: A mystery or "whodunit" where the protagonist must solve a puzzle or uncover a hidden meaning (e.g., Agatha Christie stories ).
: Two characters of comparable strength compete for the same goal or object (e.g., Ben-Hur ).
In his book Ronald B. Tobias argues that while there are millions of stories, there are only twenty basic plot structures that serve as the "bread and butter" of Western storytelling. He categorizes these plots into two main types: Action Plots , which focus on external events and physical movement, and Plots of the Mind , which focus on internal character development and psychological change. The 20 Master Plots 20 Master Plots: And How to Build Them
: A "hide-and-seek" story centered on a chase, where one character pursues another (e.g., Jaws , Duel ).
Tobias breaks down each plot into a three-act structure—Setup, Complication, and Resolution—providing specific checklists and examples from literature and film to help writers build their own versions. Action Plots (External Focus) : A mystery or "whodunit" where the protagonist
: A hero must save a victim from an antagonist, often involving a character triangle (e.g., The Searchers ).
These plots center on how characters change, grow, or deteriorate. 20 Master Plots: And How to Build Them by Ronald B. Tobias Tobias argues that while there are millions of
: A story fueled by moral outrage where a character seeks retribution for a past injury (e.g., Hamlet , Death Wish ).