Our daughter Joi, has written plays and even done a play at the local university. So I always go to her for advice when it comes to wrestling with these darn screenplays. I’ve gotten books. Specifically 20 Master Plots and How to Build Them by Ronald B. Tobias and my personal favorite Screenplay The Foundations of Screenwriting by Syd Field.

Crafting a compelling story involves several essential steps, and finding the right methodology that works for you can feel like a quest in itself. At least that’s what I’m finding it out to be.

Joi’s always telling me to start out with a summary or an outline, as do the authors of these books. Summaries offer a bird’s-eye view of the narrative, helping to identify and smooth out potential plot holes. But for some reason, I want to do it backward and tell the basic story first and then build on that. This reverse engineering feels natural and more free-flowing to me, but I wonder if I am on the right track. Especially since it’s difficult for me to just write a short summary.

Writing ‘The Movie’ in Reverse

Writing a story in reverse—starting with the details and building toward a cohesive outline—feels liberating. It’s kind of like writing the movie in reverse, where you craft each scene with meticulous detail and then weave them together. However, this method can lead to complications, especially when trying to maintain a coherent storyline. It demands a lot of back-and-forth adjustments, which can be tiresome and potentially counterproductive. That is what Joi was saying and reiterated countless times.

Tackling a Whodunnit?

Right now, I’m working on a whodunnit. This genre, with its intricate plot and countless twists, requires a well-thought-out plan more than ever. The suspects, clues, and red herrings must be meticulously plotted out to ensure a gripping experience for the reader. Here, a detailed summary could provide a firm foundation, helping to avoid plot inconsistencies and ensuring that all elements of the mystery are satisfactorily addressed.

Finding What Works for You

I’ve come to the conclusion that whether you start with an outline or dive straight into writing the story, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Finding what works best for you may take some trial and error. Maybe mixing both methods might be the key; start with a rough outline to map the main arcs and then allow yourself the freedom to build the intricate details.

Rediscovering your process and experimenting with both strategies might just unveil the perfect balance, making your storytelling journey smoother and more enjoyable.

Thank you for your continued readership and support. Until next week…Blessings and Peace!

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