How to use the ABT template for your storytelling?

Storytelling is both an art and a science. While creativity plays a significant role, there are frameworks that can guide writers toward constructing compelling narratives. One such framework is the ABT template.

ABT stands for “And, But, Therefore” – a storytelling structure popularized by scientist and communication expert Randy Olson. This structure offers a simple yet powerful way to create engaging stories that resonate with audiences.

What is the ABT template?

The ABT template is a storytelling structure built around three fundamental words: And, But, Therefore. It provides a streamlined framework to construct a cohesive and compelling narrative by setting up a context, introducing a problem or conflict, and then resolving it.

• And: Establishes the context or the status quo. It sets the stage and introduces key elements of the story.

• But: Introduces a complication or conflict that disrupts the status quo. This is the pivot point that generates interest and emotional investment.

• Therefore: Offers a resolution or solution to the problem, providing closure and satisfaction.

In essence, the ABT template reflects the natural rhythm of storytelling. By using it, writers can create stories with clear purpose and emotional impact.

Famous examples of an ABT structure

The ABT structure is so fundamental that you can find it across various storytelling mediums, from classic literature to blockbuster films. Honestly, take any famous movie or book, and you'll find it. Let's try with some famous examples:

1. Star Wars (1977): Luke Skywalker is a farm boy dreaming of adventure, AND he discovers a message from Princess Leia. BUT the Empire threatens the galaxy and takes away his family. THEREFORE, he joins the Rebel Alliance to fight against the Empire.

2. The Lion King (1994): Simba is a young lion prince destined to rule the Pride Lands, AND he enjoys a carefree life under his father's guidance. BUT tragedy strikes when his father is killed, and he is manipulated into exile. THEREFORE, he must confront his past and reclaim his rightful place as king.

3. Harry Potter series: Harry is an orphaned boy living with cruel relatives, AND he discovers he is a wizard with a place at Hogwarts. BUT a dark wizard threatens the magical world and his friends. THEREFORE, he must face his fears, grow in strength, and confront his nemesis.

The ABT template basically follows a 3-act structure and you can use it for your generic outline. However, I always find it more useful for chapters and scenes. A few years ago, Matt Stone and Trey Parker, who created South Park, explained in a lecture how they use this structure. You can watch it here:

They are using it not just for every episode, but for every scene. To avoid writing boring scenes, you must avoid stacking them, one after the other, with no real conflict or resolution. A great story comes with challenges.

5 questions to ask before using the ABT template

Before diving into the ABT template for your story, it’s crucial to have clarity about the foundational elements. Here are five questions to consider:

1. Who is your protagonist?
2. What is their goal?
3. What obstacle disrupts the protagonist’s goal?
4. What is the source of this tension?
5. What change in your character are you aiming for: behavior, belief or attitude?

Answering these questions will help you craft a strong ABT structure that serves the needs of your narrative.

Who is your protagonist?

Understanding your protagonist is essential because they are the driving force of your story. Ask yourself: What are their characteristics, desires, and motivations? How do they fit within their world, and what makes them unique or compelling?

Knowing your character thoroughly will allow you to craft a character whose journey feels real and engaging. Think about how they are most likely to react to something happening to them, according to their personality.

What is their goal?

Every protagonist needs a clear, identifiable goal. This goal could be tangible, such as saving the world, or intangible, like finding inner peace.

Clearly defining the protagonist’s goal will provide the "And" part of your ABT structure, setting the stage for the conflict to come.

What is the obstacle?

Here, you have your conflict, the essence of storytelling. Determine what stands in the way of your protagonist’s goal. Is it an external antagonist, an internal struggle, or environmental circumstances?

This obstacle introduces the "But" element, creating tension and intrigue. Keep in mind that a conflict doesn't have to be HUGE every time. Sometimes, it's simply something that stands in the way. Scene-wise, it's actually more common to introduce smaller obstacles, so you don't undermine the big plot.

What is the source of the tension?

Understanding the root cause of the conflict will deepen your story. Is the tension driven by opposing desires, moral dilemmas, societal expectations, or something else? Clarifying this aspect will help you craft meaningful and resonant obstacles for your protagonist.

What change are you aiming for?

The "Therefore" of your story hinges on transformation. What kind of change do you want your protagonist to undergo? Is it a shift in their behavior, a new belief, or an alteration in their attitude?

Defining this transformation will guide you toward a satisfying resolution. Keep in mind that a change must occur for your next scene or next chapter to happen. Otherwise, you're just writing a list of scenes.

ABT structure for your generic outline

Using the ABT template to outline a story is a straightforward process. Here’s how it can be applied:

• And: Introduce the protagonist, their world, and their goals. Provide background information to establish a baseline of normalcy.

• But: Introduce the conflict or inciting incident that changes the protagonist’s status quo. This should be a compelling challenge that drives the story forward.

• Therefore: Show how the protagonist reacts to the conflict, their journey to overcome it, and the resulting resolution.

This structure can be applied to short stories, novels, films, or even non-fiction narratives.

ABT structure for chapters

When breaking down a larger work into chapters, the ABT template can still be applied to maintain coherence and progression. Each chapter can follow its own mini ABT structure:

• And: Establish the setting and the character’s immediate goal or situation.

• But: Introduce a complication or twist that challenges the character’s progress.

• Therefore: Resolve or address the conflict, leading into the next chapter.

Using the ABT structure for chapters ensures that each segment of your story contributes meaningfully to the whole.

ABT template for scenes

Even on a micro level, the ABT structure can enhance individual scenes. Whether it's a conversation, an action sequence, or a moment of introspection, the template provides clarity and impact:

• And: Set up the scene by describing the immediate context and character motivations.

• But: Introduce an obstacle or new piece of information that shifts the dynamic.

• Therefore: Show the character’s reaction, decision, or change resulting from the conflict.

Applying the ABT structure to scenes ensures that every moment serves a purpose and contributes to the overall narrative arc.