Script Writer and Copy Writer

A script writer, also called a screenwriter, creates the screenplay for a screen production. The screenplay is the written plan for what appears on screen. It sets out characters, dialogue, locations and emotions, and may include some camera directions. For example, a short drama about a school robotics club could list the characters, give their lines, describe a busy workshop and a nervous mood before a competition, and ask for a close-up on a robot's wheel.

Script writing happens mainly in pre-production, often at the start, because the screenplay gives others something to plan from. The script writer may revise it with producers and directors until it is ready. They are generally not needed during production or post-production, but may act as an adviser if a scene or line needs changing.

A copy writer produces written text called copy. Copy is written to engage, inform, entertain or persuade an audience. It is different from a screenplay: copy is used for promotional or informational content rather than for a screen production. Both roles write, but a copy writer's output is the wording of a message, not a plan for characters and scenes.

A copy writer researches the target audience first, so the wording suits the people it is aimed at. They plan the message, write the text and proofread it for mistakes. They must also avoid plagiarism and copyright problems. Plagiarism means presenting someone else's work as your own, and copyright is the legal right of a creator to control how their work is used. For example, a copy writer making a local recycling centre leaflet might check what families need to know, plan a clear friendly message, draft and proofread the text, and rewrite any borrowed sentence in their own words. They get permission before reusing someone else's text or images so the copy is lawful and properly credited.