How to Structure Your Articles Using Six Common Writing Patterns
Non-fiction writing practices distilled from the pages of Harvard Business Review
Non-fiction writing, much like fiction, requires structure to be effective.
In fiction, the most common structure is the three-act narrative. Act 1 is the setup where the characters and the setting are introduced. Act 2 is the midpoint where the characters encounter an incident or problem. Act 3 is the resolution where the plot reaches its climax, and the story concludes.
The three-part structure works because it’s how our minds work. To engage in a story, we need first to understand the characters and the premise of the story. This prepares us to connect with the plot revealed in the second act, which sets up the climax and, ultimately, the story’s resolution.
Non-fiction writing isn’t much different. Whether you’re writing about business, self-help, or social issues, a three-part structure works because it appeals to our logical mind. The difference is what each part contains.
To see how great non-fiction writing is structured, I looked at issues of Harvard Business Review — one of the world’s most prestigious business publications. The nice thing about this publication is the “In Brief” section…
