This article is part of a series about how you can plot a novel.
Save the Cat is a story structure framework that’s been a game-changer for screenwriters and novelists. Created by Blake Snyder for screenplays and adapted for novels by Jessica Brody, this is one of the most well-known story structures in writing. Think of it as your story’s blueprint, guiding you through key scenes and their ideal placement, all measured as a percentage of your total story length. This means it works whether you’re writing a novella or a sprawling epic!
The Core Principles: Your Story’s Beat
Save the Cat is all about a structured, beat-by-beat approach. It breaks your story down into fifteen “beats” or plot points–like signposts on your writing journey. These beats are strategically placed to keep your pacing on point, build tension, and give your readers that satisfying emotional payoff.
Act 1: Setting the Stage
- 0-1% Opening Image: This is your story’s first impression! It sets the tone, introduces your world, and subtly hints at your themes. Think of the hobbits’ peaceful existence in the Shire at the beginning of The Fellowship of the Ring, a symbol of innocence and comfort.
- 5% State the Theme: Early on, a character, often without even realizing it, utters the central theme of your story. It could be a question or a statement that echoes throughout the narrative. In The Fellowship of the Ring, Gandalf’s early warnings about the Ring’s corrupting influence subtly foreshadow Frodo’s later struggles and the overarching theme of good versus evil.
- 1-10% The Setup: Here, you introduce your protagonist, their world, and their current situation. Establish their routine, what they want, and any simmering conflicts. Consider Harry Potter’s miserable life with the Dursleys, his longing for a different existence, and the subtle hints of his magical abilities.
- 10% The Catalyst: This is the inciting incident! It’s the event that totally upends your protagonist’s life, forcing them to react and kick-starting the entire story. Katniss Everdeen volunteering for the Hunger Games in place of her sister Prim.
- 10-20% The Debate: Your protagonist hesitates. Should they really take on this crazy challenge the catalyst just threw at them? This internal struggle adds so much depth and realism. Frodo’s internal struggle and conversation with Gandalf about taking the Ring to Rivendell in The Fellowship of the Ring.
- 20% Break Into 2: The decision is made! Your protagonist crosses a point of no return, committing to this new path or adventure. Harry Potter’s decision to go to Hogwarts and stepping onto Platform 9 ¾.
Act 2: The Adventure Unfolds
- 22% The B Story: Time for a subplot! This often involves a new character, like a love interest or a supportive friend, adding layers of depth and complexity. Think of the developing friendship between Harry, Ron, and Hermione in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.
- 20-50% Fun & Games: This is the juicy middle of your story! Your protagonist faces challenges, explores their new world, and experiences both wins and losses. Harry Potter, Ron, and Hermione learning spells, playing Quidditch, and solving mysteries at Hogwarts in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.
- 50% The Midpoint: A major turning point! Stakes are raised, new information is revealed, and your protagonist might experience a big victory or a crushing setback. In The Hunger Games, Katniss’s alliance with Rue and their strategy to destroy the Careers’ supplies.
- 50-75% The Bad Guys Close In: The antagonist or opposing forces start gaining momentum. Your protagonist feels the pressure mounting. Voldemort’s increasing influence and attempts to regain power throughout the Harry Potter series, culminating in direct confrontations with Harry.
- 75% All is Lost: This is rock bottom. Your protagonist’s plans fail, hope dwindles, and everything seems utterly lost. In The Lord of the Rings, the breaking of the Fellowship and Gandalf’s presumed death in Moria.
- 75-80% Dark Night of the Soul: Your protagonist reflects on their journey, confronts their flaws, and wallows in self-doubt and despair. Harry Potter’s grief and despair after Dumbledore’s death in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.
- 80% Break into 3: A glimmer of hope! Your protagonist finds renewed strength, often through a realization, a memory, or the support of others. They devise a new plan. Katniss and Peeta’s realization that the Gamemakers might allow two victors in The Hunger Games, leading them to search for each other.
Act 3: The Grand Finale
- 80-99% Finale: The epic showdown! Your protagonist confronts the antagonist or the central conflict in the climax of your story. The Battle of Hogwarts in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.
- 99-100% Final Image: Your story wraps up with a lasting image that reflects your protagonist’s transformation and the resolution of your themes. The epilogue in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, showing Harry, Ron, and Hermione sending their children off to Hogwarts, signifying peace and a new beginning.
Adapting Save the Cat for Your Novel
While the core beats are consistent, remember that novels offer the luxury of greater depth and exploration. You can expand on individual beats, dive deep into character motivations, and weave in richer subplots. The percentage-based structure is a fantastic guide, but it’s a tool, not a rigid formula.
Ultimately, Save the Cat is an incredible resource for novelists who crave a structured approach to plotting. By understanding and adapting these fifteen beats, you can craft interesting narratives that truly resonate with your readers. But always remember: creativity and flexibility are your best friends in crafting a truly unique and memorable novel! Happy plotting!