3T Writing Tidbit - story structure part III

I've been reviewing story structure lately. Despite what the pundits say, there's more than one way to tell a story! You have your 3-17 step hero's journey, your 5 plot-point, your 3 act, your 2 step scene/sequel. Let's start on the far end and work our way in.

Two months ago we did the 5 plot points. Let's look at the 3 act today. 

It's famously used for plays. It's the basic Beginning, Middle, End. But what happens in each of those places that gives this structure its, well, structure?

In a nutshell:

• The beginning is the setup.
• The middle is the confrontation.
• The end is the resolution.

Because each section is so large, this structure works well with the 5 plot points, which give each section its own internal shape. The setup rises toward the catalyst, after which it falls to the end of act I. In act II it rises toward the pinch, then falls to the end of act II. From there it rises to the climax, falling through the resolution of act III.

Published since 2009, over the years I've accumulated various items of writing wisdom. The Third Tuesday Writing Tidbit showcases these items in no particular order. Click here to see all 3T Tidbits.