Lecture #2: Plot Part 1 — Brandon Sanderson on Writing Science Fiction and Fantasy

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore the key concepts of plotting as discussed in Brandon Sanderson's second lecture on writing science fiction and fantasy. This lecture focuses on the foundational elements of plot development, including promises, progress, and payoff, along with various plot types. Whether you are a budding writer or looking to refine your storytelling skills, this guide will provide you with actionable steps to enhance your writing.

Step 1: Understand the Core Elements of Plot

To effectively plot your story, it’s essential to grasp the core elements:

• Promises: Establish what the story will deliver to the audience. This can be through themes, genre conventions, or character arcs.
• Progress: Create a sense of movement in your plot. This involves the characters facing obstacles and making decisions that drive the story forward.
• Payoff: Ensure that the story's setup leads to satisfying conclusions or twists. The payoff should align with the promises made at the beginning.

Step 2: Explore Different Plot Types

Familiarize yourself with various plot structures. Sanderson discusses several types, including:

1. Linear Plot: A straightforward progression from beginning to end.
2. Circular Plot: The story returns to its starting point, creating a sense of closure.
3. Fractal Plot: Smaller plots within the main plot, adding depth and complexity.

Practical Tips

• Choose a plot type that aligns with your story’s goals.
• Consider mixing elements from different plot types to create a unique narrative structure.

Step 3: Crafting Promises

When developing your plot, think about the promises you want to make to your readers:

• Define the main theme or emotional journey.
• Use the first few chapters to set expectations.
• Avoid making promises you cannot fulfill later in the story.

Common Pitfalls

• Overcommitting to complex promises that are hard to resolve.
• Neglecting to deliver on the expectations set in the early chapters.

Step 4: Developing Progression

To maintain reader engagement, ensure that your plot has a strong sense of progression:

• Introduce challenges that escalate in difficulty.
• Allow characters to learn and grow from their experiences.
• Include subplots that complement the main narrative and enrich character development.

Step 5: Designing Payoffs

A captivating story needs satisfying payoffs:

• Plan twists that feel earned and surprising but are rooted in earlier story elements.
• Ensure that resolutions are meaningful and provide closure to character arcs.
• Use foreshadowing to hint at future events without revealing too much.

Conclusion

In summary, effective plotting involves understanding the interplay between promises, progress, and payoff. By exploring different plot types and focusing on these core elements, you can create compelling narratives that resonate with readers. As you continue your writing journey, consider practicing these concepts in your own work to refine your storytelling skills. Happy writing!