The importance of pace

Some scripts move at a slow pace: The Royle Family is the perfect example of this, although, of course, it is crammed with character, texture and detail.

Other shows feel considerably more frenetic: The Thick Of It and Plebs, for instance, both move quickly.

Getting the pace of your show right is crucial. Scripts that start speedily, then descend into long, ponderous scenes with lots of padding will quickly lose viewers' (and producers'!) interest. Similarly, shows that move at a gentle pace and then wrap up very quickly will feel lopsided and unsatisfying.

As a general rule, newer writers can...