Novels are essentially stories that take us from the beginning to the end of the narrative, but it doesn’t always happen in that order. Some writers manipulate the chronological timeline to create suspense or because their story needs to be told out of order. There are four main ways that writers manipulate timelines using plots. These are linear plots, episodic plots, parallel plots and flashback plots.
Linear Plots
The linear plot (sometimes called a dramatic plot or progressive plot) follows a narrative chronologically from start to finish. There are typically six elements to linear plots: exposition, conflict, rising action, climax, falling action and resolution.
Examples: A Cat on a Hot Tin Roof by Tennessee Williams
Episodic Plots
Episodic plots also use chronological timelines to tell the story (like linear plots). The difference is that, while linear plots narrate one event, episodic plots contain multiple loosely connected events that are tied together by common themes or characters. Sometimes, an episodic plot will show the same event through the eyes of multiple characters.
Examples: The Catcher in the Rye by JD Salinger, sitcoms are great examples of episodic plots
Parallel Plots
A parallel plot allows the author to weave multiple plots into one storyline. These are usually linked by a common character, event or theme. Each plot has its own rising actions, but they crash into one at the Climax. These typically also follow a chronological timeline, but it follows multiple stories, not just one.
Examples: The Game of Thrones by George RR Martin
Flashback Plots
This is the most common non-linear plot type. This plot does not progress chronologically; rather, it occurs out of order. Typically, flashbacks are used to explain the current scene, but sometimes, the majority of the narrative is a flashback because the opening chapter starts at or near the climax and then jumps back to explain how the character got themselves into that situation.
Examples: Elizabeth Is Missing by Emma Healey
How Do You Decide What Type of Plot To Use?
It can be challenging to know which of these structures is best to use. Most novels follow a linear plot structure, with flashbacks taking second place. But that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t use an episodic or parallel structure if that’s what your novel needs. Ultimately, you should choose whatever structure feels the most appropriate to tell your story. Play about with these structures, and see what works best.
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