Story Bible

Term from Screenwriting industry explained for recruiters

A Story Bible is an essential document used in television, film, and video game production that serves as a central reference guide for all creative content. It's like a detailed rulebook that contains everything about a show or project's characters, settings, plot rules, and history. Writers and producers use it to keep story details consistent across episodes, seasons, or sequels. Similar terms include "Show Bible," "Series Bible," or "Production Bible." Think of it as a master guidebook that helps everyone involved in the project stay on the same page about the story world they're creating.

Examples in Resumes

Created and maintained Story Bible for a 12-episode streaming series

Developed comprehensive Show Bible for multi-season animated series

Updated and managed Series Bible content for ongoing television drama

Collaborated with writing team to establish Production Bible guidelines

Typical job title: "Story Developers"

Also try searching for:

Story Developer Story Coordinator Script Coordinator Development Assistant Writers Assistant Story Editor Development Coordinator

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle major story changes that conflict with an established Story Bible?

Expected Answer: A senior candidate should discuss methods for updating the bible while maintaining consistency, involving stakeholders in decisions, and managing the impact on future storylines.

Q: Describe your experience managing Story Bibles for multiple projects simultaneously.

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate experience with organizing large amounts of story information, coordinating with multiple writing teams, and maintaining quality across different projects.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What key elements do you include in a Story Bible?

Expected Answer: Should mention character backgrounds, world rules, timeline tracking, style guidelines, and how these elements help maintain consistency in storytelling.

Q: How do you ensure all team members are following Story Bible guidelines?

Expected Answer: Should explain communication methods, review processes, and systems for updating and sharing changes with the team.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the purpose of a Story Bible?

Expected Answer: Should explain that it's a reference document keeping track of story details, character information, and world rules to maintain consistency.

Q: How do you organize information in a Story Bible?

Expected Answer: Should describe basic organizational methods like sections for characters, settings, and plotlines, and explain how to keep information easily accessible.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic document organization
  • Detail tracking
  • Research abilities
  • Clear writing skills

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Story development
  • Team coordination
  • Version control management
  • Content review

Senior (5+ years)

  • Project management
  • Team leadership
  • Multi-project coordination
  • Strategic story planning

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No understanding of story structure or narrative elements
  • Poor organizational skills
  • Lack of attention to detail
  • No experience with collaborative writing environments
  • Unable to maintain consistent documentation