Story Structure and Plot
1 min read
Building Compelling Narratives
Classic Story Structure
- Exposition: Introduce characters, setting, and the status quo
- Rising action: Complications and conflicts build tension
- Climax: The turning point—highest tension and stakes
- Falling action: Consequences of the climax play out
- Resolution: The new normal is established
Conflict Types
- Person vs. Person: Direct opposition between characters
- Person vs. Self: Internal struggle and personal growth
- Person vs. Society: Individual against social norms or systems
- Person vs. Nature: Survival against natural forces
Plot Tips
Every scene should serve at least one purpose: advance the plot, reveal character, or build the world. If it does none of these, cut it.