James Scott Bell says, “A great story has been, and always will be, about a character facing conflict and the suspense of not knowing what’s going to happen next.” Telling what happened isn’t good enough to interest, let alone captivate, today’s audience. That’s just news, which is boring.
You’ve probably had people ask, “Why do you write?” An answer like “I’ve always loved to write” is a judgment, not a story. Think about the situation in the beginning—what you most wanted and what obstacles you faced. What were the risks—the gain or loss from your success or failure? In the end, what insights were gained and how has that changed you? What unresolved problem now exists, which makes us wonder what the next chapter of your writing story will be? Tell us that and you have our attention.
This process can be summarized with the acronym SCOOP IT UP, which stands for Situation, Character, Objective, Obstacle, Plight, Insight & Transformation, and Unresolved Problem. The Scoop can be a big help as we write complete scenes, chapters, or books. It can also be helpful in writing back cover copy.
Frank Ball’s story about why he writes could be summarized something like this:
- Situation—writing was my most hated activity.
- Character—that would be me.
- Objective—pursue a career in computer programming and business administration.
- Obstacle—God had a plan different, which wasn’t going to duplicate my six-figure income in the business world.
- Plight—I could go my own way and be rich, or in poverty please God doing what I hated most.
- Insight & Transformation—The cost for having all of God was giving up all of me, and that’s where I had the most to gain. What I most hated became my greatest love.
- Unresolved Problem—How could I provide for my family with no more than what the Christian market paid?
After identifying these areas, we can summarize the essential elements of the story in a few sentences.
Frank’s Writing Story:
With a special hatred for writing, Frank wanted a successful career in computer programming and business administration. After realizing God had a different plan, would he pursue a sure path to prosperity or spend his life doing what he most hated? After saying yes to God, he discovered the joy of writing and helping others write well. But how can he make a living doing that?
Wouldn’t it be nice if movies had this kind of summary? Then we’d have a better idea whether we wanted to watch them.
In just a few sentences, what’s the Scoop on your story?
Thanks Frank for your valuable tips to improve our writing. Thank you for all you do.
Thank you for saying so. I love doing it.
I love the writing tips you give us Frank. Thank you.
I’m delighted to hear that someone reads them. I know I get a lot out of writing them, and I love to pass that benefit on to others.