Introduction : "paint the windows black" -- One man band : daily professionalism for the lonely screenwriter -- Should you choose to accept it : tips for writers on assignment -- Challenges of adaptation -- Everybody's a critic : dealing with "notes" -- Getting in right the second time : executing revisions -- The comedy writer : make 'em laugh, or else -- Verbal alchemy : managing the writing team -- Make the other guy laugh : the comedy tandem -- In from the bullpen : pressure in the TV sitcom writer's room -- Staff infection : the rigors of writing TV drama -- The reality show : who says there's not work out there? -- Appealing behavior : professional rituals the industry loves -- Works in progress : the rituals and breaks of aspiring writers.