Manga Original Author
まんがげんさくしゃ
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Writes the story, character designs, and scenarios (nameboards) for manga works, collaborating with manga artists and editors on planning and production.
Description
Manga original authors create story structures, character designs, and nameboards (scenarios) including dialogue and panel layouts based on their own ideas or proposals from editorial departments. The completed nameboards are handed over to manga artists (illustrators), who combine them with artwork to form the final work. They also handle planning for serialized works, meetings, revisions, analysis of reader trends, and more to support work quality and serialization continuity. Many work as freelancers, contracting with editors and publishers for serialization, while opportunities to self-publish on web manga platforms and SNS are also increasing.
Future Outlook
With the expansion of web manga and e-book markets, opportunities for individual authors are increasing, while competition intensifies due to rising work volumes. Self-promotion skills using SNS will become crucial.
Personality Traits
Cooperative / Creative / Curious or inquisitive / Flexible and adaptable / Meets deadlines / Strong writing expression
Work Style
Contract Employee / Freelance / Publisher Employment / Remote
Career Path
Comic Editorial Assistant → Assistant Original Author → Freelance Original Author → Serial Writer → Veteran Original Author
Required Skills
Character Design / Japanese Writing Expression / Story Composition Ability / Storyboard Creation
Recommended Skills
Communication Skills (for Editors and Illustrators) / Digital Production Tools / Dissemination Ability / Trend Awareness (Manga Industry)
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Because creative ability to generate new stories and attractive characters is required. |
| Planning & Organization | Planning ability for serialization structure and plot creation aligned with deadlines is essential. |
| Stress Tolerance | Because strict deadline management, such as serialization deadlines and handling revisions, is required. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because almost no mathematical tasks arise. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Mainly desk work, so physical demands are low. |
Aliases
- Comic Scenario Writer
- Manga Original Author
- Manga Scenario Writer
Related Jobs
- Comic Editor
- Manga Artist
- Novelist
- Scenario Writer