This book is a must for anyone planning to write professionally for television, radio, or the new media-and a helpful reference for those already in the field. You'll learn the principles, forms, and latest techniques for writing commercials, news, and sports; features and documentaries; talk shows; music, variety, and comedy programs; education, corporate, and children's programs; and dramas. Robert L. Hilliard provides many examples of actual scripts and storyboards that illustrate sound writing techniques. He also includes an overview of the mass media and describes differences among various television, film, and radio formats. New to this Ninth Edition: Chapter 6 is expanded to include a section on "Reality Programs" reflecting current trends in popular screenwriting. Discussion of changing technology, production techniques, and formats informs students on adapting their writing to various media. New contemporary examples of scripts and storyboards engage today's student.

Key Features: Thorough introduction with clear explanation of basic principles and hands-on applications for various audio and visual formats provides a solid foundation. Plentiful examples for each format illustrate good application of the writing principles and techniques taught in the text. Suggestions for writing for special audiences address issues of cultural awareness in a multicultural society. Chapter 11 discusses professional opportunities for students exploring careers in writing. Book jacket.