A 5-Part Story Structure For Beginners - Writers Write.

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One of the 5rst things we are taught in the 1st grade is how to write a good story. It makes
sense because our lives are made up of stories. Each of us has a unique tale. Every day is a
story with a plot, characters, and a beginning, a middle, and an end. So, why not tell a
good story with a great structure?

Many would support the idea that a good story ought to have these three main parts.
Those who agree are professional writers, movie directors, and professors. Without these
three fundamental divisions, any given story would appear jumbled. It causes the reader
and Pinterest to give up on engaging with the author’s thoughts.

1. Introduction
Posted 11 hours ago
October 21, 2016 at 12:00 AM The beginning of a story is where the author introduces the 5ve important
questions: WHO, WHAT, WHY, WHEN and WHERE. They familiarise the reader
with the characters, the plot, and the time zone. They give a general idea of what
604 views the reader has to expect from the narrative.
 In this 5rst part, also called the exposition, the author creates a bond with the
Tags main character. It is possible to reveal the character’s aim and ensure a ‘hook’.
Guest Post That means to provide an incentive and a reason for the reader to continue
Plotting pursuing the story.

2. Doorway No. 1

Good narrative structures also contain a delicate shift, or, as some call it a
‘doorway’. It is the section where the author puts the character into a complicated
situation and forces him or her into an irreversible circumstance. This is the part of
the story where the action starts to brew. The main character may end up in a
diTicult position and he or she develops the story goal here. This is the best time
to hook the reader into your plot.

3. Middle

The 5rst part (or introduction) serves as a section where everything is set up. The
second part of the story is where the story line develops and becomes
complicated. We call it the "middle". More intricate layers of the characters
become clear. Secret intentions and relationships start to surface. Needless to say,
as conXict ensues, tension adds to the story.

It is a good trick to keep the reader on edge. The author also has the option to
weave in subplots to add to the main plot. The middle is the part where the story
starts to move towards the climax. That's the segment of a narrative, also referred
to as the development, that gives the reader the sense of the inevitable
conclusion.

4. Doorway No.2

As the level of conXict builds throughout the story, doorway No.2 opens. The
writer can make use of it to thrust the main character into a 5nal conXict. Let's call
it the pinnacle of the narrative. This climactic moment is where a major blow or
crisis usually occurs, which later sets up a potential 5nal solution.

5. End

The end or the denouement is the climax of the story. This is the part where
everything comes together and starts making sense - in case it didn't make sense
before. This is the section where the author writes about the 5nal confrontation
and the inevitable aftermath.

A good story should not have any loose ends. The denouement is the perfect
place to answer all unanswered questions. Respond to inquiries that may have
appeared throughout the story.

The ending can also include poetic justice or an element of sacri5ce. It depends on
the theme and subject matter the author chooses to write about. This elevates the
already scandalous atmosphere that reader has been sucked into.

We have an innate desire for happy endings. Often times, writers choose to
provide the readers with what they know the public will generally like. Yet, the
story can also end on a negative or ambiguous note. This in turn leaves the reader
wondering and perhaps feeling a bit dazed.

It doesn't matter what type of story you choose to write. The most important thing to
remember is to start at the beginning, continue in the middle, and 5nish at the end. And
like a good recipe, every story should contain a little bit of spice, whether it’s love and
romance, or revenge and power.

By Laura Carter. Laura is a former educator who is now an academic writing and higher
education blogger. Laura’s passion is great 5ction and short story writing. Follow her on
Twitter.

~~~

Writers Write oTers the best writing courses in South Africa. Writers Write - Write to
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