Booksquare

Most writers float through the world convinced the algebra they suffered through will never, ever, not once be of any use to them. Au contraire, mon frere! As writers closely following the negotiations between the WGA and Hollywood studios have realized, a working knowledge of algebra (but not calculus — that remains a total waste of brain cells) is required to understand the major sticking point in negotations. We felt it was important to bring this issue to light — and to gently remind print authors that algebraic equations lurk deep inside their royalty statements as well. We believe it is important to understand the rather fusty accounting behind those lovely royalty checks.

• Writers and Studios Exchange Offers After Contract Expires