Plot 101: Design the Story You Want to Tell

“Over the years, I've learned that plot is one of the most mysterious elements of the art of fiction,” says instructor Nina Schuyler. “Some writers think a plot is written by formula. Not true! Plot rises out of your characters and your ideas, and this class will offer techniques for designing the story you want to tell.”

There are many ways to approach structuring a story, but this class focuses on how one event causes the next, which results in a process of change for your characters. We will read short stories by Gina Berriault, Jamel Brinkley and Weike Wang, discussing how the elements of plot create tension, propulsion, and opportunities for character development. We will look at the role of the unexpected event, the effects of creating obstacles for characters, and the ways a character’s choices determine a story’s direction.

You will do in-class writing exercises to practice what you’re learning about plotting, and you’ll receive generative prompts to spark writing at home and keep the drafting process rolling. “By the end of this class,” says Nina, “my goal is that you’ll have a much firmer grasp on plot and the beginning of a story draft or outline.”

About The Writing Salon's In-Person Classes

Before your class meets, you'll receive an email from The Writing Salon with more information about your class. If you have any questions about in-person learning, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at hello@writingsalons.com.