Plot vs. Pants? Try The Skort Method of Audio Drama Script Craft.

Click here to tell us what you think!

Sarah Golding and Lindsay Harris Friel dive into the great debate of audio drama writing: whether to meticulously outline your story or write by the seat of your pants. Though this debate may never be solved, Lindsay proposes a third option: the skort method. The skort method of story planning gives you the freedom of pantsing, helps you set up structure for an outline, and has pockets for later research. 

• Outlining benefits writers because it shows the entire story structure, helps you set up plot twists, and conserves your creative energy. 
• "Pantsing" creates excitement and momentum but can lead to continuity errors and unfinished projects.
• The "Skort Method" combines both approaches: write a broad summary first, then detail individual scenes.
• Breaking scripts into episodes works best at natural decision points where characters face meaningful choices. 
• Cliffhangers are most effective when characters have to choose something right before a break, with consequences revealed after the story returns to the audience.
• Write an entire season or story before you start production to avoid creative burnout.
• Consider using sensitivity or beta readers to understand your script's impact before production. 

Talking points written by Lindsay Harris Friel

Edited by Sarah Golding

Music by Vince Friel

Additional Resources:
Give me Away
Almelem
Scrivener
The Muppets Mayhem

The Goon Show 

Get the scoop on audio drama news, opportunities, creative resources and more with The Fiction Podcast Weekly newsletter. For more info, visit The Podcast Host's Fiction Podcast Weekly. 

 
Want to get in touch? You can send us a text message with the link at the top, email us at [email protected], join our Discord server, or visit our website at adwit.org. 

Share the love.  Please write a review on Podchaser or on Apple Podcasts. 

Thank you!

Sarah and Lindsay