CLASS & MENTEEÂ ENDORSEMENTS
“Michael Tabb's writing course is rich in detail. Everything that's covered verbally in class is available also afterwards to review… If you put the effort and the time into the assignments, Michael Tabb will do the heavy lifting to get you to your screenplay.
If you're serious about writing, you cannot do without this class; if you're not serious, but would like to be, then this class will help you decide whether a writing career is for you or not.
I will be signing up, at some point, a couple of our new development people for your course. They have to prove themselves to get this kind of reward.”
Ted Hartley
CEO
RKO Pictures
“Michael Tabb delivered actionable instruction on the in's and out's of writing a series. His insider information on show bible, structure, and the pilot episode with week-to-week guidance was invaluable to me. I received my Master's Degree under Michael and as soon as I heard he was offering a private online course, I signed up. If you want expert mentoring, this is it!”
John Darbonne
Winner, 2020 Filmmatic Horror Winner,
2021 & 2020 Westfield Screewriter's AwardÂ
Winner, 2019 Film Crash Web Series
Finalist, 2019 Screencraft Horror Competition
Finalist, 2021 The Script Lab's Screenplay Contest (written in Michael's class)
2019 RoadMap Top Tier
Top 1% Horror Feature on Coverfly
“Professor Tabb is an amazing mentor. He guides you through every step towards bringing your characters and their stories to life. The space he has built to welcome a community of writer's is way more then any tuition could buy. Feeling like you are in a Writer's Room was the icing on the cake. He made you believe in the statement, "I am a writer." I will forever take that revelation away with me and have made amazing new friends that I WILL work with in the future. Professor Tabb not only gives his time, wisdom, and knowledge --- He gives his heart. I am truly grateful to have been a part of this beautiful journey and hope this will motivate you to take the next steps towards breathing life into your passion.”Â
Trish Persen
Be Inspired
Writer
Stage 32's 'Best TV Drama' Contest Winner
INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANCY
Several months ago, I completed the first draft of a screenplay based on one of my original ideas. While I had previously written and published three novels, screenplay writing was an entirely new discipline for me. I had never attended film school or received any formal training in screenwriting, and I quickly realized how different and complex the format and industry expectations were.
The task ahead felt overwhelming. I wasn’t just trying to tell a good story — I needed to meet the professional standards required by producers and studios in Hollywood. That’s when I began working with Michael Tabb, and I can confidently say it was one of the best creative decisions I’ve ever made.
Michael brought a level of structure, clarity, and encouragement that transformed the entire experience. He broke down the necessary revisions into manageable, clearly defined stages. Instead of trying to tackle everything at once, I focused on one step at a time. His methodical guidance helped me reshape the script, not just in terms of formatting and layout, but also in storytelling, pacing, and character development — all of which are crucial for appealing to producers.
What impressed me most was Michael’s unwavering enthusiasm for my project. His energy, passion, and genuine investment in the story kept me motivated through every draft. He treated the material with the care and creativity of a true artist, and working with him felt more like a collaboration than a consultation.
Despite a tight six-week deadline, I was able to complete a polished, industry-ready version of the script — something I couldn’t have done without Michael’s ongoing support and professionalism. Today, that screenplay has reached a level I never imagined possible. It is now being considered for production.
Michael Tabb is an exceptional screenwriting mentor and creative partner. I highly recommend his services to anyone serious about taking their screenplay to the highest level.
Thank you
Â
Liberty Jane
Author / Screenwriter
Fox & Brown Literary and Film Agency
BOOK A PRIVATE CONSULTANCY“Michael understands the nuts and bolts of storytelling like no one else — Whether you’re penning your first script or your thirtieth.”
Damon Lindelof, WGA Writer/Producer/Creator
Star Trek (2009), World War Z,
Co-Creator TV’s Lost, The Watchmen
"Michael is not only a great screenwriter, but he understands how to explain screenwriting in a way that I never could and in a way that helped me move forward.”Â
Roberto Orci, WGA Writer
Transformers 1 & 2, Star Trek 1, 2 & 3, The Amazing Spider-Man 2, The Legend of Zorro, Mission: Impossible III
After months of hardships facing multiple, counteracting perspectives of the creative arts of writing, Mr. Tabb took the threshold of work out of the hands of many prestigious instructors and combined all elements in one month of course work. He was the best and most supportive instructor I encountered through two programs at Full Sail University. I've never met Mr. Tabb face-to-face, but his effectiveness through the written word and his professional and social integrity glowed through his efforts in my online experience.
From the perspective and experience of a professional student who sought to break through the barriers of amateurism and into the field of advanced writing, I couldn't think of a greater individual to establish a personal recommendation for. Thank you for your continual efforts and mentorship within the oncoming generation of writers Mr. Tabb.Â
Leif Jones, student
I was in one of Professor Tabb's first classes at Full Sail University. His commitment to the education of his students was reflected not only in our grades but also in the feedback he provided. The class was extremely tough but it was worth the hard work and effort. This class developed me into becoming a better and critical writer. I thank Professor Tabb for being tough and fair. There is truth to the saying, "You get what you earn," if you put no effort into doing well, the result is self explanatory. Thank you, Professor Tabb!
Heather Fraser, student
I've been an educator for nine years and have known scores of teachers in my time. Michael Tabb is one of the best educators I have ever known, in large part because he is such a caring human being. His love of the craft is rivaled only by his love of people. He brings a passion to his work that inspires a passion in his students. He gives of himself constantly, communicating his high expectations warmly while holding himself to even higher standards of quality. He spends several hours, late into the night, working with students to demonstrate the skills he teaches. His speed in turnaround on emails, texts and calls borders on compulsive. His feedback is comprehensive and gives evidence of the highest attention and effort. I took advantage of his knowledge and time more than most, I imagine, but I never felt that I was imposing. It has been many years since I had someone whom I wanted to make proud. Michael Tabb has changed that.Â
Arika Cullen, student
I have known and worked with Course Director Michael Tabb for several years. He is a masterful and experienced storyteller and industry professional with a deep knowledge of script development. He possesses an understanding of dramatic structure that is unsurpassed and has a keen sense for creative decisions that result in a rich and satisfying narrative with a strong thematic underpinning. Additionally, Michael has honed and codified ideas for protagonist and antagonist creation that help in devising the perfect heroes and villains needed for a dramatic and tension-filled journey. I’m confident that whatever you need, he can deliver as a storyteller, a teacher and a compassionate mentor.
Sidney Williams, Creative Writing MFA Course Director
I have known Michael since 1995 when we were classmates at the University of California, Los Angeles Professional Program in Screenwriting. I am also a member of the Writers Guild of America and an international and domestic multi-award-winning filmmaker. Michael, who I affectionately think of as a “mensch” has always been, is, and always will be, an affable, room-grabbing, just slightly larger-than-life personality. He’s the guy that everybody “wants” to have in the room. Hitting his stride early, Michael was able to secure professional writing assignments with the major studios straight out of class. A phenomenal writer and an amazing person, Michael has continued to secure professional writing assignments and sustain a 15-year career still in the making… With stripes from writing in the trenches for Disney, Universal, and Warner Brothers - just to name a few - Michael is the next level kind of leader and professional synonymous with “high quality”. Â
Christopher C. Odom, WGA Screenwriter, Creative Writing MFA Course Director
Mr. Tabb and I have worked together for several years. He is a leader on campus, conducting multiple workshops and participating on panels. He is incredibly generous with his knowledge and talents, giving tirelessly to his students and his colleagues. I am happy to offer my wholehearted recommendation.
Thomas Lucas, Creative Writing MFA Course Director
Michael Tabb pushed me to do some of my best work. He demanded a lot but he demanded necessary and valuable work. In his editing class we took dull screenplays and honed them till they were scalpel sharp.Â
Jason Waggoner, student
As a valued contributor to Script Magazine, Michael delivers insightful information that's invaluable to our readers. His experience in screenwriting helps transform writers' perspectives to aide them in improving their craft as well as raising their chances of success. I'm honored to have Michael's words and advice grace the pages of Script Magazine.
Jeanne Bowerman, editor-in-chief, Script Magazine
Brilliant screenwriter and author. Tabb created his own method of storytelling which I highly recommend reading in his book PREWRITING YOUR SCREENPLAY.
Peter Hyoguchi, Filmmaker
From the first class I had with him until now, Prof. Tabb has consistently been a kind but firm professor. His professionalism is top-notch, and he practices what he preaches. From seeing the very best in me to generously giving back to others through his own volunteer writing tutorials online, he encourages me to keep improving on my craft. He may be halfway around the world from me, but I never feel the distance whenever I send him a message or ask him for help. Prof. Tabb is the kind of writer I aspire to be--positive, purposeful, and perceptive.
I was working on a script I was hoping to send to a contest and found myself stuck on who my character is. I remembered what you taught us about screenplay foundations, where you had us specify the protagonist’s inner and outer journeys. As I was filling it out, I was just amazed how my time at Full Sail, in particular your classes, have been helping me in my writer’s journey.
Just wanted to thank you again! I was talking to my husband the other day about writing projects I’d gotten into before, and he’s the one who noticed that your referrals have gotten me into really exciting places in my career. So thanks again for that.
I can’t imagine how many students’ lives you’ve influenced, and I hope you know and appreciate that part of your career.
I highly recommend your classes as I do working with you. You exhibit the right blend of professionalism and care that I have experienced since first becoming your student and as I have worked with you through all of these years. It is actually a testament to your wholistic work ethic that we are still in touch and that I am still learning from you.
More power to you and everything you do. It has been 5 years since my last class with you. Cheers to another 5 more and beyond of learning from and working with you!Â
Neema Ejercito
Working Writer
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MICHAEL TABB´S BOOK
Michael Tabb is an award-winning author and screenwriter who has written the book, 'Prewriting Your Screenplay: A Step-by-Step Guide for Generating Stories'. This book is an invaluable resource for aspiring screenwriters, as it provides a comprehensive guide to the pre-writing process and offers helpful tips and techniques to kickstart the creative process. With the help of Michael's book, you can easily get started on the path to success in the world of screenwriting.
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Edward SantiagoÂ
...I’ve had the pleasure to learn under many great professors as a student in the Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing program. Each professor managed to help me learn how to be prepared for my future career. During this time, I met the person who has become my greatest teacher and mentor while I was a student, and this relationship still continues as a professional writer. This person is Professor Michael Tabb.
Prof. Tabb’s guidance taught me not just to write, but also how to analyze my story with keen observation methods to express my idea and vision to the fullest. Prof. Tabb not only taught me about editing a screenplay, but he challenged me to be the best I could be, and to rise above my limitation as a Spanish-speaking person with English as my second language.
With Prof. Tabb’s teachings, my thesis script, the western/horror The Devil Himself, was a finalist at the Shriekfest Film Festival, and it is currently an official selection to the prestigious Oaxaca Film Festival in Mexico. My new script, the fantasy Knights of the Valiant Heart, just won Best Feature Screenplay in the Sci-Fi/Fantasy genre at the Shriekfest Film Festival this past Sunday, October the 4th.
I am an award winning screenwriter, and Prof. Tabb helped me achieve that.
Marina Miller
I am writing this letter in enthusiastic support of Professor Michael Tabb. I have known Professor Tabb since January 2014, when I completed his course, “Editing for Film, Games, and Animation,” in the Creative Writing Master of Fine Arts program.
Professor Tabb made it clear that he had high expectations for not only his students, but also for himself. He proved this statement time and time again, as for each assignment a student turned in, Professor Tabb would take the time to write extensive, detailed notes on each student’s strengths, as well as where one could improve. As a result, I look back on this course as the most influential.
Professor Tabb is able to communicate his knowledge of writing and the film industry in such a way that both are highly interesting and easy to understand. When grading and critiquing, he makes it clear that his main goal is for the student to succeed in the class and also in his or her chosen career path. Through his straightforward critiques, I was able to learn how to spot errors and strengths in my own work, a skill that is immeasurably useful even beyond the classroom. While Professor Tabb is a master of the English language, he is also an expert on storytelling mechanics, and is able to teach both in a way that is engaging and informative.
I have kept in contact with Professor Tabb since January 2014, and have discovered that his work ethic extends beyond the classroom, as he is also an accomplished WGA screenwriter, and a columnist for Script Magazine. Even after my graduation, Professor Tabb has been available to answer any questions that I have had about writing and the film industry, proving once again that he is concerned about his student’s long-term success. Due to his extraordinary strength in communicating knowledge, his writing experience, and his commitment to student success, it is clear to me that Professor Tabb will continue bring the highest standard of education to the classroom.
In short, Professor Michael Tabb has my highest recommendation for a teaching position.
Nick WestfallÂ
Michael Tabb is an outside the box thinker and writer. His advice feels the same as parental guidance. You can feel his desire to make his students successful.
Recently, I just finished my first feature film as writer/director. Days before production started, with me in the beginning stages of a nervous breakdown, I called Michael to get some advice. It was the first time I’d ever worked on a six-figure budget with forty-eight cast and crewmembers. What he said to me has stayed and will stay with me forever. “Nick, remember that you’re having the time of your life and the problems that come up are problems you wish you were having two, three years ago.” When you change perspective and realize all problems are due to an overwhelming amount of mental noise then problems aren’t really even problems.
It’s because of Michael Tabb’s commitment in and outside the classroom that I am able to think this way and make films I want to see. Like him, I am now a lifetime learner.
Robert "Bo" Forehand
As a student of this inspiring teacher, I learned more in four weeks with Professor Tabb than I had studying on my own time for years. He multiplied my creative writing skills many times over... Schools and universities are filled with great teachers, and Michael Tabb is one of the best. Never has a professor been more attentive or engaged in the student's progress and education. He set aside his own time for me one day so we could talk on the phone about my script for well over an hour. Personal touches like these leave a mark on the student and make them all the more willing to succeed. I know it did for me. Professor Michael Tabb has my highest recommendation as a teacher that goes above and beyond for his students. Â
Lianne DeRosier
Professor Tabb is an incredible teacher. He is engaging in his assignments, in the online meetings, and in person. He is encouraging, quick with emailed responses, and knowledgeable. I learned a lot about editing in his class, and about screenwriting in general. I am grateful to have taken Professor Tabb’s class, and to have had the opportunity to work with him after. Â
Denise DeemsÂ
He was my screenwriting professor as well as the instructor for the course on advanced editing. I also had the privilege of auditing his character development class. After graduation and under his mentorship, I went on to publish a novel and work on two major motion pictures.Â
Michael Tabb is a talented and dedicated educator who is genuinely interested in the betterment of his students. He has a natural presence and is captivating in the classroom. In addition to being a popular professor in the program, he has a reputation for bringing out the best in his students.Â
Professor Tabb’s teachings on story development and screenwriting are a real asset to both beginning and advanced writers. His methodology can hold its own against other screenwriting gurus such as Trottier and Vogler. It’s an easy to follow, but challenging to master, technique that will serves as valuable tool throughout any writer’s career.Â
Roy Pettis
I am writing this letter in support of Professor Michal Tabb. I first met Professor Tabb while attending the Master’s of Creative Writing program from 2012 – 2014. I had the pleasure of taking Professor Tabb’s Editing for Film, Game, and Animation class. Since that time, Professor Tabb has been a constant source of knowledge, support, and encouragement, a source that has carried over from the academic halls to the professional realm.
Professor Tabb has a passion for his craft, his class, and his students that is inspiring. He has a talent for pushing students to not only see their potential but he equips them with the necessary elements to achieve it. As a writer, he is a gifted muse that is a wealth of knowledge on technique, style, and creative content. As a teacher, he is always willing to share that knowledge and change a student’s perception and thinking process to produce positive results. The writing, editing, and rewriting techniques he teaches are a testament to his desire as an instructor to transform his students into professional writers. His goal was not for us to merely pass the class but instead to surpass the rigid industry expectations and standards that would face us after we graduated. He was preparing us to be professionals, and the amazing part was, he did all of this without us being in a physical class. Instead, Professor Tabb opened himself up to our constant communications and never complained. He took time for his students, whether on the phone, on chat or email, or if possible in person. He inspired and pushed us remotely.
Professor Tabb’s lessons still impact me today, as does he. He still acts as that source of knowledge, support, and encouragement. He keeps his students up to date, not only on writing but also on opportunities. Professor Tabb used to tell us, “we will always be his students,” and I must say, he has shown me, we always will be.  That kind of passion and dedication is rare, but rare is what is remembered.
Paula K. Odell
I was blessed to have Michael Tabb as one of my master level instructors. His experience, dedication and passion for his craft are infectious. Although this learning experience was new to me, I found myself inspired by his enthusiasm, honesty and commitment. He helped me achieve my learning goals.Â
Michael has extensive experience and is more than willing to share his knowledge. Someone of his caliber and talent could come across as unapproachable. In Michael’s case, he expresses genuine concern for his students. This translates into a very approachable person, teacher and mentor. Â
Not only is Michael experienced but his dedication is unwavering. This was most evident during a five hour editing training session, which originally was to last only approximately two hours. During this editing session he stayed focused, responsive and positive to each of the students he worked with. He was unwilling to leave any of our concerns or questions unanswered, even after the lateness of the meeting. It was during this session, that his genuine passion for writing was evident. He conveys this passion verbally and in his writing.Â
I truly believe Michael Tabb is a wonderful teacher and mentor. I am grateful to call him both. I value Michael’s qualities and only hope to mimic his example in my future writing career. Of course, these qualities are not limited to writing, but every aspect of one’s life. Michael epitomizes these qualities and would be a wonderful asset to any team, studio, campus or group.Â
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