I use this collection of templates and questions about plot to give my plot depth. I based these questions and templates off books I've read.
-------- Plot Template #1
Story Question
When <event happens>, <protagonist> sets out to accomplish <goal> but will he succeed when <antagonist> tries to stop him?
90% of the story must lead to answering this question
Handle / High Level Concept:
Rephrase story question as two sentence synopsis.
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-------- Plot Template #2
Scene and Sequel
A blend of several methods
POV:
Who is most affected by the events in this scene?
Usually that would be the main character.
Scene
Goal:
What is the clearly-defined, immediate goal of the POV character?
The goal must be obvious to reader. This should not be vague like "achieve world peace". It should be achievable and specific like, "cross the bridge covered in zombies."
Conflict:
What obstacle(s) stand in the way of the goal?
This must be personal, meaning directed at the POV character, and not just an affliction everyone has to deal with. Where ever possible, make this the antagonist's doing.
Disaster / Setback:
What is the result of the conflict?
- Success ... story's over
- Success with bad consequences ... use most frequently
- Failure ... use sparingly
- Failure with bad consequences ... use rarely, but great for complicating the plot
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-------- Plot Template #3
Sequel
Leaving out steps is fine, but always keep
the remaining steps in the right order
Emotion:
What does the POV character feel?
Reason / Logic / Review:
What is said and done?
Anticipation / Think of the Future:
What dilemmas now exist or are realized? What options present themselves?
Decision:
From all the options, what choice does the POV character make?
(This becomes the goal of the next scene.)
Notes:
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Note: I am archiving this post from an old blog that will disappear forever this year.