Academy · Story structure
What is three-act structure?
What is three-act structure?
Beginner
A common shape that splits a book into three roughly equal parts. Act 1 sets up the world and introduces the main character's problem. Act 2 makes things worse and forces the character to change. Act 3 is the confrontation and the resolution. About 25% / 50% / 25% of the page count. Lots of stories use this shape, but plenty don't. It's a useful frame, not a rule.
What to try
- Use the three-act starter template
Related questions
- What is the inciting incident?
- What goes in act two?