To create a story that makes sense, you need to be aware of genre and genre conventions.
Imagine you are in a bookstore browsing in action section. You love to read faced paced books with big stakes. So you find yourself a novel with cool cover art and an exciting summary on the back. You take it home to read, and spoiler… nothing exciting happens. You’re 60 pages in and the only thing the protagonist has done is brush her hair. I don’k know about you, but I would read no further. So, how do you make sure readers don’t have get the ick with your story? You need to give them a story that they expect.
For the purpose of this article, we’re going to say a story “works” when it delivers on a reader’s expectations. That’s why genre conventions are so important– because they set expectations for the reader.
Genre Convention: the established elements, features, and rules commonly found within a specific genre that guide both the creation and interpretation of stories. These conventions include typical plot structures, character types, themes, settings, and narrative techniques that help define the genre and meet audience expectations. They provide a familiar framework that makes it easier for readers to understand what kind of story they are engaging with and for writers to craft stories that align with or subvert these expectations.
This post includes 6 typical genres in fiction, their genre conventions, core values, and scenes you need to include to make the story work. Keep in mind that these scenes are not only necessary for readers to find enjoyment, they are something that publishers look for too.
1. Action/Adventure
When you are writing an action story here are the things you need to keep in mind:
Core Value/Theme: Life vs. Death or Good vs. Evil. Action stories are about a character who has to rise up, overcome great obstacles, defeat forces of evil, and maybe even save the world.
Why do people read Action stories: People read action stories to immerse themselves in the thrill of life-and-death stakes and the intense situations faced by the protagonist. However, it’s more than just the excitement—these stories also inspire us to strive toward becoming the best versions of ourselves.
Conventions:
- A hero with a clear goal, often involving survival or pursuit.
- High stakes and a ticking clock.
- A powerful antagonist or opposing force.
- Physical challenges or obstacles.
- A sense of urgency and pace, often with twists and turns.
The 6 Key Scenes you Need to Include if you are Writing an Action Story
1. The Life threatening Action Scene
This scene is a high-intensity, adrenaline-pumping moment where the protagonist faces a dire, life-or-death situation.
2. The Protagonist Half Commits
In this scene, the protagonist reluctantly steps into the conflict or mission but isn’t fully committed to the cause or plan. They might be motivated by a sense of duty, pressure from others, or a personal vendetta, but there’s hesitation or doubt in their actions. This partial commitment is reflected in their cautious strategy or a lack of passion and can lead to friction with allies or ineffective actions that foreshadow potential failures.
3. The Protagonist Understands What the Antagonist Wants Scene
Here, the protagonist uncovers the true motives and objectives of the antagonist, leading to a crucial turning point in the story. This moment of revelation—whether through a confrontation, a captured clue, or a confession—clarifies the stakes and the bigger picture of what’s driving the antagonist. Armed with this new knowledge, the protagonist must reassess their approach, often realizing the antagonist’s plan is more dangerous or far-reaching than they initially thought.
4. The Protagonist’s Initial Strategy Fails Scene
In this pivotal scene, the protagonist’s first attempt to thwart the antagonist or solve the main conflict ends in failure, often with significant consequences. Their carefully laid plan collapses due to unforeseen complications, betrayal, or the antagonist’s counter-moves. This failure forces the protagonist to regroup, face their own flaws or weaknesses, and realize that they need a new strategy or mindset to overcome the escalating threats.
5. The Protagonist is at the Mercy of the Antagonist Scene
This tense, dramatic scene places the protagonist in a position of utter vulnerability, where they are captured, cornered, or otherwise helpless against the antagonist. Stripped of power, weapons, or allies, the protagonist must endure the antagonist’s taunts, threats, or monologue, potentially revealing crucial information. The scene often serves as a moment of reckoning, where the protagonist faces the real possibility of defeat, but also sets the stage for a surprising turn or comeback.
6. The Hero’s Sacrifice is Rewarded Scene
In this emotionally charged scene, the protagonist makes a significant sacrifice—whether it’s risking their life, giving up something precious, or making a morally challenging decision—to achieve a greater good or save others. This selfless act, often seen in the story’s climax, is rewarded either by turning the tide of the conflict, inspiring allies to rally, or defeating the antagonist in a surprising way. The scene serves as the culmination of the protagonist’s journey, highlighting their growth and the theme of the story, and delivering a satisfying payoff for their bravery and selflessness.
2. Mystery/Crime
When you are writing a mystery/crime story here are the things you need to keep in mind:
Core Value/Theme: Justice vs. Injustice. Crime stories are all about the quest to either solve or commit a crime
Why do people read Crime/Mystery: People read crime fiction to feel the suspense of whether the criminal will be caught. They enjoy following clues and solving the mystery with the protagonist. By the end, most readers want want to see the wrongs righted, and they want to see justice prevail.
Conventions:
- A crime that needs solving, usually a murder or a theft.
- An investigator or detective figure, either professional or amateur.
- Red herrings, clues, and suspects.
- A soundboard (or sidekick) that the protagonist bounces ideas off of.
- A reveal or resolution that brings clarity and justice.
- Often includes a subplot involving personal stakes for the protagonist.
The 12 Key Scenes you Need to Include if you are Writing an Mystery/Crime Story
1. The Crime
The story kicks off with a crime or a mysterious event, such as a murder, theft, disappearance, or unexplained phenomenon. This scene establishes the central conflict and sets the protagonist (often a detective, investigator, or amateur sleuth) on their quest to uncover the truth.
2. Introduction of the Detective/Investigator
A scene that introduces the protagonist, providing insight into their personality, skills, and motivations. This can include a glimpse of their past, a unique way they approach their job, or a demonstration of their deductive reasoning.
3. Gathering the Evidence
Scenes where the detective begins collecting clues, interviewing witnesses, and examining the crime scene. These moments are crucial for laying the groundwork for the mystery, providing the audience with information to start forming their theories.
4. Meeting the Suspects
A series of scenes where various suspects are introduced, each with potential motives, alibis, and secrets. The detective (and the audience) starts to assess each character’s behavior, creating a “red herring” effect where some suspects are intentionally misleading.
5. The First Breakthrough
A key scene where the detective uncovers a significant clue or piece of evidence that shifts the direction of the investigation. This could be a hidden letter, a witness coming forward, or a realization that connects disparate facts.
6. The False Lead or Dead End
A scene where the investigation hits a roadblock or the detective is misled by a false lead, causing confusion or doubt. This moment increases the tension, as the detective must backtrack or reconsider their approach.
7. Rising Danger or Stakes
A scene where the stakes escalate, often involving a threat to the detective or someone close to them. This could include a second crime, an attempt on the detective’s life, or the destruction of evidence, increasing the urgency to solve the case.
8. Confrontation with a Suspect
A dramatic scene where the detective confronts a key suspect, often leading to heightened tension and conflict. This moment might provide new insights, force a confession, or expose lies, but not necessarily solve the case.
9. The Detective’s Moment of Realization
A crucial turning point where the detective pieces together the clues and has an “aha” moment, realizing the identity of the culprit or the true nature of the crime. This revelation often involves a flashback or a reevaluation of previous evidence.
10. The Final Twist or Red Herring Reveal
A scene where a major twist is revealed, upending the detective’s (and audience’s) assumptions about the case. This could involve the unmasking of the true criminal, the discovery of a hidden motive, or a shocking betrayal.
11. The Climactic Confrontation
The scene where the detective confronts the real culprit, leading to a tense showdown. This can involve a confession, a chase, a fight, or a psychological battle of wits. It’s the high point of tension and often the resolution of the main plot conflict.
12. Resolution and Denouement
The final scene where the mystery is fully explained, the loose ends are tied up, and justice is served (or not). This often involves the detective summarizing the case, the fate of the criminal, and the impact on the characters involved. It may also provide a moment of reflection or hint at future mysteries.
3. Romance
When you are writing a love story here are the things you need to keep in mind:
Core Value: Love vs. Hate/Fear of Rejection
Why do people read Romance: People read romance novels because they want to experience the butterflies and the excitement of falling in love without having to take any risks or be vulnerable. And, trust me, by the end of the story, readers want to see love win.
Conventions:
- Two protagonists who are destined to fall in love, facing internal or external obstacles.
- A “meet-cute” moment where the protagonists first meet.
- A romantic arc, including an initial attraction, conflict, and resolution.
- Emotional turning points that bring the couple closer or push them apart.
- A happy or emotionally satisfying ending.
The 10 Key Scenes you need to Include in your Romance Story
1. Meet-Cute
The moment when the two main characters first meet, often in a memorable or charming way. This scene sets the tone for their dynamic and establishes their initial attraction, tension, or conflict.
2. The First Spark
A scene where the characters feel a connection, attraction, or chemistry. This could be through a meaningful conversation, a moment of vulnerability, or an unexpected event that brings them closer.
3. Developing Relationship
A series of scenes that show the growing closeness between the characters. This often includes shared experiences, deep conversations, or moments of tension that reveal their personalities and desires.
4. The First Kiss / Physical Connection
A pivotal scene where the characters’ romantic feelings become undeniable, often marked by a first kiss or other form of physical affection. This moment usually signifies a turning point in their relationship.
5. The Conflict or Misunderstanding
A major plot point where a misunderstanding, external conflict, or internal fear drives a wedge between the characters. This could involve secrets, jealousy, external pressures, or personal insecurities.
6. Separation
The moment where the characters are emotionally or physically separated. This could be due to a breakup, a fight, a misunderstanding, or circumstances beyond their control. This scene is essential for creating tension and stakes in the relationship.
7. Self-Realization
A moment of introspection where one or both characters realize the depth of their feelings and understand what they need to do to be together. This can involve overcoming personal fears, letting go of the past, or making a significant life decision.
8. The Grand Gesture
A bold or heartfelt gesture by one of the characters to prove their love or win the other back. This scene often serves as the climax of the story, demonstrating the character’s growth and commitment.
9. The Reconciliation
The scene where the characters come back together, resolve their conflicts, and affirm their love. This moment provides emotional closure to the story’s main tension and is often very emotional and cathartic.
10. Happy Ending
The scene that gives you the snapshot of a ‘happily ever after.’
4. Horror
When you are writing a horror story here are the things you need to keep in mind:
Core Value: Fear vs. Courage
Why do people read horror: People read horror to experience a thrilling adrenaline rush and safely confront their fears in a controlled environment. The genre allows for a deep exploration of dark, taboo themes and psychological or societal anxieties, offering both intellectual challenge and emotional catharsis.
Conventions:
- A monster or malevolent force, either supernatural or human.
- A vulnerable protagonist or group.
- A setting that enhances fear, like an isolated house or dark woods.
- Tension-building moments, often involving life-threatening scenarios.
- A final confrontation where the protagonist faces their fear.
The 13 Key Scenes you need to Include in your Horror Story
1. Introduction to Normalcy
A scene that establishes the protagonist’s normal world, setting up a sense of security or everyday life. This scene is important to create a contrast with the horror to come and to build empathy with the characters.
2. The First Ominous Sign
A scene where something unsettling or eerie happens, hinting that something is wrong. This could be a strange noise, a disturbing vision, or a minor character disappearing. It serves as a foreshadowing of the horror that will escalate later.
3. The Inciting Incident
A key event that thrusts the protagonist into a dangerous or terrifying situation. This could be the discovery of a body, a supernatural occurrence, an attack, or another event that sets the horror or thriller plot into motion.
4. Initial Investigation or Escape Attempt
A scene where the characters begin to investigate the strange occurrences or try to understand the threat they are facing. Alternatively, it could be an attempt to escape the threat, setting the stage for the central conflict.
5. First Encounter with the Threat
A crucial scene where the characters face the horror or antagonist directly for the first time. This could be a physical attack, a supernatural manifestation, or a psychological scare. It’s often a turning point where the characters realize the gravity of their situation.
6. Gathering Information or Uncovering Secrets
A scene where the protagonist tries to learn more about the threat. This could involve researching a legend, uncovering hidden clues, or discovering the antagonist’s background. This scene adds depth to the story and often reveals the rules of the horror.
7. The False Hope or Temporary Safety
A scene where the characters believe they have found a safe place or a way to escape the threat. However, this is often a moment of false hope, as the threat reappears or escalates in an unexpected way, leading to increased tension and fear.
8. The Rising Body Count or Descent into Madness
A sequence where the danger intensifies, often involving more deaths, disappearances, or psychological breakdowns. This scene raises the stakes and reinforces the sense that the protagonists are running out of time or options.
9. Internal Conflict and Desperation
A moment where the characters are pushed to their emotional and psychological limits, leading to internal conflict, paranoia, or a breakdown in relationships. This scene heightens the drama and emphasizes the impact of the horror on the characters.
10. The Revelation
A key scene where the truth about the horror is revealed, whether it’s the identity of the killer, the nature of the supernatural threat, or the backstory that explains the terrifying events. This moment provides clarity but also deepens the danger or emotional stakes.
11. The Climactic Confrontation
The pivotal scene where the protagonist faces off against the antagonist or threat in a final showdown. This could involve a fight for survival, a race against time, or a desperate attempt to destroy or escape the horror. The climax is the peak of tension and fear.
12. The Twist or Final Scare
A scene that delivers a last-minute twist or scare, often when the characters (and audience) believe the horror is over. This could be the discovery that the threat isn’t actually gone, a hidden twist about a character’s fate, or a chilling reveal that sets up a sequel.
13. The Resolution and Aftermath
The final scene where the immediate threat is resolved (or not), and the surviving characters deal with the aftermath. This moment provides closure, reflecting on the impact of the horror and leaving the audience with a lingering sense of unease, ambiguity, or relief.
5. Worldview
When you are writing a worldview story here are the things you need to keep in mind:
Core Value: Danger vs. Safety
Why do People read Worldview stories: People read worldview stories to witness the transformative journeys of characters as they confront personal growth, moral dilemmas, or shifts in perspective, which can inspire reflection on their own beliefs and values.
Conventions:
- A protagonist who is in imminent danger or is hunting a dangerous enemy.
- High stakes and a fast pace.
- A villain or antagonist who poses a significant threat.
- Twists, turns, and cliffhangers.
- A climax that involves direct confrontation.
The 13 Key Scenes you need to Include in your World View Story
1. Introduction to the Ordinary World
A scene that introduces the protagonist’s current worldview, beliefs, or way of life. This establishes the baseline of their personality, values, and environment before the events of the story begin to challenge them.
2. The Catalyst or Inciting Incident
A key event that disrupts the protagonist’s normal world and forces them to confront new ideas or challenges. This could be a significant life event, such as a loss, an encounter with a new person, a moral dilemma, or exposure to a different culture or ideology.
3. The Call to Change
A scene where the protagonist is presented with an opportunity or challenge that pushes them out of their comfort zone. This moment symbolizes the beginning of their journey towards transformation, where they must decide whether to embrace or resist change.
4. The Initial Resistance
A moment where the protagonist resists the change, clinging to their old beliefs, habits, or comfort zones. This could involve rejecting new ideas, avoiding difficult conversations, or trying to maintain the status quo despite growing internal or external pressures.
5. Meeting the Mentor or Influencer
A scene where the protagonist encounters a mentor, guide, or influential person who challenges their worldview. This character might provide wisdom, provoke questions, or serve as a catalyst for the protagonist’s growth.
6. Testing the New Worldview
A series of scenes where the protagonist begins to experiment with new ideas or behaviors, testing the waters of a new way of thinking. These moments are often filled with trial and error, self-doubt, and conflict between old and new values.
7. The Major Setback or Crisis of Belief
A pivotal scene where the protagonist faces a major setback, challenge, or crisis that forces them to confront the limitations or flaws in their current worldview. This moment often leads to a deeper reflection on their values, beliefs, and identity.
8. The Moment of Insight or Revelation
A turning point where the protagonist has a profound realization or insight that fundamentally shifts their perspective. This could be a moment of clarity, an epiphany, or an emotional breakthrough that sets the stage for their transformation.
9. The Decision to Embrace Change
A scene where the protagonist consciously decides to embrace a new worldview or make a significant life change. This moment represents a commitment to growth and a rejection of their former, limited perspective.
10. Challenges of the New Path
A series of scenes where the protagonist faces the consequences of their decision to change. This could involve conflict with friends, family, or society, as well as internal struggles as they try to integrate their new beliefs with their actions.
11. The Ultimate Test or Confrontation
A climactic scene where the protagonist’s new worldview is tested in a high-stakes situation. This could be a moral dilemma, a moment of truth, or a significant decision that reflects their growth and solidifies their transformation.
12. Resolution and Transformation
The final scene where the protagonist emerges with a new understanding of themselves and the world around them. This moment provides a sense of closure, showing how the character has evolved and what this means for their future.
13. Reflective Ending or New Beginning
A reflective scene that looks back on the protagonist’s journey, often providing a sense of hope, ambiguity, or realism. This could involve showing the character in their new life, facing new challenges with their transformed worldview, or pondering the lessons they’ve learned.
Final Thoughts
I know that you are probably thinking that these are obvious, but it is so so important that you include these genre conventions.
