StoryCraft Novel Challenge Day 6: Why learning structure can save you drafts

For whatever reason, “structure” has developed a bad reputation in some writing circles, but the truth is that structure can set you free. 

It’s an important part of the StoryCraft Process [Course | Workbook] because we’ve found structure to be the catalyst for finding the best possible story from the outset. Developing a novel using a strategic plan helps segment the planning so that when you’re writing, all you’re focused on is the creative part.

Structure is simply the study of stories, and all forms of structure hail from the patterns of the great writers who have come before us. Structure can be as simple as “Beginning, Middle, and End,” or it can be detailed like the Hero’s Journey.

The important thing to remember is that it is prescriptive, not restrictive. Take what works for you and leave the rest. We’re not trying to mold our stories into a singular form, but instead learn from those who have come before us so we can develop the next great additions to the literary canon.

There’s a reason why commercial romances are always such strong sellers, and that’s because structurally, they’re built to hook the reader’s attention and maintain the tension all the way through the novel. It’s an expertise in pacing and conflict that every writer can benefit from, no matter what kind of book they’re writing.

Using structure is strategic and can help you save drafts. In our experience, it actually frees up the writing process to be more inspired and more fun. Think of it like building a house. If you were to simply start building, you’d likely have to tear everything down multiple times as you add new rooms or decide you want three floors instead of two. It’s not a sustainable system, especially if you have a deadline.

Structure acts as a blueprint. You decide how many rooms your house should have. How many floors. Where the bathrooms should be. Where the stairs are located. Then you build the framing and step-by-step add in the walls, the doors, the floors, and finally, the decorations. If you plan properly, you’ll never have to rip out a nail and possibly damage that gorgeous mahogany.

The more experimentation you can do at the outline level, the easier it can be to write the draft. If you’ve built the foundation and the framing of the house, then the rest of the build is easy. All you have to do is add in walls and furniture. You’re not stressed out and focused on how it’s all going to fit, but instead trying to imagine the most beautiful version of the room.

This week, we’ll be going over some common forms of structure and how they can help your writing process. Remember, flexibility is key here. It’s not about conforming to one structure, but pulling the details that make sense for your book.

If you’re looking for a deeper exploration of these elements, our online course, StoryCraft: Writing Your Novel, is in Beta Access, and you can take part for $150 off with COUPON. We also have the StoryCraft Workbook which has over 100 pages of exercises designed to lead you through the process.

We’ll see you tomorrow with our first exploration.

Happy Writing,

Jess and Theo