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Creative Writing

The Craft of Plot

Brando Skyhorse

In this course aspiring writers will be introduced to perhaps the most elemental and often the most challenging element of story: plot. We will learn what keeps it moving, how it manipulates our feelings, expectations, and desires. We will examine the choices storytellers make to snag our imaginations, drag them into a fictional world, and keep them there. We will learn how to outline and structure a plot, discuss narrative arc, pacing and reversals and reveal the inevitable surprise: connecting the beginning, middle and end.

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Syllabus

Plotting a Course

In this module, we'll learn essentials about plot definitions and mechanics. What is plot? How does plot shape a narrative? What makes a strong plot? How is plot different from a story? We'll also discuss how plot works in actual books you're probably familiar with, such as the Harry Potter series, how character and action equals plot, and the five key questions you should ask yourself when creating a dynamic character.

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Advises learners to ask themselves five key questions when developing dynamic characters

Develops a practical understanding of structuring a narrative for maximum effect

Walks learners through the mechanics of plotting for shaping the narrative

Instructs on recognizing story structures from classical works of literature

Provides concrete examples of crafting engaging and effective scenes

Offers personalized guidance through a 21-point checklist for manuscript revision

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Reviews summary

Foundational plot craft for writers

According to learners, this course offers a solid foundation in creative writing plot mechanics. Students particularly praise the clear explanations and well-structured modules that break down complex ideas like narrative arc, pacing, and scene construction. Many found the concepts like Freytag's pyramid and the five-act structure very helpful for organizing their writing. The course is often described as great for beginners, providing practical tools like outlining methods and a useful revision checklist. However, some students note that the course may lack depth for experienced writers who are looking for more advanced techniques.

Learners found the provided tools and checklists useful for application.

"The revision checklist was a nice bonus that I can actually use right away in my writing process."

"This course gave me practical tools like outlining methods that I could apply immediately to my work."

"I found the module on editing and revision particularly useful and actionable."

"Getting specific tips on what to look for in drafts beyond just 'fixing typos' was great."

Key plotting and scene-building concepts are seen as highly valuable takeaways.

"The section on structure, especially Freytag's pyramid, was incredibly helpful in understanding narrative arc."

"Loved the focus on scene elements and how they drive action and connect to plot movement."

"Connecting character motivation to plot points was a key takeaway that changed how I approach my stories."

"The difference between telling and showing was made very clear through examples, instantly improving my scenes."

Students commend the course's organization and the clarity of its teaching.

"The modules were well-organized, and the explanations were very clear and easy to follow."

"Everything is explained clearly. The structure of the course made complex ideas understandable."

"I appreciated how the course broke down plot into manageable, digestible pieces."

"The logical flow from definitions to scenes to revision made the learning process smooth."

Reviews consistently highlight the course's suitability for new writers.

"Highly recommend for anyone starting out in creative writing; it really demystified plot for me."

"Perfect for beginners! It covers all the essentials from concept to revision in a way that's easy to grasp."

"I felt this course was tailored perfectly for someone needing a strong foundation in plot mechanics."

"As a beginner, I found the step-by-step approach incredibly helpful and not overwhelming."

Some reviewers felt the course didn't go deep enough for non-beginners.

"The content is fine, but it felt a bit simplistic. If you've read other craft books, much of this might be review."

"Honestly, I didn't learn much new. It stayed very surface level on complex plotting issues."

"Not worth it if you have prior experience; I was expecting more advanced techniques or challenging exercises."

"I was disappointed it didn't delve deeper into common plot problems or genre-specific structures."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot with these activities:

Review core concepts of plot structure

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Review the foundational concepts of plot structure to refresh your understanding and prepare for the course.

Browse courses on Plot Structure

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Read the assigned chapters on plot structure from a textbook or online resource.
Create a mind map or outline of the key elements of plot structure.
Identify and analyze examples of plot structure in your favorite books or movies.

Participate in peer review sessions

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Engage in peer review sessions to receive feedback and improve your storytelling skills.

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Find a writing partner or join a peer review group.
Exchange writing samples and provide constructive criticism.
Be open to feedback from others and use it to refine your work.

Write a short story outline

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Create a complete outline for a short story to demonstrate your understanding of plot structure and character development.

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Brainstorm and develop a compelling story idea.
Sketch out the main characters and their motivations.
Create a detailed outline of the plot, including the inciting incident, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.
Review and refine your outline, ensuring a logical flow and engaging narrative.

One other activity

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Read "Story Engineering" by Larry Brooks

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Gain insights into the principles of plot construction and character development from a respected author and writing instructor.

View Great Stories Don't Write Themselves on Amazon

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Read the book thoroughly, taking notes on key concepts and techniques.
Analyze the examples and exercises provided in the book.
Apply the principles to your own writing, such as outlining a short story or revising a scene.

Career center

Learners who complete Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Novelist

Novelists write long works of narrative fiction. This course, Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot, may be highly beneficial for Novelists as it offers a comprehensive exploration of the elements and techniques of plot construction. Understanding plot structure, narrative arc, and the power of scenes can support Novelists in crafting engaging and compelling stories that captivate readers. Additionally, the focus on creating dynamic characters and revealing surprises can contribute to the development of well-rounded and memorable literary works.

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Author

An Author plans, researches, and writes books or other written content. This course, Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot, may be beneficial for Authors as it delves into the fundamental principles of plot construction. Understanding plot structure, narrative arc, and the power of scenes can support Authors in crafting engaging and compelling stories that resonate with readers. The emphasis on creating dynamic characters and revealing surprises can also contribute to the development of captivating and memorable literary works.

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Screenwriter

As a Screenwriter, you'll develop, write and pitch television show concepts, movie treatments, and screenplays. This course, Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot, may help provide a deep understanding of the essential elements of plot. This may be particularly helpful in the development and pitching stages, which require a thorough grasp of how plot elements can engage and captivate an audience. Additionally, the course's focus on pacing, reversals, and surprise can contribute to the creation of dynamic and suspenseful screenplays that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

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Playwright

Playwrights write plays, which are dramatic works intended to be performed by actors on stage. This course, Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot, may be beneficial for Playwrights as it provides a foundation in narrative techniques and the power of storytelling. Understanding plot structure, pacing, and character development can enable Playwrights to craft engaging and compelling plays that captivate audiences. The emphasis on surprise and reversals can also contribute to the creation of memorable and thought-provoking plays that explore complex themes and emotions.

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Speechwriter

Speechwriters create written speeches for public figures. This course, Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot, may be beneficial for Speechwriters as it provides a foundation in narrative techniques and the power of storytelling. Understanding plot structure, pacing, and character development can enable Speechwriters to craft effective and engaging speeches that resonate with audiences. The emphasis on surprise and reversals can also contribute to the creation of memorable and persuasive speeches that leave a lasting impact.

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Creative Director

Creative Directors oversee the creative vision and execution of marketing and advertising campaigns. This course, Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot, may be helpful for Creative Directors as it provides a foundation in narrative techniques and the power of storytelling. Understanding plot structure, pacing, and character development can enable Creative Directors to develop and lead creative teams in crafting effective and engaging marketing campaigns that resonate with target audiences.

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Journalist

Journalists research, analyze, and report on news and current events. This course, Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot, may offer valuable insights for Journalists, particularly those specializing in narrative journalism or feature writing. The course's focus on plot structure, pacing, and surprise can assist Journalists in organizing and presenting information in a compelling and engaging manner. Additionally, understanding the elements of plot can contribute to the development of captivating narratives that effectively communicate complex issues and stories to the public.

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Copywriter

Copywriters create written content for marketing and advertising purposes. This course, Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot, may be useful for Copywriters as it provides a solid foundation in narrative techniques and the power of storytelling. Understanding plot structure, pacing, and character development can enable Copywriters to craft effective and persuasive marketing messages that resonate with target audiences. The emphasis on surprise and reversals can also contribute to the creation of memorable and engaging marketing campaigns.

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Consultant

Consultants provide expert advice and guidance to organizations and individuals on a wide range of topics. This course, Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot, may be beneficial for Consultants, particularly those specializing in communications or marketing. Understanding plot structure, pacing, and the power of storytelling can enable Consultants to effectively communicate complex ideas and recommendations, ensuring they are clear, engaging, and persuasive.

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Editor

Editors review, edit, and prepare written content for publication. This course, Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot, may be useful for Editors as it provides a foundation in narrative techniques and the power of storytelling. Understanding plot structure, pacing, and character development can enable Editors to effectively evaluate and enhance written works, ensuring they are clear, engaging, and impactful.

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Professor

Professors teach and conduct research at colleges and universities. This course, Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot, may be helpful for Professors, particularly those specializing in literature or writing. Understanding plot structure, narrative arc, and the power of scenes can support Professors in developing engaging and effective lectures and curriculum that foster students' understanding of storytelling and writing.

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Poet

Poets write poems, which are literary works that use language in a creative and evocative manner. This course, Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot, may be helpful for Poets as it provides a foundation in narrative techniques and the power of storytelling. Understanding plot structure, pacing, and character development can enable Poets to craft engaging and compelling poems that resonate with readers. The emphasis on surprise and reversals can also contribute to the creation of memorable and thought-provoking poems that explore complex emotions and ideas.

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Researcher

Researchers design and conduct studies to collect and analyze data. This course, Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot, may be helpful for Researchers, particularly those specializing in qualitative research. Understanding plot structure, narrative arc, and the power of scenes can support Researchers in designing and conducting studies that effectively capture and analyze stories and narratives, leading to a deeper understanding of human experiences and behaviors.

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Librarian

Librarians assist patrons in finding and accessing information and resources. This course, Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot, may be useful for Librarians as it provides a foundation in narrative techniques and the power of storytelling. Understanding plot structure, pacing, and character development can enable Librarians to better understand and recommend works of literature to patrons, fostering a love of reading and storytelling.

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Teacher

Teachers instruct and guide students in various academic subjects. This course, Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot, may be helpful for Teachers, particularly those specializing in English or language arts. Understanding plot structure, narrative arc, and the power of scenes can support Teachers in developing engaging and effective lesson plans that foster students' understanding of storytelling and writing.

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Reading list

We've selected 15 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot.

The Mental Game of Writing

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Provides a structured methodology for plotting that beginning writers can use to ensure their plots move along efficiently and effectively.

Creative Writing

The Craft of Plot

Here's a deal for you

What's inside

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Foundational plot craft for writers

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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