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Sarah Golding and Lindsay Harris Friel dive into the great debate of audio drama writing: whether to meticulously outline your story or write by the seat of your pants. Though this debate may never be solved, Lindsay proposes a third option: the skort method. The skort method of story planning gives you the freedom of pantsing, helps you set up structure for an outline, and has pockets for later research. 

• Outlining benefits writers because it shows the entire story structure, helps you set up plot twists, and conserves your creative energy. 
• "Pantsing" creates excitement and momentum but can lead to continuity errors and unfinished projects.
• The "Skort Method" combines both approaches: write a broad summary first, then detail individual scenes.
• Breaking scripts into episodes works best at natural decision points where characters face meaningful choices. 
• Cliffhangers are most effective when characters have to choose something right before a break, with consequences revealed after the story returns to the audience.
• Write an entire season or story before you start production to avoid creative burnout.
• Consider using sensitivity or beta readers to understand your script's impact before production. 

Talking points written by Lindsay Harris Friel

Edited by Sarah Golding

Music by Vince Friel

Additional Resources:
Give me Away
Almelem
Scrivener
The Muppets Mayhem

The Goon Show 

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Sarah and Lindsay