Writing a first novel through Dramatica Pro 4
by Patricklee Hamilton
(Los Angeles Ca)
Does Dramatica Pro4 have all the essential tools needed to successfully write a first Novel?
No, you also need a good writing style. Dramatica is designed to help you balance the dramatic elements such as plot, character, and theme. You have to be good at description, characterization, dialogue, point of view, etc.
Dramatica helps with the general story points. You have to create the concrete illustrations for each point.
Moreover, If I understand the '8' critical elements you've outlined though your instruction, will using Dramatica Pro4 be useful?
It can be. For instance, Dramatica actually acknowledges over 50 elements that go into a story (including the 8 essential plot elements). You may only know certain things about your story when you begin, but entering those choices may be enough to let Dramatica give you guidelines as to what the missing elements should be about. You can also play with different sets of choices until you find a story form that best fits your concept of the story.
I understand the program asks many questions during the entire process of writing for film or novels as I have read. However, will Dramatica Pro4 allow me to steer the ship as I see fit and correct me if along the way, I start to veer off course or outside its parameters?
No one can tell you what choices to make or what to write. That's up to you. What Dramatica can do is help you to think through your story concept. It can make suggestions that would make sense given the choices you feel most strongly about.
Bear in mind that following your passion is often more important than having the perfect story design. Whenever you find there's a conflict between the two, go with your passion.
Dramatica is most helpful when your passion hasn't got a clue. For instance, when you have no idea how to fill in a sagging middle. It can also open you up to possibilities you haven't considered before.
- Home
- Writing Questions
- Writing a first novel through Dramatica Pro 4
Search this site...
|
||
| site search by freefind |
100% Human Generated Content!
All
articles on this website were written by a human being -- one possessed of flaws and limitations, but also with a personal perspective and a desire to help fellow
writers. No article on this site was written by or with the aid of artificial intelligence (AI).
Popular Articles
Mini-Course
Never be stuck for a great story idea again! This online mini-course will show you how to create simple ideas for original characters and build a plot around each character that contains the essential elements needed for a compelling story.
Recent Postings
-
Writing thoughts and diary entries.
Question: This is my first time trying to write, I constantly imagine fictional scenarios, so I decided to write a novel with them, but in my idea, we -
Synopsis Format
Question: Hello! Thank you for answering my question about how many characters to add in a synopsis! I should have included this question with my last -
How many characters to include in a synopsis
Question: Hello! I'm new to your site, and I love it! I didn't see a question and answer page for synopsis writing, so I wasn't sure where to post this
"I've read more than fifty books on writing, writing novels, etc., but your website has the most useful and practical guidance. Now that I understand how a novel is structured, I will rewrite mine, confident that it will be a more interesting novel." - Lloyd Edwards
"Thanks to your "Create a Plot Outline in 8 Easy Steps," I was able to take a story that I simply just fooled around with and went willy nilly all over, into a clearly defined, intriguing battle where two characters fight to keep their relationship intact, and try to find a balance in control of themselves and their lives. Thanks to you, I'm not ashamed of the poor organization of my writing." - Nommanic Ragus
"I am so glad I found your site. It has helped me in so many ways, and has given me more confidence about myself and my work. Thank you for making this valuable resource, for me and my fellow writers. Perhaps you'll hear about me someday...I'll owe it to you." - Ruth, Milton, U.S.A.
"I never knew what to do with all the characters in my head, but since discovering Dramatica I am writing again in my spare time. Thank you for making this available. Yes, it is a bit complex, and it does take time, but I love it because it works." - Colin Shoeman
"I came across your website by chance. It is a plethora of
knowledge, written in a simplistic way to help aspiring writers. I
truly appreciate all of the information you have provided to help me
successfully (relative term) write my novel. Thank you very much!" - Leo T. Rollins
"I
can honestly say that this is the first website that is really helpful.
You manage to answer complex questions in relatively short articles and
with really intelligent answers. Thank you for taking the time to write
these articles and sharing them so generously." - Chrystelle Nash
"...had no idea that a simple click would give me such a wealth of valuable information. The site not only offered extremely clear and helpful instructions but was a very enjoyable read as well. The education from your wonderful site has made me a better writer and your words have inspired me to get back to work on my novel. I wish to give you a heartfelt thanks for How to Write a Book Now, sir." -- Mike Chiero