We suggest (not required) you use the following documents for both reading and writing:The ScriptREADER Script Analysis Sheet and...
the Wordplay Column #5 "Death to Readers" by Terry Rossio.Whenever possible, when commenting on someones work (summary, outline or script), please refer to the document (ScriptREADER or Death to Readers) and the specific number of the principle referred to.Use these documents while doing your own writing!
Always give "softened" advice with phrases like...
I suggest...
maybe you should consider...
consider...
IMHO (In My Humble Opinion)
IMO (In My Opinion)
as an alternative...
alternatively...
Dogmatic critiquing would even be inappropriate for a professional script doctor. None of us are here because we are already experts, just keep that in mind. Therefore, be tactful in presenting your opinions. Being tactful is professional.Please state the "principle" rule that can fix the problem.
Please, don't tell them what to write, just remind them of the "principle(s)" behind what it will take to fix the problem. You can "suggest" a couple senarios that might help, but always emphasize that they are suggestions that may help. Let them write "their" story not "your" story. Help them writer "their" story.
DO compliment strong points and things that you like. Remember the "sandwich" principle: "Compliment - Criticism - Compliment".
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