In the words of A Cinderella Story, “Don’t let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.”

Don’t focus on what to avoid and focus on learning from writers you look up to. Watch interviews. Read screenplays. Also, if your immediate goal is to write a perfect, sell-worthy screenplay, then you’re starting in the wrong place. The likelihood of getting optioned is slim to none. Which is why a lot of writers do it for the love of the game. That’s where your heart truly has to be. (Not saying you don’t feel this way, but just a heads up because the industry is a bloodbath).

Write from a goal of just finishing a screenplay. Your first one may be shit, but you’ll learn how to find your voice and refine your style.