The Basics of Act 3: The Story Structure Series Part Seven

by Lewis / August 29, 2018 / Story Structure

Act 3 marks the beginning of the end for your story…

This is the last act of the Three Act Structure, and this is where your story’s threads will finally come together. Here your characters will face their final confrontation with your antagonist and overcome the conflict your entire novel has been building towards.

Of course, Act 3 does more than simply end your novel—and that’s where it becomes a bit more complicated. It’s responsible not only for bringing your story to a satisfying conclusion, but also for completing your protagonist’s arc, tying into your overall theme, setting the tone for the end of your novel, and leaving your readers satisfied with the journey they’ve just completed.

The Third Plot Point: The Story Structure Series Part Six

by Lewis / August 22, 2018 / Story Structure

It’s time to face the darkest part of your hero’s story…

You see, today is when we’ll finally wrap up Act 2 and enter the finale of your story, Act 3. Specifically, today is the day your antagonist will assert their dominance, adding a new level of stakes to your story. The rising storm of your conflict is catching up to your hero, and the Second Pinch Point and Third Plot Point will force them to fight even harder to succeed.

Of course, as you might expect, these plot points set the tone and pace for Act 3, but that isn’t their only function. They also serves a critical role within your protagonist’s arc as they march towards the Climax. This is definitely a complex part of the Three Act Structure, so be prepared—this post might run a bit longer than usual.

Writing a Strong Midpoint: The Story Structure Series Part Five

by Lewis / August 19, 2018 / Story Structure

You’ve officially reached the middle of your protagonist’s journey…

A time for reflection and growth, the Midpoint is a big step on your protagonist’s adventure. They’re a long way from home, caught up in a strange new world with strange new people. Yet, for the first time on their journey they can look back on where they’ve been and no longer feel unsure if they should’ve left home at all.

It’s no wonder then that the Midpoint is thought of as a turning point for your story. Here your characters get the last boost they need to feel confident on their quest, as well as the last piece of the puzzle to pursue the conflict full force! We’re beginning our march to the finale, but we have a few things to take care of before we set out.

Act 2 and the First Pinch Point: The Story Structure Series Part Four

by Lewis / August 16, 2018 / Story Structure

You’re finally ready to begin the bulk of your story!

By the time you reach Act 2, you’ll have spent pages and pages building to this moment, meaning it’s finally time to let loose all of your crazy ideas and plot twists—right?

Well yes, and no. Act 2 is where you’ll get to explore your story in a deeper way, giving you time to dive into all the ideas that inspired you to start writing in the first place. However, there are also some important roles Act 2 needs to fill. After all, to come out with the best possible story, even Act 2 needs a bit of structure.

The First Plot Point: The Story Structure Series Part Three

by Lewis / August 14, 2018 / Story Structure

Your novel’s beginning sets up everything to come.

After all, arguably the most important part of any journey is its beginning. Thus far, Act 1 has served to set up this beginning for your story, but it isn’t until now that your protagonist’s journey will truly begin—with the First Plot Point.

This is the pivotal moment that begins your story. The rest of Act 1 was all about moving the relevant pieces into place to prepare for the adventure ahead. The First Plot Point finally sees your hard work pay off as your story kicks into action, marking an important narrative shift and the true beginning of your protagonist’s adventure!