Fundamentals of using Final Draft (Professional Writing Software)
In this 4 week course, students will examine and master the basic fundamentals of utilizing final draft script writing software. Students will be guided by a highly accomplished Warner Bros., OWN, and Hulu Television writer.
New on Outschool
What's included
4 live meetings
4 in-class hoursMastery Evaluation
1 hour per week. Students will need to practice the hands on mechanics of of the software that they learned during class time, over the course of the four weeks.Certificate of Completion
Students will receive a formal certificate of completion.Class Experience
US Grade 7 - 12
Beginner - Advanced Level
Course Title: Fundamentals of Using Final Draft Software Course Description: Unlock your storytelling potential with our Fundamentals of Using Final Draft Software course! Designed for middle and high school students, this online course introduces you to the essential features of Final Draft, the industry-standard screenwriting software used by professionals. Course Objectives: Introduction to Screenwriting: Learn the basics of screenwriting, including structure, format, and storytelling techniques. Final Draft Overview: Familiarize yourself with the Final Draft interface, tools, and templates. Writing Techniques: Develop your writing skills through guided exercises and prompts. Formatting Scripts: Master the art of formatting your screenplay to meet industry standards. Collaboration Tools: Explore collaboration features to work with peers on projects. Feedback and Revision: Understand how to give and receive constructive feedback and revise your scripts effectively. Course Format: Duration: 6 weeks Delivery: Online with interactive lessons and assignments Materials: Access to Final Draft software (students may need to download a trial version) Who Should Enroll: This course is perfect for aspiring writers, filmmakers, or anyone interested in the art of storytelling. No previous experience with Final Draft is required, but a passion for writing is essential! Join me to turn your ideas into compelling screenplays and take your first step toward becoming a successful storyteller!
Learning Goals
Understanding Screenwriting Basics
Students will learn the foundational principles of screenwriting, including structure, character development, and dialogue. By the end of the course, they will be able to outline a basic screenplay using industry formatsProficiency in Final Draft Software
Students will become familiar with the Final Draft interface and its key features, such as formatting tools, templates, and collaboration options. They will be able to create, edit, and format a screenplay using FD
Syllabus
4 Lessons
over 4 WeeksLesson 1:
Week 1: Introduction to Final Draft
Overview of Final Draft and its applications
Installing and setting up Final Draft
Navigating the interface
Understanding script formatting basics.
Activities:
Video tutorial on installation and interface navigation
Interactive quiz on software navigation
Assignment: Create a new script and save it. 60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Week 2: Script Formatting and Elements
Topics Covered:
Understanding screenplay format (scene headings, action, dialogue)
Using templates and formatting tools
Introduction to character and location descriptions
Activities:
Hands-on formatting exercises
Peer review of formatted scenes
Assignment: Write and format a short scene using learned elements. 60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Week 3: Character Development and Dialogue
Topics Covered:
Developing compelling characters
Writing effective dialogue
Utilizing the Character Navigator tool
Activities:
Character creation workshop
Dialogue writing exercise
Assignment: Create character profiles and write a dialogue scene. 60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Week 4: Story Structure and Finalizing the Script
Topics Covered:
Understanding three-act structure
Outlining your screenplay
Finalizing and exporting scripts
Activities:
Outline your screenplay using provided templates
Group feedback session on outlines
Final project: Complete a short screenplay and submit it.
Assessment
Weekly assignments (40%)
Participation in discussions and peer reviews (20%)
Final project: Completed screenplay (40%) 60 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Pre-Requisites
Students should have an interest in storytelling and basic computer skills in order to participate in this online learning class.
Supply List
Required Materials Final Draft software (trial version acceptable) Access to a computer with internet
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined August, 2024
New on Outschool
Teacher expertise and credentials
Hi! My name is Devan Renea and I am a native of the Washington DC metropolitan area. I hold an MFA in creative writing, a bachelor's degree in film, a GradC in education media design and technology, and an AA degree in Theatre Arts. I am a former Warner Bros., OWN Network, The CW Network, and Hulu television writer, and I have over a decade of entertainment industry experience. I am the CEO of my own production company, Boss Up Productions, and I specialize in "script doctoring" services. I essentially help writers of all levels improve and develop their material. I offer instruction on screenwriting, filmmaking, producing, creative writing, and english (grades K- Senior Yr. of college). I am currently a screenwriting and filmmaking instructor for Los Angeles nonprofit organization, Kids in the Spotlight, the EmpowHer Institute, and the Hurston Wright Foundation. I am also a regular visiting professor and guest lecturer at the prestigious Howard University. My greatest accomplishment is my induction into Full Sail University's Hall of Fame in 2023. Just google "Devan Renea" to find out more about my academic and career accomplishments! I look forward to working with you!
Interests/Hobbies*
I love the arts, english, writing, reading, gardening, playing the drums, watching a good movie or TV show, and listening to great new music and classic hits. I am interested in film and TV, spreading and strengthening diversity, and women's rights!Reviews
Live Private Course
$20
weekly or $80 for 4 classes1x per week, 4 weeks
60 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 11-14
