Writing for television breaks into a series of unique genres, of which sitcoms, comedies, prime time dramas and made for TV movies are just a start. Within these genres you'll find a rainbow of audiences, ranging from children's programming to documentary films to TV magazine shows.
Before you start writing, figure out what kind of programming fascinates you. It may take a long time to struggle up to the top in television writing, so make sure whatever type of writing you do is the type you can spend hours, months, even years working on without getting bored or jaded.
Knowing how to organize the structure of each episode is key. So, go to the library and checkout the best books on the subject. I recommend Write to TV by Martie Cook. This piece covers everything, from why you start and end each segment with your "A" plot to how to get a pitch meeting and present your ideas with compelling power. Whether you want to be a staff writer (a job that can open doors but also encourage gray hairs due to tight deadlines) or a freelance writer, writing for television is an art, and requires intelligence and business savvy.
Remember, writing for television is only one facet of writing for Hollywood. Look into your heart and write about what you love. Whether your scripts are geared for famous studios or up and coming producers, the act of writing them will reward you with creative enrichment, polish and, if Fortune smiles, with money.
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