to a portfolio of work, ensuring the employer can easily find more information on Matthew's past projects.
- The addition of conversational proficiency in Italian adds an extra layer of versatility and international appeal.
- What is the difference between screenwriter resume summary and objective?
| Aspect | Summary | Objective |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Provides a quick snapshot of experience. | States aspirations for the specific role. |
| Content | Focuses on skills, accomplishments, and expertise. | Focuses on what the applicant seeks to achieve in the job. |
| Tone | More factual and results-oriented. | More personal and goal-oriented. |
| Length | 2-4 lines. | 1-2 sentences. |
| Use Case | Suitable for professionals with a track record. | Ideal for entry-level candidates or those changing careers. |
| Example | Versatile comedy writer with experience in both scripted television and feature films. Known for writing fast-paced dialogue, creating memorable characters, and delivering sharp humor. Proven ability to craft stories that balance humor with emotional depth. | Aiming to secure a screenwriting position where I can utilize my academic background and enthusiasm for storytelling to contribute to the development of original scripts. |
- How to organize education on a screenwriting resume?
- List your most recent diploma first, followed by older ones.
- Include the type of the degree or certificate you earned.
- Give the name of the school or institution you attended.
- Outline the city and state (or "Online" for remote courses).
- Define the graduation date.
- Note honors, coursework, theses, or GPA if relevant.
Video game screenwriter resume
Video game screenwriter resume template
Video game screenwriter resume template
Sarah Lee
Seattle, WA
Email: sarah.lee@gmail.com
Phone: (736) 128-8767Resume Summary
Creative video game screenwriter with experience crafting engaging, interactive narratives for AAA games and indie developers. Proficient in writing compelling dialogue, developing branching storylines, and creating immersive worlds that enhance player experience and engagement.
Experience
Lead Narrative Designer
Epic Game Studios, Seattle, WA
March 2022 – Present
- Lead the writing team for a critically acclaimed AAA RPG, responsible for creating the main storyline, side quests, and character dialogue.
- Develop character backstories, dialogue trees, and narrative pacing to enhance the player's emotional connection to the game world.
- Collaborate closely with game designers, artists, and programmers to ensure the narrative is seamlessly integrated with gameplay mechanics.
- Assist in adapting the narrative based on feedback from playtests to ensure player immersion and story engagement.
Narrative Designer
Indie Game Studios, Seattle, WA
August 2017 – February 2022
- Wrote interactive narratives and branching storylines for multiple indie games, with a focus on player choice and consequence.
- Developed dialogues and character interactions for narrative-heavy games in the adventure and puzzle genres.
- Worked closely with voice actors to bring characters to life, ensuring consistency and emotional depth in performances.
- Ensured narrative coherence and continuity across different levels and character arcs in games.
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing
University of Washington, Seattle, WA
Graduated: May 2017
Certifications
Game Narrative Design Certification
Gamasutra
Certification Date: October 2020
Interactive Storytelling for Video Games
Coursera
Certification Date: December 2019
Skills
- Expertise in non-linear storytelling and branching narratives
- Proficient in Twine, Celtx, and Telltale’s Story Builder
- Strong dialogue-writing and character development skills
- Familiar with video game design and mechanics integration
- Experience with voice acting direction and script adaptation
Projects
"Chronicles of the Forgotten Realms" – Lead Narrative Designer
Epic Game Studios, 2023
"Echoes of the Past" – Narrative Designer
Indie Game Studios, 2019
"The Shattered Kingdom" – Narrative Designer
Indie Game Studios, 2021
Conferences
- Game Developers Conference (GDC) – 2023, 2022, 2021
- PAX West – 2022, Moderator
Strong sides of this resume for screenwriter example:
- The opening statement is impactful, highlighting Sarah's creative focus on video game narrative design and her expertise in both AAA and indie games.
- The education section is concise, showing that she has a strong foundation in creative writing from a reputable institution.
- Mentioning involvement in conferences is a great way to show engagement with the industry.
- How to show experience on a screenwriter resume?
- Include clear titles.
- List the company, studio, or platform you worked for.
- Use reverse chronological order, with start and end dates.
- Focus on measurable successes and the impact you had.
- Group freelance roles together if applicable.
- What skills to put on a screenwriting resume?
- Hard skills are teachable abilities or knowledge sets that are typically acquired through education, training, or experience. They are measurable and often require technical knowledge or expertise.
- Soft skills are interpersonal and behavioral traits that dictate how you interact with others and approach tasks. Thy are often subjective but are crucial to building effective relationships and thriving in a collaborative work environment.
Hard skills for a screenwriter resume:
- Screenwriting software proficiency (Final Draft, Celtx, Movie Magic Screenwriter)
- Script formatting and structure knowledge
- Plot development and storyboarding
- Dialogue writing
- Character development and arc creation
- Knowledge of film genres and tropes
- Film production processes
- Understanding of visual storytelling
- Knowledge of film industry standards
- Script analysis and revisions
- Research skills for script development
- Knowledge of copyright laws and intellectual property
- Story pacing and timing
- Editing and proofreading skills
- Experience with collaboration tools (e.g., Google Docs, Trello)
Screenwriter resume soft skills examples:
- Creativity
- Communication (written and verbal)
- Team collaboration
- Adaptability
- Problem-solving
- Time management
- Attention to detail
- Ability to handle feedback and revisions
- Empathy and emotional intelligence
- Persistence and resilience
- Conflict resolution
- Critical thinking
- Networking and relationship-building
- Self-motivation and discipline
- Active listening
Conclusion
Your resume as a screenwriter is one of the most powerful tools for getting noticed in the competitive media industry.
Whether you specialize in TV shows, films, video games, documentaries, or animation, a well-crafted document that highlights your skills, experience, and accomplishments will make you a standout candidate.
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