Saturday, 28 August 2010

5 Step Plotting Formula

Do you want to write a short story, but don't know to structure a plot? Here it is, my 5 step plotting formula. Try it out. Copy it, adapt it if you like, but be sure to make notes on every prompt. Once you've got a plot outline, you're ready to write your story.

5 step plotting formula

STEP ONE – THE CENTRAL CHARACTER

Name:

Brief details:
His/her goal:(what does he/she want or need?)

STEP 2 – THE OPPOSITION

Who or what is it?
How does the opposition aim to prevent your character reacvhing his/her goal?

STEP 3 – THE OBSTACLES

First obstacle:
How it’s overcome:

Further obstacles:
How they are overcome:

STEP 4 – THE CLIMAX

The dramatic high spot where it seems all is lost:

STEP 5 – THE FINAL RESULT
How  the goal is  achieved:
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2 comments:

  1. Cathy Kennedy14 September 2010 at 10:55

    These are clear, basic fundamentals which can be used in any style of writing, in my opinion. Maintaining these 5 steps in your story development will help to write a successful tale.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Dorothy Massey15 September 2010 at 01:12

    Thank's Cathy. It's a formula that's proved useful to myself and to students of mine.

    ReplyDelete

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