Facing the writing of a big project like a script or novel can be daunting. Revising anything can also be daunting.
In both situations, relying on math will help create, corral ideas, and revise.
Math is about balance
The first half and last half should be approximately equal in length, for example. If you find what you believe is the middle high point or “Midpoint Crisis” of your story, then you can balance the halves by cutting or building on either side of that dividing point. If your Midpoint Crisis event happens on page 200 in a 300-page manuscript, in most cases that manuscript will be passed over because the big middle crisis should be closer to the 150-page mark—the midpoint.
Writing a story is made simpler with math
1, 2, 3. Beginning, middle, end. An outline for a new idea is that simple, using a phrase or sentence for each segment. Even if you choose to brainstorm using software or complicated color-coded methods, sooner or later you have to bring it back to the 1, 2, 3 math equation.
A math problem will have a simple question to solve. For a novel or screenplay it’s called a Central Question or story “CQ.” It always starts with “Will.” Will your character do what/get what by the end? Stick with ONE solution/answer only. Math is not messy.
Successful writers have learned that writing a story, novel, script or whatever you choose will have typical “length” targets. A script for a TV movie usually has 7 or 9 acts, depending on commercial breaks needed. A novel in your genre will also have typical lengths or numbers of chapters. Research to find the suggested “math parameters,” then write or edit per your needs.
Sarah Hart, an essayist in The New York Times, April 7, 2023, wrote about “The Wondrous Connections Between Mathematics and Literature.”
“The universe is full of underlying structure, pattern and regularity… Good mathematics, like good writing, involves an appreciation of structure, rhythm and pattern. That feeling we get when we read a great novel or a perfect sonnet… all the component parts fitting together perfectly in a harmonious whole.”
Use math to write every scene. The math will give your prose more vigor.
A scene requires 3 components:
- GOAL for the character,
- CONFLICT, and a
- CLIFFHANGER.
Are you missing any part of that math equation in your scenes?
A scene is NOT just “a bit of business,” which I’ve heard people say. Mere action or chatting is not a scene. Without a goal and conflict, what you have might be a “transition” between scenes, or a “scene sequel”—a thoughtful pause and if so keep the transition short because you’ve halted the pacing for it. Remember your math! Get back to the “1-2-3.”
Other “math” to consider for writing faster and for success:
- 5 common plot points all stories have help you map a story: 1) Inciting Incident, 2) Plot Point One, 3) Midpoint Crisis, 4) Plot Point Two, and 5) Climax/Resolution. Plot Points are where characters commit to a big decision connected to solving the story problem. The plot points give a big thrust forward.
- Christopher Vogler’s 12 stages of a character’s journey give excellent math divisions or targets for a plot, too.
Math makes it easier to write or revise anything.
Christine DeSmet: Author 