Melissa Ford Lucken

X wants [scene goal] _______because [motivation] ________

but [conflict] ________.

Y wants [scene goal] _______because [motivation] ________

but [conflict] ________.

and

X wants/avoids {internal conflict} _________ from Y because ____________

but __________.

Y wants/avoids {internal conflict} _________ from X because ____________

but __________.

^^^ This is the necessary push pull for an effective scene. Use the character’s motivation against her/him. Character must be motivated to move forward.

• Character perceives no risk but finds one during/after events.
• Character believes she/he ‘has control’ but discovers not true during or after.
• Character plans to get the better of other but other turns tables (intentionally or not).

add

Setting and context. How does enveloping action contribute?

^^^ This intensifies conflict and adds dimension and depth the story.