Pixar Knows Story. Here’s What Writers Can Learn.

Plotting. Ugh.

Let’s be honest—plotting a story can feel like trying to wrestle an octopus into a cardigan. You’ve got a brilliant idea, some cool characters, maybe even a knockout first line… but then what? Well, there's the Pixar Outline—a powerful storytelling tool disguised as a deceptively simple fill-in-the-blank exercise.

Made famous by the storytelling gurus at Pixar, this little gem of a framework is perfect for when you need to wrangle your ideas into a basic story that actually makes sense (and, ideally, hits readers right in the feels). Whether you’re writing a novel, short story, screenplay, or just plotting your way out of a creative funk, the Pixar Outline can help you build a narrative with momentum, clarity, and heart.

Below, I’ll break down how each part works—and throw in examples from books, movies, and even theatre to show just how flexible and powerful this tool really is.

Remember, this is a bare-bones way of getting your initial story down...

The Pixar Outline

(Please note that this section is based on Jennie Nash's "Blueprint for a Book" workbook.)

Once upon a time there was _______________.

This is the introduction to your main character or the world they live in. It sets the stage and provides the context for everything that follows.

Every day ______.

This describes the character’s normal life or routine. It helps establish what life was like before the main events of the story begin.

One day _______.

This is the inciting incident, the moment that disrupts the character’s normal life and sets the story in motion. It’s the catalyst for the adventure or conflict.

Because of that ______.

The first consequence of the inciting incident. This line represents the beginning of the character’s journey and the first major change they must face.

Because of that ______.

This is the escalation, where the stakes are raised. Each “Because of that” should logically follow from the one before, creating a chain of events that drives the story forward.

Until finally _______.

This is the climax of the story, where the character faces their biggest challenge or makes a crucial decision. It’s the turning point that determines the outcome of the story.

And ever since that day __________.

This is the resolution, showing how the character’s life has changed as a result of their journey. It wraps up the story and gives a sense of closure.

This outline is especially useful in ensuring that each part of the story is interconnected—it has cause and effect—making for a more cohesive story. It’s a great way to think critically about the structure of your stories and the motivations of your characters.

NOTE TO WRITERS: If you can, use only two “because of that”s! The goal here is to keep things concise and contained.

Now, onto my work!

Literary Examples - Fiction

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling

Once upon a time, there was Harry Potter, a young boy who lives with his cruel aunt and uncle, unaware of his magical heritage.

Every day, Harry is mistreated and lives a lonely life in a cupboard under the stairs.

One day, Harry receives a letter from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, revealing that he is a wizard.

Because of that, Harry goes to Hogwarts, where he discovers a new world of magic and makes friends like Ron and Hermione.

Because of that, Harry learns about the Sorcerer’s Stone and the danger posed by the dark wizard Voldemort.

Until finally, Harry confronts Voldemort (through Professor Quirrell) and prevents him from obtaining the Sorcerer’s Stone.

And ever since that day, Harry realises that he has a special destiny and begins to embrace his role in the magical world.

The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

Once upon a time, there was Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who enjoys a peaceful life in the Shire.

Every day, Bilbo lives a quiet and comfortable life, avoiding adventure at all costs.

One day, Gandalf the wizard and a group of dwarves arrive, inviting Bilbo on an adventure to reclaim the Lonely Mountain and its treasure from the dragon Smaug.

Because of that, Bilbo reluctantly joins the quest and faces various dangers, including trolls, goblins, and giant spiders.

Because of that, Bilbo grows in courage and cunning, eventually confronting Smaug and playing a key role in reclaiming the treasure.

Until finally, Bilbo returns home after the Battle of Five Armies, having grown wiser and more confident.

And ever since that day, Bilbo is no longer just a simple hobbit; he is now a hero, forever changed by his journey.

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Once upon a time, there was Nick Carraway, a young man from the Midwest who moved to West Egg, Long Island, to learn about the bond business.

Every day, Nick observes the lives of the wealthy, including his mysterious and fabulously rich neighbor, Jay Gatsby.

One day, Nick learns that Gatsby is in love with his cousin, Daisy Buchanan, and is trying to rekindle their past romance.

Because of that, Nick becomes involved in the complicated relationship between Gatsby, Daisy, and her husband, Tom Buchanan.

Because of that, Gatsby’s dream of being with Daisy leads to tension and ultimately, tragedy, as Gatsby’s obsession blinds him to reality.

Until finally, Gatsby is killed, a victim of his unattainable dream and the corruption of the American Dream.

And ever since that day, Nick reflects on the moral decay of society and the hollowness of the American Dream, returning to the Midwest disillusioned.

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Once upon a time, there was Scout Finch, a young girl growing up in the racially segregated town of Maycomb, Alabama.

Every day, Scout lives a carefree life with her brother Jem and their father, Atticus Finch, who is a lawyer.

One day, Atticus is assigned to defend Tom Robinson, a black man falsely accused of raping a white woman, Mayella Ewell.

Because of that, Scout and Jem witness the prejudice and injustice in their town, as their father fights to prove Tom’s innocence.

Because of that, the children are exposed to the harsh realities of racism and moral courage.

Until finally, Tom is convicted despite clear evidence of his innocence, and the children learn painful lessons about the world they live in.

And ever since that day, Scout grows to understand the importance of empathy and justice, carrying the values her father taught her into adulthood.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Once upon a time, there was Elizabeth Bennet, a witty and intelligent young woman with strong opinions and a close-knit family.

Every day, Elizabeth navigates the social pressures of marriage and propriety in 19th-century England, while dealing with her family’s quirks.

One day, Elizabeth meets Mr. Darcy, a wealthy but aloof gentleman, and immediately forms a negative impression of him.

Because of that, Elizabeth initially rejects Mr. Darcy’s first marriage proposal, believing him to be arrogant and responsible for separating her sister Jane from Mr. Bingley.

Because of that, Elizabeth gradually learns the truth about Darcy’s character and his role in protecting her family’s honor.

Until finally, Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy overcome their misunderstandings and prejudices, leading to a mutual understanding and respect.

And ever since that day, Elizabeth and Darcy marry, and Elizabeth realizes that first impressions can be misleading, finding happiness in a union based on love and equality.

Movie Examples

Finding Nemo (2003)

Once upon a time, there was Marlin, a clownfish who is overly protective of his only son, Nemo.

Every day, Marlin worries about Nemo’s safety and keeps him close to home.

One day, Nemo is captured by a diver and taken far away from home.

Because of that, Marlin embarks on a journey across the ocean to find his son.

Because of that, Marlin encounters various dangers and makes new friends, like Dory.

Until finally, Marlin and Nemo reunite after a daring rescue from a dentist’s office.

And ever since that day, Marlin learns to trust Nemo’s abilities and allows him more freedom, leading to a happier life for both.

The Lion King (1994)

Once upon a time, there was Simba, a young lion prince who is destined to be king.

Every day, Simba enjoys his carefree life and looks forward to becoming king.

One day, Simba’s father, Mufasa, is killed in a stampede orchestrated by Scar, Simba’s uncle.

Because of that, Simba is manipulated into believing he is responsible and flees the Pride Lands.

Because of that, Simba grows up in exile, living a carefree life with Timon and Pumbaa, but feeling lost.

Until finally, Simba returns to challenge Scar and take his rightful place as king.

And ever since that day, Simba rules the Pride Lands with wisdom and strength, restoring balance to the kingdom.

Toy Story (1995)

Once upon a time, there was Woody, a toy cowboy who is the leader of Andy’s toys.

Every day, Woody enjoys being Andy’s favorite toy and the leader of the toy group.

One day, Andy gets a new toy, Buzz Lightyear, who threatens Woody’s position as the favourite.

Because of that, Woody becomes jealous and accidentally causes Buzz to fall out of a window.

Because of that, Woody must go on a mission to rescue Buzz and bring him back home.

Until finally, Woody and Buzz work together to return to Andy and become friends in the process.

And ever since that day, Woody and Buzz share the leadership role and learn to appreciate each other.

Star Wars: A New Hope (1977)

Once upon a time, there was Luke Skywalker, a young farm boy with dreams of adventure.

Every day, Luke helps his aunt and uncle on their moisture farm, feeling trapped and yearning for more.

One day, Luke discovers a message hidden in a droid, R2-D2, from Princess Leia, asking for help against the Empire.

Because of that, Luke meets Obi-Wan Kenobi, who introduces him to the Force and encourages him to join the Rebellion.

Because of that, Luke joins a mission to rescue Princess Leia and learns about his true potential as a Jedi.

Until finally, Luke leads the Rebel attack on the Death Star and successfully destroys it, saving the galaxy.

And ever since that day, Luke becomes a hero of the Rebellion, beginning his journey to becoming a Jedi Knight.

Frozen (2013)

Once upon a time, there was Elsa, a princess with the power to create ice and snow, who fears her own abilities.

Every day, Elsa isolates herself from her sister, Anna, and the rest of the world to keep her powers a secret.

One day, Elsa accidentally reveals her powers during her coronation, plunging the kingdom into eternal winter.

Because of that, Elsa flees to the mountains, believing she’s a danger to everyone.

Because of that, Anna embarks on a journey to find Elsa and bring her back to end the winter.

Until finally, Anna sacrifices herself to save Elsa, showing Elsa that love can control her powers.

And ever since that day, Elsa learns to embrace her powers and uses them to help her kingdom, living openly and happily with her sister.

And a Theatre Example (for good Measure For Measure - see what I did there?)

Oedipus Rex

Once upon a time, there was a noble prince named Oedipus, raised in Corinth by loving parents who told him he was destined for greatness.

Every day, he lived a privileged life, unaware of his true origins, believing Polybus and Merope to be his biological parents.

One day, he received a prophecy from the Oracle at Delphi that he would kill his father and marry his mother. Horrified, he fled Corinth, determined to escape his fate.

Because of that, he traveled toward Thebes, and on the road, he encountered a man who insulted him. In a fit of rage, Oedipus killed the man and his attendants, unknowingly murdering his real father, King Laius.

Because of that, he arrived in Thebes, which was suffering under the curse of the Sphinx. He solved the Sphinx’s riddle, saving the city, and as a reward, he was made king and married the recently widowed queen, Jocasta—his biological mother.

Until finally, years later, a new plague struck Thebes, and Oedipus, determined to save his people, launched an investigation into the murder of King Laius. His relentless search for the truth led to the devastating revelation that he had unknowingly fulfilled the prophecy—he had killed his father and married his mother.

And ever since that day, Oedipus, in horror and despair, blinded himself and went into exile, leaving his kingdom behind, a tragic symbol of fate’s inescapable grip.

Final Thoughts

The Pixar Outline isn’t just a cute gimmick. I mean it's cute, but not a gimmick. It’s a powerful tool that can help you distill your story idea into its simplest form. It’s about understanding the core of your story and how everything fits together.

So whether you’re writing an epic fantasy or a feel-good romance, give the Pixar Outline a spin. Try sketching out your story using the format. You might be surprised by what clicks—and what suddenly needs rethinking.

Remember: writing a book doesn’t have to be hard. It can actually be fun. Especially when you’ve got a clear map in your hands.

Now go forth and fill in those blanks.

Once upon a time… you nailed your story outline.