What are the guidelines for pitching a TV script to different networks and studios?

1 Know your type

The first thing you need to know is what type of script you have: is it a pilot or a spec? A pilot is the first episode of a new show that introduces the main characters, premise, and tone. A spec is an episode of an existing show that demonstrates your ability to write for that show's style, voice, and structure. Generally, pilots are more common for pitching original ideas, while specs are more useful for applying to writing programs or fellowships. However, some networks and studios might ask for both, so be prepared to have both types of scripts in your portfolio.

2 Know your genre

The next thing you need to know is what genre your script belongs to: is it a drama, a comedy, or something in between? Different networks and studios have different preferences and niches for the genres they produce and distribute. For example, HBO is known for its prestige dramas, Netflix for its diverse and innovative content, and ABC for its family-friendly comedies. You need to research the network or studio you are pitching to and find out what kind of shows they are looking for, what kind of shows they have already made, and what kind of shows they have passed on. You also need to make sure your script matches the tone, length, and format of the genre you are pitching. For example, dramas are usually longer and more serialized than comedies, which are shorter and more episodic.

3 Know your format

The third thing you need to know is what format your script follows: is it a single-camera or a multi-camera show? A single-camera show is filmed like a movie, with one camera moving around the scene and editing different shots together. A multi-camera show is filmed like a play, with multiple cameras capturing the action from different angles and using a live studio audience or a laugh track. Single-camera shows tend to be more cinematic, realistic, and creative, while multi-camera shows tend to be more theatrical, traditional, and familiar. Different networks and studios have different preferences and budgets for the format they produce and distribute. For example, CBS is known for its multi-camera sitcoms, while FX is known for its single-camera comedies. You need to research the network or studio you are pitching to and find out what format they favor and what format suits your script best.

4 Know your audience

The fourth thing you need to know is who your target audience is: who are the people who will watch and enjoy your show? Different networks and studios have different demographics and psychographics for the viewers they attract and serve. For example, NBC is known for its broad and mainstream appeal, Hulu for its young and savvy audience, and AMC for its niche and loyal fanbase. You need to research the network or studio you are pitching to and find out who their audience is, what they like, and what they expect. You also need to make sure your script appeals to your target audience and showcases your unique voice, vision, and value proposition.

5 Know your pitch

The fifth thing you need to know is how to craft and deliver your pitch: how will you sell your script to the decision-makers who can greenlight your project? Pitching a TV script is not just about sending a written document, but also about presenting a verbal and visual pitch that captures the essence and potential of your script. You need to prepare a pitch deck, a pitch document, and a pitch meeting. A pitch deck is a slide presentation that summarizes your script's concept, characters, story, tone, and style. A pitch document is a written document that expands on your script's details, themes, marketability, and feasibility. A pitch meeting is a face-to-face or online meeting where you pitch your script to the network or studio executives, producers, or agents. You need to practice your pitch, tailor it to your audience, and be ready to answer questions, address feedback, and negotiate terms.