6-Stage Plot Structure For Successful Storytelling

Michael Hauge has created a formula around the five turning points and six stages you need to write a good story.

Eduardo L. Lozano created this infographic – The Six Stage Plot Structure – illustrating Hauge’s formula for writing successful screenplays.

We think that you can use this as the skeleton for any storytelling, including novels and business stories. As Hauge says, ‘Even if you are a novelist, speaker, marketer or attorney, understanding these turning points, and incorporating them into your stories, will strengthen your ability to enthral your reader or audience.’

He goes on to explain: “Plot structure simply determines the sequence of events that lead the hero toward this objective. [The Story Goal] And here’s the good news: whether you’re writing romantic comedies, suspense thrillers, historical dramas or big budget science fiction, all successful Hollywood movies follow the same basic structure.

In a properly structured movie, the story consists of six basic stages, which are defined by five key turning points in the plot. Not only are these turning points always the same; they always occupy the same positions in the story.’

Hauge is is an author and lecturer who consults with writers, filmmakers, marketers, attorneys and public speakers throughout the world. He is the author of Writing Screenplays That Sell.

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Posted on: 15th July 2016
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