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Is There Such A Thing As A Writing Formula?

By on December 25, 2019

Do you think there is a writing formula that works? We discuss whether writing is something you can formulize here!

It is generally agreed that writing is a skill. This means that it can be taught. It means those who commit themselves to understand the craft fully can hope to improve. That’s not to say that raw talent doesn’t play a part, as it does in most things. However, good writers take many forms; some may be effortlessly (and a little annoyingly) blessed with genes that make them good writers without even trying. Others can apply themselves to learning, practicing, and refining and get good at writing that way.

However, when it comes to using a writing formula, can this really produce results that readers will love? The answer to this is somewhat complicated. 

Is there a writing formula in genre writing

Some writers would argue that within every genre, you can see formulas being used. Indeed, the rules of a genre combined with the expectations of the reader have led there to be almost mathematical ways of presenting stories. But can these ensure readers remain interested? Do those who choose not to employ these formulas put themselves at a disadvantage? Successful crime fiction authors, for example, often create stories using a pattern. They do this to ensure that all critical points of tension and revelation are hit. However, it is not all they have to do to guarantee success.

Generic writing formulas

Other writers would say that more generic writing formulas also work, and of course, there are many out there. The three-act formula is a well-known example. The first act is the setup, where the main characters are introduced, and the setting is revealed. Then in the second act comes the confrontation. This makes up the central part of the story and is where the protagonist meets the obstacles that could prevent them from achieving their goal, and these obstacles will get tougher and the stakes higher as the story progresses. In the third act comes the resolution where the obstacles will usually be overcome, and the main character achieves their goal but has changed significantly because of the journey they took to get there. 

The hero's journey

The hero’s journey by Joseph Campbell, is a 17-step formula that many writers use to break down the events in their book and carefully map out each stage of the adventure. Campbell's formula helps them better understand how the story will develop while ensuring they are meeting key milestones along the way. 

 Freytag’s Pyramid: Five-Act Structure arose after a 19th Century German novelist analyzed stories from greek mythology and Shakespeare and saw consistent patterns in them. 

Writing formulas can only do so much!

There are too many writing formulas that a writer could choose to follow to go into detail about in this post. The point, however, is that while methods do exist and can be employed in any story, it cannot be by following a formula alone that a novel will be great. Formulas must be used to guide writers who need guidance. Still, it is through creativity, excellent writing, understanding the reader, and studying the craft of writing in its entirety that a writer can hope to produce a great book. Formulas are helpful, yes, but they are not shortcuts, and writers mustn’t view them as such.

Do you use writing formulas to help you write? Share your experiences below!

Now you've considered whether there is a writing formula, why not learn 5 techniques to improve your writing?

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bethany cadman
Bethany Cadman - bethanycadman.co.uk

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