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So You Want to Be a Writer?

A guide to careers in writing, screenwriting, and film

Tony B. Richard  |  tonybrichard.com  |  Author & Screenwriter

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Self-Publishing: From Idea to Book

  1. Write your first draft (just get it down!)
  2. Join a critique group — free feedback from other writers
  3. Revise, revise, revise (read it out loud!)
  4. Get beta readers — real people reading your draft for feedback
  5. Hire an editor (developmental, copy, and/or proofreading)
  6. Get your book formatted for print and ebook
  7. Get a professional cover designed
  8. Write your blurb (harder than you think!)
  9. Distribute Advance Review Copies (ARCs)
  10. Upload to Amazon KDP and/or Draft2Digital
  11. Market! (social media, newsletters, group promos)

Screenwriting: Getting Your Script Seen

  • Learn proper screenplay format (Final Draft, WriterSolo)
  • Write a feature (90–120 pages) or TV pilot (30–60 pages)
  • Submit to competitions and festivals via FilmFreeway
  • Join ISA (International Screenwriters’ Association) for opportunities
  • A published book is one of the best paths to Hollywood

Making a Film or Video: Roles You Can Fill

You don’t need to be in Hollywood to work in film. Here are roles needed on any production:

  • Actors & Voice Actors — on camera or behind the mic
  • Camera Operators & Editors — shoot and cut footage
  • Sound & Music — recording, mixing, scoring
  • Set Design & Props — build the world
  • VFX & Animation — digital effects and motion graphics
  • Production Assistants — learn every part of the process

Real Talk: What I’ve Learned

  • Don’t quit your day job (seriously, not yet)
  • Nobody can write the story in your head but you
  • Other writers are your best resource (and it’s free!)
  • Every character thinks they’re the hero of their own story
  • Writer’s block? Look at what’s happening around you
  • It took me 5 years, 6 books, and 8,000+ sales to get here

Key Resources

WRITING & PUBLISHING

SCREENWRITING & FILM

  • FilmFreeway
    Submit screenplays to festivals & contests
  • ISA
    Screenwriting competitions & industry connections
  • Backstage
    Find actors, crew & production opportunities
  • Mandy.com
    Casting & crew for indie film productions

TOOLS

  • AI Tools (Claude, ChatGPT)
    Brainstorming, feedback & research

For more writing resources, author talks, and classroom guides, visit the Reference page.

Currently looking for local talent for a proof of concept video — ask me about it!

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