The three-act-structure has been used in screenwriting for decades, and it can be just as useful for novels. Thinking about an “inciting incident,” “turning points,” and a “rock bottom revelation” can help writers create an outline before they begin a manuscript or sort out writer’s block after they’ve begun. Participants will leave this class with an outline or a structure format to consult during revisions.

To illustrate 3-act structure, Carolyn will discuss the Harrison Ford film Witness. Students are recommended to watch the film or remind themselves of its plot before class.