The current WGA contract expires Nov. 1. As of now, it's unclear whether the writers would cease working immediately or continue for a while as a gesture of good will after their contract expires.

Most prime-time scripted shows are in production four or six episodes ahead of their air dates.

Should the guild go on strike Nov. 1, MSNBC noted, there should be enough new episodes completed to last through, at least, the middle of January, thus not disturbing TV viewing habits.

However, come February sweeps, there could be a huge shift in programming with the emphasis placed on reality shows, which aren't written by scribes under WGA contract.

Also, shows that premiered this fall, doing marginally well in the ratings might not get the benefit of the doubt in the form of a full-season order or second-season renewal because it is not cost-effective to keep sets running and people employed for a series that is not airing.

A strike could also affect what is new on television next fall because those scripts are written and pitched far in advance.