Fictionary’s Story Elements: Character Arc (Story Goal Tracker)

Welcome back to The Pencil’s Edge! Today, we delve into one of the most essential elements of storytelling: the Character Arc, also known as the Story Goal Tracker. This element ensures that every scene contributes to the protagonist’s journey, pushing them closer to—or further from—their ultimate goal.

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Why Is the Character Arc Important?

The Character Arc is the protagonist’s external journey, tracking how each scene impacts their progress toward the main story goal. This external arc is just as crucial as the protagonist’s internal transformation because it dictates the forward momentum of the story.

In a well-structured novel:

• The protagonist either wins or loses their goal by the end.
• Every scene should move them closer or further from achieving that goal.
• No scene should be neutral—if it doesn’t impact the protagonist, it doesn’t belong in the story.

By carefully crafting the Character Arc, writers ensure that the story remains engaging, dynamic, and meaningful.

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Using the Character Arc in Fictionary

Fictionary’s Story Goal Tracker helps visualize the protagonist’s progress through the Evaluate Page. Here’s how it works:

1. Identify the Protagonist’s Story Goal
   • The blurb or synopsis should provide clues about the protagonist’s main goal.
   • If the protagonist isn’t clear, ask: What is the main objective driving the story?
2. Assess Each Scene’s Impact on the Goal
   • Assign a Positive, Negative, or Neutral impact to every scene.
   • Positive: The protagonist makes progress toward their goal.
   • Negative: The protagonist faces setbacks, making the goal harder to achieve.
   • Neutral: No impact—this means the scene may not be needed.
3. Track Story Progression
   • As scenes are evaluated, the Story Goal Tracker draws an arc:
     • Upward movement means progress.
     • Downward movement means obstacles.
     • Flat lines indicate stagnation—a potential issue.
4. Analyze the Entire Story Arc
   • Review the protagonist’s progression.
   • A well-balanced story includes both positive and negative movements.
   • Too many wins make a story predictable, while too many losses can frustrate readers.

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When to Give Feedback on the Character Arc

As an editor or writer, check for these common issues:

1. Neutral Impact on the Protagonist

• If a scene does not move the protagonist toward or away from their goal, it needs revision.
• Action: Enter Neutral in the Story Goal Tracker and suggest reworking or cutting the scene.

2. Imbalanced Character Arc

• A story with too many positive moments lacks tension.
• A story with too many negative moments can feel hopeless.
• Action: Ensure a mix of wins and setbacks to maintain reader engagement.

3. Too Easy or Too Hard to Achieve the Goal

• If the protagonist reaches their goal too easily, stakes are too low.
• If the protagonist constantly struggles without progress, the pacing may feel stagnant.
• Action: Adjust difficulty levels to maintain tension and pacing.

4. Unclear Main Story Goal

• If the protagonist’s goal is vague or inconsistent, the story may lack direction.
• Action: Clarify the main story goal early and ensure all scenes contribute to it.

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Advice for Writers on Strengthening the Character Arc

To refine the Character Arc, ask these questions:

• Is the protagonist’s goal clearly defined?
• Does every scene impact the protagonist’s ability to achieve their goal?
• Is there a mix of successes and setbacks?
• Does the external journey force internal change?

Remember, even if a protagonist has a neutral inner arc (like James Bond or Jack Reacher), their external journey should still include wins and losses to maintain engagement.

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Final Thoughts

Mastering the Character Arc (Story Goal Tracker) ensures that every scene has purpose, every obstacle matters, and the protagonist’s journey is compelling from start to finish. By tracking their progress scene by scene, writers can create a dynamic, well-paced narrative that keeps readers hooked.

Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll explore the next Fictionary Story Element: POV Goal Internal. Until then, happy writing!