8 Points of Plot Stakes

The 8 Points of Plot Stakes

1. Goal

What is the shared objective?

The central objective that drives your story forward. This should be clear, specific, and something readers can root for.

Example: To save the town from the storm before it hits.

2. Consequences

What will happen if the goal isn't met?

The stakes of failure. What makes the consequences truly devastating and worth avoiding at all costs?

Example: If they fail, the town will be destroyed and many lives will be lost.

3. Prerequisites

What qualities must be had to pursue the goal?

The personal qualities, skills, or characteristics needed to even attempt the goal. This creates character development opportunities.

Example: They need to have knowledge of storm preparation and be willing to put themselves in danger to help others.

4. Requirements

What is needed to make progress towards the goal?

The concrete steps, resources, or actions needed to advance toward the goal. This drives plot progression.

Example: They need to gather supplies, evacuate residents, and fortify buildings to withstand the storm.

5. Forewarnings

What happens to make the consequences more dire?

Events that escalate the stakes and make failure even more devastating. This increases tension and urgency.

Example: As they prepare, they discover that the storm is much stronger than originally predicted and their efforts may not be enough.

6. Dividends

What rewards are earned for progress towards the goal?

The positive outcomes and rewards that come from pursuing the goal. This provides motivation and hope.

Example: Along the way, they gain a sense of community and camaraderie as they work together to save their town.

7. Costs

What is lost as progress is made towards the goal?

The sacrifices, losses, or negative consequences that come from pursuing the goal. This adds complexity and realism.

Example: They lose a lot of time and resources, as well as facing the possibility of losing their homes and possessions.

8. Preconditions

What obstacles must be overcome to resume making progress towards the goal?

The barriers, conflicts, or challenges that must be resolved before progress can continue. This creates plot obstacles and character growth.

Example: They must first convince the townspeople to take the storm seriously and take action to prepare before they can begin fortifying the town. Additionally, they must overcome internal conflicts and disagreements within their group to work together effectively.

Checklist: Using Plot Stakes in Your Development

Have you clearly defined your story's central goal?
Are the consequences of failure truly devastating?
Do your characters have the prerequisites to pursue the goal?
Are there clear requirements that drive plot progression?
Do forewarnings escalate tension throughout the story?

How to Use These Points in Stories & Worlds

Use these points as a diagnostic tool to identify weak stakes in your story.
Apply these points to different plot threads and character arcs.
Consider how these points interact with your worldbuilding and setting.
Use these points to guide your editing process—every scene should serve the stakes.
Let these points inform your character development and relationship dynamics.

8 Points of Plot Stakes

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