Conflict

What is the central conflict of the story?

Write it in 1-2 sentences, as if pitching it to a producer or editor.

What would happen to the character(s) if the conflict isn't resolved?

And what does the protagonist stand to gain or lose?

What is the origin or trigger of the central conflict?

Describe the event or catalyst that starts the conflict.

Who are the central players in this conflict?

How might their motivations also conflict?

What incites the conflict in the story?

Think of the conflict’s root cause. How do the protagonist and other characters initially respond?

What is the first obstacle the protagonist faces related to the conflict?

How does this obstacle push the protagonist to take action?

How do the characters’ relationships evolve due to the conflict in Act 1?

E.g. are alliances formed, broken, tested, etc.by the rising tension?

Are there any early consequences for engaging (or avoiding) the conflict?

Write out the scenario as it would've played out in an alternate universe.

What is the protagonist's mindset at this stage?

How do they perceive the conflict?

How does the conflict escalate in Act 2?

How does the protagonist adapt, struggle, or resist during this phase?

Which key scenes drive the conflict forward in this stage?

What new obstacles, twists, or revelations must the character overcome because of the conflict?

How does the protagonist’s approach to the conflict change?

E.g. do they adapt, struggle, or resist during this stage?

What are the stakes now compared to Act 1?

How did they change?

What is the protagonist’s “All Is Lost” moment?

How does it relate back to this conflict?

How does the conflict reach its peak in Act 3?

What's the sequence of events that builds up to the final confrontation or climax of the conflict?

How is the conflict resolved?

What is the key moment when everything is at stake?

What personal growth or change occurs as a result?

What lessons has the protagonist learned?

What lasting consequences does the conflict have on the world and characters?

How does the conflict’s resolution shape the future?

How does the resolution reinforce or challenge the story’s theme?

And what message about the theme does it convey to the audience?