The First Draft Pro Blog

We freaking love stories

You do too? Well, well, well. That smells like BFF potential.

A field of wildflowers, symbolising rebirth.

7 Types of Stories: Rebirth

In "Rebirth" narratives, the protagonist experiences a massive transformation, often spurred by a realization or event that changes their perspective or lifestyle.
The tragedy mask.

7 Types of Stories: Tragedy

"Tragedy" stories focus on the protagonist's downfall due to their fatal flaw or a series of unfortunate events.
The comedy mask.

7 Types of Stories: Comedy

"Comedy" plots centre around misunderstandings, mistaken identities, or confusing situations that create humorous scenarios.
A ship on a voyage.

7 Types of Stories: Voyage & Return

"Voyage and Return" stories involve the protagonist embarking on a journey to an unfamiliar world.
A troupe of adventurers on a fantasy quest.

7 Types of Stories: The Quest

"The Quest" plot type is about a protagonist's journey towards a specific goal. This journey often involves overcoming obstacles, usually leading the protagonist to personal growth and self-discovery.
Tumbling Roman coins

7 Types of Stories: Rags to Riches

In "Rags to Riches" stories, the protagonist begins in a lowly state and achieves a significant transformation through a series of events, often involving wealth, status, or power.
A kraken from the deep.

7 Types of Stories: Overcoming The Monster

This type of plot involves a protagonist setting out to defeat an antagonistic force (often evil) which threatens the protagonist and/or protagonist's homeland.
An illustration of mountains and ominous clouds in the background.

How to create tension in your story

Techniques for building and maintaining tension throughout your narrative.
An illustration of a structurally sound building.

Understanding structure genres (arch, mini, anti-plot)

Exploring the nuances and applications of first-person narration.
An illustration of scaffolding.

Understanding story form

A comprehensive look at the different narrative perspectives in storytelling.
An illustration of two streams of smoke rising up with mountains in the background.

The 2 types of crises your character can face

Examining internal and external crises and their impacts on characters.
An illustration of a pressure gauge.

The 2 ways you can escalate the rising action

Strategies for intensifying the unfolding events in your narrative.