New2theScene

Online Workshops

Structure and Plot

8
Seats available
August 16, 2025
Date
2 hrs, 12-2pm (UK)
Course length

Unlock the power of strong storytelling with this hands-on session in structural editing. Learn what structure really means, why it matters, and how to shape your story’s beats, pacing, and emotional arc. We’ll explore and avoid common pitfalls, and how structure strengthens your pitch—giving your fiction the foundation it deserves.

Objectives

By the end of the workshop, you will:

  • Understand the principles of structural editing in fiction.
  • Learn how to identify and address key story beats.
  • Gain practical strategies for improving the overall structure of fiction writing.

Audience

For people who have completed a draft(s) of a novel, or are at the planning stage, or have an interest in doing so.

What the session will entail

This workshop is a practical, hands-on introduction to structural (developmental) editing – the process of shaping and refining a story’s foundation before polishing the language. Together, we’ll explore why structure matters in fiction and how a strong framework supports emotional impact, reader engagement, and clarity of vision.

We’ll cover:

  • What structural editing is – and how it differs from line editing and copyediting.
  • Why structure is crucial – including how it affects pacing, flow, tension, and emotional arc.
  • What story ‘beats’ are – and how to identify and strengthen the key turning points in your narrative.
  • How to spot weak transitions – and what to do when you find them.
  • Common structural problems – such as slow openings, saggy middles, rushed endings, and underdeveloped subplots.
  • How to improve pacing – to keep your reader hooked.
  • Practical strategies for self-editing – so you can confidently revise your own work.
  • How structure supports pitching – and why understanding your story’s spine makes your idea clearer and more compelling to agents, publishers, and readers.

Through guided discussion, examples, and exercises, you’ll come away with a deeper understanding of how to strengthen the architecture of your story—and take the next step in your writing journey.

Please read before purchasing.

The participant:

  • Must be at least eighteen years old
  • Must have access to a device capable of supporting online platforms (e.g. Teams or Zoom)
  • Must have stable internet access
  • Must not share links to workshops with other persons
  • Must not record workshops
  • Must adhere to our ‘Online Behaviour Guide’ – if you feel you cannot follow a point, please email enquiries@new2thescene.co.ukto discuss the matter before purchasing the workshop
  • Is responsible for checking emails, using links, and logging on in a timely manner – by the time stated on the website
  • Must be proficient in spoken and written English, determined by themselves - all workshops are in English
  • Should have means of making notes and participating in tasks – paper and writing implement, or computer etc. –provided by themselves
  • Must have purchased a valid link prior to the commencement of the workshop
  • Must not share material from the workshop, or any of the workshop content, as this the intellectual property of New2theScene Ltd.

To help create a welcoming, creative, and productive space for everyone, please follow these guidelines during the workshop:

  • Keep your camera on where possible – it helps build a sense of community and makes the experience more engaging for all.
  • Mute your microphone when you're not speaking to avoid background noise and disruptions.
  • Contribute actively and positively – your insights, ideas, and questions are valuable and enrich the workshop for everyone.
  • Show respect for all participants, their opinions, identities, experiences, and creative work.
  • Do not photograph, screenshot, or record the session or participants without explicit permission.
  • Keep stories shared in the session confidential – this includes not repeating personal information or ideas shared by others outsidethe workshop.
  • Avoid swearing or using any language that could be considered offensive, discriminatory, or racist. The host reserves the right to determine what is inappropriate.
  • Be mindful of your tone and reactions, especially in giving feedback – kindness and encouragement go a long way.
  • Arrive on time and be ready to participate from the beginning to get the most from the session.
  • Let the host know privately if something makes you uncomfortable or if you need support during the session.

We’re here to learn, grow, and support each other – thank you for helping make this a safe and inspiring space for all.

We take all instances of negative feedback seriously and will reply within 48 hours of a complaint being made. Please read all the information regarding workshops on our site. If you feel you have not received what you purchased, please email richard@new2thescene.co.uk with the subject ‘Complaint’ and clearly state your grievance.

 New2theScene will not tolerate or respond to abusive language.

 All outcomes are at the discretion of New2theScene and are final.

What if I can’t make that date?

Please check your schedule before purchasing the workshop. Once a workshop is closed, refunds cannot be given, as we may have turned people away who could have purchased that space.

Do I have to turn my camera on?

It helps create a community feel within the group, however we understand people have reasons for not wanting to be visible. Please email enquiries@new2thescene.co.uk so we know you won’t be using a camera during the workshop.

 

Can I book more than one workshop at a time?

Of course. Each workshop should be purchased separately.

 

What happens if I don’t meet the ‘Online Behaviour Guide’?

You may be asked to leave the workshop, forgoing your right to a refund. New2theScene is a community that encourages positivity in an industry that can be littered with rejection. Respect and kindness are at our core.

 

Will there be more dates available in future?

Possibly. Please keep checking the website, newsletters andour social media for updates.

 

Will there be other workshops in future?

That depends on the popularity of these workshops! Any suggestions welcome. Email richard@new2thescene.co.ukwith the subject ‘suggestions’.

 

Who delivers the workshop?

All material is created by New2theScene through research, collaboration with authors and industry experts, and experience. It is mainly delivered by R.A. Howitt – author and founder of N2tS – as he has the most experience delivering talks and learning! If a speaker changes, participants will be notified.

 

I’ve paid for a workshop but haven’t received a link yet. What should I do?

Links may not be sent until close to the workshop delivery date. If you have any concerns, email enquiries@new2thescene.co.uk with the subject ‘workshops’.

 

I have issues with internet/timings, can you record the workshop and send it to me?

Unfortunately not. This would breach our ‘Online BehaviourGuidance’.

 

Will the workshop be recorded?

Workshops may only be recorded for internal auditing –checking quality of delivery, and in case of complaint. Any recording will not be used for gathering information on participants.