Craft focus: introduction to novel plotting

About this course

The course focuses on turning an existing novel idea or draft into a coherent narrative plan. Participants examine possible structures, map a three-act model and use visual planning methods such as storyboards and skeleton plans. Reading as writers provides a way to study how structure operates in fiction. The course compares different plotting approaches, helping participants assess which may best suit their own project and develop a workable plan.

What you'll learn

• Identify the main parts and functions of a three-act structure in fiction
• Assess the strengths and limitations of three-act plotting for a particular novel
• Use visual planning methods such as storyboards and skeleton plans to organise a narrative
• Develop a working plan for plotting a novel using one or more planning techniques

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for writers who have already begun work on a novel and need to shape their ideas into a more coherent narrative. The Improver label suggests a stage beyond a first introduction to novel writing. Participants will work with their own project and consider different approaches to planning its structure.

• Designed for learners with a novel project already under way

Before you go

• Bring a pen, paper and coloured pencils.
• Be prepared to type on a computer.
• Learners are encouraged to give advance content notes if they plan to share writing containing potentially sensitive material.