patterns

Screenplay Patterns Library

This directory contains reusable patterns for screenplay development.

Pattern Files

File	Contents
story-structure-patterns.md	Three-Act, Save the Cat!, Hero's Journey, Sequence Method
scene-patterns.md	Confrontation, Discovery, Action, Montage, Flashback, Intercut
dialogue-patterns.md	Exposition Through Conflict, Subtext, Dual Dialogue, Voice
character-patterns.md	Character Introduction, Arc Transformation, Relationship Dynamics

Pattern Categories

Story Structure Patterns

Frameworks for overall narrative organization:

• Three-Act Structure - Classic beginning, middle, end
• Save the Cat! Beat Sheet - 15 beats for commercial films
• Hero's Journey - Mythic 12-stage transformation
• Sequence Method - Eight 15-page sequences

Scene Patterns

Templates for common scene types:

• Confrontation Scene - Character conflicts
• Discovery Scene - Finding key information
• Action Sequence - Physical conflict/chase
• Montage - Time passage, parallel action
• Flashback/Flashforward - Temporal shifts
• Phone/Intercut - Simultaneous conversations

Dialogue Patterns

Techniques for effective dialogue:

• Exposition Through Conflict - Natural information delivery
• Subtext Techniques - Layered meaning
• Dual Dialogue - Simultaneous speech
• Voice Differentiation - Distinct character voices

Character Patterns

Approaches to character development:

• Character Introduction - Memorable first appearances
• Arc Transformation Moments - Showing growth
• Relationship Dynamics - Building chemistry

Using Patterns

Pattern Discovery

Before writing:

1. Identify what type of scene/moment you need
2. Find the relevant pattern file
3. Adapt the structure to your story
4. Maintain your unique voice

Pattern Adaptation

Patterns are starting points, not rules:

• Combine elements from multiple patterns
• Subvert expectations intentionally
• Let character drive pattern choice

Creating New Patterns

When you develop effective new approaches:

1. Document the pattern structure
2. Provide clear examples
3. Note when to use/avoid
4. Add to appropriate file

Pattern Template

## Pattern Name

### When to Use
- [Situation 1]
- [Situation 2]

### Structure
[Description or table]

### Example
[Fountain-formatted example]

### Variations
- [Variation 1]
- [Variation 2]

### Common Mistakes
- [Mistake to avoid]

Quick Reference

Goal	Go To
Plan overall story	story-structure-patterns.md
Write a specific scene	scene-patterns.md
Improve dialogue	dialogue-patterns.md
Develop characters	character-patterns.md