First Draft Survival Guide: Practical Steps from a Working Screenwriter

Hollywood has changed. The industry doesn’t work like it did even five years ago. So why are you still reading books from the 90s?

The film world has moved on, but screenwriting books are still stuck in the past. They drown you in theory, abstract structure charts, and pointless examples from Hollywood’s golden days.

That’s not how you write a great script today.

You need a clear, no-BS guide that actually helps you finish your first draft. No fluff. No self-indulgent storytelling about a writer’s struggles in a Beverly Hills café.

Just straight-up, practical advice on how to get from FADE IN to FADE OUT.

First Draft Survival Guide gives you:

• A new, simple, and effective method for writing screenplays today
• The real reasons most scripts never get finished—and how to break through
• How to structure your story without getting trapped in outdated formulas
• A modern way to write compelling characters and sharp dialogue
• How to stay motivated and get to FADE OUT—fast

Want to write a simple, but powerful film like Anora?
Some well-fed Hollywood guru from the Stone Age won’t teach you how. But this book will.

If you're tired of reading the same outdated advice, it's time for a new screenwriting guide.
Buy now and start writing today!

Perfect for:

• Aspiring screenwriters
• Indie filmmakers
• Anyone with a story they’re ready to tell

What Writers Are Saying:

"It’s simple. It’s practical. And it gets you moving!"

"Leonid Andronov takes you by the hand without sounding condescending or making you feel patronized. The guidelines he gives are all very clear and in-depth, touching on every aspect of screenwriting—from structure and character development to pitching and selling your script. If you are a writer or wish to start writing a screenplay, I urge you to read this book."
— Marianne Bourg, Producer & Writer


"A treasure chest of practical advice for screenwriters"

"First Draft Survival Guide by Leonid Andronov is a must-read for any screenwriter. This book is packed with invaluable insights and practical advice that resonate deeply with working writers. Leonid doesn’t just preach about the craft; he shares his own experiences, including missteps and lessons learned, making the advice feel genuine and relatable. Whether you're just starting or refining your skills, this book will give you the tools and motivation to bring your stories to life."
— Art Kochukov, Screenwriter & Producer


"A must-read for aspiring screenwriters"

"Recommended for those who feel creative and inspired but don’t know where to start! First Draft Survival Guide is a well-written, thoughtful, and easy-to-read book that offers practical guidance based on personal experience and deep analysis of screenwriting materials. The information is well-organized, fun to read, and incredibly useful for anyone looking to turn their ideas into a screenplay."
— Natalia Padilla, Film Director & Producer

"Engaging and Easy to Absorb"
"I’ve read close to a hundred books on screenwriting, but only a dozen truly stand out. Leonid Andronov’s book is one of them. His approach is both practical and inspiring, offering productive methods for structuring the writing process, warning against common pitfalls, and presenting the fundamentals of screenwriting in a fresh, accessible way. I find this book not only extremely useful but essential.”
— Vlad Pasternak, Producer & Film Critic