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Field guide 02 · 5 lessons
Structure & Plot
Cause and effect, turning points, sequences and the shape created by rising trouble closing in.
Field guide 02
Essential reading
Build the foundation before the technique.
Read in order, or pick what you need today
The structure shelf
01
Three-Act Structure
Start hereWhat the three acts are actually useful for—and how to use them without making the film feel assembled from instructions.
14 min
02The Sequence Approach
Deep diveA less intimidating way to handle the long middle of a feature by breaking it into smaller stretches with their own purpose.
15 min
03The Inciting Incident
Core craftHow to disturb a character's ordinary life in a way that feels personal, unavoidable and worth following.
12 min
04Writing a Powerful Midpoint
Deep diveWhat can happen halfway through a film to make the second half feel new, riskier and emotionally deeper.
13 min
05Endings and Climax
Core craftHow to write an ending that grows out of the whole film and gives the main character one last, revealing choice.
16 min