These plots center on how characters change, grow, or deteriorate. 20 Master Plots: And How to Build Them by Ronald B. Tobias
These plots prioritize the "what happens next" over internal character shifts. 20 Master Plots: And How to Build Them
Tobias breaks down each plot into a three-act structure—Setup, Complication, and Resolution—providing specific checklists and examples from literature and film to help writers build their own versions. Action Plots (External Focus) These plots center on how characters change, grow,
: A hero must save a victim from an antagonist, often involving a character triangle (e.g., The Searchers ). Tobias breaks down each plot into a three-act
: The protagonist leaves home in search of fortune or a mission; the journey itself is the focus (e.g., Raiders of the Lost Ark ).
: A "hide-and-seek" story centered on a chase, where one character pursues another (e.g., Jaws , Duel ).