When I think of writing scripts for radio and even for podcast, I think of a hamburger, not that I am always hungry, but it is easier to explain how radio scriptwriting is done. The buns represent the introduction and ending which are often called the intro and the extro, while the patty is the main topic or the information you want to serve to your target audience.   

Some would think of a hamburger plainly as a sandwich with cooked patty of ground meat placed between two buns and they're okay with that thought. But sometimes, listeners like burger aficionados would want to have lettuce, bacon, tomato, onion, pickles and condiments such as mayonnaise and ketchup beside the basic elements of a burger. In radio scriptwriting, the other elements placed in the script are the music, sound effects and even the choice of voice talents.  

Aside from the basic elements here are some practical ways to start writing for radio. I always apply the T-S-W FORMULA. This is something that I learned from the Christian radio station that I worked with before. 

T – Think about the structure.

Gather ideas that you want to include in the script. Think about the first bun or your opening lines. You, as a writer must create a picture in the mind of your listener. Describing the space, sight smell, feel, taste or experience could be a starting point. Another way is by asking a question. You can also start with a well-known quote or you can use a personal comment. Then, think about the internal content or your patty. It would help to browse information from the internet. Use short sentences with one idea only. Think as if you're talking to a friend. Then, think about the other bun or your ending. You must relate the lines in your ending with your opening thought.

S – Say it out loud

Listening to the thought that you would like to share would help you figure out if your thoughts can be easily understood. It will help you choose the right words to say too. 

W – Write it

After you have written the script, try reading it aloud to another person. This way you can check the timing, ambiguous phrases and repetitions. Discuss it to someone and make the necessary revision.

So, are you hungry for more tips? You should be! Monsoon is cooking up something and is preparing flavorful audio “hamburgers” soon to be served via local Wycliffe websites!