Every great story begins with a spark, a moment that disrupts the status quo and propels the protagonist into a new and often challenging world. This pivotal moment is known as the inciting incident. Understanding what an inciting incident is, its purpose, and how to craft it effectively is essential for any writer aiming to create a compelling narrative.
Definition of the Inciting Incident
The inciting incident is the event in a story that sets the plot in motion. It acts as the catalyst that forces the protagonist to take action, make decisions, and embark on their journey. Before the inciting incident, the protagonist exists in a state of relative normalcy or stability. Once this event occurs, however, nothing is ever quite the same.
In essence, the inciting incident introduces the primary conflict or question that will drive the rest of the story. It could be as dramatic as a murder or as subtle as a chance encounter that sparks curiosity.
Regardless of its nature, the inciting incident must disrupt the protagonist’s world and initiate their transformation.
Does a Novel Need an Inciting Incident?
Yes, a novel almost always needs an inciting incident. Without it, the plot lacks a starting point, and the reader has little reason to become invested in the protagonist’s journey. It's in the name: your character needs something to get them out of their "ordinary" world and the routine that comes with it.
The inciting incident provides the reader with clarity about what the story is about and why the protagonist's actions matter.
However, it is important to note that not every story presents the inciting incident in a straightforward or immediate manner. Some narratives may begin with a slower pace, providing context or world-building before the pivotal event occurs. Nonetheless, for a story to have direction and purpose, the inciting incident is essential.
What Are the Three Types of Inciting Incident?
There are generally three categories of inciting incidents writers can use:
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Active Inciting Incident: This is an event caused by a deliberate action taken by a character, often an antagonist. For example, a character is framed for a crime they did not commit.
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Passive Inciting Incident: This is an event that happens to the protagonist due to external forces. For instance, a natural disaster or a random act of violence that disrupts their life.
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Situational Inciting Incident: This is a more subtle form where the protagonist stumbles upon something intriguing or unsettling that prompts them to act. A detective finding an unusual clue or a scholar discovering a forbidden text are examples of this type.
Understanding the type of inciting incident best suited to your story can help you shape the rest of your plot effectively. You can also learn about active vs passive characters in your chapter structure.
What Is the Structure of the Inciting Incident?
The inciting incident generally follows a simple but impactful structure:
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Introduction of Normalcy: The protagonist’s world is established, showcasing their daily life, desires, and flaws.
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Disruption: Something happens that challenges or disrupts the protagonist’s normal life.
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Reaction: The protagonist reacts to the disruption. This reaction can be emotional, intellectual, or physical, but it should establish their initial resistance or curiosity.
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Decision: The protagonist makes a decision that propels them into the story’s main conflict or quest.
It's a pretty basic structure that you can follow at every step of your novel, not just the incident, as it's very similar to the ABT structure. But by following this structure, you can create inciting incidents that are both clear and impactful.
What Is an Example of an Inciting Incident in a Story?
Consider J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. The inciting incident occurs when Harry receives his letter of acceptance to Hogwarts.
Up until this point, his life is mundane and filled with hardship under the care of the Dursleys. The letter signifies the beginning of a completely new world filled with magic, danger, and discovery. This is an example of an active inciting incident: Hogwarts sent the letter, Harry and the Dursleys are reacting to it.
Another classic example is the moment Katniss Everdeen volunteers in her sister’s place during the reaping in The Hunger Games. This act of courage and sacrifice throws her into the brutal world of the Games, changing her life forever.
Where Do I Write the Inciting Incident in My Novel?
The inciting incident generally occurs early in a novel, often within the first 10-15% of the story. It needs to happen early enough to engage the reader but not so soon that they have not had time to understand the protagonist’s world and motivations.
Can the Inciting Incident Be in the First Chapter?
Yes, the inciting incident can occur in the first chapter, especially in fast-paced genres like thrillers or action-adventure novels. You can even write it right after the hook. In some cases, the hook is actually the inciting incident. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson is a good example.
However, in more character-driven or complex narratives, it may be more appropriate to allow some time for world-building before presenting the inciting incident.
How to Write the Best Inciting Incident?
Writing a great inciting incident involves clarity, conflict, and consequence. Here are some tips:
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Make it Unavoidable: The protagonist cannot ignore the incident; it forces them to act. There's no going back here !
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Create High Stakes: The incident should matter deeply to the protagonist.
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Build Tension: Even subtle incidents should have an undercurrent of tension or mystery. It's best to avoid boring scenes.
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Establish Conflict: The incident should introduce or hint at the primary conflict of the story.
The inciting incident is a crucial moment that determines whether your reader will be invested in your protagonist’s journey. Craft it with care, ensuring that it resonates both emotionally and structurally with the rest of your narrative.
30-DAYS NOVEL PLANNER
