Nuts and Bolts of Novel Planning: Setup and Payoff

In novel planning, a focused plot can help achieve a story's much-needed forward momentum. This lecture-driven seminar will focus on various models of story structure with examples as well as the concept of "setup and payoff," which is integral to creating satisfying twists that are surprising but inevitable. Students who have previously taken other courses on novel planning, including the seminars: The Nuts and Bolts of Novel Planning: Character Goals and The Nuts and Bolts of Novel Planning: Story Beats will find this course helpful in rounding out the additional parts of their outline.

Part of GrubStreet's Novel Planning Series, led by Lori Goldstein and designed for those who are at the beginning stages of their novel. Take every class in the series or simply choose the craft topics that are relevant to the challenges you face with your novel in progress. 

Class Format

This class will take place using Zoom videoconferencing. About 15 minutes before your class is scheduled to begin, you'll receive an email from your instructor with a link to join the class meeting!

Scholarship Information

Thanks to the excellent literary citizenship of our donors, scholarships are available for all GrubStreet classes. To apply, click the gray "APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIP" button. In order to be considered for a scholarship, you must complete your application at least one week before the start date of a class. Please await our scholarship committee's decision before registering for the class. We cannot hold spots in classes, so the sooner you apply, the better. Scholarships cannot be applied retroactively.

For more more detailed information about GrubStreet scholarships, including how to contribute to scholarship funds for other students, click here.