Getting Started with Plotting Tools
Your complete onboarding guide
What You Get
17 Interactive Structure Wizards
9 Classic (linear) + 8 Worldwide (non-linear) frameworks with step-by-step guided plotting
Cloud-Based Project Management
Create unlimited projects, switch between structures, export anytime
Multiple Export Formats
TXT, DOCX, PDF, JSON - compatible with Scrivener, Atticus, and other writing software
AI Power Pack (Optional Add-on)
$10/month addon generates chapter drafts from your structure outline
Step 1: Choose Your First Structure
Not sure which structure to try first? Here's a decision guide:
Is this your first time using story structure frameworks?
→ Start with Three-Act Structure
Simplest framework with clear divisions. Learn the basics before trying complex structures.
Writing a personal transformation story with clear hero?
→ Try Hero's Journey
Classic monomyth perfect for individual character arcs and quest narratives.
Writing multiple protagonists with equal weight?
→ Try Anansi Web Pattern (Worldwide)
Web architecture designed for interconnected storylines rather than single protagonist.
Writing family saga across generations?
→ Try Griot Performance Cycle (Worldwide)
Spiral architecture where past and present coexist. Perfect for generational stories.
Writing story about restoring balance/justice?
→ Try Ancient Egyptian Ma'at or Kishōtenketsu (Worldwide)
Balance-restoration architectures that don't rely on conflict escalation.
Remember: You can try ALL 17 structures. Your subscription includes unlimited projects and structure switching.
Step 2: Create Your First Project
Log into Dashboard
After subscribing, access your Plotting Tools dashboard at /plotting-tools-dashboard
Click "New Project"
Enter project title, genre, and select your story structure framework
Follow the Wizard
Each structure wizard guides you through framework-specific questions
Save and Export
Your project saves automatically. Export to your preferred format anytime.
Step 3: Understanding the Interface
Dashboard Overview
- Active Projects: Projects you're currently working on
- Archived Projects: Completed or paused projects
- Project Actions: Edit, Duplicate, Archive, Delete, Export
Wizard Interface
- Structure Stages: Framework-specific sections (acts, beats, cycles, etc.)
- Guided Questions: Prompts to develop each story element
- Save Progress: Auto-save every 30 seconds, manual save anytime
- Navigation: Jump between sections, collapse/expand stages
Export Options
- TXT: Plain text outline
- DOCX: Formatted Word document
- PDF: Print-ready PDF file
- JSON: Data format for custom integrations
Step 4: Using AI Power Pack (Optional)
AI Power Pack is a $10/month addon that generates chapter drafts from your structure outline.
How It Works
- Complete your story structure using any framework
- Click "Generate Chapter" for any plot point/beat/stage
- AI creates 1,500-2,500 word draft based on your outline
- Edit and refine generated prose in your writing software
Usage Limits
- 20 chapters per month (typical novel = 15-25 chapters)
- One novel's worth of first drafts per month
- Prevents content farming; encourages quality over quantity
Best Practices
- Complete your full structure BEFORE generating
- Detailed outlines produce better chapters
- Treat generated prose as FIRST DRAFT only
- Expect to rewrite and refine significantly
Important: AI Power Pack creates first drafts, not finished prose. Expect substantial editing.
Step 5: Project Management Tips
Try Multiple Structures
Duplicate your project and try different frameworks. Compare which feels most natural for your story.
Archive Completed Projects
Keep dashboard organized by archiving finished work. Archived projects remain accessible.
Export Regularly
Download backups of your structure work. Integrates with Scrivener, Atticus, Google Docs, etc.
Use Descriptive Titles
Name projects clearly: "Novel Title - Three Act" rather than "Project 1"
Common Questions
Can I switch structures mid-project?
Yes! Duplicate your project and select a different framework. Your original outline remains unchanged.
How many projects can I create?
Unlimited. Create as many active or archived projects as you need.
Do I need AI Power Pack?
No. Plotting Tools works perfectly without it. AI Power Pack is optional for first draft generation only.
Can I share projects with co-writers?
Export to DOCX and share via Google Docs or Dropbox. Native collaboration features coming 2026.
What happens if I cancel subscription?
You keep access until subscription end date. Export all projects before cancellation to retain your work.