Story Outline Templates

Many budding writers often find themselves conjuring up short story ideas during idle moments, only to grapple with transforming these abstract thoughts into compelling narratives. The challenge of transmuting a blank screen into a vibrant tale may seem daunting, but the solution could lie in a simple tool – a Story Outline. To assist you in this creative endeavor, we have provided below some outline templates and examples.

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Story Script Outline Template

Short-Story-Script-Outline-Template-Word-Google-Docs-PDF

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Blank Life Story Outline Format

Blank Life Story Outline Format

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Basic Story Outline Template

Basic Story Outline Template

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Short Story Outline Format

Short Story Outline Format

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Story Outline Template for Word

Story Outline Template for Word

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Story Outline Template PDF Format

Story Outline Template PDF Format

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Story Outline Example (PDF)

Story Outline Example (PDF)

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Story Outline Worksheet

Story Outline Worksheet

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Short Story Outline Template PDF

Short Story Outline Template PDF

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Short Story Outline Example

Short Story Outline Example

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Fiction Story Outline Template

Fiction Story Outline Template

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Children’s Story Outline Template

Children’s Story Outline Template

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Short Story Unit Outline Template

Short Story Unit Outline Template

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Culpeper’s Rebellion Story Outline PDF

Culpeper's Rebellion Story Outline PDF

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News Story Outline Template

News Story Outline Template

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Novel Summary Outline Template PDF Format

Novel Outline Summary PDF Format

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How to Write Your Story Outline

Visualize crafting your short story as completing a jigsaw puzzle, where each piece contributes to the grand picture – your story outline. Each component of your outline plays a critical role in shaping a cohesive and compelling narrative.

Protagonist: The central piece of your puzzle is the protagonist, the main character. This is WHO your story revolves around. Identifying your character forms the first crucial step in outlining your story. Consider their desires, fears, strengths, and weaknesses to create a well-rounded individual who can drive the narrative forward.

Setting: The setting forms the backdrop of your story – the context within which your character operates. It answers the question WHERE. This ‘piece’ paints the environment and context in which your story unfolds. Whether it’s a bustling cityscape, a serene countryside, or a fantastical world, the setting enriches your story by grounding your characters and events in a vivid reality.

Conflict or Goal: This is the core issue or objective driving your character, explaining WHAT is happening to the protagonist and WHY it’s vital to their journey. This ‘piece’ forms the plot’s backbone, injecting suspense and intrigue into your narrative. The conflict can be internal, external, or both, but it must be compelling enough to keep the readers invested in the protagonist’s journey.

Plot Structure: Envision the plot as a narrative arc or a climbing path for your protagonist. It begins with the inciting incident (the problem/goal) that propels the character on their journey. The Rising Action consists of the trials and tribulations faced by the character en route to their goal. At the peak lies the Climax, where the protagonist either attains their objective or confronts failure. The story then wraps up with the Resolution, clearing any lingering mysteries and tying up loose ends, leading to an understanding and acceptance of the final outcome. Structuring your plot ensures a logical flow and maintains the reader’s engagement from start to finish.

Character Development: Add another piece: how the protagonist evolves through the story. Reflect on HOW their experiences transform them, their attitudes, their beliefs. This growth lends depth to your protagonist and enhances the overall narrative. A well-developed character arc can elevate your story, making the protagonist’s journey relatable and emotionally resonant.

Theme: One more crucial piece is the theme or underlying message of your story. It’s the philosophical or moral thread that weaves the story elements together. WHY does this story matter? Answering this provides a deeper meaning to your narrative. The theme might explore universal concepts like love, loss, identity, or redemption, offering readers something to ponder long after they’ve finished your story.

Piece these elements together, and you’ll have a structured outline that serves as a robust foundation for your short story. This methodical approach not only simplifies the writing process but also ensures your story is rich, engaging, and well-rounded.

Tips for Writing a Short Story Outline

Creating a short story outline can streamline your writing process and bring clarity to your narrative. Here are some practical tips to help you develop an effective outline:

  • Think Big Picture, Not Details: Focus on the overarching structure of your story rather than getting bogged down in minute details. Your outline should provide a roadmap that highlights key plot points and character arcs without fleshing out every scene and dialogue.
  • Use a Template if Possible: Starting with a blank screen can be intimidating. Utilize pre-made templates to guide your outlining process and ensure you cover essential elements. Templates can offer a structured format that helps you organize your ideas efficiently. For additional inspiration, you might also consider looking at book outline formats, which can offer more comprehensive frameworks.
  • Imagine the Story, Not Just the Words: Visualize the scenes, actions, and emotions that drive your story. Picture the vivid images and dynamic events that you want to portray, rather than merely focusing on the words that describe them. This approach can help you create a more immersive and engaging narrative.
  • Ask Questions to Find Answers: Use questions as a tool to explore and develop your story elements. For each component of your outline, write out questions and potential answers. This method encourages deeper thinking about your plot, characters, and setting, making it easier to fill in the gaps and strengthen your story.
  • Write More, Think Less: Avoid overthinking every aspect of your outline. Allow yourself to write freely and let your creativity flow. You can always refine and edit later. The initial focus should be on getting your ideas down on paper, creating a foundation you can build upon.
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