The Difference Between Screenwriting and Novel Writing

Screenwriting and novel writing are two completely different genres of writing. Although they both tell stories, they do so in very different ways.

Screenwriting is a form of writing specifically for the screen, whether that be for television or film. It is a highly visual medium, so a screenwriter must be able to paint a picture with their words in order to bring the story to life on screen. This means that a screenwriter must be able to describe settings and action scenes in great detail, as well as writing compelling dialogue.

Novel writing, on the other hand, is a more internal medium. The author must be able to create believable characters and worlds that the reader can get lost in. A novelist must be able to evoke emotion in their readers and take them on a journey through the story. Although a novelist also has to be able to write great dialogue and description, they don’t have to be quite as visual as a screenwriter.

So, what’s the difference between screenwriting and novel writing? It’s all in the medium. Screenwriting is a highly visual medium, so the writer must be able to describe settings and action scenes in great detail. Novel writing is more internal, so the writer must be able to create believable characters and worlds that the reader can get lost in.