Many writers think plot needs to be something epic and complex. So they chart out every single beat and pinch point. They totally overthink it.
And often, the result is a narrative that’s confusing, exhausting to read, and disengaging.
But a plot does not have to be complicated, or over thought. It can be elegant, simple, and still be complex, dramatic and compelling.
In this episode, I’ll simplify plot for you. I’ll give you four core elements that make a story unified and compelling.
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Episode at a glance:
[02:11] What is plot? And how does it differ from structure? Many writers conflate the two, but they’re two separate things. Learn a simple definition of plot, and why you don’t have to overthink it.
[04:16] 5 Common Ways Plots Go Off Track
These include a lack of meaningful, sustained, conflict, characters without clear motivation, and unearned resolutions.
[06:11] Plot Element 1: Main Story Goal
Desire is translated into a concrete, urgent goal. The reader needs something measurable so that they know whether your character achieves it or not by the end of the story. And that will keep them invested in the story and invested in your characters plight.
[11:27] Plot Element 2: Opposition
In every compelling story, there are antagonistic forces. Your protagonist needs to plan how to overcome or outsmart the antagonist every step of the way. You never want to make it easy or even foreseeable for the character to achieve his or her goal.
[14:02] Plot Element 3: Conflict
The protagonist and antagonist want conflicting things. The opposition obstructs, interferes, and keeps setting up obstacles. Your protagonist will become more and more desperate, and will take bigger and bigger measures to get what he or she wants.
[17:56] Plot Element 4: Consequences
Every action in your story has a consequence, and there’s a logical relationship that connects the goal with consequence.
Link mentioned in this episode:
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