The Arc Framework
Our six-part framework transforms chaotic campaign notes into organized, searchable story structures. Never lose track of a plot thread again.
The Six Elements of Every Great Story Arc
Every compelling D&D story can be broken down into these six essential components. Master this framework and you'll never struggle with campaign organization again.
Hook
The opening scene or inciting incident that captures your players' attention and pulls them into the story.
Protagonist
The main characters or heroes of this particular story arc. Note: This isn't always the party! Sometimes it's an NPC the party is helping.
Antagonist
The opposition, conflict source, or 'villain' that stands in the way of the protagonists' goals.
Problem
The central challenge or conflict that needs to be resolved. Should be specific with clear stakes - what happens if it's not solved?
Key
The crucial discovery, revelation, or insight needed to solve the problem. Often a twist - the ONE thing protagonists must find out.
Outcome
The resolution and consequences of the arc's events that set up future adventures.
Why the Arc Framework Works
This structured approach to story organization draws upon well known writing principles to help you create engaging, coherent narratives.
Never Lose Track of Stories
The six-part structure ensures you capture every important detail about your story arcs in a consistent, searchable format.
Clear Story Focus
This framework is based upon well known writing principles that help you create engaging, coherent narratives. By thinking about these six elements, you ensure every arc has a clear purpose and direction without too much rail-roading.
Flexible Story Development
The framework adapts to any story type - from simple side quests to complex multi-session campaigns.
See the Framework in Action
Example: The Missing Caravan
Hook
A vital supply caravan is three days overdue to the frontier town of Millbrook.
Protagonist
The adventuring party, hired by the town council to investigate and resolve the missing caravan situation.
Antagonist
A desperate goblin tribe, driven from their ancestral lands by expanding human settlements, now raiding for survival.
Problem
Without these supplies, the town will struggle through winter, but the goblins need resources to survive too.
Key
Negotiating a peaceful solution that addresses both the town's needs and the goblins' displacement crisis.
Outcome
Success creates a trade relationship; failure escalates into ongoing conflict affecting the entire region.
Master the Arc Framework
Get our comprehensive guide to implementing the Arc Framework in your campaigns. Includes templates, examples, and advanced techniques.
Ready to Transform Your Campaign Organization?
Start using the Arc Framework today and experience the difference structured storytelling makes.