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Seven-Point Structure

Dan Wells' structure emphasizing character transformation through seven key points.

Documenting sources for workshops? Drop your structure notes into CiteFast so references stay organized while you analyze each beat here.

Structure Diagram

HighAgencyLowAgencyStory Timeline →1Hook2Plot Turn 13Pinch 14Midpoint⚡ The Fulcrum5Pinch 26Plot Turn 27Resolution← ReactiveProactive →Character Transformation

How It Works

This structure tracks character agency from reactive (first half) to proactive (second half). The seven points are: Hook (weakness), Plot Turn 1 (call to action), Pinch 1 (pressure), Midpoint (shift to action), Pinch 2 (more pressure), Plot Turn 2 (gain power), Resolution (strength).

Famous Examples

  • 📖Star Wars: Luke on farm, aunt/uncle killed, Obi-Wan captured, Luke chooses rescue, trash compactor, use the Force, Death Star destroyed
  • 📖Breaking Bad: Walter White diagnosed with cancer, cooks meth, threatened by Tuco, chooses to expand, Gus threatens family, becomes Heisenberg, builds empire
  • 📖The Karate Kid: Daniel bullied, meets Mr. Miyagi, beaten by Cobra Kai, trains seriously, tournament pressure, learns crane kick, defeats Johnny

See It In Action

Generate a 250-word flash fiction story using this structure.

💡 Tips for Using This Structure

  • •The Midpoint is the fulcrum—everything changes from passive to active
  • •Plot Turns must be unavoidable
  • •Resolution should mirror Hook to show transformation