Author: Richard L. Fricks

Welcome back to The Pencil’s Edge! In today’s post, we explore one of the most crucial elements of storytelling: the POV Character Goal. Without a clear goal, a character’s actions can feel aimless, leaving readers disengaged. A strong POV goal drives the story forward and provides readers with a compelling reason to keep turning the pages.

Why Is the POV Character Goal Important?

A character goal is simply what a character wants in a given scene. Goals provide:

• Direction: They dictate what the character is doing and why.
• Tension: They create obstacles and stakes that keep readers engaged.
• Emotional Investment: Readers need to root for (or against) a character’s goal.

Without a goal, the scene risks becoming stagnant. Readers need to see characters striving toward something, failing, adjusting, and trying again.

Using the POV Character Goal Element in Fictionary

In StoryCoach, each scene should have a clearly defined POV goal. If a goal is not apparent, this could indicate a weak scene. Here’s how to evaluate POV goals:

1. Verify the POV Goal
   • Navigate to Point of View Goal on the Evaluate page.
   • If the POV goal is not clear, enter Unclear in the story element.
2. Relate the POV Goal to the Story’s Main Goal
   • The protagonist should have a main story goal that is apparent in the blurb.
   • The POV character’s goal per scene should always relate to that overarching story goal.
3. Differentiate Between Internal and External Goals
   • External Goal: The immediate objective in a scene (e.g., winning an argument, escaping danger, finding a clue).
   • Internal Goal: A deeper, more emotional need driving the character’s transformation (e.g., gaining self-worth, overcoming a past trauma).
4. Utilize the Story Map
   • Select Point of View, POV Goal, and Scene Name in the Story Map to track character progression.

When to Provide Feedback on POV Goals

As an editor or writer reviewing a manuscript, be on the lookout for these common issues:

1. No Clear POV Goal

• If a character has no discernible goal in a scene, it lacks momentum.
• Action: Enter No goal in the story element and suggest adding one.

2. Too Many Goals

• If the character is juggling multiple conflicting goals in a single scene, it can be confusing.
• Action: Enter Too many in the story element and recommend narrowing the focus.

3. Inconsistent Goals

• If the character’s goal changes within the scene without reason, it may lack coherence.
• Action: Enter Inconsistent and suggest clarifying intent.

4. No Consequences

• If the character’s goal is achieved or abandoned without impact, the stakes are too low.
• Action: Enter No consequences and recommend adding tension.

5. Too Easily Achieved Goals

• If a character reaches their goal without difficulty, the scene may feel underdeveloped.
• Action: Enter Too easy and advise adding obstacles or conflict.

Advice for Writers on Strengthening POV Goals

To create compelling goals, ask these questions:

• Does the protagonist want something badly?
• Is the goal strong enough to be interesting?
• Does the protagonist get proactive by the midpoint?
• Does the protagonist change themselves or their situation?

By ensuring every POV character has a strong external goal (what they want) and an underlying internal goal (what they need), writers can create richer, more engaging narratives.

Final Thoughts

Mastering POV Character Goals is key to building a dynamic and engaging story. Without clear, purposeful goals, scenes can feel aimless, and readers may lose interest. By tracking and refining goals, writers can maintain tension, keep characters proactive, and create a compelling reading experience.

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

Welcome back to The Pencil’s Edge! In today’s post, we explore one of the most fundamental elements of storytelling: Point of View (POV). Understanding and mastering POV ensures a seamless and immersive reading experience, allowing readers to connect deeply with your characters and their journeys.

Why Is Point of View Important?

When a writer selects a Point of View (POV) character for a scene, they make a promise to the reader—the reader will experience the scene exclusively from that character’s perspective. Any deviation from this promise can cause confusion, disrupt the pacing, and pull the reader out of the story.

Head-hopping (switching POV within a scene) requires extra words to clarify whose thoughts or actions are being described, making the narrative feel inconsistent. By maintaining a consistent POV, the writer ensures clarity and a strong connection between the reader and the characters.

Using This Story Element in Fictionary

Fictionary’s StoryCoach automatically assigns a POV character to each scene upon manuscript import. However, it’s important to verify and correct any discrepancies. Here’s how to do it:

1. Verify the Assigned POV Character
   • Navigate to the Point of View element on the Evaluate page.
   • If the assigned POV character is incorrect, use the drop-down menu to select the correct character.
2. Missing a POV Character?
   • Click View Character List and ensure the character is added to the scene.
   • If the character is not listed, add them to the Cast of Characters on the Overview page before assigning them to scenes.
3. Analyzing POV Balance
   • The POV Characters Insight helps visualize the order, balance, and number of scenes each POV character has.
   • If the protagonist is not the dominant POV character, consider whether the right character is being emphasized.

When to Offer Feedback on POV

As an editor or writer refining a manuscript, here are key areas where POV issues often arise:

1. Head-Hopping Within a Scene

• If a scene is told from one character’s POV, avoid jumping into another character’s thoughts or experiences.
• Sudden POV shifts can disrupt immersion, lessen tension, and make the story feel uncontrolled.
• Solution: Start a new scene when changing POV or rewrite the passage to maintain a singular perspective.

2. Unbalanced POV Distribution

• The protagonist should generally have the most POV scenes.
• Too much time between POV shifts can make it difficult to remember the characters.
• Solution: Use the POV Characters Insight to check balance and ensure the protagonist remains central.

3. Too Many POV Characters

• Research suggests readers can remember five to seven POVs effectively.
• Too many perspectives can dilute character connection.
• Solution: Consider combining roles or limiting perspectives to key characters.

4. First Scene’s POV Is Not the Protagonist

• Readers often expect the first character introduced to be the protagonist.
• If the POV character in the opening scene is not the protagonist, ensure this choice is intentional and clear.

Advice to Writers on POV Implementation

• Choose Your POV Carefully: Decide whether your story benefits most from first-person (I, me), third-person limited (he, she, they), or third-person omniscient (all-knowing narrator).
• Maintain POV Consistency: Each scene should be told from only one character’s viewpoint.
• Use POV to Build Connection: The fewer POV characters, the deeper the reader’s bond with each.
• Switch POVs with Purpose: If using multiple POVs, structure them intentionally so they enhance rather than confuse the narrative.

Final Thoughts

Mastering Point of View is essential for crafting a compelling and immersive story. By maintaining a clear and consistent POV, writers can enhance emotional depth, improve pacing, and ensure a seamless reader experience.

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

Welcome back to The Pencil’s Edge! Today, we’re kicking off our in-depth exploration of Fictionary’s 38 Story Elements, beginning with Characters per Scene. Understanding how and why characters appear in your scenes is crucial to crafting a story that feels cohesive, engaging, and unforgettable.

Why Are Characters per Scene Important?

Characters are the heart and soul of any story. The love readers develop for your characters is what keeps them turning pages. The Characters per Scene element offers insight into how effectively you’re utilizing your characters. It helps you ensure that every character’s presence serves a purpose and contributes meaningfully to the plot.

Think of it like a stage play—the characters “on stage” in each scene are the ones actively participating in the story. Characters who are merely mentioned add background flavor but don’t directly influence the scene’s events.

Using the Characters per Scene Story Element

In Fictionary’s StoryCoach, you can find Characters per Scene under the Character tab on the Evaluate page. By clicking View Character List, you’ll see a pop-up window that displays all the characters linked to each scene.

How It Works:

Imported Character List: StoryCoach scans your manuscript upon import and automatically links characters to the scenes they appear in.

Characters in a Scene: These are the “on stage” characters—those who have an active role in the scene.

Characters Mentioned: These are characters who are referenced in dialogue or thought but don’t actively participate in the scene.

You can adjust the list by moving characters between “in scene” and “mentioned.” This ensures an accurate representation of your cast in each scene.

Pro Tip: Characters moved to “Characters Mentioned” won’t show up in key StoryCoach insights like Scenes per Character, Characters per Scene, or Story Map. They also can’t be assigned as a POV character.

How to Evaluate Character Usage

As you read through each scene of the manuscript, keep the cast of characters updated. You’ll find this process helps you:

Track character involvement: See how often characters appear and ensure key players are getting enough “page time.”

Identify underused or overused characters: Determine if some characters need more development or if others can be cut or combined.

Assess character relevance: Evaluate if each character’s presence is justified and contributes to moving the plot forward.

Determining Appropriate Character Descriptions:

After updating the character lists, use the Scenes per Character insight to see how many scenes each character appears in. If a character only appears in a few scenes but has a lengthy introduction, you might need to trim their description.

Major characters should receive detailed introductions to signal their importance.

Minor characters should be introduced succinctly, providing just enough detail to keep readers engaged without overwhelming them.

Characters per Scene Insights and How to Use Them

Fictionary’s visualization tools offer powerful insights into your character structure. Here’s how you can leverage them:

Track Character Entry and Exit:

Use the Story Arc view to see when key characters enter and exit your story. This helps ensure major characters appear at the right times and minor characters don’t linger unnecessarily.

Monitor Character Presence in Major Events:

Check if the protagonist is present in critical scenes like the inciting incident, plot points, and climax. If they’re missing, it might be time to revise.

Evaluate Scene Crowding:

Are there too many characters in one scene? Crowded scenes can confuse readers. Consider whether each character is essential. If not, combine roles or remove unnecessary characters.

Track Protagonist and Antagonist Interactions:

Increasing the number of scenes where your protagonist and antagonist appear together can heighten tension and drive conflict.

Avoid Confusing Names:

Review your Cast of Characters for similar names that might confuse readers. For example, having characters named “Molly” and “Maggie” in the same scene could be tricky for readers to follow.

When to Offer Feedback on Character Usage

As you refine your manuscript, consider giving feedback in these situations:

Character Introductions Feel Off:

Major characters need strong, memorable introductions. If a character’s first appearance lacks impact, it might be time to revise.

Too Many Characters in a Scene:

If readers struggle to keep track of who’s who, reduce the number of characters per scene.

Characters Appear or Disappear Without Explanation:

Ensure continuity by tracking character movements between scenes.

Protagonist Missing from Key Scenes:

Your protagonist should be present for major plot events. If they’re absent, consider revising to keep readers emotionally invested.

Protagonist and Antagonist Need More Shared Scenes:

Shared scenes between the protagonist and antagonist can heighten tension and keep readers on edge.

Confusing Character Names:

Simplify or change similar names to avoid reader confusion.

Final Thoughts

Mastering Characters per Scene is about more than just tracking who’s present. It’s about ensuring every character serves a purpose, drives the plot forward, and engages readers. By thoughtfully managing your cast, you’ll create a story that feels vibrant, cohesive, and unforgettable.

Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll explore the next Fictionary Story Element: Point of View. Until then, happy writing!

Welcome back to The Pencil’s Edge! In this post, we’ll dive into Fictionary’s 38 Story Elements—the essential building blocks of storytelling that can take your manuscript from good to great. These elements are divided into three supercategories: Character, Plot, and Setting. By analyzing and refining each of these, you’ll ensure your story engages readers on every level.

Let’s summarily explore these elements acknowledging we’ll go much deeper into each story element over the next several weeks.

Character Story Elements

1. Characters per Scene

Identify which characters are present in each scene. Ensure the right characters are getting the appropriate “page time” and contributing meaningfully to the story.

2. Point of View (POV)

Consistency in POV builds trust with readers. Ensure each scene’s POV character provides a unique lens to experience the story.

3. POV Goal

The POV character’s goal drives the scene forward. Ask: What does this character want in this moment?

4. Character Arc

Focus on the protagonist’s external journey. Each scene should impact them positively or negatively, moving them closer to their ultimate goal.

5. POV Goal Internal

This internal goal ties to the character’s personal struggles or weaknesses. How does their internal conflict shape their decisions?

6. Goal Related to Plot

Ensure each goal is relevant to the overarching plot, enhancing believability and cohesion.

7. What if Goal Fails?

High stakes keep readers engaged. Clarify what the character risks if they fail to achieve their goal.

8. Scene Impact on POV Character and Protagonist

Track the emotional arc of your characters. Does the scene positively or negatively impact them?

9. POV Knowledge Gained

Consider what the POV character learns in each scene. Does it influence their decisions and drive the plot forward?

10. Characters in Motion

Characters should be actively engaging with their environment. Movement adds depth and keeps scenes dynamic.

Plot Story Elements

11. Scene Name

Each scene should have a clear purpose. A descriptive scene name helps track its role in the story.

12. Story Arc

Your story’s arc should include five critical points: Inciting Incident, Plot Point 1, Midpoint, Plot Point 2, and Climax. These provide structure without being formulaic.

13. Purpose

Every scene must serve the story. If a scene doesn’t drive the plot or develop characters, consider revising or cutting it.

14. Scene Opening Type

Scenes can open with dialogue, thought, description, or action. Vary your openings to keep readers intrigued.

15. Scene Closing Type

The way you close a scene matters. Dialogue, thought, description, or action can leave a lasting impression.

16. Anchored

Anchor every scene in POV, setting, and time to orient your readers.

17. Entry Hook

Grab attention immediately with a compelling hook. Ask: Does the opening make the reader want to keep going?

18. Exit Hook

End each scene with a question, twist, or revelation that compels readers to continue.

19. Tension

Every scene should include tension to maintain reader engagement.

20. Conflict

Conflict is the action driving the scene, whether it’s a fight, argument, or a battle of wills.

21. Revelation

When a character learns something new, it should prompt a decision or change in action.

22. Backstory

Introduce backstory strategically, avoiding info dumps that slow pacing.

23. Flashback

Use flashbacks sparingly and actively. Ensure they serve the story and enrich the reader’s understanding.

24. Scene Middle

Every scene should have a beginning, middle, and end. The middle is where tension escalates or complications arise.

25. Scene Climax

Each scene’s climax should resolve or intensify the main conflict, keeping the story’s momentum.

26. Action/Sequel

Alternate between action (events happening) and sequel (characters reacting). This balance keeps the pacing dynamic.

Setting Story Elements

27. Location

Choose meaningful settings that enhance the plot, characters, or theme. Ask: Why is this location important?

28. Date/Time

Establishing when scenes take place helps readers follow the timeline.

29. Objects

Objects can anchor a scene and add layers of meaning. Ensure props and details are purposeful.

30. Sights

Use descriptive visuals to bring your setting to life.

31. Smells

Smells can evoke memories or set the mood. Use them strategically.

32. Sounds

Incorporate auditory details to immerse readers.

33. Tastes

Taste is an often-overlooked sense but can add depth to scenes.

34. Touch

Describe textures or sensations to help readers feel connected to the world you’ve built.

35. Emotional Impact

Select locations that amplify the emotional stakes of a scene.

36. Location Split

A location change mid-scene can add tension or shift pacing. Alternatively, merge short scenes in the same location to slow the pace if needed.

37. Weather

Weather isn’t just background; it can set the tone, create obstacles, or heighten tension.

Final Thoughts

Fictionary’s 38 Story Elements provide a robust framework for analyzing and enhancing your story. By considering how each element contributes to your manuscript, you can create a cohesive, engaging, and emotionally resonant narrative.

In our next post, we’ll dive deeper into Character Story Elements, exploring how to create unforgettable characters that resonate with readers. Stay tuned and keep crafting!

Welcome to the launch of my exciting new series exploring Fictionary’s 38 Story Elements! Whether you’re a seasoned author or an emerging writer, this series will serve as your comprehensive guide to crafting engaging, impactful stories. Writing a great story is much like preparing an incredible meal—a delicate balance of ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable experience for your readers.

At the heart of this series lies the wisdom of Kristina Stanley, founder of Fictionary Software, who spent years analyzing the world’s most popular stories. Her research identified 38 essential “story elements” grouped into three supercategories: Character, Plot, and Setting. These elements act as the key ingredients to your storytelling recipe, each contributing to the flavor, depth, and cohesiveness of your narrative.

What Are Story Elements?

A story element is one of the many building blocks that make up your novel. Each element invites you to analyze a specific part of your story—whether it’s the development of your characters, the structure of your plot, or the richness of your setting. Together, they create the map to a fully realized, compelling manuscript.

The Three Supercategories: Character, Plot, and Setting

While each supercategory serves a distinct purpose, they are deeply interconnected, working together to elevate your story. Let’s briefly explore each one:

1. Character Elements

Your characters are the beating heart of your story. Whether it’s the protagonist’s Point of View, their goals, or the stakes of their journey, character elements focus on creating relatable, believable individuals that readers will root for. Characters with strong motivations and clear stakes keep readers emotionally invested.

2. Plot Elements

The plot forms the skeleton of your story. From crafting a gripping Story Arc to weaving Conflict and Tension into every scene, plot elements ensure your narrative progresses with purpose and keeps readers turning the page. Entry and Exit Hooks, for example, play a pivotal role in maintaining engagement at every chapter break.

3. Setting Elements

Far more than just background scenery, your setting shapes the atmosphere and mood of your story. Elements like Weather, Emotional Impact, and the use of the Five Senses can immerse readers in your world and heighten their connection to the narrative.

Why Focus on Story Elements?

Evaluating your manuscript through the lens of these elements provides you with a detailed, 30,000-foot view of your story. This process helps you pinpoint areas for improvement while enhancing the overall cohesiveness of your narrative. The result? A stronger, more polished manuscript that resonates with your audience.

What to Expect from This Series

In each post of this series, we’ll dive deep into one or more of Fictionary’s 38 Story Elements. You’ll learn actionable tips and techniques to strengthen your scenes and characters, fine-tune your plot, and enrich your settings. Whether it’s creating high-stakes conflict or choosing sensory details that evoke emotion, each post will leave you with tools to elevate your craft.

Let’s Get Started

Are you ready to take your writing to the next level? Stay tuned for my next post, where I’ll begin with Character Elements, starting with the essential Point of View Character. Together, I’ll uncover how to make your characters leap off the page and into the hearts of your readers.

Here at “The Pencil’s Edge,” I believe that every story deserves to shine. With Fictionary’s 38 Story Elements as our guide, I’ll unlock the secrets to creating stories readers can’t put down. So grab your notebooks, fire up your imagination, and let’s start crafting literary magic!