Field guide 02 · 7 lessons
Structure & Plot
Cause and effect, turning points, sequences and the shape created by rising trouble closing in.
Read in order, or pick what you need today
The structure shelf
Plot
Core craftHow one choice leads to another, why trouble should keep changing shape and what to do when the middle feels like a list of errands.
Screenplay Structure
Core craftA humane look at structure: not page-number rules, but the shape a story takes when choices become harder to undo.
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.
The 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.
The Inciting Incident
Core craftHow to disturb a character's ordinary life in a way that feels personal, unavoidable and worth following.
Writing a Powerful Midpoint
Deep diveWhat can happen halfway through a film to make the second half feel new, riskier and emotionally deeper.
Endings and Climax
Core craftHow to write an ending that grows out of the whole film and gives the main character one last, revealing choice.