Course Information
A Word About Story Structure
It is not necessary to come to the first session with a clear idea for a story. In fact, sixty percent of our writers start with a blank canvas or a vague idea.
The course will provide you with profound processes and high-impact techniques that enable you to find and clarify the story and characters you want to write about.
During the course, participants often ask, “How could anyone write a novel or screenplay without having a process like this?”
The Writers’ Studio process allows you to access the power of your imagination while grounding your story in solid structure. This is what creates the magic on the page and helps produce a profound and dramatic experience for your reader.
The Importance of Structure
Ninety percent of novels and screenplays are rejected because of poor structure. This course demystifies story structure so you can harness its power without getting confused or rigid.
Many people can write great scenes and/or have a strong idea or initial incident that they think will make a great story. But an idea, a few good scenes and a dramatic incident is unfortunately rarely enough.
Robert McKee, acclaimed teacher and author of Story, says, “You might have the insights of Buddha, but if you can’t tell a story, your ideas will be as dry as dust. Craft is the sum total of all means used to draw the audience into deep involvement, to hold that involvement and ultimately reward them with a moving and meaningful experience.”
The purpose of structure is to link the action of the story with the character journey so that each scene contributes to the overall character arc and the story builds in a dramatic and logical way, engaging your reader from beginning to end. This is the art and craft of storytelling.
The Power of a Step-by-Step Process
This course’s step-by-step process shows you what to do and when you need to do it, grounding your story in classic story structure while allowing your creativity to flourish and your characters to come alive on the page.
The process will bring out the best in you and your story. You will be amazed at how much your story and characters evolve and deepen over the ten months.
Google Reviews
“The Writers’ Studio is arguably one of the best ways of turning a dream of writing into reality. I know for certain that if I didn’t come across the studio I would be still dreaming of writing one day as opposed to making a significant progress on my first book. These days there is no shortage of available information on the craft of writing as well as a wealth of wisdom from some of the best writers who have ever lived. However, The Writers’ Studio genius lies in their ability to gather all that knowledge, distill the most important information and structure it into a plan which one can clearly follow.” Maria
Course Outcomes
During The Course You Will:
- Develop the broad spine of your story using our Ten-Step Outline before you start writing your actual first draft to make sure your story is structurally sound and has the legs to go the distance of a novel or screenplay.
- Implement strategies to develop, flesh out, and motivate your characters so they feel authentic, unique and come alive on the page.
- Follow a proven step-by-step process that will help you work effectively. The process interacts with our bespoke interactive online tools making sure your story is grounded, kept on track and builds dramatically and logically in the weeks between sessions.
- Learn how to develop a dance between structure and imagination to utilise your creativity while grounding your story in solid story structure.
- Receive guidance, accountability, inspiration and support from your personal tutor to enable you to fully develop the possibilities of your story.
- Develop a regular writing habit – a fundamental ingredient of writing success.
- Learn the essential keys to creating powerful drama full of internal and external conflict using our specialised Scene Templates to bring your scenes alive on the page.
- Develop a deep understanding of classic story structure dynamics by using our 8 Turning Points and 29 Story Steps. This will keep your story on track and make sure you don’t get lost in the dreaded middle, which is where many writers get stuck.
- Learn the art and craft of storytelling. The goal of the first draft is not to write the perfect story, but rather to discover the possibilities of your story and characters.
- Complete your first draft in ten months while taking your main character and yourself on a profound journey of change. A huge achievement.
Course Reviews – Google, Video & Published Authors
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this course for?
This course is designed for writers who are ready to dive into the 10-month process of writing the first draft of their novel or screenplay. The pre-requisite writing course, Unlocking Creativity, is complimentary to anyone who enrols directly into the First Draft Online Course. Unlocking Creativity gives participants a solid foundation in our approach and philosophy and sets you up with key tools and techniques before starting your first draft.
Is this course suitable for scriptwriters?
Yes, if you want to write a screenplay, we recommend writing it in narrative form first. Once you have completed the first draft and found your story, you can then adapt it into screenplay format. Think of this process as writing a detailed treatment, which is a common practice among industry professionals.
How much time will I have to commit?
Our courses are designed for people who work full-time. To get the most out of the course, it is essential to develop a consistent writing practice, otherwise your writing goals remain a hope and a dream. We recommend setting aside around 3-5 hours each week, or roughly 30-60 minutes a day. This flexibility allows you to fit your writing into your busy schedule, making consistent progress toward completing your first draft.
Do I need to have an idea of a character or story before I start the course?
No, it is not necessary to come to the course with a fully formed idea for a story. Many of our writers start with a blank canvas or a vague idea. The first two months of the course are dedicated to exploring and developing the broad shape of your character and story before you start writing your actual first draft. This process ensures you have a character and story that you are eager to write about and has the structural integrity to sustain a novel or screenplay.
How is the course structured and what support will I receive?
The course is delivered online over 10 months, allowing you to participate from anywhere in the world. Each month you will receive new lessons and exercises designed to build on the previous month’s content. You will work through the process with guidance and feedback from your personal online tutor. They will help you with your scene planning and the development of your story and character development, ensuring you stay on track and make consistent progress.
What outcomes can I expect by the end of the course?
By the end of the 10-Month First Draft Online Course, you will have a complete first draft of your novel or screenplay which is a huge achievement and what most people can only dream of. You will gain confidence in your writing abilities, have a thorough understanding of your story’s structure, well-developed characters and a solid foundation for further refinement.
What is the difference between the First Draft Online and First Draft Live course?
The First Draft Online Course offers the flexibility to learn at your own pace from the comfort of your home. This format is ideal for those with busy schedules or who prefer self-paced learning, offering convenience and comprehensive instruction without sacrificing the quality of engagement and support.
The First Draft Live Course, on the other hand, includes in-person workshops that provide immediate feedback, dynamic discussions, and a collaborative, interactive atmosphere. Both the live and online courses cover the same content and are designed to achieve the same outcomes, ensuring that you receive the same education and support regardless of the format you choose.
Where does this course sit in the journey of writing my novel or screenplay?
The First Draft Online Course is the first crucial step in the journey of writing your novel or screenplay. It builds on the foundations laid in Unlocking Creativity, guiding you through the process of writing a complete first draft. No one writes a perfect first draft. To make your story as good as it can be, you will still have to write a number of drafts, involving re-writing and editing, either on your own or with us. Excellence is a commitment to completion.
Read more about The Writers’ Studio Pathway.
Can I write a memoir in this course?
Yes. If you’re working on a memoir or a personal story based on lived experience, the online course is the best fit. You’ll work one-on-one with an experienced tutor who understands the emotional and structural demands of memoir writing. They’ll help you shape your narrative, clarify your voice, and stay true to your story while learning the dramatic principles that give it momentum and depth.
Many memoirists find this individualised approach more supportive than a live class setting, where the focus is on fiction and brainstorming possibilities. If your goal is to tell the truth of your experience while developing your craft, First Draft Online is a powerful way to do that.
