The story structure that makes the first act of How to Train Your Dragon work.

One of my favorite things about the six elements of story structure is the fact that they work everywhere.

You can use them to structure your entire novel. You can use them to structure each act. And you can use them to structure each scene.

And to prove it, I’m breaking down the first act of How to Train Your Dragon to show you the six elements at work.

You’ll learn:

• What values shift in the first act (and why those changes are good and bad)
• The crisis choice Hiccup must make, and the many risks at stake
• How the inciting incident and resolution make the value shifts crystal clear
• And more!

Plus, you can get my full spreadsheet analyzing How to Train Your Dragon at alicesudlow.com/dragon.

Links mentioned in the episode:

• Get the full How to Train Your Dragon analysis: alicesudlow.com/dragon
• Watch the opening scene of How to Train Your Dragon
• Ep. 45: How the 6 Elements of Story Work in How to Train Your Dragon
• Ep. 27: Value Shifts: How to Craft Compelling Change in Every Story

Send me a Text Message!

Want my support in your revision?

In Story Clarity, we’ll work one-on-one to sharpen your story’s structure and craft a revision plan that works. If you’re ready for thoughtful, personalized feedback from an editor who gets what you’re trying to do, I’d love to hear what you’re working on.

Get started by telling me about your story here.

Support the show

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

"I love Alice and Your Next Draft." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more writers through the mess—and joy—of the editing process. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap the stars to rate, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Loving the show? Show your support with a monthly contribution »