logline-writing

# Logline Writing Skill ## Purpose Create compelling, marketable loglines that hook readers in a single sentence. A logline is the elevator pitch of your story—it must convey the essence of your narrative while creating intrigue and demonstrating commercial viability. ## Logline Formula ``` When [INCITING INCIDENT], a [SPECIFIC PROTAGONIST] must [GOAL/ACTION] before [STAKES/DEADLINE], or else [CONSEQUENCES]. ``` ### Core Components | Element | Description | Example | |---------|-------------|---------| | Protagonist | Specific, relatable descriptor | "a burnt-out detective" | | Inciting Incident | What disrupts their world | "discovers his partner was murdered" | | Goal | Active, specific objective | "must find the killer" | | Stakes | What's at risk | "before he becomes the next target" | | Irony/Hook | The unique twist | "only to realize he's the prime suspect" | ## Quality Criteria ### Must Have - Active protagonist (not passive victim) - Clear goal with obstacles - Tangible stakes - Specific details (not generic) - Present tense - 25-50 words ### Must Avoid - Character names (unless famous IP) - Questions ("What if...?") - Vague language ("must fight evil") - Backstory dumps - Multiple plotlines - Passive voice ## Format Variations ### Punchy (Under 25 words) ``` A disgraced surgeon must perform an impossible transplant on a dying mob boss—using his own heart—to save his kidnapped daughter. ``` ### Descriptive (40-60 words) ``` When a disgraced cardiac surgeon...