Script Analysis

A lot of people ask, what's the difference between script analysis, script coverage and script notes. I say: good question. Script notes are pretty cut and dry. They usually consist of somebody telling you what they liked, what they didn't like along with any formatting errors and misspelled words they could find.

Script coverage is usually performed by a studio and is how they figure out if your project is something they're interested in. Most of the scripts are read by a studio reader or an assistant, and based on their coverage of the script, the executive they work for will determine if they add the script to their already large weekend pile. They grade the story, dialogue, the project and the writer. With way too many scripts to read, they are looking to eliminate yours as quickly as possible. If your expecting constructive and detailed criticism here, don't.

That's where script analysis comes in to the picture. You don't want to just know what somebody likes or dislikes, you need to know why. How else are you going to become a better writer. With the aim of making your script the most impressive it can be, you will have a better chance of impressing the people that make decisions. Since they usually only perform coverage once on the same script, a script analysis will ensure that your chances improve. In the numbers game that is Hollywood, you need every chance you can get.