A story outline template is a structured guide used by writers to plan the key elements and progression of their narrative before writing the full draft. It serves as a roadmap for the story.
Based on the provided reference, a novel outline is a structure that helps you articulate ideas around the central theme of your story. Think of something like this as a novel outline template, chapter by chapter. It summarizes your story, by significant events that will eventually make up chapters. Essentially, a story outline template is a tool to organize these significant events and thematic ideas in a logical sequence, providing a framework from the initial concept to the potential resolution.
Why Use a Story Outline Template?
Utilizing a template offers several benefits for authors:
- Organization: Keeps your plot points, character arcs, and themes structured.
- Efficiency: Saves time by identifying potential plot holes or inconsistencies early.
- Focus: Helps maintain focus on the central conflict and theme.
- Pacing: Allows you to visualize the flow and pacing of your story.
What Does a Story Outline Template Include?
While templates vary, they typically break down the story into manageable sections. These sections often represent key plot points, chapters, or sequences of events.
Here are common elements found in a story outline template:
- Logline or Premise: A one or two-sentence summary of the core story idea.
- Synopsis: A brief overview of the entire plot from beginning to end.
- Character Details:
- Protagonist goals, motivations, and conflicts.
- Antagonist roles and objectives.
- Key supporting characters.
- Worldbuilding Notes: Setting details, rules, or history relevant to the plot.
- Plot Points: Major events that drive the story forward.
- Chapter/Scene Breakdown:
- Summary of events in each section.
- Key turning points or revelations.
- Character actions and reactions.
- Setting for the scene.
- Themes: Notes on the underlying messages or ideas explored.
Example Structure (Chapter-by-Chapter)
Here's a simplified example showing how a template might look for a novel, summarizing events that become chapters:
| Chapter | Key Event Summary | Characters Involved | Purpose / Goal of Chapter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduce protagonist & their normal world | Protagonist, Family | Establish character, setting, status quo |
| 2 | Inciting Incident Occurs | Protagonist, Mentor | Disrupt status quo, introduce conflict |
| 3 | Protagonist refuses the call | Protagonist, Friend | Show hesitation, build internal conflict |
| ... | (Continue for subsequent chapters) | ... | ... |
This structure helps writers visualize the story's progression, ensuring that significant events are logically placed and contribute to the overall narrative arc.
Different Approaches to Outlining
Outlining isn't one-size-fits-all. Some writers prefer detailed outlines, while others use looser structures. Popular methods include:
- Linear (Chronological): Following the story from beginning to end.
- Plot-Focused: Concentrating on major plot points (e.g., Three-Act Structure, Hero's Journey).
- Character-Focused: Building the outline around character development and arcs.
- Scene List: Listing potential scenes with brief descriptions.
Choosing the right template or approach depends on the individual writer's process and the complexity of the story. Regardless of the method, a story outline template provides a valuable foundation for building a compelling narrative.
