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What TV Got Right — That YouTubers Haven’t (Yet)
Been really into mental models recently, and thinking about how you apply lessons from one industry or project to another.
Here are some quick thoughts on how established YouTubers might leverage lessons from TV writing in their own content development:
Set an overarching goal for the show. Basically branding, with an emphasis on genre. Successful television shows define what they are — sitcoms, political dramas, comedies. This helps the audience understand how the format works, and what to expect.
Consider developing loose show and season arcs. Releasing in “seasons” will help prevent creative burnout, without compromising audience communication. When creators hit the inevitable burnout cliff, they usually make a video about taking a “break.” Having clear-cut seasons prevents this. Audiences know when you’re on and when you’re off.
Build your equivalent of a writers’ rooms. Most writers say they only have a loose idea of where a show is headed overall; they’re laying the track as they go. Still, they’re able to track character development, inciting events, and little details over the course of many episodes. And then, plant Easter eggs for super fans, close loops, and make sure all the component parts make sense.
