Okay, where to begin?

Well. I'm planning on becoming a commentator/reviewer through YouTube. I have the mic, I have the computer, I have everything I need. However during my recording tests I notice that I have a tendency to digress and go on tangents all too often. I suspect this is because I have neglected to write a script for myself. This is where you sexy stickpagians come in.

Does anyone have experience with scripting or writing? My main problem is that I don't know where to start though I'm sure It would be alot better if I wrote a script. Considering I convey my ideas alot better through text as opposed to speaking. If so, could I get some tips or examples on where to begin and how to properly write a script? And I have tried writing an outline. But once again everything feels very off-topic and incoherent. So I think writing an entirely thought out script is my only option at this point. If anyone can help or share experience or examples it'd be greatly appreciated.

In your outline, make "checkpoints". These are your main points that make the biggest impacts in what you want to convey and what you think will win the audience over. Checkpoints can include that One Funny Joke you wanna make or that One Major Insight you wanna dabble on. Then, go back and connect the dots.

You can now do whatever the fuck you want, but be sure that those off-tangents neatly connect to your chosen Checkpoints. Also make sure that each off-tangent part is roughly the same length.

I've been writing a script for my game. It's different if you're on your own, I guess.

But yeah, it's best to write down your general ideas or the "main points" of your thing and just connect the dots, like Hewitt said. Make sure you don't go on and on about one thing too. A script is usually curt, so after you're done developing your thoughts on the paper, try to trim the dead weight down. It doesn't have to be overly complicated because you want people to pay attention, not fall asleep.

Oh yeah also; well this is obvious but if you want to know how to start then go and watch other people's reviewtubes and see how they start. If you're a champion in public speaking it shouldn't be a problem. You should know your target audience and play on that demographic.

Hewitt's suggestion is the only solid one you need. Think of the checkpoints as a map. You can off on a tangent whenever you wish, but you have the checklist to bring you back to the same line of thought.

Word of advice, do not start off with a tight script, especially for a Youtube review. You absolutely need to be flexible, make it spontaneous. The making/breaking point will reside in your screen charisma, nothing else.

Thanks guys. The advice actually helped out alot. Two more questions if you don't mind:

First. This is how I've been organizing my outline so far:

I wasn't sure if there was a "proper" way to write an outline but I made one that would work for me. If there's a specific way to writing an outline let me know please.

Second. Should I try at multiple recordings? Or pre-recording tests to work out the kinks and awkward feeling. (I've tried this and still am but I'm not feeling like I'm getting anywhere by doing it.)

1. Your outline is great if you're writing something but since you're not it should be something like this:

Topic.
Sub-Topic


You don't need to needlessly point everything you're gonna say exactly. Since you're writing the script for yourself and not an actor or not in any vision inherent in anyone's work, then there's no point in structure. Just keep your eyes on the prize---er---the checkpoints and tie an imaginary leash around your throat: you can go to the deep end of the pool anytime you want, just be sure to come back and change strokes later.


2. MMmm if you want to, but honestly if you really wanna get that awkward feeling out, the best way is to talk to actual people. It's not like you're trying to establish a persona like the Nostalgia Critic or the AVGN. This is a talk show. So the best way to talk to people miles away, would be to talk to people in your face.

Quote from Hewitt

1. Your outline is great if you're writing something but since you're not it should be something like this:

Topic.
Sub-Topic


You don't need to needlessly point everything you're gonna say exactly. Since you're writing the script for yourself and not an actor or not in any vision inherent in anyone's work, then there's no point in structure. Just keep your eyes on the prize---er---the checkpoints and tie an imaginary leash around your throat: you can go to the deep end of the pool anytime you want, just be sure to come back and change strokes later.

This is actually what I meant in that example. Here's a detailed example (chose a random topic to use as an example.)

"Point to make regarding the sub-topic" was meaning to write like a one or two sentence paragraph telling myself what exactly to go over. Then wing it using that as a focus.