We all know fledgling writers who’ve spent months or even years engaged in meticulous world building. But when it comes time to tell a story in their lush secondary worlds, the plot spins its wheels.
How can a writer have planned every detail of his fantasy world down to the architecture and coinage but get stuck on the plot? Let’s take a look at the problem to get the answer.
Plot structure is one of the most challenging aspects of writing for new authors to master. Today, we’ll unlock the secrets of the seven-point plot structure—a powerful tool that will help you craft engaging and tightly woven narratives. We’ll explore the fundamental elements of this story structure and how you can employ it to keep your readers hooked.
So, grab your pen and notebook because we’re going in.
The Hook
Every successful story begins with a compelling hook—an attention-grabbing opener that draws readers in and refuses to let go. This first point of the seven-point structure is crucial, as it sets the tone and establishes the story’s core conflict. Make it thought-provoking, mysterious, or intriguing—anything that sparks curiosity and compels readers to turn the page.
Plot Turn 1, aka The Inciting Incident
Once you’ve ensnared your readers with a strong hook, it’s time for the inciting incident—the event that propels your protagonist into action. This moment should disrupt their ordinary world, introducing a conflict that demands a response. Whether it’s a call to adventure, an unexpected discovery, or a personal crisis, the inciting incident jumpstarts the hero’s quest.
Pinch 1
As the story progresses, tensions should rise steadily. Pinch 1 is when you introduce obstacles, conflicts, and challenges that test the protagonist’s resolve. Each encounter should propel the narrative forward, deepening the intrigue and raising the stakes. The hero’s path becomes more treacherous, and his determination to achieve his goal intensifies.
Midpoint Reversal
At the midpoint, introduce a game-changing event that alters the protagonist’s perspective or reveals new information. This reversal can be a twist, a betrayal, or a significant revelation. It injects fresh energy into the story, forcing the protagonist to reevaluate his objectives and adapt his approach. This pivotal moment marks a shift in the narrative and keeps readers hooked.
Pinch 2
In the fifth point, story threads begin to converge, leading the protagonist closer to the climactic showdown. Tensions mount as conflicts reach their boiling points. Encourage a sense of urgency, weaving together various subplots, character arcs, and themes to create a cohesive and impactful narrative tapestry. This phase builds anticipation and sets the stage for the final confrontation.
Turn 2
Here we reach the climax, the culmination of all the story’s conflicts, where the protagonist confronts his greatest challenge head-on. This decisive moment must be emotionally charged, action-packed, and leave a lasting impact on characters and readers. The climax showcases the protagonist’s growth, resolves major conflicts, and leads the story towards resolution.
Resolution
Point seven, the resolution, provides closure to the story. It ties up loose ends, reveals the consequences of the protagonist’s actions, and offers a sense of satisfaction to the reader. Show the aftermath of the climax, allowing characters to reflect and grow from their experiences. This stage should leave readers with a feeling of fulfillment while leaving room for curiosity and future possibilities.
Congratulations, you’ve now learned the art of the seven-point plot structure. It’s an invaluable tool to craft captivating narratives that will keep readers turning pages.
Remember, each point serves a purpose, propelling the story forward and engaging your audience on a deep level.
Keep these key principles in mind:
Balance: Ensure a well-rounded narrative by devoting adequate attention to each point of the plot structure. Avoid rushing through crucial moments or lingering too long in one stage. Find the right pacing that keeps readers engaged while allowing for meaningful development.
Tension: Harness the power of rising tension throughout your story. By introducing obstacles, challenges, and conflicts, you heighten the stakes and keep readers invested. Create a sense of urgency that drives the narrative forward, leaving readers eager to uncover what happens next.
Transitions: Seamless transitions between each point of the plot structure enhance the overall flow of your story. Avoid abrupt shifts or disjointed moments by carefully threading together the narrative elements. Smooth transitions maintain reader engagement and allow for a satisfying reading experience.
Remember: Every segue between any two beats of your story should be describable as “but” or “therefore,” never “and then” or “meanwhile.”
Character Development: As you progress through the plot structure, ensure your characters grow and evolve. Each point should offer opportunities for them to face trials, make choices, and experience personal transformations. Invest time in crafting believable, dynamic characters that resonate with readers.
Emotional Impact: Seek to evoke a range of emotions in your readers, from excitement and anticipation to heartache and triumph. Create moments of joy, sorrow, and surprise that leave a lasting impression. These strong emotional connections will forge a bond between your readers and your story.
Remember, the seven-point plot structure is a versatile tool, adaptable to various genres and styles. Experiment, take risks, and infuse your unique voice into your writing. Embrace the structure as a framework, but don’t be afraid to deviate when it serves your story’s purpose.
And you don’t have to use seven-point structure. Other frameworks like three-act structure, the Lester Dent Master Formula, and the Hollywood Formula can make for memorable tales. What’s important is that your story has a skeleton to hang the meat on. Research and experiment to learn which plot structure will serve your story best.
To see these tips and more in action, read my epic mech saga’s unforgettable finale:
