7-Point Story Structure: Dan Wells’ Plotting Method with Examples

1) Why the 7-Point Story Structure Might Be Your Secret Weapon

Ever felt like your story had all the right ingredients but still lacked that click that satisfying rhythm where everything falls into place? You’re not alone. Whether you’re sketching the first scene of your debut novel, revising a screenplay, or wrestling with a stubborn short story, structure is the silent backbone that shapes your narrative’s power.

Among the many story frameworks out there, from the Three-Act Structure and Hero’s Journey to the Snowflake Method, Save the Cat! Beat Sheet, Kishōtenketsu, In Medias Res, the Five-Act Structure, the Seven-Point Structure, and even narrative curves like the Fichtean Curve, one stands out for its flexibility and clarity: The 7-Point Story Structure, popularized by author Dan Wells.

Unlike some templates that focus heavily on plot beats or mythic archetypes, this model distills your story into seven essential turning points. Think of them as story coordinates. If you know where each one is, you can map your tale from beginning to end with confidence, no matter your genre or writing style.

And it’s not just theory. We’ll break this method down with real-world examples from Star Wars IV: A New Hope, where a moisture farmer’s quiet life is shattered by galactic upheaval, to the chilling Ice Monster Prologue in A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin, proving that the method works across both cinematic and literary storytelling.

Note: If you’re curious about how this framework compares to others, check out our Complete Guide to the 10 Most Popular Story Structures. It’s the perfect companion to decide which one fits your creative goals.

By the end of this guide, you’ll not only understand the seven points but also know how to weave them seamlessly into your own work, whether you’re writing epic fantasy, a quiet literary drama, or your next bestseller.

So, are you ready to map out your story with surgical precision without sacrificing your creative spark? Let’s dive in.

2) What is the 7-Point Story Structure?

At its core, the 7-Point Story Structure is exactly what it sounds like: a narrative framework that breaks your story into seven critical plot points. Popularized by Dan Wells (yes, the same Dan Wells who famously explained it using Star Wars IV: A New Hope), this structure flips the way many writers think about plotting. Instead of starting at the beginning and working forward, Wells suggests starting with your ending, knowing exactly how your story concludes and then mapping the steps that lead there.

This method is especially powerful because it forces you to think about payoffs before setups, ensuring every plot moment has purpose. Whether you’re writing epic sagas like A Game of Thrones, experimenting with suspense-driven openings like the Ice Monster Prologue, or crafting intimate character dramas, the 7-point approach helps you maintain tight, intentional storytelling.

The 7 Points, in Order

While we’ll explore each in depth later, here’s the quick overview:

Hook: Introduce your protagonist in their normal world before the plot upends their life.

First Plot Turn: The moment that launches them toward their goal.

First Pinch Point: A reminder of the stakes or the antagonist’s power.

Midpoint: A turning point where the character shifts from reactive to proactive.

Second Pinch Point: The stakes are reinforced, often with greater urgency.

Second Plot Turn: The last big piece of the puzzle falls into place before the climax.

Resolution: The conclusion, where the goal is achieved (or failed) and arcs are complete.

Unlike frameworks like the Save the Cat! Beat Sheet with its 15 micro-beats, or the Kishōtenketsu structure that thrives without conflict, the 7-Point Story Structure gives you a balanced middle ground: enough guidance to keep you on track, but with the freedom to layer subplots, POV shifts, and unique pacing.

tip: Many writers use this method in reverse starting with the Resolution, then plotting backward to ensure the journey makes sense. We’ll see exactly how this works with both Star Wars IV: A New Hope and A Game of Thrones later in the blog.

3) The 7 Beats Explained with Examples

The 7-Point Story Structure works because it doesn’t just tell you what to include; it guides when to include it for maximum impact. Let’s break down each beat, step by step, and see how it works in two very different stories: a galaxy-spanning space opera (Star Wars IV: A New Hope) and a gritty, medieval-inspired fantasy (A Game of Thrones).

1. Hook: Introducing the World Before the Storm

The Hook is your story’s handshake with the reader. It shows the protagonist’s life before the plot disrupts everything.

• Star Wars IV: A New Hope Luke Skywalker is stuck on Tatooine, living a mundane farm life. He dreams of adventure but feels trapped. This “ordinary world” makes his eventual leap into galactic heroism more impactful.

• A Game of Thrones: Instead of a quiet opening, Martin uses the Ice Monster Prologue beyond the Wall. We meet Night’s Watch members on a routine mission until they encounter a supernatural horror. The hook here builds tension and hints at the larger threat long before the main cast even appears.

In both cases, we see the contrast between the starting point and where the characters will end up, setting the stage for transformation.

2. First Plot Turn: The Point of No Return

This is the moment that launches the protagonist toward their main goal. Something changes, and they can’t go back.

• Star Wars: Luke discovers the message from Princess Leia, then witnesses the destruction of his home and the murder of his aunt and uncle. With nothing left on Tatooine, he joins Obi-Wan.

• A Game of Thrones: In Bran’s early chapters, King Robert arrives at Winterfell to ask Eddard Stark to become his Hand. This invitation uproots the Stark family’s lives and sets off the political and personal conflicts of the series.

Tip:The First Plot Turn isn’t just about change it’s about commitment. Your protagonist must make an active choice or be forced into one.

3. First Pinch Point: The Antagonist’s Shadow

A “pinch point” is a reminder of what’s at stake and who or what is standing in the way. It’s not necessarily a huge plot twist, just a clear threat.

• Star Wars: The Empire destroys Alderaan. This isn’t directly aimed at Luke yet, but it shows the terrifying power of the Death Star.

• A Game of Thrones: Tyrion is accused of Bran’s attempted murder, sparking tensions between the Starks and Lannisters. The reader gets an early taste of how ruthless Cersei and Jaime can be.

This beat keeps tension alive by reminding the reader that the antagonist is not idle.

4. Midpoint: The Shift from Reactive to Proactive

Here, the protagonist stops reacting to events and starts taking control. It’s often a moment of clarity, revelation, or strategy change.

• Star Wars: After rescuing Leia, Luke moves from being a passive follower to an active fighter in the Rebellion. His confidence grows.

• A Game of Thrones: In King’s Landing, Eddard Stark uncovers the truth about Cersei’s children. This shifts him from political pawn to determined investigator, even though it places him in grave danger.

Think of this as the “Now I know what I must do” moment.

5. Second Pinch Point: Raising the Stakes Again

Just when things seem to be moving forward, the antagonist’s presence slams back into the story, often harder than before.

• Star Wars: Obi-Wan is killed by Darth Vader. Luke loses his mentor, forcing him to step up faster than expected.

• A Game of Thrones: The Lannisters strike back, arresting Eddard and seizing control. This crushes his position and puts the Stark family in peril.

Purpose: Keeps the pressure high and prevents the story from plateauing after the midpoint.

6. Second Plot Turn: The Final Key to Victory (or Defeat)

This is where the last piece of the puzzle drops the hero gains the tool, knowledge, or insight needed for the climax.

• Star Wars: The Rebels obtain the Death Star plans and discover its weakness. Without this information, the final assault would be impossible.

• A Game of Thrones: Eddard realizes he has no allies left and must choose between protecting his daughters or telling the truth. His decision leads directly to the climax and his downfall.

Note: This beat transitions your story into its climax. Everything after should feel inevitable but intense.

7. Resolution: The Final Outcome

The resolution wraps up the main arc and shows how the protagonist has changed.

• Star Wars: Luke destroys the Death Star, cementing his transformation from farm boy to hero. The Rebellion celebrates, but the war isn’t over, leaving room for sequels.

• A Game of Thrones: Eddard is executed. The resolution here is tragic but impactful, setting the stage for the War of the Five Kings. The hook for the next arc is already planted.

Final thought: The resolution should feel earned. Whether triumphant or tragic, the journey must lead logically to this point.

Why This Works for Both Epic & Intimate Stories

The beauty of the 7-Point Story Structure is that it’s adaptable. Star Wars uses it for galaxy-wide stakes, while A Game of Thrones applies it to political intrigue and personal tragedy. In both cases, the beats keep the story focused, with tension rising in a satisfying rhythm.

4) 7-Point Story Structure Pros and Cons

The 7-point story structure is popular for a reason: it gives you a clear backbone without smothering your creativity. But like any story structure, it shines brightest when you know its limits.

Why do writers love it?

1. Clarity without clutter: Seven anchor points make planning feel manageable. You always know where you are in the plot structure, even when drafting gets messy.

2 . Backwards design = better payoffs: Starting from the Resolution forces strong setups and satisfying endings.

3 . Scales across genres: From epic fantasy to YA romance, the beats adapt easily.

4. Great for revisions: If a draft feels off, you can diagnose which point is weak (often Midpoint or Plot Turn 2).

Where it can bite?

A. Underbaked middles: If Pinch Points are vague, tension sags between Midpoint and the finale setup.

B. Too skeletal for discovery writers: Pantsers may feel boxed in unless they treat the points as flexible wayfinders.

C. Character-first stories need extra layering: The model doesn’t automatically build inner transformation; you must map the emotional arc on top.

Verdict: Use the seven points as coordinates, not handcuffs. Nail your Hook, Midpoint, and Resolution, and the rest falls into place.

5) How It Compares to Other Story Structures

Different frameworks emphasize different outcomes. Here’s a quick lens check to pick the right tool for your story structure and plot structure needs:

Tip: You can hybridize. Many writers pair the 7‑Point spine with Save the Cat! beats for pacing, or with Snowflake for planning depth.

6) Step‑by‑Step to Creating Your Own 7‑Point Plot

Here’s a quick, practical path to build your 7‑point story structure without getting overwhelmed.

Write your ending first (Resolution).
One sentence: who changes, what’s won or lost, what the world looks like now.

Identify Plot Turn 2 (the final key).
What last insight, clue, or resource makes the ending possible? This is the bridge to your finale.

Lock your Midpoint (the reversal).
The moment your protagonist shifts from reactive to proactive. It should raise the stakes or flip the understanding.

Plant Pinch Points (real pressure).

• Pinch 1: A clear reminder of the antagonist/forces against your hero.
• Pinch 2: Harder squeeze costs rise, time shrinks, options narrow.

Set Plot Turn 1 (leaving the old world).
The event that commits your protagonist to the main path.

Open with the Hook.
A clean snapshot of “life before the storm” that contrasts with your ending.

The character changes through every point.
The 7‑point plot structure is a skeletal layer of the inner journey, so “what happens” always advances “who they become.”

Sanity check your pacing.
For novels, let Midpoint land near the middle; Pinch Points divide the second act; Plot Turn 2 arrives shortly before the climax. Add light plotting notes under each point so drafting is plug‑and‑play.

Result: a lean map that keeps momentum without micromanaging your scenes.

7) When NOT to Use 7-Point Story Structure

The 7‑point story isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all. Consider skipping or loosening it if:

• Your narrative is mood‑first, plot‑second. If you’re writing meditative, slice‑of‑life, or lyrical fiction where atmosphere matters more than turns, a rigid spine can feel artificial.
• You’re exploring non‑linear timelines. Fragmented or braided narratives can still use the seven points, but forcing them into linear order may blunt the effect.
• You prefer discovery drafting. If strict milestones kill your momentum, outline lightly (Resolution + Midpoint only) and discover the rest in draft.
• Your conflict is minimal by design. Contrast‑driven models (e.g., Kishōtenketsu) may fit better than turn‑based structures.
• You’re writing micro‑length pieces. Flash or very short stories often need just Hook → Turn → Resolution.

Use the tool that serves the story’s heartbeat, not the other way around.

8) Using AuthorFlows for the 7‑Point Story Structure

Spreadsheets can track the seven points, but seeing your story unfold is better. With AuthorFlows, you can build your map on a flexible, visual canvas:

• Create seven cards, one per point (Hook, Plot Turn 1, Pinch 1, Midpoint, Pinch 2, Plot Turn 2, Resolution). Add notes, snippets, and links to research right inside each card.
• Drag to adjust pacing. If your Midpoint’s drifting, you’ll spot it instantly and slide it back into position.
• Duplicate for subplots. Mirror the seven points for a major subplot and check where it intersects the main arc, no chaos.

AuthorFlows gives you an open, flexible workspace tailored to your process, not a fixed template. Build the 7‑point story structure your way and keep everything in one place, from beat notes to scene lists to character beats.

So start Mapping your 7‑point plot in AuthorFlows and draft with clarity instead of juggling tabs.

9) FAQs About the Structure

1) What is the 7‑Point Story Structure quickly?
A lean framework (popularized by Dan Wells) that maps a story through seven turning points from Hook to Resolution. It keeps the momentum tight without over‑prescribing scenes.

2) How is it different from the 3‑Act model?
Three‑Act gives you broad acts; the seven points add precision inside those acts, especially around the Midpoint and the two Pinch Points.

3) Can I use it for character‑driven stories?
Yes, just layer the inner journey on top of the points. Make sure each turn advances both plot and transformation.

4) What’s the best order to plan in?
Backwards works wonders: Resolution → Plot Turn 2 → Midpoint → Pinch 2 → Pinch 1 → Plot Turn 1 → Hook. It guarantees strong payoffs.

5) Does it work for short stories or series?
For shorts, compress points (combine a Pinch with the Midpoint). For series, apply the seven points at the book level and the series arc.

6) Do I need scene-by-scene detail before drafting?
No. The seven points are milestones. Add scene lists only if you want more guidance.

Finally

The 7‑point story structure gives you just enough scaffolding to build confidently, and enough space to keep your voice alive. If you’ve ever lost momentum at the Midpoint or rushed your ending, these seven waypoints will keep your story structure honest from the first page to the final line.

Want to compare this framework with others? Dive into our pillar guide to the 10 Popular Story Structures and pick the lens that best fits your next project.

Author Message:

Hi, I’m Yassine Rhouati, Authorflows Co-Founder and head of marketing and SEO, also writer, editor, and designer behind This Blog. I craft these guides to be practical, honest, and genuinely helpful for your writing journey. If something sparked an idea or a question, I’d love to hear it. Reach out anytime on LinkedIn or through our contact page. Let’s keep the conversation going.

Warm Regards...