4 CHAPTERS

With exercises

EXAMPLES & VIDEOS

Explaining concepts

$4.99

GET GUIDE!
Now Novel icon - people representing key skills learned
KEY SKILLS LEARNED
  • How to develop story ideas into plots
  • Plot outlining approaches
  • Connecting plot points to build story arcs
  • How to start and resolve a plot well
WHO IS THIS FOR?
  • Writers who struggle with story cohesion
  • Writers wishing to develop a keener understanding of plot
  • Writers seeking practical advice, exercises and examples to improve their plotting abilities

WHAT MEMBERS SAY:

The concise tips and instructions were very clear. I never felt like anything was too vague. I love the encouragement to KEEP writing and tools to keep me engaged!

— Jeff

Now Novel has provided me with a wealth of information in small, easy to digest, doses so that I can methodically go back to my work and improve one aspect at a time. I find the tips provided very useful for all levels of writers.

— Eric

The Creating Characters Course is awesome. I have stepped up my game with some ideas I had never thought about. This is great for beginner and even the experienced writer that wants to improve their character creation.

— Robin
Read more reviews on: Trustspot Logo

WORKBOOK OUTLINE

Now Novel icon - lightbulb for learning about plot
CHAPTER 01
What is plot?

Learn plotting terms & definitions and develop plot ideas from first ideas.

Now Novel icon - roadmap for success
CHAPTER 02
Preparing for success

Learn about preparatory approaches to plot and visual ways to brainstorm ideas for scenes and chapters.

Now Novel icon - checklist for arcs and developments
CHAPTER 03
Arcs and development

Learn about connecting characters' goals, desires and actions to create gripping story arcs.

Now Novel icon - like for beginnings, hooks and endings
CHAPTER 04
Beginnings, hooks and endings

Learn about writing effective hooks and endings that tie into the key elements of your plot.

Oprah Magazine logo for Now Novel review in O Magazine

An online novel writing course that's tailor-made to get you to actually write that book you've been thinking about.

Oprah Magazine

HOW TO PLOT A STORY: PLOTTING, PLANS AND ARCS - CHAPTER OUTLINE

Chapter 01

In What is plot?: Terms, definitions and the ‘5 W's’ you'll learn key plot terms and definitions, as well as tips on making the ‘who’, ‘what’, ‘why’, ‘where’ and ‘when’ of your story intriguing.


  • Read an overview of your guide
  • Understand key terms and definitions
  • Read clarifying plot examples
  • Complete practical exercises to apply what you’ve learned
Chapter 02

In Planning your plot: Outlines, storyboards and diagrams, you'll read different authors' approaches to plotting in advance and visual plotting methods you can use to see ‘bigger picture’ plot details.


  • Read 4 common approaches to story plotting
  • Learn about using outlining, storyboarding and plot diagrams
  • Read about other graphs you can use as aids to work out plot details
  • Complete practical exercises to apply what you’ve learned
Chapter 03

In Arcs & development: Connecting plot points, you'll explore ways to connect characters' desires, goals and actions to create interesting and cohesive story arcs that relate to your central idea.


  • Read terms and definitions relevant to story arcs
  • Learn to connect goals, desires, & actions to create arcs
  • Harness curiosity, narrative tension, and ‘what if’ for plot development
  • Complete practical exercises to apply what you’ve learned
Chapter 04

In Plotting key moments: Beginnings, hooks and endings, you'll learn how to find a good hook and a good ending that ties into the key material of your plot.


  • Learn to develop intriguing beginnings and endings out of plot summaries
  • Learn how to find a good hook
  • Learn how to find a good ending
  • Complete practical exercises to apply what you’ve learned

Master the crucial elements of plot: