Introduction

Before diving into the excitement of drawing your webcomic, a crucial step gets overlooked: scripting! A webcomic script is much like a screenplay and provides a roadmap for what to make. This guide will walk you through writing a script that streamlines your workflow and helps you craft a stronger, more engaging story.

 

I always script my webcomics before I even start thumbnailing. It provides me with a clear direction that prevents me from getting lost in the creative process and ensures my story flows logically. I like to think of it as a blueprint for your blueprint — it’s faster to write than to draw, and much easier to revise.

 

Key Benefits of Scripting Your Webcomic:

- Provides Story Structure: A script helps you iron out plot holes, ensure character consistency, and build a solid foundation for your narrative.

- Workload Estimation: By outlining the story in advance, you can better estimate the time and effort required for each chapter, helping you plan your schedule effectively.

- Improved Communication (if applicable): If you're working with a team (artist, colorist, letterer), a script facilitates clear communication and ensures everyone is on the same page.

The Scripting Process

Here is a breakdown of my process for writing webcomic scripts, please feel free to adapt it to your workflow and needs.

1. Brainstorming & Planning

- Before you start writing the script, define the chapter’s purpose. List out the main conflict of the chapter, the key revelations the characters must experience, and what needs to happen in this chapter to move the overall story forward.

 

- Once you understand the chapter’s purpose clearly, start fleshing out the core concept with a list of key scenes, what characters are involved, and a quick list of the major plot points.

 

- In my opinion, it is okay to have chapters dedicated to demonstrating only one facet of a story, such as a character’s relationship or interests, especially if it is central to the finale. Rather than trying to have every chapter do as much as possible, treat your story with the time it needs to be told well. A webcomic is typically a long-running series, so an audience expects plot developments to take a while.

2. Writing the Script

- Keep your script concise when writing it! Focus only on conveying essential information: Dialogue (the main focus!), character actions, and key plot points. Avoid overly detailed descriptions or unnecessary exposition.

 

- Use clear language! Write in a way that is easy for you to understand quickly, and if you are working in a team, for them as well! When working with others, you cannot keep an entire story in your head. For tips on writing clearly & concisely, you can refer to this guide.

 

- Use stage directions only when it is necessary to convey the action or setting!

 

- Keep your script’s audience in mind: YOU! (and your team if any!). Tailor it to your needs!

3. Revising and Editing

- Once you have finished writing your script, take a break for a few hours or even a few days before revisiting it. This way you can come back to it with fresh eyes.

 

- Take some time to proofread and check for any typos, grammatical errors, or inconsistencies. Use your spellchecker!

 

- Read it aloud to double-check awkward phrasing and places where the dialogue doesn’t flow naturally.

 

- After doing the above, seek feedback from trusted friends, fellow creators, or writing groups if you’re still not confident about your script.

Practical Exercise: Script a Scene

To practice scripting, try doing it with an already existing scene! Doing this allows you to get a feel for what is essential to convey a scene and why it works without needing to decide on what happens next yourself. To do this, do the following:

 

1. Choose a scene from a show or movie you like (If you want to practice scripting a specific kind of scene, find one similar to what you want to practice)

2. Write out all the dialogue from the scene and who says it, in order. (Or key actions)

3. Read through it like you’ve never seen the original scene, making note of places that don’t make sense because you lack information.

4. Script stage directions and setting information for where you lack information.

5. Reread your scene with the new stage directions! If it still doesn’t make sense, then you haven’t scripted the important parts! Go back and assess what’s critical again.

Conclusion

Scripting may seem like an extra step, but it's an invaluable tool for any webcomic creator. By investing time in this crucial phase, you'll save yourself time and frustration in the long run, and ultimately create a stronger, more polished webcomic. It’s meant to be a tool to help you craft a stronger & more meaningful story. As a recap, remember to brainstorm what a chapter is going to be about before you start writing, then once you dive into writing don’t worry too much about it being perfect. Once it’s written down, you can revise and edit your script to strengthen your story.

 

This is the process I use for my webcomic, Pursuer of Truth, though I’d love to be able to compare and learn from others! Do you have any favorite scripting tips or techniques? Share them in the comments below!