The Complete Writer A Few Notes On Plot Plain & Simple Press

Cover Story Action graph. Plot points Writing plot, Writing tips, Writing checklist (1098x869)

Table of Contents

• What is the First Plot Point?
• Why is the First Plot Point Important?
• When Should the First Plot Point Occur?
• How to Write the First Plot Point?
• Examples of Great First Plot Points

What is the First Plot Point?

The first plot point is a crucial moment in your story that occurs around the 25% mark. It is the moment when your protagonist is thrown into the main conflict of the story, and their journey really begins. This is the point where the story takes off and the stakes are raised. It is often a point of no return for the protagonist, where they have to make a choice that will change the course of the story.

Why is the First Plot Point Important?

The first plot point is important because it sets the tone for the rest of the story. It is where the story really begins, and where the protagonist is forced to confront the main conflict. It is also important because it hooks the reader and keeps them engaged in the story. If the first plot point is weak or doesn't occur at the right time, the reader may lose interest and stop reading.

When Should the First Plot Point Occur?

The first plot point should occur around the 25% mark of your story. This is a general guideline, but it is important to remember that the first plot point should occur before the midpoint of your story. It should also occur after the setup of the story, where the characters and setting are introduced. This gives the reader time to get to know the characters and become invested in the story before the main conflict begins.

How to Write the First Plot Point?

To write the first plot point, you need to have a clear idea of your story's main conflict and the journey your protagonist will go on. You also need to know your character's goals and motivations. The first plot point should be a moment of no return for your protagonist, where they are forced to make a choice that will change the course of the story. Here are some tips for writing a great first plot point:

• Make it a clear and decisive moment for your protagonist
• Make sure it occurs at the right time in the story
• Raise the stakes for your protagonist
• Show the consequences of the choice your protagonist makes
• Make it a memorable moment that hooks the reader

Examples of Great First Plot Points

Here are some examples of great first plot points:

• In "The Hunger Games," the first plot point is when Katniss volunteers to take her sister's place in the Hunger Games. This is a clear and decisive moment for Katniss, and it sets the tone for the rest of the story.
• In "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone," the first plot point is when Harry discovers that he is a wizard and is accepted into Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. This is a memorable moment that hooks the reader and sets up the main conflict of the story.
• In "The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring," the first plot point is when Frodo sets out on his journey to destroy the One Ring. This is a moment of no return for Frodo, and it sets up the main conflict of the story.

Conclusion

The first plot point is a crucial moment in your story that sets the tone for the rest of the story. It is important to make it a clear and decisive moment for your protagonist, and to make sure it occurs at the right time in the story. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can write a great first plot point that hooks the reader and keeps them engaged in your story.