After reading “The Checklist Manifesto” by Atul Gawande, I realized having a codified list of everything I knew after 20+ years of earning a paycheck from writing could be useful for keeping my ADHD brain on track.
That’s why I created my own checklist for screenwriting. I call it my Scribblers Toolbox.
I try to write a version every morning before I get started with the day’s work. Here’s a recent version taped to my refrigerator. A wizard’s spellbook? Or the encrypted manifesto of a serial killer?
While most of the tools and concepts in my list are not original, much of it is screenwriting 101; they’re all true and valuable based on my experience.
So whether you’re struggling to get started on a new project or just looking for ways to improve your writing, a mnemonic or checklist can be a great way to keep all your favorite elements of storytelling top of mind.