Scene Structure Part 3: How to Write the Proaction

It's important for the main character to be proactive. How the character attempts to solve a problem is a vital component of strong scene structure. In today's video I discuss what it means for the protagonist to be proactive and how it can improve your scenes.

This video is part of my Novel Boot Camp series. A new video will be posted every weekday in July.

The FULL SCHEDULE can be viewed here:

https://ellenbrockediting.com/2016/06/22/novel-boot-camp-free-novel-writing-course-workshop-in-july/

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VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS

- Proactive scenes (rather than reactive scenes) require the character to take some sort of step towards solving the conflict of the scene.

- The protagonist being proactive doesn't mean the character is being heroic or physically active. Initiating a conversation or going on a job interview could be proactive if it connects to the character's goal.

- Because of your character's flaw and false belief, the character will often be proactive in ways that aren't productive or even make the situation worse, especially in the first half of the novel.

Questions to Ask About Your Novel

Look at a few scenes in your novel. Is the main character proactive?

Does the character take some sort of action to solve the conflict? If the character doesn't take action, then it's difficult to create a compelling scene. The resolution of the conflict (even if the resolution involves the character failing) gives strong pacing to the scene by providing a clear conclusion.

If you have any questions about proaction, please post them in the comments.

Видео Scene Structure Part 3: How to Write the Proaction канала Ellen Brock