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2025 > Top 10 Most Common Mistakes Screenwriters Make (And How to Avoid Them)
Top 10 Most Common Mistakes Screenwriters Make (And How to Avoid Them)
By Valeria Perea
17 Jun 2025
Writing is hands-down a creative process, and no single formula will guarantee your success. What works for one writer may not work for another. However, some fundamental principles can help you craft stronger, more compelling stories. Below, we explore ten common writing mistakes and how to avoid them.
#1. Inconsistent Plot
Starting a project without a clear structure can lead to plot inconsistencies. While you don’t need to map out every detail, establishing a strong framework with key events and character arcs will help maintain coherence. A simple outline can go a long way in ensuring consistency.
#2. Lack of Research
Insufficient research can weaken believability. Whether you’re writing fiction or non-fiction, supporting your work with reliable sources— books, articles, and expert interviews— adds depth and authenticity. Readers always appreciate accuracy, and thorough research helps you create richer, more believable narratives.
#3. Procrastination
Insufficient research can weaken believability. Whether you’re writing fiction or non-fiction, supporting your work with reliable sources— books, articles, and expert interviews— adds depth and authenticity. Readers always appreciate accuracy, and thorough research helps you create richer, more believable narratives.
#4. Telling Instead of Showing
You hear this one all the time: Show. Don’t tell.
It’s the golden rule in writing for the screen. Instead of simply explaining details, let readers experience the story through action slugs, vivid descriptions and dialogue (provided it’s not too heavy on exposition). Engage your reader’s senses so they can visualize and feel the world you’re creating.
#5. Ignoring the Editing Process
Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day. The same should be true of your scripts. Many writers rush through their drafts without proper revision. Editing is crucial— it refines your work and eliminates errors. Set your draft aside for a while before reviewing it with fresh eyes. Consider seeking feedback from others (especially other writers and even better yet— other screenwriters), to polish your writing; a little proofing goes a long way.
#6. Overuse of Clichés
Clichés can make your writing feel predictable and uninspired. While they may be tempting, try to find original ways to express your ideas. Challenge yourself to create fresh metaphors, unique characters and unexpected plot twists to keep your readers engaged.
#7. Flat or Underdeveloped Characters
Don’t underestimate the power of your characters. This can be one of the first reasons your audience won’t feel engaged with your story. If they lack depth, readers won’t connect with them. Give your characters realistic motivations, flaws and arcs. Show their growth throughout the story, and avoid relying on stereotypes.
#8. Weak Beginnings
Your opening must grab the reader’s attention immediately. This is non-negotiable. If your beginning is unclear, slow, or overloaded with information and errors, you risk providing your reader with too many reasons to not keep turning your pages, let alone finish with the first page. Start with a compelling hook— an intriguing question, a striking image, or an engaging piece of dialogue to draw them in.
#9. Poor Pacing
Your opening must grab the reader’s attention immediately. This is non-negotiable. If your beginning is unclear, slow, or overloaded with information and errors, you risk providing your reader with too many reasons to not keep turning your pages, let alone finish with the first page. Start with a compelling hook— an intriguing question, a striking image, or an engaging piece of dialogue to draw them in.
#10. Neglecting the Audience
You have to take the time to know and understand your audience. Who are you writing for? What are their interests? Tailoring your content to your target readers increases engagement and makes your writing more impactful. Keep them in mind throughout your entire writing process and you’ll likely keep ’em reading right to the final FADE TO BLACK.
FIN.
By recognizing and avoiding these common mistakes, you can create stronger, more compelling stories that captivate your readers. Writing is a continuous learning process where you should always be evolving. Refining your craft through practice and revision will help ensure your continued growth as a writer. Keep writing, keep editing, and most importantly— keep learning!
Written by Valeria Perea
Brand Ambassador
