The core of this process is being aware of the technical aspects of writing, while writing. So to apply this for the three acts, you need to be aware of them, how they work, and if you can find them as you are writing. I go a step further, but that is the least you need to do.
Let’s run down the variations first.
How to do it: You must have a predetermined word count already. This is helpful if you do first drafts and tend to stick by a certain word count so it doesn’t become too much of a chore. All you need to do is calculate where all the percentages would fall in the word count. Once you have that down, feel free to ignore the list until you come to one of the points. Then you just write down the key event, midpoint, etc, and move on with the story.
Pros: Simple, easy to use if having a predetermined word count. Great for Nanowrimo. Gives a lot of freedom for the story. Helps up the pace and moves the plot.
Cons: If you don’t have a predetermined word count, then you can’t do this. You must have a good understanding of the three acts, otherwise, this will be rather ineffective with lessening revision. Involves a bit of math.
How to do it: You must have part of the draft already done. Now, find the first act. If the first act is at the twenty thousand word mark, multiply that by four and you will have the full word count. Then proceed to do the first variation steps. You must have written enough to the point you feel like you have passed the first act somewhere before.
Pros: Allows for much more flexibility regarding the word count and making the story longer.
Cons: If you don’t have a good understanding of the first act, or if you haven’t written the first act in the draft, then it will be much harder. Referencing descriptions on the three acts are a must if you aren’t good at finding them, and even if you are. Relying on memory is never the best choice.
How to do it: Reading about the three acts while you are writing.
Pros: Easy to do. There are plenty of articles on book structure.
Cons: Not effective, and you are trying to impress the acts onto you by memory alone. Tying memory and the act of doing it will make it much easier for you to learn.
I use a mix of all when needed. If I find the first act going past the original limit I placed, then I will do the second option and readjust the outline.
It is also worth noting, this will work with most structures. I do not know all of them, but any that use percentages should be perfectly compatible.
Most people deal with the three acts in revision, which is perfectly fine. In fact, this technique won’t cut out revision for the three acts, it will only make it a little bit easier. The better you know the acts, the better your story will become.
Of course, if you are fine with the ways things are going in your process, then continue ahead like that. This is just one way of reaching the final draft.
Thank you for reading, and I hope that this helps you with your writing!
