Writing a compelling story requires more than just brilliant ideas and captivating characters. It demands a well-structured plot that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end. While some writers prefer to “fly by the seat of their pants” and let the story unfold organically, many successful authors rely on various plotting techniques to craft narratives that resonate with readers. This article explores the methods used by successful authors to plot their stories and identifies some of the most effective techniques.
Plotting vs. Pantsing
Before diving into specific techniques, one must understand the two primary approaches to story writing: plotting and pantsing. “Plotting” involves meticulous planning and outlining, where writers map out the story’s structure, characters, and events in detail before starting the first draft. “Pantsing,” on the other hand, is a more spontaneous approach where writers begin with a general idea and let the story unfold organically as they write. Both methods have their pros and cons. Plotting allows for greater control over the narrative and can help prevent plot holes or inconsistencies. However, it can also feel restrictive to some writers, potentially stifling creativity. Pantsing offers more freedom and allows for unexpected twists and turns, but it can also lead to writer’s block or a meandering plot. Many writers find a balance between these two approaches, using a hybrid method that combines planning with spontaneity1.
Common Plotting Techniques
Outlining
Outlining is a classic plotting technique where writers create a structured plan of the story’s events, characters, and themes. Outlines can vary in detail, from a simple list of plot points to a comprehensive breakdown of each scene2. A compelling premise is crucial for a successful outline. The premise should be unique and engaging, capturing the essence of the story and providing a clear direction for the plot. For example, the premise of The Hunger Games is a dystopian society where children are forced to fight to the death in a televised spectacle. This premise sets the stage for the story’s conflict and drives the protagonist’s actions3. Effective outlining involves:
- Identifying the main conflict and theme.
- Establishing the beginning, middle, and end.
- Developing character arcs.
- Creating a logical sequence of events.
- Incorporating subplots and twists4.
Outlining helps writers maintain focus and ensure a well-paced narrative5.
The W-Plot Method
The W-plot method falls somewhere between brainstorming and outlining. It starts with a central idea and explores different story aspects, such as characters, setting, and conflict. This method encourages writers to think visually and make connections between various elements of the narrative6.
The Bookend Method
The Bookend method is a plotting technique in which the writer starts by identifying a problem and its solution and then filling in the details. This approach can be helpful for writers who like to have a clear ending in mind before they start writing. It allows them to work backward from the resolution, ensuring that all plot points lead logically to the desired outcome7.
The Snowflake Method
The Snowflake Method, developed by Randy Ingermanson, is a popular plotting technique that starts with a simple one-sentence summary of the story and gradually expands it into a detailed outline8. This method encourages writers to start small and add progressively complexity, ensuring that every story element is carefully considered. The steps involved in the Snowflake Method include:
- Crafting a one-sentence summary of the story.
- Expanding the summary into a paragraph.
- Creating character synopses.
- Developing a one-page story description.
- Expanding the story description to four pages.
- Creating detailed character charts.
- Developing a scene list.
- Expanding each scene with detailed descriptions.
- Starting the drafting process8.
This method is helpful for writers who prefer a structured approach and want to ensure a cohesive narrative9.
Beat Sheet
A beat sheet is a plotting tool that outlines the key moments or “beats” in a story. It provides a framework for structuring the narrative and ensuring that all the essential plot points are hit10. Beat sheets often include elements such as:
- Opening Image
- Theme Stated
- Setup
- Catalyst
- Debate
- Break into Two
- B Story
- Fun and Games
- Midpoint
- Bad Guys Close In
- All is Lost
- Dark Night of the Soul
- Break into Three
- Finale
- Final Image 11
This technique is handy for screenwriting and visual storytelling, as it helps writers visualise the story’s structure and pacing12.
The Three-Act Structure
The three-act structure is a classic storytelling model that divides a narrative into three distinct acts: setup, confrontation, and resolution13. This structure provides a framework for pacing and tension, ensuring that the story has a clear beginning, middle, and end. The characters and setting are introduced in the first act, and the central conflict is established. The second act develops the conflict and raises the stakes, while the third act resolves the conflict and provides a sense of closure14.
The Five-Act Structure
The five-act structure, often used in plays and screenplays, expands on the three-act structure by adding more detailed stages within the narrative. These stages typically include: exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. This structure provides a more granular framework for pacing and tension, allowing for a more complex and nuanced plot15.
The Hero’s Journey
The Hero’s Journey, popularised by Joseph Campbell, is a narrative structure that follows the archetypal protagonist’s transformative journey13. It involves stages such as:
- The Ordinary World
- The Call to Adventure
- Refusal of the Call
- Meeting the Mentor
- Crossing the Threshold
- Tests, Allies, and Enemies
- Approach to the Inmost Cave
- The Ordeal
- Reward (Seizing the Sword)
- The Road Back
- Resurrection
- Return with the Elixir 13
This structure is often used in epic narratives and adventure stories, providing a framework for a character’s growth and transformation.
Character Development and Plot
It’s essential to recognise the close relationship between character development and plot. Well-developed characters with clear motivations can drive the plot forward in a believable way. Their decisions and actions should influence the story’s direction, creating a dynamic and engaging narrative. Conversely, plot events should challenge and force characters to grow, leading to meaningful transformations and a satisfying resolution16.
Common Plotting Mistakes
Coincidences and Large Casts
While coincidences can sometimes be used effectively in storytelling, relying too heavily on them can weaken the plot and make it feel contrived. Every event in a story should have a logical cause and effect. Similarly, having too many characters can confuse readers and make it difficult to follow the narrative. Focus on developing a few key characters with distinct personalities and motivations18.
Deus ex Machina
This refers to an unexpected and improbable event that suddenly resolves a seemingly unsolvable problem. While it can be a sign of lazy writing, Deus ex Machina can be used effectively if properly foreshadowed or set up earlier in the story. For example, the twist in Fight Club, where the narrator realises he is Tyler Durden, is a Deus ex Machina moment foreshadowed throughout the film19.
Plot Holes
These are gaps or inconsistencies in the storyline that contradict previously established logic or events. They can confuse readers and disrupt the flow of the narrative21.
Weak Plot Twists
Plot twists should be surprising yet believable. Twists that feel forced or illogical can disappoint readers and weaken the story’s impact22.
Vague Timelines
A clear timeline helps readers understand the sequence of events and the passage of time in a story. Vague timelines can create confusion and make it difficult to follow the narrative23.
By being aware of these common mistakes, writers can refine their plotting techniques and create more compelling and satisfying narratives.
Adapting to Different Mediums
Plotting techniques often need to be adapted when writing for different mediums, such as novels, screenplays, and short stories. Novels allow for more expansive storytelling, with detailed descriptions and internal monologues. Screenplays, on the other hand, rely heavily on visual storytelling and concise dialogue. Short stories demand a more focused approach, with a limited number of characters and events24.
Resources for Plotting
Several books and courses can help writers learn more about plotting techniques. Here are a few recommended resources:
- Books:
- Save the Cat! Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody: This book adapts the popular “Save the Cat!” beat sheet method for novelists, providing a structured approach to plotting26.
- Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting by Robert McKee: While focused on screenwriting, this book offers valuable insights into storytelling principles that can be applied to any medium27.
- Story Engineering: Mastering the Six Core Competencies of Successful Writing by Larry Brooks: This book provides a comprehensive guide to the craft of storytelling, with a focus on plot structure and character development27.
- Courses:
- Plot & Story – The Deep Dive by Curtis Brown Creative: This online course, taught by author Laura Barnett, explores the fundamentals of narrative structure and helps writers develop their plotting skills28.
- Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot by Coursera: This online course, offered by Wesleyan University, provides a structured introduction to plot development and explores various plotting techniques29.
Choosing the Right Technique
With so many plotting techniques available, it can be challenging for writers to know which one to choose. The best approach is to experiment with different methods and find what works best for their writing style and the specific story they are trying to tell. For example, the Snowflake Method might be helpful for beginners who prefer a structured approach, while outlining might be more suitable for experienced writers who are comfortable with more flexibility. The Three-Act Structure and the Hero’s Journey can provide overarching frameworks for a narrative, while techniques like the beat sheet and the W-plot method can help writers delve into the details of their story30.
Conclusion
Plotting is an essential aspect of storytelling, providing structure and direction to a narrative. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach, successful writers often rely on techniques such as the Snowflake Method, outlining, beat sheets, and classic story structures like the three-act and five-act structures to craft compelling stories. By understanding these techniques, adapting them to different genres, and avoiding common plotting mistakes, aspiring writers can enhance their storytelling skills and create narratives that captivate readers. Ultimately, the key is to find a plotting technique that works for the individual writer and their story, allowing them to bring their unique vision to life. The insights discussed above provide a starting point for aspiring writers to explore the world of plotting and develop their effective strategies for crafting compelling narratives.
Works cited
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