The Three-Act Structure Is a Mirage
A structure no stronger than a sand castle.
Storytelling: Page 3
How to Make Your Character Novel
Novelty isn't easy, but it's the quickest way to make an impression.
Episode 384: Villainous Presentation
Does the villain talk like a villain?
How to Make Your Character Selfless
It requires more than showing your hero rescuing a cat from a tree.
Q&A: Does My Hero Need a Specific Job?
Submitted by Dave L,
answered
How to Make Your Character Sympathetic
A character with genuine hardships will get audiences emotionally invested in the story.
Episode 382: Opening Scenes
Convincing readers to buy the book.
The Difference Between Relatable and Mediocre Heroes
Only one of them is a good choice for your story.
How to Create Moral Dilemmas That Are Actually Moral
Moral dilemmas should be meaningful, not just provocative.
Q&A: Do I Have to Fix a Plot Hole?
Submitted by Terk,
answered
Four Supporting Characters Your Hero Can Learn From
They teach a lesson your hero won't soon forget.
The Four Ways to Create a Bittersweet Ending
Character karma doesn't stop us from creating complex and nuanced stories.
Q&A: Do You Have Any Advice for Villains Forced to Be Heroes?
Submitted by Dave L,
answered
Episode 379: Killing a Major Character
To kill or not to kill?
Using Your Story’s Premise to Create Novelty
A big-picture strategy for setting your story apart.
Q&A: How Do I Keep Clever Quips From Hurting the Story?
Submitted by Nobody,
answered
Q&A: Should My Mystery Start With the Murder?
Submitted by Adam,
answered
Episode 376: Character Strengths
What if a character was just nice and dependable?
Seven External Plots for Relationship-Centered Stories
Add excitement without sacrificing what's important.
Episode 375: The Story’s Middle
How much of a story is middle, anyway?
S.T. Ockenner