Unlike movies, television shows have a very specific format which is largely dictated by the insertion of commercials. Most television production companies employ readers to evaluate the scripts that are submitted by outside writers. The coverage is a written synopsis and evaluation of the script. Even with shows that accept unagented scripts, it is important to know that in most cases a script will not be bought outright. The story idea might be purchased and turned over to the staff writers.
Some shows allow writers to come in to the office and pitch one or two story ideas to the producers.
All writers should become familiar with the Writer's Guild of America. Writer's Guild registration provides a record of the writer's claim to authorship of the written material. Registration establishes the content and completion date of the work which can be used in the event of a dispute. The WGA provides several different contract forms depending on the nature of the production. The Standard Form Freelance Television Writer's Employment Agreement is the most commonly used.