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Step-By-Step Writing Guide
Once you've managed to get an episode written it is time to send it off to the people who can provide the resources, budget and skills to get it on to the screen - the production companies! A common misconception is that you need an agent before you go any further - not true! So who should you send it to? We suggest going through the Writer's and Artists Yearbook to obtain production company contacts. We've also got a list of some of the production companies who've produced at least one British sitcom on our website. View Company List First target the production companies who've produced a sitcom you like and is similar in style to yours - they're likely to be the most responsive to your script and have the experience needed to put it on screen. Be aware that almost every production company has a strict set of rules relating to sending in unsolicited scripts - you need to find out what these are because if you don't present your script to them in the right way it will be instantly rejected. Unfortunately some of the larger production companies like Celador and TalkbackThames just don't accept unsolicited scripts. The TV stations might take a look at your script directly too. Each broadcaster has a webpage explaining the correct channels to go through to contact their commissioning teams - we have links to these on our broadcasters page.
You should send one script with a covering letter attached. Do not try to be funny in your letter! Only ask if they would consider reading your sitcom. Also, we advise that you do not add anything else unless it is relevant to your putative writing career (i.e. other experience in the field, common contacts, etc). Remember to put your name and address on everything. How long should you wait for a response? After three months try a polite email or call to ask if it has been read. Some companies have piles of scripts and it takes long time for them to read and assess each one properly. Your script could be being seriously considered, so don't rush them. If you've got to this stage and haven't yet bought any tutorial books go and get some right now as pitching your sitcom to production companies is a fine art and something we cannot cover fully here. Doing everything the correct way at this stage is essential because unfortunately a single mistake could result in a rejection letter coming through your door rather than a call asking you in for a chat.
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WRITERS' AREA
From time-to-time there are also writing competitions running. For example BBC Talent. Keep an eye on our 
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