Screenwriting Master Class
REGISTER NOWStop Writing Situations. Start Writing Stories.
Learn how to build a feature screenplay from the inside out
using the Nutshell Technique.
What’s Included in the Screenwriting Master Class:
25 Hours of Workshop
Ten 2 1/2 hour class sessions, each one filled with unique lectures, skill-building exercises, group discussions, and individual story consultation.
Direct Feedback
Your Nutshell
Tools & Worksheets
Film Analysis
Writer Community
10-Week Master Class Syllabus
Writers at every level take my classes, from beginners to experienced professionals. We spend most of our time working directly on your story. Each week, I focus on a different aspect of screenwriting craft while helping you apply the Nutshell Technique to your own screenplay.
Week 1: The Nutshell Technique and Story Structure
I introduce the Nutshell Technique and the underlying structure of a feature film screenplay. We analyze a film assigned before class to illustrate how it works.
Week 2: Review of Students’ Story Nutshells
We review your initial story Nutshell together, with feedback from me and the class.
Week 3: Plot Development and the Eight Sequence Method
We go deeper into structuring your screenplay and cover the eight sequence method for a three act story. Once your Nutshell is approved, you can begin turning in a beat sheet.
Week 4: Character Development
I cover the fundamentals of building strong, compelling characters for the screen.
Week 5: Writing in Screenplay Format
We go over industry format, scene description, and how to write clear, effective action. I also cover when and how to break the rules.
Week 6: Dialogue
We focus on writing natural, concise dialogue and the principles that make it work on screen.
Week 7: Review of Scene Assignment
You submit a key scene from your script. We do cold reads and I offer detailed feedback on structure, clarity, and formatting.
Week 8: Mini Slug Action Writing
I teach how to write action that moves with clarity and momentum, including the use of mini slugs.
Week 9: Advanced Topics
We cover tone, theme, subplots, and subtext. This is the final week to submit a full script for class critique.
Week 10: The Business of Screenwriting
We discuss how scripts move forward professionally, along with final in class critiques of submitted work.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Who is this class for?
Writers at every level take this class, from beginners to working screenwriters. Some students return for each script they develop.
2. Do I need to have a finished script to take the class?
No. Many writers come in with an idea. You will have the opportunity to write a script during the ten weeks, and if you do, the class and I will read it and offer feedback.
3. How much of my own work will I be able to workshop?
You will receive feedback on your Nutshell, your beat sheet, and your script if you complete one.
4. How large are the classes?
Classes are limited to ten writers so everyone has the opportunity to receive meaningful feedback.
5. Will I receive direct feedback from Jill?
Yes. I read your work and offer feedback at every stage, from your initial Nutshell through your script.
6. What is the time commitment outside of class?
It depends on how much time you can commit. Many writers with full-time jobs take the class and work at their own pace outside of sessions.
7. What if I’ve already studied screenwriting?
Many writers who take the class have read other screenwriting books or gone to film school. The Nutshell Technique gives you a clear foundation you can apply directly to your own work.
8. Are sessions recorded?
Yes. All sessions are recorded and available to watch for one year.
9. What if I can’t attend a session?
That’s okay. You can watch the recording afterward. Many writers let me know in advance if they will miss a session and catch up that way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the questions writers ask most often about the workshop, including feedback, time commitment, class structure, recordings, and who the program is designed for.
Alumni Interviews
Read interviews with students and learn more about the writers, projects, and experiences that have come through The Screenplay Workshop.
Join Me in the Screenwriting Master Class
FULL PARTICIPANT OPTION
You develop your story’s Nutshell, submit your work, and receive feedback from me and your classmates as you build your screenplay.
- Submit your work throughout the workshop
- Receive direct feedback from me
- Workshop your Nutshell, beat sheet, and script
- Take part in live discussion and critique
- Limited to 10 writers for focused attention
$845
Full participant
Early bird rate:
Use code FALL50 for $50 off thru Sept 7,
bringing tuition to $795.
Full Participant alumni discount:
take another $200 off
AUDIT OPTION
You follow along with the class and you will learn the Nutshell Technique by watching each session and working through the material on your own.
No writing submissions.
- Watch all sessions on your own schedule
- Access recordings for one year
- Download worksheets and materials
- Learn the Nutshell Technique at your own pace
- No writing submissions or feedback included
$195
Audit access
AUDIT + CONSULTATION OPTION
You learn the Nutshell Technique by watching each session at your own pace, then meet privately with me for a one-hour consultation focused on your story and questions.
- Watch all sessions on your own schedule
- Access recordings for one year
- Download worksheets and materials
- Receive a one-hour private consultation with me
- Bring your Nutshell and questions to discuss live
$495
Audit access + private consultation