The 7-Point Story Structure
Advocates of this approach advise starting with your resolution and working backwards. This ensures a dramatic character arc for your hero.
🪝 Hook
Your protagonist’s starting point.
Example: In Philosopher’s Stone, this is when we meet Harry living under the stairs.
↩️ Plot Turn #1
Introduce the conflict that moves the story to its midpoint.
Example: Harry finds out he is a wizard.
🤏 Pinch Point #1
Applies pressure to your protagonist in the process of achieving his goal, usually facing an antagonist.
Example: When the trolls attacks, Harry and his friends realize they are the only ones who can save the day.
📍 Midpoint
Your character responds to conflict with action.
Example: Harry and his friends learn of the Philosopher’s Stone and determine to find it before Voldemort does.
🤏 Pinch Point #2
More pressure makes it harder for your character to achieve his goal.
Example: Harry has to face the villain alone after losing Ron and Hermione during their quest to find the stone.
↩️ Plot Turn #2
Moves the story from the midpoint to the resolution. Your protagonist has everything he needs to achieve the goal.
Example: When the mirror reveals Harry Potter’s intentions are pure, he is given the Philosopher’s Stone.
🥲 Resolution
The climax. Everything in your story leads to this moment, a direct contrast to how your character began his journey.
Example: Harry defeats Voldemort.