Plot Threads
Plot Threads are smaller connected strands that support, complicate or track part of a larger Plot Line.
Plot LinesPlot Lines
Create or Edit a Plot Thread
Use a Plot Thread for a smaller clue chain, subplot strand, question, promise or payoff path inside a larger Plot Line.
Tags: plot threads, editing, clues, subplots, continuity
Overview
Create a Plot Thread when a larger Plot Line needs a smaller strand you can follow through scenes. A thread might be a clue chain, a suspect theory, an emotional complication, a promise, a secret or a subplot beat that needs setup and payoff.
Threads help revision because they make smaller story material visible. You can check whether a thread starts clearly, develops enough, disappears for too long or resolves in the right scene.
When To Use A Thread
Use a thread instead of a note when the strand needs tracking across more than one moment. If it has a beginning, development and payoff, it probably deserves a thread.
Understanding the Fields
| Field | What it means | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Plot line | The larger story lane this thread supports. | "Who killed Annie?" |
| Type | The kind of strand being tracked. | Question, clue, suspicion, promise or secret. |
| Status | The current state of the thread. | Planned, Introduced, Developing, Dormant, Ready For Payoff, Resolved or Abandoned. |
| Importance | How much the thread matters within the wider story. | 9 for a major clue; 3 for a small atmospheric promise. |
| Introduced scene | Where the reader first encounters the thread. | The scene where the key is noticed. |
| Resolution scenes | Where the thread is planned to pay off and where it actually pays off. | Planned in Chapter 20, actually resolved in Chapter 22. |
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Related Guides
Related guides
Create or Edit a Plot Line
Use a Plot Line for a larger unresolved story concern that needs tracking across scenes, chapters, books or a series.
Plot LinesPlot Threads
Plot Threads are the specific story strands that sit inside plot lines and create markers across scenes.
Plot LinesEdit Story Asset
Edit Story Asset captures the core tracking details for important objects, clues, documents and keepsakes that matter to continuity.
Story AssetsIntroduced Scene
Introduced Scene marks the first scene where the thread is set up or becomes visible.
Plot Lines