Outlining Tool:
Plot Beats Aligned

I recently realized I've developed a reliable process for calling on both three-act structure and Save the Cat! by lining them up in my head and making sure my plots hit all the points of both. I like both systems, but neither accounts for all plotting situations. Together, they cover a lot of ground, and I've found it useful to draw on knowledge of both, and structural elements of both, to build plot arcs that feel really solid. When I realized I'd constructed had a visual chart in my head, I figured my lined-up chart might help other people too. Here it is, and I hope you find it useful!