Tag: Plot

Scribes & Archers > Plot
5 Types of Story Structure to Help You Outline Your Novel

5 Types of Story Structure to Help You Outline Your Novel

Posted on by R.M. Archer

I’ve been wanting to have a post comparing different plot structures/outlining systems on the blog for a while, and today Rose Atkinson-Carter is filling that gap! Big thanks to her for this guest post.

I have added affiliate links to this post. They are marked with an asterisk, and purchases made through them earn me a small commission at no extra cost you. Plus, BookShop supports local U.S. bookstores! The books that I’ve recommended are all in my own personal writing library and I’ve referenced them myself for various projects.

All that out of the way, I’ll turn it over to Rose!

As you outline your novel, you’re juggling dozens of different parts. You have character arcs, pacing, and plot to consider and somehow put together into a cohesive whole. The process can be daunting. Writers often find themselves stalled in the planning phase, unsure where to go next.

Sometimes, what you need is a game plan: a dependable story structure that can set you on the right path and help you finish that outline. Even if you’re more of a pantser, an understanding of story structures and how a plot should progress will help you develop in your writing.

Let’s look at some common Continue reading “5 Types of Story Structure to Help You Outline Your Novel” →

Preptober Prompts Week 3 Day 5 – 2018

Preptober Prompts Week 3 Day 5 – 2018

Posted on by R.M. Archer

Mm, weather affecting the plot. This is something I stink at thinking about. XD I guess mostly the changing temperature would be a factor, and I’d have to remember to show that through the characters’ wardrobe and responses to being outdoors and that kind of thing. As far as the main plot… I’m not sure it does affect it that much. The plot is pretty independent of seasons (at least unless/until we get into winter), so I don’t think it really affects the main happenings of the story.

Check out Leila’s original post here!

Preptober Prompts Week 3 Day 2 – 2018

Preptober Prompts Week 3 Day 2 – 2018

Posted on by R.M. Archer

My favorite things about fall are the colors and the crisp weather that’s not quite too cold yet. There’s such a… wonder about fall. That kind you get from Hallmark movies set in the country, the kind that makes you wish you could leave the city and spend time in the wide open spaces of the world, enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. I love that about fall.

Upon consulting my story timeline, I’ve found that the Dark War Trilogy does extend into autumn, so it will no doubt include a scene where Coraline and her “siblings” go to the apple grove. (I promise I’m not trying to be repetitive!) There will be a somber tone to the scene, since it’s the first trip to the orchard since Eliot’s death, but there will also be that element of quiet wonder, the admiring of changing leaves, and the refreshing crisp air. It’ll be a little pocket of peace and good memories amidst the chaos that’s happening in the story at that point.

Make sure to check out Leila’s original prompt post. Her scene sounds really interesting. ^-^