Lesson series

The Art of Plot: How to Plot and Structure Your Novel

Learn how to craft a compelling plot in any genre. Begins January 1, 2024.
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Deepen Your Understanding of Plot and Structure in This Intermediate-Level Course

Get solid advice on how to plot and structure your novel in this inspiring, information-packed 8-week course taught by a New York Times bestselling novelist and veteran writing teacher. Whether you want to start a novel or untangle a novel-in-progress, this class will help you get your novel off to a great start in 2024.
  • 8 Modules
  • 12 Videos
  • 18 written lessons
  • Ongoing Discussions

Detailed Plot Analysis and Advice

We will read and learn from Patricia Highsmith's classic suspense novel, The Talented Mr. Ripley.  You will learn how to create suspense in any genre, how to craft a compelling first chapter and midpoint reversal, how to write your novel's climax, and more. You will have access to video lessons, written lessons, downloads, and ongoing discussion forums.

Take your time.

This course unlocks on January 1, 2024. You will have access to the course for 18 months (through July 2025), so you have plenty of time to complete the lessons at your own pace.

What You Will Learn

From writing a compelling first chapter to crafting a satisfying ending, discover the tools you need to take your novel to the next level.

  1. In-Depth Analysis:

    • Delve into the intricacies of plot and structure by dissecting Patricia Highsmith's The Talented Mr. Ripley. Learn how to apply the principles of this classic text to your own novel.


  2. Exploration of Plot Types:

    • Understand different plot types and how they shape narrative.

  3. Foreshadowing Mastery:

    • Uncover the art of foreshadowing and learn to strategically plant hints and clues that heighten tension and anticipation.

  4. Crafting the Midpoint Reversal:

    • Master the pivotal midpoint reversal that transforms your novel. Understand its role in character development, plot escalation, and thematic resonance.

  5. Writing Plot Twists and Turning Points:

    • Learn the secrets behind crafting unforgettable plot twists and turning points. From subtle surprises to jaw-dropping revelations, discover how to keep your readers on the edge of their seats while maintaining narrative cohesion.

  6. Pacing Strategies:

    • Explore the art of pacing, a crucial element in keeping your readers engaged. Understand when, how, and why to compress or expand time.

Meet the instructor

Michelle Richmond

Michelle Richmond is the New York Times bestselling author of six novels and two award-winning story collections. Her books have been published in 31 languages and optioned repeatedly for film and television.

She has taught in the Masters of Fine Arts programs in creative writing at the University of San Francisco and California College of the Arts and has served as Distinguished Visiting Writer at St. Mary's College of Moraga, Bowling Green State University, and Notre Dame de Namur University. She has also designed and taught novel writing courses online for Stanford Continuing Studies. She is the founder and publisher of Fiction Attic Press.
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Frequently asked questions

When does this course begin?

This course unlocks on January 1, 2024. A new module will unlock each week.

How long do I have access to the course?

You have access to the course for 18 months after it unlocks.

What if I change my mind?

Get a full refund within 14 days of purchase.

Is this a workshop course?

No, you will not be submitting your writing to the instructor to feedback. In this course, you will focus on planning, plotting, and structuring your novel.

Can I take this course concurrently with Novel in Nine?

Yes, if you are participating in Novel in Nine 2024, you can add this course to take concurrently. We discuss plot in Novel in Nine, but The Art of Plot provides a more detailed analysis of plot. If you are enrolled in both at the same time, you can supplement your Novel in Nine lessons with Art of Plot lessons at your own pace.
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