Storytelling: 6 Essential Questions

[@writingforscreens]

Hey everyone - this is VERY IMPORTANT: these questions are not a TEST of anything! They don't "prove" anything is good or bad. If they don't always work for you, DON'T WORRY. They are just TOOLS!! They're just to help you with your own writing process! Use them IF they make it easier - and IGNORE them if they DON'T!

[@daneoman1000]

I would disagree that’s its about the people, it’s about the CHARACTERS (Wallee, woody & Buzz, TARS are not people) but story is superior, great 6 steps, agreed.

[@writingforscreens]

@@daneoman1000 Thanks! (Characters, people, animals, robots, bugs....whatever you call them, I just think we follow them and care about them.)

[@catthewondahokulea6515]

Thank you for the awesome tips and the hard work!

[@writingforscreens]

@@catthewondahokulea6515 Thank YOU for watching and commenting!

[@enshk79]

Characters are part of a good story. Cant have a good story with bad characters. Period. (My opinion. Totally subjective)

[@Mattnova_116]

This is better understood than your "Film Courage" video. Thank you.

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you!

[@filmcourage]

Glenn, congrats on 1000 subscribers! It is so awesome to see all the hard work you have been putting into this channel pay off. Keep it up!

[@writingforscreens]

THANK YOU SO MUCH! It's all because of you, honestly - your endless efforts to give everyone a voice and some help. You're the ultimate connectors :)

[@JacobPatrick1]

@@writingforscreens Ahh

[@jolaajtak7861]

@@writingforscreensIt's kind of true. : ) I just came because of the interviews with Film Courage.

[@fellowcitizen]

Thanks for introducing me to this channel, and to Shannan's 🐾

[@JustTooRisky1]

3 years later, he's at 19.2k subs.

[@JenniVander]

These questions get straight to the heart of storytelling. I'm finding this very useful for my novel writing.

[@writingforscreens]

Thanks, I'm really glad you find them helpful! I do think that the same problems and principles show up in a lot of different forms of storytelling, it's terrific to hear that you're having that experience.

[@JaneHollandAuthor]

I love that you don't say we HAVE to do this. There are no rules. There are only processes that work for some people but maybe not for everyone. The older I get, the more I think the real and only secret to good writing is confidence. Pure and simple. Believe and write.

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you! That IS a good secret! Everyone must make their own path, to their own work :)

[@kannon3979]

Writing a pilot and got stuck because I didn't have a foundation for the character. Ran across your channel and I had to like the video and subscribe. 👍🏾 Thanks for the gems 💎

[@writingforscreens]

Great to hear it helped, thank you!!

[@KeenX72]

I 've always wanted to write a compelling story, but I've never know what makes one good. I've tried reading and watching as many great stories as I can and just emulating them but nothing I've come up with really stuck. Eventually I decided to sit down and actually research what makes for good storytelling, and now I'm coming up with much better stories. In fact, I even used these 6 questions to write this comment.

[@writingforscreens]

Yay! Thank you. (How did it end? I hope it ended happily :) )

[@miriamrobarts]

@@writingforscreens They did write how it ended: "and now I'm coming up with much better stories." Sounds like a happy & optimistic ending to me.

[@writingforscreens]

@@miriamrobarts Yes! Thank you :)

[@guitar300k]

wow, it's a good story, I didn't even notice it

[@writingforscreens]

@@guitar300k Haha - yes indeed!

[@SuperAudience]

Love you man! From watching your speech in film courage, KZbin suggested this gem. Thanks so much for an exclusive video about these 6...

[@writingforscreens]

So great to know these ideas are useful to you! Inspires me to keep making more.

[@Silverbolt74]

I've been stuck for months due to my anxiety. Thank you for breaking it down like that. I'm excited to start writing again.

[@writingforscreens]

I'm so glad to hear that it's helpful. Small steps, keep exploring - you'll find your way!

[@BJ-fj6jw]

BRILLIANT SIR, YOU HAVE SHARED A CORE PIECE OF WHAT MOST WOULD SELFISHLY GUARD WITH THEIR LIFE... I HAVE WATCHED THIS VIDEO IN UTTER AMAZEMENT. I LOVE IT WHEN PROFESSIONALS CONDENSE WHAT WE CALL MAGIC AND UNFATHOMABLE INTO A HANDFUL OF CONCRETE ABSOLUTE ESSENTIALS. YOU HAVE COMPRESSED THE RAW MATERIALS OF STORYTELLING INTO A SOLID DIAMOND. I BELIEVE WE ALL FEEL THE WORTH OF WHAT YOU HAVE GIVEN TO US - WITH INFINITE GRATITUDE. THANK YOU!

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you so much!

[@DanielGill-q1y]

The fact that three years after this video people are still watching this is very cool

[@writingforscreens]

THANK YOU! Thats really my whole goal here: not to spew out disposable "content" but to create a library people can find over time and return to when they need it. Really appreciate your comment!

[@DavidJReidOFFICIAL]

This is better than legit 3 scriptwriting books ive read lol

[@writingforscreens]

Cool, thank you! (I think so too :)

[@AnnaMarkarova]

If you change your tittle to "6 essentials of storytelling" you will get x10000 views. Your content is golden! Help the KZbin algorithm to bring more people to your content, so pity many people can't find it. Put the word "Storytelling" in every tittle of your video, it is the most trending topic between YT creators. I am so lucky to find your channel in the beginning of my journey, I wish you a lot of success and I am grateful that you share this information with us!

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you - that's really interesting and good advice. I will think about how to put it to use!! I have been uneasy about making claims bigger than I can deliver on...but I think you make a fair point that these ideas really do apply to more than just screenwriting. Thanks!!

[@mikehess4494]

Reading Daniel Pink's "A whole new mind". and the importance of story telling. I looked up story telling which led to Ted talks about story telling and the use of plain language and eventually led to the six questions on another channel which brought me to your channel.

[@writingforscreens]

@@mikehess4494 Everyone's journey is different - that's why we never run out of stories!

[@littletodger7008]

Bang! Got it on one. Do these simple things (well, not so simple that they don't contain worlds) and you will write stories - and you will never have writer's block. Much gratitude Glen.

[@writingforscreens]

And gratitude right back for watching and taking the time to respond! You have no idea how motivating it is for me to know that my attempts to make sense of this stuff is connecting with others.

[@monkspot561]

Hi Glenn, Film Courage brought me here. I'm a novelist who loves learning from screenwriters. You got to the pith. Thank you for putting this together. Not only was it super informative, but really motivational as well.

[@writingforscreens]

So glad to hear that! Working on more of them. Really grateful to have you let me know it's worth doing.

[@Mr.Monta77]

I think this channel offer amazing value.

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you so much! Comments like this really matter.

[@HowDoU_Sleep]

Damn. I’ve not been writing for a while bc I lost my direction with my passion project, but now that I’ve watched this… let’s just say that I have hope. 🙏Thank you🙏

[@writingforscreens]

I'm so glad to hear this!! Hope is good. Keep exploring, keep working on it, small steps.

[@timothymaggenti717]

First this is brilliant, secondly, you are brilliant, and thank you very much. I have been trying to figure this out for way too long and you summed it all up in what 8:02 WOW. Well that was finally eight minutes of my life that matter the most. Thank you so much.

[@writingforscreens]

Thank YOU so much! When you create anything, even a how-to video, you're just guessing on whether it will "work" - there is nothing more amazing and gratifying than to hear from a stranger that your work "worked" for them!!

[@herberthowardjones9982]

Wisdom desperately needed, thanks.

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you!!

[@shinebrightlywithmalaika]

I always come back to these questions with every new story I start or idea I mull over to see if it's got traction. To me, these questions are a much simpler approach to the 3-Act Structure and they help to delineate from the story objective and scene objective.

[@writingforscreens]

I am SO glad to hear they are helpful! Thank you so much for this comment - and for coming on the livestreams :)

[@orlandosantos2366]

Thank you Mr. Glenn, as a veteran going to therapy and med., I'm trying to help my son get back on his feet, he just finish up his time in the U.S.Marines Corps, & he's fighting a real bad depression and anxiety now under medication and therapy, and that's who I come a cross your video., you got no idea how much you are helping us with a simple video. Keep doing this with out knowing how many people benefit from them, because at the end you always going to be BLESSED.

[@writingforscreens]

I am so very glad to hear that my video helped, Orlando! I am truly heartbroken that you and your son have been struggling, and hope that the support, medication and therapy can help him find his way out of the dark time. I do believe that having a project or task can help fight depression and anxiety, and that working through your feelings and experiences in storytelling can be healthy. I hope that you and your family can keep living, one day, even one hour at a time - making small steps, exploring, trying, and enjoying the good moments - no matter how rare they may be sometimes. They do keep showing up, if we keep trying. Thank you so much for your kind comment.

[@Search4TruthReality]

After reading many books on screenwriting and story, this short video helped stitch things together. Thank you for sharing.

[@writingforscreens]

Hooray! I am happy to be a part of the big picture: that's what any "how to" should be. The picture is for you to put together as you need it. Thank you.

[@samhhaincat2703]

Thanks for this. I've been watching a bunch of "writing" videos and you're the first person who doesn't sound like a pretentious, annoying know-it-all and actually sounds encouraging.

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you so much! It's really encouraging to hear this. I think many teachers have something to offer, as long as you take the bits or ideas that help and disregard the pretentious or annoying stuff :)

[@yateoi]

Was having a hard time getting into the writing flow for a project. I'm giving this a try. Thanks for the class!

[@writingforscreens]

I hope it helps! Remember: the point is to get your heart and head into the story WITH the character. It's not a checklist to check-off and set aside. Find YOUR way to tell YOUR story :)

[@authorsatoshi9148]

I just subscribed. I have Witten 700k words but I stopped a couple of months ago because of Tinnitus. It's just hard to focus with ringing in the ears. But a few days ago, I decided to write again instead of falling into depression and I accidentally stumbled on this channel. For me, the video literally ends "Writer's block". Thank you so much Mr. Glen.

[@writingforscreens]

Wow - thank you so much for this message! I am very very sorry to hear about your tinnitus; I am sure it is very debilitating and painful. I hope that my videos can help you work, and to work WITHIN your reality - which hopefully will continue to improve. Best of luck, and thank you again.

[@KatieBug2k6]

Writing a book about a girl who’s looking for her sister. Great coincidence, thank you for the help!

[@writingforscreens]

Wonderful - I'm so glad it's helpful. Take what works for you, toss the rest - keep writing :)

[@warrenbradford2597]

If you look at this using kishotenketsu, you would list it like: 1."Who is it about?" as the introduction. 2."What do they want?" as the development. 3.The questions that make up the middle section as the twist. 4."How does it end?" as the conclusion.

[@writingforscreens]

Interesting! I had never heard of "kishotenketsu" - thank you for steering me to it. I think the most important thing to remember about these questions - or kishotenketsu or any formula to organize art is: it's a TOOL. Use it if it helps, don't if not. And everyone will use it their own way.

[@warrenbradford2597]

@@writingforscreens Yes! You're welcome.

[@r.bongvergara749]

You are the beloved restaurant that should have Michellin stars but doesn't. Thank you for your bullseye content.

[@writingforscreens]

LOL - I am, aren't I?! Thank YOU for this comment, it makes a real difference to me to know that my work is helping...especially such creative comment-writers :)

[@The8bitbeard]

This cut to the core of a problem I was having; Too often, my characters had no goals. They didn't want anything. It's no surprise now that the stories I was trying to write went nowhere. I now know I have to establish a motive ASAP if I want to move the story forward.

[@writingforscreens]

Great! I'm so glad it's helpful. Look at DRAMATIC ACTION kzbin.info/www/bejne/d6m0hXqbg9p-g6s and BUILDING CHARACTER ARCS kzbin.info/www/bejne/hp7KinR4et2DbpY for more thoughts on making your characters and stories active.

[@boswor]

I don't know how to say it, but at some point in my life, I found that this skill is the greatest skill one can acquire, without exaggeration. I really don't know how to thank you, Mr. Glenn. I wish you a happy life from the bottom of my heart❤.

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you SO much - I am really happy to hear that sharing the result of my own creative struggles can help.

[@Notlegallyaduck]

After I answered these questions, I realized why my story was so boring. My main character's motivations were too vague, but the side character's motivations were much more interesting. I doubt my book will ever be published, but if I somehow make money off it, I'll send you send you a copy.

[@writingforscreens]

I'm really glad it was helpful! Sometimes it's not about making money: I self-produced 2 movies, which made NO money (actually lost money...) but were VERY worth doing. Sometimes finishing and finding a way to self-publish (maybe just online) that you can afford, is an important part of the the process - even if only 2 or 3 people ever look at it!

[@Notlegallyaduck]

@@writingforscreens My calling in life is not as an artist, so I'm not hung up on making money on any art I produce, so if I am blessed to sell even one, I will be happy a man. On an unrelated note, my mom is actually a fith grade English teacher, and she actually talked about using your video to help teach!

[@writingforscreens]

@@Notlegallyaduck That's great. And tell your mom "thank you!" I hope it is useful!

[@ServingKant42069]

you have no idea how much your videos has helped my writing process

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you SO much for telling me - that really is wonderful for me!!

[@TheLuconic]

Omg, this formula is jot only gonna improve my writing but also help me with good kinds of filler. Because my story is too bare bones and not enough meat. Thank you!!!! This solves my chapter crisis.

[@writingforscreens]

Hooray! So glad to hear that it's helpful.

[@robinmcfarland3226]

I find the questions excellent to kick off a story, character, and plot, but also beneficial as a review when checking the script to search for any weak areas that might need shoring up, because the questions take the story full circle. Thanks!

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you for telling me this - I am really glad to hear it's a useful tool for you!!

[@Denver_Risley]

Just a little story...Narrating audio books is my usual gig and as an extra value to the rights holder I like to add a little dramatic music and sound FX. That got me into scoring soundtracks for movies and series that don't exist and selling them on my bandcamp page. One thing that makes writing a soundtrack easier and actually more substantial is to actually have scenes to score! So as part of my music writing, I actually write the scenes along with the music. SO these tips are very useful. Thanks for sharing.

[@albertbozesan]

What a cool business you built there!! Very original, and sounds super fun to do.

[@writingforscreens]

I love to hear all the different ways people come to and take from my work! It's wonderful. I'm really glad to hear it's helpful. It wounds like you have found a personal and unique niche in which to work, I think that's brilliant.

[@Denver_Risley]

@@albertbozesan Thanks for the encouragement! I don't know what I'm doing, I just do it!

[@Denver_Risley]

@@writingforscreens I don't know where it's going but I just do what Bukowski said: find what you love and let it kill you.

[@writingforscreens]

@@Denver_Risley As I often say: as long as it's not harming you or those around you - whatever works, whatever helps you have fun and write what you like and like what you write, is the thing to do!

[@aroset]

Also I saw you hadn't dropped a new vid in 5 months. I hope you pick this up again because you have a great teaching ability.

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you so much! I have 2 or 3 left in editing but mostly I'm done with the short "Lesson" videos - it's over 50 and they truly do say what I wanted to say...(I talk about that a bit here: LIVE Screenwriting Class: “Farewell 2023 - Some Thoughts, Some Advice” - kzbin.infolNKtAF3AP-I). I'll now be doing weekly Livestreams where I talk about whatever's on my mind that week, and when I finish my novel I will try to cut those up into smaller "topics covered" and work on making them all more find-able somehow...so many things I want to do!

[@omnipop4936]

(5:20) I immediately thought of Roy Scheider's character in 'Jaws' (1975), and the situation he found himself in at the end, and the actions he had to take to get out of it.

[@wolfpowers36]

I'm not exactly stuck, but a little lost this morning so I started asking questions about the character: Who is this character? I couldn't answer that right off, but I started thinking about all the things the character is definitely not and arrived at some answers that way. But I've really been revolving my mind on the 2nd question because when I think about every character I've ever loved personally, and every very strong character, it's always been about something they want, something they think they deserve, which they have not been able to get. I've seen, in my own experience of enjoyment of a story, a character that is initially not likeable become likable -- even beautiful -- simply because they want something they cannot get. The Frankenstein monster wanted his father's love. He thought he deserved it. He couldn't get it. That's the source of the great emotional power in that story. In my favorite soap opera series, the strongest and most lovable character was one who wanted parental love and approval and couldn't get it for a variety of different obstacles thrown in his path, such as being given a false identity, the death of one parent, then the other, and being repeatedly betrayed by the only living male relative he had, who was his grandfather. Of a huge cast of interesting characters, each with their own desires, this character stands out as the strongest and most interesting. What do they want and why can't they get it? Those two questions seem very important to me at this moment.

[@sacplissken]

I like your profile pic 👍

[@meredithkurz6134]

Glenn Gers , you're a good teacher. Thank you for this. We wonder and wonder what the heck's wrong with a scene (I write short stories - doesn't matter - every story is scenes) and you offer us questions - not formulas - not guaranteed - just asking the right questions. Appreciate it.

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you so much!! I am grateful that you "get it": all any of us can do is gather tools and tricks and try them out, and keep figuring out our own path. I'm glad to hear my teaching helps!

[@bearrnabas]

I was just thinking about the Spider-Man: No Way Home trailer that dropped today and how much the trailer follows 5 of the six questions in order.... the only thing they don't have is the end! But it makes you want to see the movie. The narrative is there--who PP is at the beginning and what his situation is, what he wants, what he asks for Doc Strange to do, and then how it goes awry, and then all the flashes of things he does about it.... thanks for this video.

[@writingforscreens]

So far, Marvel has managed the early-Pixar miracle of astonishingly-good storytelling and still being kickass movie-movies. I was a little worried after ENDGAME that they wouldn't be able to keep it up in this new "phase" - but they're doing it :)

[@crimsonwolf9572]

I needed to hear this, thank you! I never knew I wanted to be a writer until I realized I cared more about the characters and what happened to them, than their video games, It feels odd writing this as I never in a million years would have thought that's what I wanted to be, I thought just becoming a comic book artist was enough.

[@writingforscreens]

Well, I think becoming a comic book artists IS enough, if you like being a comic book artist. But if you ALSO like becoming a writer: you can! I'm mainly just very glad that my videos are helping you sort out what you like, and encouraging you to explore and try things.

[@crimsonwolf9572]

@@writingforscreens im not sure what to say ,so I will say thank you for the information.

[@writingforscreens]

@@crimsonwolf9572 I hope that didn't come off as critical or negative in any way! I only meant that I like to think inclusively, and didn't want the joy of one discovery (of writing) to diminish the joy of another (comics) :) Best of luck, keep exploring and creating!

[@miriamrobarts]

Re: "I thought just becoming a comic book artist was enough." Well, you need something to draw. Even one picture (or one frame or cell) can & should tell a story. You just discovered that you want to write your own stories instead of illustrating other people's stories. (Even if you illustrate someone else's story, you are still adding pieces to it by how it is drawn, what colors you use, etc.) • • ❈ • • I came to this video because I'm trying to think of an idea (or story) for an illustration (in response to a prompt). I like drawing, but I have a hard time coming up with interesting ideas. • • ❈ • • A video I've seen by Will Terry explains that illustration needs a good story. He said when you draw something, it's like you're saying, "Hey! Hey, everybody! Come look at this!" So you need to make it worth it, & tell them something interesting. I can't remember the exact example he used, but it was something like: If your picture says, "Hey, everyone! A girl walked her dog." No one will care. You need to add something else. The video said it needs to tell a compelling story, or if it's something that simple it needs to be extremely well made (for example: a picture that is simply beautiful & nice to look at that you'd hang on a wall, or an image on a greeting card).

[@malenachipps]

Just so you know, your advise is by far the best. Please create more videos. I hope you are well. Thank you for sharing your brilliance!

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you so much for this encouragement and support!!

[@ScriptSleuth]

Excellent video, Glenn! You hit the nail on the head with a character WANTING something. That makes us naturally want to know if they're going to get it.

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you!!

[@BlancheChiang]

Thanks so much, Glen. I've watched this video for the ninth time ❤

[@writingforscreens]

Thank YOU so much - for this message AND for watching it repeatedly :) It's my dream come true that it would be rewarding on re-watching.

[@gustavocoronel4893]

Thanks! Greetings from Argentina

[@dreal500]

Sir, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you. Where were you ten years ago. That was the simplest most concise way ive heard to write a story. Thank you so much. Im a subscriber and im going to write now.

[@writingforscreens]

I'm so glad to hear that - small steps, keep exploring, enjoy the work and the process!

[@lawrencetrujillo65]

This instruction is awesome for novel writers too!❤

[@writingforscreens]

I'm really glad to hear that - thank you! I am trying to use it in writing my own novel now - more complicated stories and characters than a script, but it does seem to help :)

[@lawrencetrujillo65]

@@writingforscreens I have five manuscripts I’ve written and will use your six essential questions as I edit. Thank you.

[@KrymsonScale]

Caught you off Film Courage, KZbin is always recommending me great videos. Keep up the great work.

[@writingforscreens]

Thanks!

[@ParmyBaddhan]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge to help me write my story. It's very much appreciated.

[@writingforscreens]

So glad it's helpful! Thank you for the encouraging comment!

[@lanyamatthews8033]

Thank you for taking the time to record this. It's so helpful. I'm an actor and at the beginning of my writing journey. Watching this has given me something to bounce my ideas off of. You are appreciated 🙏

[@writingforscreens]

I'm so glad to hear that these videos are useful! I believe actors make wonderful writers, because they know how to think about the life and needs of the character as the center of any drama. Keep creating!

[@micahstarr8606]

To start, I have to thank you so much! Seeing your interview with Film Courage pop up onto my screen feels akin to divine intervention. I've wanted to write for so long and have been playing scenes in my head for a number of ideas, but have only been able to sustain inspiration for short bursts (I've always blamed this on my mild bipolar issue, lots of ups and downs), but knowing that this is not unusual is like letting out a breath I've been holding for way too long. Your videos are so helpful and are making me feel as though I may actually be able to someday complete a story or two. You are a miracle sir, your words have helped to inspire and encourage me, and I know I'm only one of so very many who feel this way. Thank you again for all you are doing!

[@writingforscreens]

I'm very glad to be helping. Art IS difficult - it's not something most people do, so they don't know how to understand/advise. There's a lot of good info out there, from artists, for artists - and from bipolar people and experts! The main thing is: small steps, and look at yourself and the world honestly so you can figure out what really works, what's really possible, and what really matters. It's rarely what people-who-don't-create-stuff think. Small steps, over time. Keep doing it, and you'll learn as you go...which is what we all have to do :)

[@jamuojisan]

I must have saved the whole world in my past life to be able to find your lesson in this life. Thanks for your amazing teaching.

[@writingforscreens]

Well, if so - thank you for saving the whole world!!

[@aroset]

Thank you so much for breaking this right down. This information is so beautifully succinct and cuts right down to the core. 🙏 ❤

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you! It really mens a lot to me to get this comment, you've named exactly what I worked to accomplish and it's wonderful to find out it connected with you.

[@elpatoempatado2404]

I began writing a story a few weeks ago, so I guess I'll try to answer the questions with some of the characters in mind. Thanks!

[@writingforscreens]

You're welcome, I hope they help! Remember: they're not a test, they're not rules - they're just ways to start thinking and asking questions. The answers - YOUR answers, whatever feels right to you - are what matter.

[@elisebeaufeaux8261]

I love the outtakes. Super helpful video! Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge freely you have no idea how grateful I am to find such a resource online!

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you so much! I am really happy to hear that it's helpful, and very grateful you took the time to comment.

[@thebigtipper]

Thanks for the tip! My Script writing just became easier!

[@writingforscreens]

Hooray! :) Keep going, small steps, exxploring!

[@deathpresent101]

My mind is blown and inspired! Time to start writing, thank you!

[@writingforscreens]

Yay! Thank you so much!

[@Aysquare]

Wow! Thank you so much for this, you are a LIVE SAVER

[@writingforscreens]

Thank YOU so much for reaching out to comment! I really appreciate it.

[@OzTheHammer]

WOW thank you so much what a lightbulb moment, I'm very excited and mi creative mind has just exploded

[@writingforscreens]

Love this comment, thank you! Exploding creative minds is my whole ideal job description!!

[@KeiChaanie]

Well, I guess I need to start editing some parts of my series since they don't show the ending well. But thank you for explaining these to me, this just showed to me that I'm lacking something big.

[@writingforscreens]

The good news is: look at all you've got! If you have a lot of stuff, but not quite an ending...then all you DO have will help you find what else you need. I'm glad these questions stir up thoughts - that is all they are there for, to help you explore your own vision.

[@artemipatev9456]

Hello, I came from Film Courage, just with this video you taught me a lot already! Thank you

[@writingforscreens]

Glad you came to check it out! Thank you, so much!

[@TheFilmLook]

Your video on Film Courage sent me here and, my god, I love your channel! I'm happy I was able to answer the 6 questions!

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you so much! I hope the questions stay useful - remember that's the point: to be useful tools to help you to make choices and to think of actions and lines and scenes. If they help, great. If they don't - toss 'em aside! Best of luck on your work :)

[@Annayasha]

This is really good! Thankyou for sharing

[@writingforscreens]

Thank YOU for watching - and letting me know it works for you!

[@demetriusdion286]

These are facts, if you really serious about writing. Good luck!

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you!!

[@RodMartinJr]

Saw one of your interview clips on Film Courage and loved it. Subscribed. As a lifetime writer, even with a few screenplays under my belt (though not sold or optioned), I always enjoy the learning process.

[@writingforscreens]

Thanks so much! Working creatively and learning all life long - whether or not you "sell" - is a marvelous and healthy thing to do!

[@lizlefae]

Thank You for this tool! I hope to use it effectively!

[@Lake_Filter]

I love watching your videos at the start of my writing sessions. I often find gems about the obstacles I am currently having, either the possible solutions or simply just a better understanding of what the core of my problems are. Thank you for making these kinds of content.

[@writingforscreens]

I'm so very glad to hear that these videos work this way for you! It's exactly what I hoped they would do!

[@riviloo]

This was such a big help, amazing video!

[@writingforscreens]

I'm so glad to hear it's helpful, thanks!

[@amunkhot]

Thank you for making these videos. Clearest guidance for when you’re lost.

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you!

[@susannekalejaiye4351]

Thank you. Excellent help, so I've subscribed. Why am I here: a story I began almost 60 years ago, now with multiple revisions and rewrites, is bugging me. So I'm now almost ready for this sound advice. Almost because I must now see my story though a new lens, refocus, rethink.

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you so much! I hope that my videos help you with this process. Small steps, keep trying and exploring - and enjoy it!

[@herberthowardjones9982]

Worth watching just for the out takes!

[@writingforscreens]

:)

[@tomlewis4748]

I don't write for screen. I write novels. But I seek out advice from screen 'thinking' because screen folks have a lot of great POVs about story and the story process (and they can put it into words and are willing to share knowledge). I think all said here applies to literature, as well. And I think it applies not only to the full story arc, but to self-contained scenes and to sequences of scenes that work together to tell mini-stories inside the larger story. So I will apply this thinking to my work. These questions can be a good checklist for analyzing a scene one writes, too.

[@writingforscreens]

I agree - so much of storytelling is shared between all sorts of different mediums. Glad if my lessons are useful!!

[@akioasakura3624]

The best writing advice I’ve ever seen. Thank you sir!! How is it that u don’t have more views and subs!?

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you so much! I don't know...I'm growing slowly, so maybe one day I'll get there. In the meanwhile I am just happy to know that my work is helping people.

[@maisey2363]

Thank you Mr Gers ...BEST CONCISE information in a nutshell that is articulated well, with fun examples ...but the outtakes are the best ^^))

[@writingforscreens]

So glad it's fun and useful!

[@jokysatria4047]

I don't want to laugh, but your out-takes is too funny. 😅 Great vid, Gleen. Liked and subscribed.

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you!

[@ozdigg9254]

Haha Wow. Clear, concise, authoritative, insightful, inspiring. Thank you. :))))))

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you so much!!

[@Kryssthealien]

Thanks a lot for the tips. Love the out-takes as well, 😂

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you!!

[@spacedog101]

Im going to write my first draft thanks to you!

[@writingforscreens]

I could NOT imagine a better comment. Thank you so much! Go at it, small steps, have fun.

[@jonfrey6893]

The outtakes were awesome and entertaining Glenn :)

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you!!

[@Toonmoonsoon]

Finally someone makes it easy to follow. That is genius. I love it.

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you!!

[@pilarvera6985]

Glenn, I don’t know how to put into words my gratitude! I have this amazing idea for a fantasy-romance novel, I did some story structure and I’ve been thinking about the details for more than a month now. But every time that I have to actually write it… I can’t! Nothing comes out. I begin to feel very lost and don’t know how to start. It’s awful. Every time I end up so anxious and discouraged, thinking things like “who the hell do I think I am?” “what did it make me believe that I could write a novel?” But I found your interview with Film Courage and you can’t imagine how relieved you made me feel. Everything you said felt pretty accurate to my experience trying to write. Thank you so much for sharing your story and your knowledge. It means a lot for people like me that can’t afford to go to college and just have a dream but zero experience and opportunities.

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you! Small steps. Do what you do, the best you can, and keep learning and exploring. Don't worry too much about publishing and rewards -- just try to make it as good as you can right now. And if you keep doing that, each small step: it and you will keep getting better and better. There has never been a time like this for "outsiders" to do creative work and even get it out to an audience. That's a whole OTHER journey, that you can only take when the work is good. So just enjoy the process, make work you like, and keep learning. You will find SO many resources on line...some will help, a lot won't -- so just take what helps and throw away the rest! Best of luck! Have fun!

[@sensei_kenneth]

Brilliant!

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you!!

[@kurisuchiinu1206]

I saved this and will keep coming back to this whenever I feel I'm stuck. It makes me think of my work. Thank you!

[@writingforscreens]

I'm so glad to hear this! Keep trying, small steps.

[@shupri]

I deeply appreciate and applaud you, Glenn Gers. What a teacher! Such clarity and sincere help thats all for free?? Every video of yours is amazingly insightful - I have learned a LOT. Thank you immensely!

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you so much for letting me know that these ideas are useful! This is truly the most important reward I can get.

[@chrissheridan33]

Great advice - clear and to the point! Thank you.

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you!

[@cchoi108]

This was one of the best things I've ever watched. Definitely gets a subscribe. Thank you so helpful.

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you!!

[@cosmicdropout8187]

Armazing video... fantástic ending 😂😂😂

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you so much!

[@thedude110]

These are a great way to overcome writer's block. Maybe I'd just add one question: why did they decide to take action NOW? As in, what triggered them now and not a week, a month, a year ago? That also helps me connect with the plot beats/3 act structure models

[@writingforscreens]

Thanks! Yes - feel free to add, rewrite, replace these - make them work for YOU. They're tools, they only exist to make your work easier and more fun.

[@thelemonfactory705]

Thank you, trying to start my own youtube channel, but struggling to write great stories. Now I know how to start!! Thank you!!

[@writingforscreens]

Yay!! Keep going, small steps :)

[@cporrasramirez]

I have spent a lot of time looking for these answers to how to write a story and I feel like it takes a huge weight off my shoulders to know that there is content like yours that allows me to easily understand it and that I can tell stories. Thank you.

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you so much for this beautiful message - please do keep exploring your creativity!

[@JavierBonilla78]

This is a great video Mr. Gers, I already answered all 6 questions, so that's means the story I want to tell and myself are on the right path. Thank you so much!

[@writingforscreens]

That's great! Keep asking questions, that's the name of the game.

[@issaqua]

Oh awesome! Thanks and I took away two things: 1. The job is to tickle the audience's problem and social simulation engine. 2. To keep energy and focus, the writer should "begin with the end in mind." (Covey) Thanks again - this is magic.

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you so much!!

[@shanethewatcher6163]

Extremely useful! Greatly appreciated

[@writingforscreens]

Thank you!!

[@joannkelly7994]

Thank you. God bless,

[@Corrans]

Thank you for this video and putting this info out into the world!

[@writingforscreens]

So glad it's helpful! Thank you for commenting!

[@ShaunMcMillan]

So helpful and useful, thank you!

[@writingforscreens]

Thank YOU for watching and commenting! Please let me know in comments if there's a topic you would like me to get into.

[@mattliglese5862]

Excellent, this process is enlightning ☀️! Thank You

[@writingforscreens]

You're very welcome!

[@sergeybagrov8624]

Excellent 🔥🔥🔥 Many thanks 💝🧡💖

[@writingforscreens]

You're welcome - thanks for the emojis!!!

[@demonio9401]

This was very eye-opening. Thank you so much.

[@writingforscreens]

Thank YOU, I am very glad to know you watched it and it was helpful!

[@DLGUltraKong87]

I appreciate this advice and video, while seemly simple and obvious, after watching this I have a greater sense of being able to finish my second book.

[@writingforscreens]

So glad it helps - and also: SECOND book, that's already a great accomplishment! Congratulations.

[@DLGUltraKong87]

@@writingforscreens Thank you, it'll drop sometime this summer.