1.4 KiB
1.4 KiB
Plot Structure Checklist
Opening
- Hook engages within first page
- Genre/tone established early
- World rules clear
- Protagonist introduced memorably
- Status quo established before disruption
Structure Fundamentals
- Inciting incident by 10-15% mark
- Clear story question posed
- Stakes established and clear
- Protagonist commits to journey
- B-story provides thematic counterpoint
Rising Action
- Complications escalate logically
- Try-fail cycles build tension
- Subplots weave with main plot
- False victories/defeats included
- Character growth parallels plot
Midpoint
- Major reversal or revelation
- Stakes raised significantly
- Protagonist approach shifts
- Time pressure introduced/increased
- Point of no return crossed
Crisis Building
- Bad guys close in (internal/external)
- Protagonist plans fail
- Allies fall away/betray
- All seems lost moment
- Dark night of soul (character lowest)
Climax
- Protagonist must act (no rescue)
- Uses lessons learned
- Internal/external conflicts merge
- Highest stakes moment
- Clear win/loss/transformation
Resolution
- New equilibrium established
- Loose threads tied
- Character growth demonstrated
- Thematic statement clear
- Emotional satisfaction delivered