Story Structure: the Midpoint

We made it, everyone! Last week, we talked about the Realization, and now we’ve finally reached the Midpoint, one of the most pivotal beats in three act story structure. Let’s get into this! Where Does the Midpoint Belong? As its name suggests, the Midpoint belongs in the middle of the story, at roughly the 50%

Story Structure: Realization

Welcome back! Last week, we talked about the First Pinch Point and its function in a story. This week, we’re discussing the Realization, one of the most important sections in any given story. Let’s jump into this! Where Does the Realization Belong? The Realization begins after the First Pinch Point — near the 37% mark

Story Structure: The First Pinch Point

Welcome back! Last week, we talked about the Reaction. Today, we’re breaking down the First Pinch Point as we head deeper into the Second Act. Let’s get into this! Where Does the First Pinch Point Belong? The First Pinch Point falls at approximately the 37% mark of your story, right after the Reaction ends. It’s

Story Structure: the Reaction

Welcome back to Truthful Storytelling’s story structure series! Last week, we talked about the First Plot Point. This week, we’re entering the Second Act and discussing its first story beat: the Reaction. Let’s get into this! Where Does the Reaction Belong? The Reaction begins right after the First Plot Point. It begins around the 25%

Story Structure: The First Plot Point

Welcome back, y’all! Last week, we talked about the Build Up in three act story structure. This week, we’re examining the First Plot Point. Let’s get into this! Where Does the First Plot Point Belong? The First Plot Point usually falls at the 25% mark of the story — right at the end of the

Story Structure: the Build Up

Happy Friday! Welcome back to another installment of Truthful Storytelling’s story structure series (that sounds so dramatic and important). Last week, we looked at the Inciting Event and its role in a story. Today, we’re breaking down the Build Up, the story beat directly before the First Plot Point. Let’s get into this! Where Does

Story Structure: The Set Up

Happy Friday! Welcome to the second installment in Truthful Storytelling’s story structure series. Last week, we talked about the Hook and its function. Today, we’re discussing the Set Up and how it ties into the story. Let’s jump right in! Where Does The Set Up Belong? The Set Up belongs in the space between the

What the Mandalorian Teaches Us About Creating Tension

Okay, right off the bat: WARNING. THIS POST CONTAINS SPOILERS FOR THE SECOND SEASON OF THE MANDALORIAN, INCLUDING THE FINALE. READ AT YOUR OWN RISK. All righty, that’s over with. First of all, can we scream about this episode together in the comments? It wasn’t perfect (no story is, obviously), but DARN IT ALL it

How to Cultivate Inspiration

No matter how much we love our stories and love writing, there will be times when we don’t feel like writing. When we don’t feel inspired. When our well of creativity runs dry. Sometimes the answer is to take a break — if possible, of course. Just chill and let yourself recharge. Other times, the

How to Deepen Your World Building

For me, world building tends to be a double edged sword. It’s cool and fun, but also overwhelming. Especially when you have giants like Tolkien and Brandon Sanderson to compare yourself to. Unfortunately, with world building, you just kind of have to dive in and do it. It might take some noodling, but — trust