As a novelist, as a screenwriter, and even as a CEO, I’ve thought a lot about how story works. This video is a brief guide to some of what I’ve learned. The Storyteller’s Toolbox isn’t about rules. But the secrets and tips here are in the toolbox for one simple reason: they work.

This video focuses on three elements: character, story world, and structure. Spoiler alert: it’s mostly about structure. I don’t think you have to know your whole story before you start to write. You do, however, have to know eight key points—especially if you don’t want to spend ten years finishing and revising a single book. This video tells you those eight points.

I hope these tools will help you, too—whether you’re a novelist, a screenwriter, a game developer, playwright, or even a business person. After all, we’re all storytellers.

I’d love to know what you think! Drop me a note at: john@johnadcox.com