example non linear text essay

Sample Essays

The breadth of Georgetown’s core curriculum means that students are required to write for a wide variety of academic disciplines. Below, we provide some student samples that exhibit the key features the most popular genres. When reading through these essays, we recommend paying attention to their 

1. Structure (How many paragraphs are there? Does the author use headers?) 

2. Argument (Is the author pointing out a problem, and/or proposing a solution?) 

3. Content (Does the argument principally rely on facts, theory, or logic?) and 

4. Style (Does the writer use first person? What is the relationship with the audience?)

Philosophy Paper

• Singer on the Moral Status of Animals

Theology Paper

• Problem of God
• Jewish Civilization
• Sacred Space and Time
• Phenolphthalein in Alkaline Solution

History Paper

• World History

Literature Review

Comparative Analysis 

Policy Brief

• Vaccine Manufacturing

White Paper

Critical Analysis

• Ignatius Seminar

Linear Text vs. Nonlinear Text: What's the Difference?

Key Differences

Comparison chart, reading order, narrative structure, common formats, reader experience, information presentation, linear text and nonlinear text definitions, linear text, nonlinear text, are most novels linear or nonlinear, what is linear text, is poetry linear or nonlinear, what is nonlinear text, what are examples of nonlinear text, are textbooks usually linear or nonlinear, how does nonlinear text engage readers, how does linear text affect comprehension, can nonlinear text enhance learning, can a book be a nonlinear text, can nonlinear text be confusing, what skills are required to navigate nonlinear texts, are linear texts becoming less common with digital media, how does one design a nonlinear text, can a text be both linear and nonlinear, what is the impact of nonlinear text on attention, are news articles linear or nonlinear, how do e-books compare to printed books in terms of linearity, is a dictionary a linear or nonlinear text, how do authors create nonlinear texts.

Trending Comparisons

Popular Comparisons

New Comparisons

The Non-Linear Narrative: Unraveling the Story Out of Order

Introduction to non-linear narrative.

Non-linear narrative is a storytelling technique that presents events out of chronological order. It challenges the traditional linear structure and offers a unique way of experiencing a story. One of the key insights of non-linear narrative is the complexity it brings to the storytelling process. By rearranging the sequence of events, authors can create a sense of mystery and intrigue, keeping the readers engaged and actively involved in piecing together the narrative puzzle. This approach allows for a deeper exploration of characters, themes, and plotlines, as different perspectives and timelines intersect. The non-linear narrative technique offers a fresh and dynamic approach to storytelling, pushing the boundaries of traditional narrative structures and inviting readers to engage with the story in a more interactive and immersive way.

CTA: Explore the possibilities of non-linear narrative with Unifire !

How to: Creating a Non-Linear Narrative

• Choose the right storytelling technique: Consider using techniques such as flashbacks, multiple perspectives, or parallel storylines to create a non-linear narrative.
• Create a compelling story arc: Develop a clear and engaging story arc that connects the non-linear elements and provides a cohesive narrative experience.
• Manage multiple timelines: Keep track of different timelines and ensure they are presented in a way that is easy for readers to follow. Use clear transitions and cues to indicate shifts in time.
• Embrace the non-linear approach: Emphasize the unique qualities of non-linear narrative, such as the exploration of multiple perspectives and the ability to challenge traditional storytelling conventions. Embrace the freedom to experiment and create a narrative that breaks the mold.

Benefits of Non-Linear Narrative

Non-linear narratives offer a unique storytelling experience that challenges traditional linear storytelling structures. By presenting the story out of order, non-linear narratives engage readers in a more interactive and thought-provoking way. This unconventional approach allows for greater exploration of characters, themes, and plotlines, as well as the ability to create unexpected connections and revelations. Additionally, non-linear narratives can enhance suspense and create a sense of mystery, keeping readers engaged and eager to uncover the puzzle-like structure of the story. Unifire is a powerful tool that can help you create compelling non-linear narratives, allowing you to experiment with different storytelling techniques and effectively manage multiple timelines. With Unifire, you can unleash your creativity and unlock the full potential of non-linear storytelling.

Challenges of Non-Linear Narrative

While non-linear narrative offers unique storytelling opportunities , it also presents several challenges. One of the main challenges is the potential confusion it can create for the reader. With a non-linear structure, the story jumps back and forth in time, making it difficult to follow the chronological order of events. This can require a higher level of engagement from the reader to piece together the narrative puzzle. Another challenge is maintaining coherence and clarity in the story. The non-linear structure requires careful planning and execution to ensure that the different timelines and perspectives are seamlessly integrated. Additionally, non-linear narrative can be more demanding for writers, as they need to carefully manage the pacing and reveal of information to maintain suspense and engagement. Despite these challenges, embracing the non-linear approach can result in a more dynamic and thought-provoking reading experience.

Structuring a Non-Linear Narrative

Choosing the right storytelling technique.

When it comes to choosing the right storytelling technique for a non-linear narrative, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, it is important to understand the key insights of the article. The non-linear narrative allows for a unique and captivating storytelling experience , as it presents the story out of order. This unconventional approach can create a sense of intrigue and suspense for the reader, as they piece together the fragments of the narrative. Additionally, the non-linear narrative offers the opportunity to explore different perspectives and delve into the complexities of the story. By presenting events in a non-chronological order, the author can highlight certain moments or themes that may have been overlooked in a traditional linear narrative. However, it is crucial to ensure that the non-linear structure enhances the story rather than confusing or alienating the reader. The chosen technique should align with the overall theme and tone of the narrative, and should be used purposefully to enhance the storytelling. Overall, choosing the right storytelling technique is essential in creating a compelling non-linear narrative that engages and captivates the reader.

Creating a Compelling Story Arc

When it comes to creating a compelling story arc in a non-linear narrative, there are a few key insights to keep in mind. First, it’s important to establish a clear structure that allows the reader to navigate the story effectively. This can be achieved through the use of signposts, such as chapter headings or time stamps, that indicate shifts in time or perspective. Additionally, it’s crucial to carefully craft the pacing of the narrative, ensuring that each scene or chapter contributes to the overall story arc. This requires careful consideration of the order in which events are presented, as well as the placement of key plot points. By strategically arranging the story elements, you can create suspense, surprise, and emotional impact. Finally, it’s essential to provide sufficient context and clues for the reader to piece together the fragmented narrative. This can be done through the use of foreshadowing, recurring motifs, or subtle references that connect different parts of the story. By doing so, you engage the reader’s curiosity and encourage them to actively participate in unraveling the narrative puzzle.

Managing Multiple Timelines

Managing multiple timelines is a crucial aspect of crafting a non-linear narrative. It requires careful planning and organization to ensure that the different timelines are cohesive and contribute to the overall story. One approach is to create a timeline chart or table that maps out the sequence of events in each timeline. This visual representation can help you identify any gaps or inconsistencies in the narrative flow. Additionally, it is important to clearly indicate the transitions between timelines to avoid confusion for the reader. Consistency is key when managing multiple timelines, as it helps maintain the reader’s engagement and understanding of the story. By effectively managing multiple timelines, you can create a rich and complex narrative that offers a unique storytelling experience.

Ready to unleash your creativity? Visit Unifire, a platform that provides tools and resources for writers to explore and experiment with non-linear storytelling techniques. With Unifire, you can bring your non-linear narrative to life and captivate your readers with an innovative approach to storytelling.

How to Manage Multiple Timelines:

• Plan and outline your different timelines to ensure coherence and logical progression.
• Create a timeline chart or table to visualize the sequence of events in each timeline.
• Indicate transitions between timelines clearly to avoid confusion for the reader.
• Maintain consistency in the portrayal of characters and events across timelines.
• Review and revise the narrative to ensure smooth transitions and a cohesive story.
• Engage beta readers to gather feedback on the clarity and effectiveness of the multiple timelines.
• Iterate and refine your narrative based on the feedback received.

By following these steps, you can effectively manage multiple timelines and create a compelling non-linear narrative that captivates your readers.

Examples of Non-Linear Narrative in Literature

James joyce’s ‘ulysses’.

In James Joyce’s ‘Ulysses’, the non-linear narrative technique is used to its fullest extent. The story is told through multiple perspectives and jumps between different moments in time. This complex structure allows Joyce to explore the inner thoughts and experiences of the characters in a way that a simple plot would not allow. The non-linear narrative adds depth and complexity to the story, reflecting the fragmented nature of human consciousness. It challenges the reader to piece together the puzzle of the narrative, creating a more engaging and immersive reading experience. ‘Ulysses’ is a prime example of how non-linear storytelling can elevate a novel beyond traditional linear narratives.

David Mitchell’s ‘Cloud Atlas’

David Mitchell’s ‘Cloud Atlas’ is a prime example of a non-linear narrative that challenges traditional storytelling conventions . The novel consists of six interconnected stories, spanning different time periods and genres, which are presented in a non-chronological order. Mitchell skillfully weaves together these disparate narratives, creating a rich tapestry of themes and characters. One of the key highlights of ‘Cloud Atlas’ is its exploration of the concept of interconnectedness and how actions in one timeline can have ripple effects in others. The novel’s intricate structure and thought-provoking themes make it a captivating read for those who enjoy complex and unconventional narratives.

The Impact of Non-Linear Narrative

Non-linear narrative has revolutionized storytelling by challenging traditional chronological storytelling methods . It offers readers a unique and engaging experience by presenting the story out of order. This approach allows for a deeper exploration of themes, characters, and plot points, as readers piece together the puzzle-like narrative. By breaking free from linear constraints, non-linear narrative opens up new possibilities for storytelling, encouraging experimentation and innovation in literature. It invites readers to actively participate in the construction of the narrative, fostering a sense of discovery and intellectual engagement. With its ability to captivate and surprise, non-linear narrative has become a powerful tool for authors to captivate readers and create unforgettable literary experiences.

Exploring New Narrative Possibilities

In exploring new narrative possibilities, the non-linear narrative offers a unique and captivating approach to storytelling . By breaking away from the traditional linear structure, non-linear narratives challenge readers to engage with the story in a different way. The use of multiple timelines, fragmented storytelling, and unconventional narrative techniques create a sense of mystery and intrigue, keeping readers on their toes. This narrative style allows for a deeper exploration of characters, themes, and ideas, as it encourages readers to piece together the puzzle of the story. Through non-linear narratives, authors have the freedom to experiment with time, perspective, and structure, resulting in rich and thought-provoking storytelling experiences. By embracing the non-linear approach, both writers and readers can discover new dimensions of storytelling and unlock a wealth of creative possibilities.

Embracing the Non-Linear Approach

After exploring the impact of non-linear narrative and the new narrative possibilities it offers, it is clear that embracing the non-linear approach can revolutionize storytelling. By breaking away from traditional linear storytelling, authors have the freedom to experiment with time, perspective, and structure, creating unique and engaging narratives. Storytelling in a non-linear format allows for a more immersive and interactive reading experience, challenging readers to piece together the puzzle of the story. It encourages active engagement and interpretation, making the reading process more dynamic and thought-provoking. Embracing the non-linear approach opens up a world of storytelling possibilities that can captivate and resonate with readers on a deeper level.

In conclusion, Unifire is the ultimate tool for extracting summaries, keywords, and titles from your podcast and repurposing your content. With Unifire, you can save time and effort by automating the process of creating engaging content. Whether you’re a podcaster, content creator, or marketer, Unifire can help you maximize the value of your podcast episodes . Start using Unifire today and unlock the full potential of your podcast!

Similar Posts

The Snowflake Method: From Simple Summary to Complex Story

Overview What is the Snowflake Method? The Snowflake Method is a highly structured approach to planning and writing…

The SCQA Framework: Mastering the Art of Business Storytelling

Overview What is the SCQA Framework? The SCQA Framework is a powerful tool used in business storytelling to…

The Cliffhanger: Leaving You Hanging for More

Overview What is a cliffhanger? A cliffhanger is a storytelling technique that leaves the audience in suspense and…

The Nested Loops Method: Stories Within Stories

Overview Introduction The Nested Loops Method is a storytelling technique that involves the use of multiple layers of…

The Rule of Three: A Trio of Humor, Satisfaction, and Effectiveness

Overview Introduction The Rule of Three is a powerful concept that is widely used in various forms of…

The Nine-Act Structure: Granularity in Plot Development

Overview What is the Nine-Act Structure? The Nine-Act Structure is a unique approach to plot development that offers…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Digital Offerings
• Biochemistry
• College Success
• Communication
• Electrical Engineering
• Environmental Science
• Mathematics
• Nutrition and Health
• Philosophy and Religion
• Our Mission
• Our Leadership
• Accessibility
• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion
• Learning Science
• Sustainability
• Affordable Solutions
• Curriculum Solutions
• Inclusive Access
• Lab Solutions
• LMS Integration
• Instructor Resources
• iClicker and Your Content
• Badging and Credidation
• Press Release
• Learning Stories Blog
• Discussions
• The Discussion Board
• Webinars on Demand
• Digital Community
• Macmillan Learning Peer Consultants
• Macmillan Learning Digital Blog
• Learning Science Research
• Macmillan Learning Peer Consultant Forum
• The Institute at Macmillan Learning
• Professional Development Blog
• Teaching With Generative AI: A Course for Educators
• English Community
• Achieve Adopters Forum
• Hub Adopters Group
• Psychology Community
• Psychology Blog
• Talk Psych Blog
• History Community
• History Blog
• Communication Community
• Communication Blog
• College Success Community
• College Success Blog
• Economics Community
• Economics Blog
• Institutional Solutions Community
• Institutional Solutions Blog
• Handbook for iClicker Administrators
• Nutrition Community
• Nutrition Blog
• Lab Solutions Community
• Lab Solutions Blog
• STEM Community
• STEM Achieve Adopters Forum
• Contact Us & FAQs
• Find Your Rep
• Training & Demos
• First Day of Class
• For Booksellers
• International Translation Rights
• Permissions
• Report Piracy

Digital Products

Instructor catalog, our solutions.

• Macmillan Community
• Multimodal Mondays: Foundations of Non-Linear Writ...

Multimodal Mondays: Foundations of Non-Linear Writing

• Subscribe to RSS Feed
• Mark as New
• Mark as Read
• Printer Friendly Page
• Report Inappropriate Content

• Composition
• bedford bits
• composing processes
• digital composing
• multimodal mondays
• teaching with technology‌

You must be a registered user to add a comment. If you've already registered, sign in. Otherwise, register and sign in.

• Bedford New Scholars 49
• Composition 555
• Corequisite Composition 58
• Developmental English 38
• Events and Conferences 6
• Instructor Resources 9
• Literature 55
• Professional Resources 4
• Virtual Learning Resources 48

• Get the Blog
• Writing Tips

Wednesday, February 08, 2017

Tips on writing a non-linear narrative.

1. Timeship Attacked 2. Sabotage & Resolution 3. Fixing the Ship 4. Check of timeline—we’re in the wrong one 5. Map out journey and probabilities of survival 6. Depart the ship and crash it into the sun 7. Find the best location of survival 8. Establish a home base 9. Safehouse and evacuation strategies 10. Hear about local event to blend in 11. Attend the Rodeo 12. Auction for charity 13. The locals are alerted to presence 14. Characters grow closer 15. Scientist/Black Ops find out about crash 16. Alert at home base – false alarm 17. Marriage ceremony 18. Honeymoon 19. Second alert at home base – invasion 20. Escaping 21. Attack on plane 22. Crashing in ocean 23. Virus attack 24. Escape 25. Safe house 2 26. Contact by another timeship (against protocol) 27. Recovery of remains 28. A new status 29. Traveling home (back to before the ship was impacted) 30. Consequences of duplicates in a timeline 31. Decision time 32. Honorable discharge and transferring 33. A new plan 34. War & running 35. A re-marriage (to the same man in that timeline) 36. Reaching HQ 37. A secret mission 38. Kidnapped by her husband’s future counterpart 39. Death of a husband 40. Change of guard: assembling the crew to stop the attacks 41. Mutiny 42. An earlier time: traveling to just before the ship left the homeworld 43. Shifts in the timeline were noted by enemy 44. Attack by enemy at that time 45. The whole lineage wiped out but one 46. Narrow escape 47. A new plan: the husband lives with twins/mother dies 48. Going back in time (to grandfather’s generation) to escape the threat 49. Before she became a Time Guard Member, a new teacher at end of semester 50. New orders and a previous arrangement 51. A new wedding 52. Learning of the twins—who are hers 53. A note passed through time 54. Graduation 55. A new generation

• Stranded on a planet, husband dead, pregnant with twins [26]
• Contact by another Timeship (against protocol, a brother wants to save his brother) [27]
• Travels to the ship and is greeted with her new title [29]
• Recovery of remains [28]
• Traveling into timeline
• Recounts the attack of the time ship and fixing the ship [1, 3]
• Consequences of duplicates in a timeline [31]
• Attack on ship in transit [new-enemy threat]
• Recounts Sabotage & Resolution [2]
• Teams up with counterpart to save this ship from being destroyed [31]
• Decision time about duplicates in timeline, honorable discharge [31-33]
• Recounts the growing closer, rodeo, and marriage ceremony [11, 12, 14]
• As their ship is attacked again, she recounts why they landed there and the many attacks on the ship [5, 13, 15, 19]
• The ship is safe because they mimicked the crash into the sun and the hidden location of survival in a timeline/enemy ship crashes into sun [5-6]
• The ship is sabotaged and they have to set down in a strange time stream for repairs; she shows them how to blend in and how they resolved it the first time [10, 2, 4]
• She recounts how they established a home base and had a safehouse [8, 9]
• Re-marriage (to the same man in that timeline) [17, 36]
• They establish the first base in the time stream – where the effects on individual time streams can’t affect the people in the stream.
• Enemy ship follows them into the stream and attacks. She recounts how she escaped and headed to the island [20-28]
• Return to time before the stream was attacked [30]
• A new plan is established [34]
• But when they reach the timeline, the enemy is already there, war and running ensue [35]
• A secret mission [38]
• Death of husband [40]
• Kidnapped by alternate timeline’s future husband’s counterpart and brought into that timestream [39]
• The people fight to get her back
• Husband of that timeline dies [40] pushing her off the edge
• Assembles a new guard and holes up in the timestream to find a permanent solution [41]
• But when they travel back to implement it, the enemy attacked and wiped out the entire line [46]
• Narrow escape [47]
• A new plan [49]
• Kidnaps the other timeline counterpart’s husband when is younger
• Travels to his grandfather’s generation to escape the threat and allow the children to grow while they figure out how to solve the problem [49]
• The effects of their stay in grandfather’s generation changes the timeline and the enemy threat never occurs
• Note through time [54]
• A new wedding and twins [52, 53]
• Graduation [55]
• A new generation [53]

2 comments:

Wow, Darlene's story's timeline sounds as tangled as Doctor Who's many lifetimes. I had to buy the book. Thank you for your insights. Another author whose whole series (Outlander) is about, well, crossing timelines is Diana Gabaldon. Her whole process is non-linear so her books are a great study for this type of writing. It's also fascinating to compare the different structure choices made in her novels and the TV series.

Very interesting...

How to Get the Best Out of a Nonlinear Narrative (With the Best Examples)

How to Get the Best Out of a Nonlinear Narrative

The nonlinear narrative is a common feature of contemporary movies (and TV as well).

It has become such a familiar screenwriting quirk it often verges on the edge of a trope. This familiarity obscures how thrilling and dynamic a nonlinear narrative can be.

‘Nonlinear narrative: a narrative where events are portrayed out of chronological order or in other ways where the narrative does not follow the direct causality pattern of the events featured.’

A nonlinear narrative will typically jump around in time. It will take the subject at hand as a whole and put together pieces to tell an overall story.

Nonlinear narratives can be used to tell a wider version of the story at hand. For example, a nonlinear narrative will not just tell the chronological story of one romance but instead tell a story on the theme of romance.

A nonlinear narrative can often be used to speak more generally on a theme . Rather than just focusing on the facts of what happened in a story, it will focus on the why and how of that story.

But how does one avoid using a nonlinear narrative in a way that feels overused? Or to put it another way, how does a screenwriter get the best out of a non linear narrative?

Firstly…

Why Use a Nonlinear Narrative?

Answering this question is essential to giving your use of a nonlinear narrative purpose.

It will help you avoid using a nonlinear narrative for purely superficial reasons. Audiences can often tell when this is the case, particularly when the structure has become such a widely used storytelling technique.

Make sure your use of a nonlinear narrative is inherently tied to the purpose of your story. Moreover, make sure the use of a nonlinear narrative is tied into your story’s theme . This is a surefire way to protect your nonlinear narrative structure.

If telling the story without it means you will be missing a core theme , then you know your nonlinear structure is essential to your screenplay.

It’s also worth noting, however, that a nonlinear narrative can be used stylistically. This style will speak to the tone and feel of the movie at hand.

• For example, a nonlinear narrative could be used to amp up tension in a thriller.
• Or it could be used to disorientate audiences in a mystery.

So a nonlinear narrative can serve a stylistic function. But this is still not an affectation, it is inextricably linked to the purpose and definition of the screenplay.

To help illustrate the best ways to use a nonlinear narrative, we’re going to take a look at nonlinear narratives around four different themes – Romance is Dead, Haunted by the Past , Stronger Together and Styling it Out .

We’ll take a look at the films that fall under these umbrellas and how they use nonlinear narratives in different ways.

This isn’t the only ways that nonlinear narratives are used, but they are some of the most common examples.

1. Romance is Dead

Films focused around relationships often employ a nonlinear narrative. They may do this for a wide variety of different reasons.

Particularly in contemporary cinema, it feels not enough to just tell a straightforward love story. The audience except a twist on this traditional narrative.

Let’s look at how a number of different examples do this in a number of different ways.

The End is Nigh – Blue Valentine

Blue Valentine uses a nonlinear narrative primarily to show the contrast in the beginning of a relationship and the end.

There is a tragedy in this that makes the film powerful. We see the hope in the dawn of the two characters’ relationship and the roadblock they’ve reached later on. Youthful hope and energy clashes with later life regret.

• Dean struggles with alcoholism. Whilst Cindy can’t help but mourn for a life she thought she would have but doesn’t.
• There is a poignancy to this, making the story more than one just of a romantic relationship but one about ageing, regret, lost ambition and paying the price for youthful naivety.

But in flashing back and forward we also see the things about the relationship that cause it to unravel. Blue Valentine uses a nonlinear narrative to take a forensic look at one relationship. In doing so it presents a full view of this relationship but also touches on wider, relatable themes.

Love is Doomed – Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

Not only does Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind contrast the beginning and end of a relationship, it also employs science fiction to say something deeper about the fate of a relationship between two characters both destined to be together and destined to break apart.

Clementine and Joel seek to wipe each other from their memories, literally.

• But in doing so there is a morsel of memory that remains in their brains. This morsel brings them back together to meet once again.
• But they realise the truth of their meeting and find themselves facing the reality that even if they get together again they will break up again.
• There is something inherent in their personalities that will always doom the prospect of a long and happy relationship.

‘You will think of things. And I’ll get bored with you and feel trapped because that’s what happens with me’

The nonlinear narrative here is ingenious in how it presents a view of how memory works. Indeed, the narrative reflects the process of memory more than it does a straightforward narrative arc.

We’re often disorientated watching this film (particularly at the start), struggling to place where we are in the relationship. But this touches on the nature of memory. The futility of trying to erase memories shows how they both trap us and serve us.

Expectations vs Realties – Annie Hall/500 Days of Summer

Both 500 Days of Summer and Annie Hall take a broad view of a relationship, presenting it in a wider context.

In Annie Hall , the relationship Woody Allen’s Alvy has with the titular Annie Hall is presented as summing up so much of Alvy’s personality.

• The relationship is a reflection of Alvy’s characteristics at their best and worst. It’s a place at which all his neurosis comes out and affect this relationship.

In 500 Days of Summer , Tom’s relationship with Summer is presented as more than just a meet, relationship and breakup, it’s presented as a whole period of time in his life.

• The 500 days represent the time in which Tom was preoccupied with Summer, from meeting her to meeting someone else (symbolically called Autumn).

Both these films employ nonlinear narratives to illustrate how relationships can reflect a crucial time in a character’s life.

• We wouldn’t get as much of a sense of both these protagonists if their relationships were presented merely from start to finish.
• Instead, the relationships are presented in context. This gives us both richer protagonists and more meaningful commentary on the nature of romantic relationships.

2. Haunted by the Past

Nonlinear narratives are also often employed to tell a whole picture of a character’s life. They do this by juxtaposing the past and present, showing how the former affects the latter.

Solving a Mystery – Citizen Kane / Memento

Citizen Kane employs a nonlinear narrative to present the life of Charles Foster Kane as somewhat of a puzzle to piece together.

• The film starts with Kane uttering ‘Rosebud’ on his death bed.
• A reporter, Jerry Thompson, is then tasked with figuring out what this might mean. He conducts a series of interviews to learn about Kane’s life.
• We don’t just see these interviews, we see their content come to life.

In piecing together the past, we seek to understand what ‘Rosebud’ really means and who this man we are seeing dying, really was.

It’s a picture of a powerful man told through intimate looks at his life. In knowing where the story will end, we desperately want to know what led to this point.

A similar technique is employed in Memento . Only this time, it’s not an objective party looking for answers, it’s the protagonist himself.

• Memento has to be told through the structure of a nonlinear narrative. This is the structure of the protagonist’s mind as someone battling amnesia.
• It’s not just us seeking to solve the mystery, it’s the protagonist.
• The use of a nonlinear narrative in this way makes the mystery all the more tantalising and rewarding, whilst keeping the action at an exciting and dynamic pace.

We’ve Come so Far  – Once Upon a Time in America

Once Upon a Time in America is an example of a film that had to wrestle with its use of a nonlinear narrative.

Sergio Leone originally constructed the narrative in a nonlinear way, only to have it recut by the studio, who were concerned by its length. Different re-editions and releases of the film kept its original nonlinear structure.

• Once Upon a Time in America is a perfect example of a kind of nonlinear narrative that treats the past and present as two distinct time periods, with the latter reflecting on the former.
• Gangster David Aaronson (played by Robert De Niro) returns to Manhattan, thirty years after fleeing it. He must look to the past in order to understand where his future lies.

The two existing versions of the film, nonlinear and linear, show the virtues of a nonlinear narrative perfectly. So much is added by having the story told in a nonlinear format .

Nostalgia is an additional theme touched on by having David triggered into remembering his past. There is a poetry in this that is lost by having the story evolve in a linear way.

3. Stronger Together

Another kind of nonlinear narrative is one that weaves together a number of different stories around a singular theme .

Sometimes these stories will interconnect, sometimes they won’t. On their own they tell one story. But together they tell a wider story.

A Link in the Chain – Alejandro González Iñárritu’s ‘Death Trilogy’

Alejandro González Iñárritu exemplifies the use of this kind of nonlinear narrative in his ‘Death Trilogy’ ( Amores Perros / 21 Grams / Babel ). All three films employ a nonlinear narrative in a slightly different way.

Amores Perros tells the story of three different characters linked by one car crash.

• This car crash is the only thing that links them together and it does so very briefly.
• The different characters’ stories speaks to an important theme, the patchwork of people of different socio-economic standings in Mexico City.
• This nonlinear narrative utilises the best the form has to offer – raising tension, creating a mystery the audience want to solve and varying the scope of the characters on show.

Of the three films, it’s Babel that is the loosest in terms of its nonlinear narrative. Iñárritu pushes the boundaries of what a nonlinear narrative can look like.

The different stories take place on different continents, in different languages, and only briefly, if ever, meet.

But the film consequently touches on some profound themes. Much more so than it could if the narrative was told in a more straightforward or expected way.

• In presenting characters so far apart in every sense, but still maintaining they are connected, the film suggests the world’s interconnectedness.
• Small moments have large effects and in turn, the film provokes the audience to interrogate how their actions effect others in the globalised world we live in.

Circling Around – Pulp Fiction

Pulp Fiction demonstrates one of the most well-known and well-loved examples of a nonlinear narrative. There are three different stories unfolding, all interrelated.

As well as nonlinear, the structure can be defined as a ‘circular narrative’.

• This is because the film starts and ends in the same place, with the same characters.
• What happens in between is often hard to piece together and make relevant, with only small clues linking it all together.

One of the reasons Pulp Fiction ‘s nonlinear narrative is so beloved is because its meaning is hard to pin down.

• All stories revolve around crime and redemption. But these are loose themes.
• How rich and entertaining the stories are is what makes the themes that unite them both less relevant and more desirable to know.

Pulp Fiction shows how much fun can be had with a nonlinear narrative. It has a purpose and it would be missing the point to suggest otherwise. It’s not just stylistic, it has something to say.

But its purpose is elusive and lost primarily to how engaging the actual story is. To tell Pulp Fiction chronologically would be to lose its beguiling elusiveness, sense of mystery and its musings on the nuances within a life of crime.

4. Styling it Out

Whilst their use of nonlinear narratives do have a thematic purpose, there are some films which make a nonlinear narrative a key part of their style and tone. The nonlinear narrative is still crucial to the story. But it’s executed in a way that puts style at the forefront.

Run Lola Run and the two Kill Bill volumes are exemplary of such films.

In Run Lola Run , the protagonist , Lola, is given multiple attempts to write a narrative. When things continually go wrong for her, we see her start the sequence of events again. She is given the chance to have another go.

• In a sense this is a linear narrative. Trying to get the story from A to B.
• But in continually restarting and doing things differently each time, the narrative becomes nonlinear.

The use of a nonlinear narrative here is a clever way of raising the tension . It plays on the theme of free will vs. determinism and takes the film from being a simple thriller, to something altogether more philosophical and profound.

Furthermore, it demonstrates how a nonlinear narrative can add to a genre piece. Style is at the forefront of the film, but within this style is elevation of the genre’s potential.

A similar dynamic is at work in the two Kill Bill films.

• The narrative jumps back and forth in time continually.
• It’s a way of spreading out the action. But it also keeps the mystery as to who the protagonist, The Bride, is and what she wants revenge for.

The films could still exist in a linear way. And they would still be great. But telling the story via a nonlinear narrative only heightens the film’s dynamism. It’s a stylish film made all the more stylish by its structure.

In Conclusion

Getting the best out of a nonlinear narrative means focusing in on the why. Why use such a screenplay structure? And why for this particular story?

Nonlinear narratives have the potential to make your script touch on themes larger than the genre to which it belongs.

Whether it be a romance, thriller or meditative drama – using a nonlinear narrative can open your script up. Not only will it make the audience cry, laugh or perspire with tension , it can touch on themes larger than the characters within it.

How it can do this means connecting it to the root of your story. Challenge yourself as a writer to think beyond the basic elements of plot, character and theme . By connecting the dots in a different way, what can you touch on?

It’s a familiar aspect of contemporary cinema. But its power comes from its malleability. Nonlinear can mean lots of different things to different stories.

Make sure your nonlinear narrative is innately connected to the purpose of your story, and it could be the thing that sets your script apart, makes it fly and gives you strength as a writer.

• What did you think of this article?   Share It ,   Like It , give it a rating, and let us know your thoughts in the comments box further down…
• Struggling with a script or book? Story analysis is what we do, all day, every day… check out our range of   script coverage   services for writers & filmmakers.

Get *ALL* our FREE Resources

Tackle the trickiest areas of screenwriting with our exclusive eBooks. Get all our FREE resources when you join 60,000 filmmakers on our mailing list!

Success! Thanks for signing up, now please check all your email folders incl junk mail!

Something went wrong.

We respect your privacy and take protecting it seriously

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• USC Libraries
• Research Guides

Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Paper

Using non-textual elements.

• Purpose of Guide
• Design Flaws to Avoid
• Independent and Dependent Variables
• Glossary of Research Terms
• Reading Research Effectively
• Narrowing a Topic Idea
• Broadening a Topic Idea
• Extending the Timeliness of a Topic Idea
• Academic Writing Style
• Applying Critical Thinking
• Choosing a Title
• Making an Outline
• Paragraph Development
• Research Process Video Series
• Executive Summary
• The C.A.R.S. Model
• Background Information
• The Research Problem/Question
• Theoretical Framework
• Citation Tracking
• Content Alert Services
• Evaluating Sources
• Primary Sources
• Secondary Sources
• Tiertiary Sources
• Scholarly vs. Popular Publications
• Qualitative Methods
• Quantitative Methods
• Insiderness
• Limitations of the Study
• Common Grammar Mistakes
• Writing Concisely
• Avoiding Plagiarism
• Footnotes or Endnotes?
• Further Readings
• Generative AI and Writing
• USC Libraries Tutorials and Other Guides
• Bibliography

Definitions of Common Non-Textual Elements

Chart -- see "graph."

Diagram -- a drawing that illustrates or visually explains a thing or idea by outlining its component parts and the relationships among them. Also a line drawing, made to accompany and illustrate a geometrical theorem, mathematical demonstration, etc.

Drawing -- a graphic illustration of representing a person, place, or object or a technique for outlining the geometry, layout, location, and design of a figure, plan, or sketch by means of lines.

Figure -- a form bounded by three or more lines; one or more digits or numerical symbols representing a number.

Flowchart -- a pictorial summary  [graphical algorithm] of the decisions and flows [movement  of information] that make up a procedure or process  from beginning to end. Also called flow diagram, flow process chart, or network diagram.

Form -- a logically structured document with a fixed arrangement of captioned spaces designed for entering, extracting, or communicating required or requested information.

Graph -- a two-dimensional drawing  showing a relationship [usually between two set of numbers] by means  of a line, curve, a series  of bars, or other symbols. Typically, an independent variable is represented on the horizontal line (X-axis) and an dependent variable on the vertical line (Y-axis). The perpendicular axis intersect at a point called origin, and are calibrated in the units of the quantities  represented. Though a graph usually has four quadrants representing the positive and negative values  of the variables, usually only the north-east quadrant is shown when the negative values do not exist or are of no interest. Often used interchangeably with the term “chart.”

Histogram -- step-column chart that displays a summary of the variations in (frequency distribution of) quantities [called Classes] that fall within certain lower and upper limits  in a set of data. Classes are measured on the horizontal ('X') axis, and the number of times they occur [or the percentages  of their occurrences] are measured on the vertical ('Y') axis. To construct a histogram, rectangles or blocks are drawn on the x-axis [without any spaces between them] whose areas are proportional to the classes they represent. Histograms [and histographs] are used commonly where the subject  item is discrete (such as the number of students in a school) instead of being continuous [such as the variations in their heights]. Also called frequency diagram, a histogram is usually preferred over a histograph where the number of classes is less than eight.

Illustration -- a visual representation [e.g., picture or diagram] that is used to make a subject in a paper more pleasing or easier to understand.

Map -- a visual representation of an area. It is considered to be a symbolic depiction highlighting relationships between elements of that space such as objects, regions, and themes. Examples of types include climate, economic, resource, physical, political, road, and topographic maps.

Pictograph -- visual presentation of data using icons, pictures, symbols, etc., in place of or in addition to common graph elements [bars, lines, points]. Pictographs use relative sizes or repetitions of the same icon, picture, or symbol to show comparison. Also called a pictogram, pictorial chart, pictorial graph, or picture graph.

Symbol -- Mark, sign, or word that indicates, signifies, or is understood as representing an idea, object, or relationship.

Table -- an orderly arrangement  of quantitative data in columns and rows. Also called a “matrix.”

BusinessDictionary.com. Created by WebFinance, Inc.; “Graphics for Display.” In Understanding Social Statistics . Jane Fielding and Nigel Gilbert, editors. Second edition. (London: SAGE Publications, 2006), pp. 69-93.

When to Use Non-textual Elements in Your Paper

The decision to use graphs, charts, diagrams, photographs, maps, illustrations, or any other forms of non-textual elements in the results section of your research paper should be a process of consciously considering whether any visual aids improve a paper's overall quality and readability. Do not include non-textual elements if the information can otherwise be described clearly and succinctly or if it does not contribute to understanding findings directly associated with the research problem. Below are examples of when you should consider or not consider using non-textual elements in your paper.

WHEN YOU SHOULD

• There is a Lot of Data . The most common reason why scholars choose to include non-textual elements in a study is that the research relies upon, or has generated, a large amount of information that needs to be summarized for the reader. This is especially true for studies using quantitative methods of analysis or that use surveys or other types of instruments for gathering large amounts of information or data.
• Presenting Data Over Time . Charts and graphs are especially useful for visualizing changes over time. For example, to compare how exports in coffee has changed over time in two countries, you can display a line chart where the x-axis graphically displays the volume of coffee exported and a y-axis is the period of time in years. The chart would have two lines visualizing the data for each country. This allows the reader to quickly comprehend how much exports have increased or decreased over time.
• Compare or Contrast Multiple Sets of Information . There are many types of charts, graphs, and diagrams. Many are particularly useful when you need to show how different sets of information compare or contrast with each other. This helps the reader contemplate the results of a study before moving on to the discussion section to consider why these differences may be significant and what the implications may be in relation to addressing the research problem.
• Bring Important Clarity to Multi-layered Research Problems . Visual aids can highlight and bring clarity to understanding complex issues in ways that cannot be adequately expressed using only words. For example, a research study focused on documenting litter problems in city streets can include a GIS map that highlights the severity of the problem in particular neighborhoods in relation to the background and socioeconomic status of residents and the distribution of bus stops and other places where people gather. This allows the writer to summarize the information and focus on discussing ways to interpret the results .
• Help to Reveal Patterns and Trends . A thorough description of patterns and trends that have emerged from the findings can over-complicate the narrative, making it difficult for the reader to follow the author's logic and main points. Non-textual elements can help visualize any patterns and trends within the data because it condenses this information in a way that allows the reader to quickly view the results, then focus on the narrative explanations of the key findings.
• Picture is Worth a Thousand Words . Photographs have the ability to visually document not only a specific moment in time, but to convey the emotions, feelings, and unique experiences of people at the center of your study. In this way, photographs help to humanize a research problem. For example, if your paper examines how local indigenous populations in different regions of the world respond to climate change disasters, photographs can help convey the struggles and adaptive strategies of people more effectively than relying exclusively on descriptions of what has happened.

WHEN YOU SHOULD NOT

• An important aspect of academic writing is the text must be clear and concise . If the data or information can be easily summarized, then adding a non-textual element is not necessary. For example, in the case of using a pie chart or bar graph to show only two contrasting numbers, such as, a difference in the number of charter schools versus public schools in a school district, would not help the reader understand the data any better than simply stating the difference in the text and moving on to explain why it is important [i.e., twenty percent of schools in the district are now chartered].
• Always be aware of the narrative flow of your paper . Non-textual elements ask the reader to stop, review the non-textual element, contemplate what it means, and then return to the reading the paper, sometimes over and over again. Given this, always keep in mind the importance of conveying key information to the reader through the use of narrative explanations before inserting a visual aid. If you decide to insert a visual aid, note that it needs to fit logically within the overall narrative flow of your paper.
• Adding a non-textual element should directly relate to understanding the research problem or main arguments of your paper . Visualizing information can capture the reader’s attention in ways that a narrative description cannot. However, you should always measure the importance of using a graph, chart, illustration, or other non-textual element against whether it adds explicit value to understanding the research problem. If you determine that it does not, then it is likely superfluous.
• Avoid overloading your paper with non-textual elements . In many science disciplines, such as geology or engineering, it is expected that a research study will include numerous visual aids. However, in the social and behavioral sciences, you should be deliberate in selecting how many non-textual elements you include in the main text of your paper because using too many can be overwhelming and hinder comprehension of the essential arguments you are trying to convey to the reader. If you must include numerous visual aids, prevent cognitive overload by placing them in an appendix or appendices.

Figures and Charts. The Writing Center. University of North Carolina; Statistics and Visuals. Purdue Online Writing Lab, Purdue University; Chen, Min, Luciano Floridi, and Rita Borgo. “What Is Visualization Really For? In The Philosophy of Information Quality . Edited by Luciano Floridi and Phyllis Illari. Synthese Library, vol 358. (New York: Springer, 2014), pp. 75-93; Burgio, Valeria, and Matteo Moretti."Infographics as Images: Meaningfulness Beyond Information" MDPI Proceedings 1 (2017): 891; Few, Stephen. "The Chartjunk Debate." Perceptual Edge: Visual Business Intelligence Newsletter (April, May, and June 2011): 1-11; “Over 60 New York Times Graphs for Students to Analyze.” The Learning Network, The New York Times , Published June 10, 2020; Updated Oct. 23, 2020; “Graphics for Display.” In Understanding Social Statistics . Jane Fielding and Nigel Gilbert, editors. Second edition. (London: SAGE Publications, 2006), pp. 69-93.

Structure and Writing Style

Use non-textual elements, such as figures, tables, graphs, maps, photographs, etc., to support your key findings . Readers should be able to discern the meaning of non-textual elements on their own without having to refer to the text to understand the data being presented. Reference to a non-textual element in the text of your paper should focus on describing its significance in relation to the research problem or the topic being discussed.

In the social sciences, non-textual elements must have neat, legible titles, be simple, and have detailed captions that are written in complete sentences; they should fully explain the item without forcing the reader to refer to the text. Conversely, the reader should not have to refer back and forth from the text to the non-textual elements to understand the paper.

General rules about using non-textual elements in your research paper:

• Each non-textual element must have a short, descriptive title, numbered consecutively and complete with a heading [e.g., Table 1. National Sales Activity from 2009-2014].
• Conform to the rules set forth within the writing style you are using for the paper regarding the use of non-textual elements [e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago] and use it consistently throughout your paper.
• Either place figures, tables, charts, etc. within the text of the result being described, or refer to them in an appendix--do one or the other but never both.
• You should explicitly reference the number of the figures, tables, graphs, etc. in the text [i.e., "Table 6 shows..."]. Avoid expressions like, "in the chart on the following page" or "in the table below."
• If you choose to place non-textual elements within the paper, they should be positioned as close as possible to where it is first mentioned in the text.
• If you place non-textual elements in an appendix, make sure they are clearly distinguished from any raw data.
• Each non-textual element must be interpreted and its relevance and significance explained in relation to the research problem.
• do use a box or frame to surround the element.
• do not use a different text font to that used in the body of the work [e.g., Ariel vs. New Times Roman].
• do use small caps when formatting headings.
• do not use fancy or cursive fonts.
• do change the page layout from portrait to landscape if this helps you display the non-textual element more effectively; always place the "top" of the page along the left-hand margin and maintain page numbering.
• If the non-textual element within the text is not adapted from another source and totally your own creation, take credit for your work and say so! Otherwise, you must cite where you found the data. You must also cite the source even if you reorganize or rearrange the data [e.g., "Chart 4 is adapted from..."].
• You may refer to non-textual elements by using parentheses with or without the verb “see” (i.e., "see Table 1"). However, it is important to be consistent with whichever choice you make.

References to non-textual elements within the text of your paper are generally put in parentheses , e.g. "...the number of schools have grown (see Figure 1)" or "...although the distribution of savings among city employees has been reduced during the last decade (Chart 2)" because this information is generally supplementary to the results themselves; most of the text should focus on highlighting key findings.

NOTE:   Do not overuse non-textual elements! Include them sparingly and only in cases where they are an effective means for enhancing and/or supplementing information already described in your paper. Using too many non-textual elements disrupts the narrative flow of your paper, making it more difficult for the reader to synthesize and interpret your overall research. If you have to use a lot of non-textual elements, consider organizing them in an appendix . and refer to them in the text, such as, "data shown in Appendix One shows...."

ANOTHER NOTE:   Excel and other computer programs are capable of creating very elaborate, colorful, and dramatic looking non-textual elements. However, be careful not to let aesthetics and artistry overwhelm the message you are trying to convey to the reader. Use these features only to help improve the reader's understanding of the information being presented. For example, if a pie chart is being used to show the distribution of responses to a survey, use distinctive colors to distinguish between each part of the chart.

Chapter 4: The Research Process: Structuring the Research Paper. Effective Writing Center. University of Maryland; Durbin Jr., Charles G. “Effective Use of Tables and Figures in Abstracts, Presentations, and Papers.” Respiratory Care 49 (October 2004): 1233-1237; Few, Stephen. Show Me the Numbers: Designing Tables and Graphs to Enlighten . 2nd edition. Burlingame, CA: Analytics Press, 2012; Franzblau, Lauren E. and Kevin C. Chung. “Graphs, Tables, and Figures in Scientific Publications: The Good, the Bad, and How Not to Be the Latter.” The Journal of Hand Surgery 37 (March 2012): 591-596; Hartley, James et al. “Research on Tables and Graphs in Academic Articles: Pitfalls and Promises.” Journal of the Association for Information Science and Technology 66 (February 2015): 428-431; Informative Presentation of Tables, Graphs and Statistics. Statistical Services Centre, University of Reading, United Kingdom, March 2000; Rodrigues, Velany et al. How to Use Figures and Tables Effectively to Present Your Research Findings. Tutorials: Manuscript Preparation. Editage insights. Cactus Communications, Inc.; Tables & Figures. Academic Skills Office, University of New England; Using Figures, Tables and Graphs. Language and Learning Online, Monash University..

• << Previous: 7. The Results
• Next: 8. The Discussion >>
• Last Updated: Apr 22, 2024 9:12 AM
• URL: https://libguides.usc.edu/writingguide

• Screenwriting \e607
• Cinematography & Cameras \e605
• Directing \e606
• Editing & Post-Production \e602
• Documentary \e603
• Movies & TV \e60a
• Producing \e608
• Distribution & Marketing \e604
• Fundraising & Crowdfunding \e60f
• Festivals & Events \e611
• Sound & Music \e601
• Games & Transmedia \e60e
• Grants, Contests, & Awards \e60d
• Film School \e610
• Marketplace & Deals \e60b
• Off Topic \e609
• This Site \e600

What Is a Non-Linear Narrative?

A nonlinear narrative in storytelling can be the key to helping you discover the past and present of characters as well as having your spec stand out. but how .

'True Detective'

Telling a story that's a straight line is hard enough, but how can you tell a story whose time frame jumps around? How can you keep an audience on track, flesh out the beats, and even track the theme?

We call these kinds of screenplays nonlinear, and they exist in both movies and television.

Today we're going to go over nonlinear storytelling. We'll look at examples, the definition, and talk about using them in a writing strategy moving forward.

As tempted as I am to present this information out of order...I won't.

Let's dive in.

What is a Nonlinear Narrative?

Nonlinear narrative definition.

This is a narrative technique where events are portrayed out of chronological order or the logical order presented in the story. The pattern of events needs to jump around and not follow a linear pattern.

A nonlinear narrative can also be known as a disjointed narrative or disrupted narrative.

Why use a nonlinear pattern?

Most of the time, I don't come to a nonlinear pattern right away. Usually, I outline or use a beat sheet to break my stories. If I feel like we aren't getting enough character development or that the story feels stale, I try to shake it up and bounce scenes around.

There are other times where I seek this format out.

Sometimes I want to write something slick. Maybe something that jumps in time, has cutaways, and maybe even mixes all of these things.

Nonlinear stories are also great ways to get noticed, They can be their own hooks. Stories told in reverse. Divergent points of view juxtaposed against one another.

These are all buzz words. Let's look at some film and TV shows that use nonlinear storytelling to their advantage.

Nonlinear Narrative Examples

Television is probably the best medium for these kinds of stories because you can use entire episodes for flashbacks, have quick cutaway jokes, and bounce around season to season.

One of the greatest TV shows to ever use this kind of narrative was Lost . It features flashforwards, back, sideways, and even through dimensions

The show was so groundbreaking because it brought nonlinear storytelling into primetime. It used this storytelling to trick the audience into believing things about characters and then subverting those expectations by jumping in time.

Recently, This is Us has used the same strategy to do the same thing.

The show bounces back and forth in time in a more traditional sense than Lost , but it also unexpectedly jumps time. We get deaths, births, and adoptions all at a fever pace. And all with brilliant transitions out of a normal narrative.

Family Guy takes up the mantle of nonlinear storytelling in the comedy space.

It's primary narrative and joke device is the cutaway. This takes us out of the character's timeline to deliver punchlines.

It made the show iconic.

Movies can be tricky when it comes to nonlinear storytelling.

A film screenplay has only 90-120 pages to get it right. So, you want to make sure your story really sells itself. You want to take chances, but you also want to get things right.

Movies like Out of Sight split the narrative between two protagonists and jumps in time in both their stories. We cut back to the prison to show information and cut forward and behind in-between those scenes to tell the narrative throughline.

It feels slick, like a heist movie, and is a different riff on these kinds of love stories.

One of the most famous movies of all time, The Godfather Part II , uses this form. We begin the movie seeing Vito emigrating. But we jump back to Michael's storyline and then back to Vito as he grows up and becomes the Godfather.

The movie bends time to its advantage, creating a sprawling father and son tale juxtaposed against one another.

Lastly, a movie like Memento is pitched and sold on its nonlinear storytelling.

It's a movie that goes backward AND flashes sideways to the story of Sammy Jenkins.

It put the Nolan brothers on the map and became a calling card for the duo. It certified them as visionaries and built a commercially viable edition of nonlinear narratives.

Nonlinear Writing Tips

If you want to write your own nonlinear stories, there are three things to remember:

1. Keep Your Story Organized

You want the audience to understand what the main part of the story is and what parts are where. If you're not utilizing flashbacks, but are instead jumping through space and time, like Tree of Life , you need to organize that stuff too.

This should happen in the outlining phase.

2. Clearly Define Jumps on the Page

It's not enough to only use INT and EXT. You need to clearly mark flashbacks, time jumps, and when/where we are. Even in cutaways. Study as many professional screenplays as you can. See how the greats do it.

I like to clearly mark my flashbacks before the slugline.

So it might look like....

FLASHBACK: INT. NO FILM SCHOOL - NIGHT

But there are other ways to do it too.

Just make sure the reader knows. Otherwise, life gets confusing.

3. Link the Narratives Thematically

This is more of a suggestion than a mandate. You want the stories or scenes to really work off one another. If they both are written with the same theme then the story won't feel like the nonlinear elements don't fit.

Congruency in screenwriting is so important.

Make sure every scene works well together. What are you trying to say in each? Are they connected enough to resonate or do they feel like two or more non-connected stories?

I can't wait to read what you write.

What's next? Learn all about Film and TV Genres !

Film and TV genres affect who watches your work, how it's classified, and even how it's reviewed. So how do you decide what you're writing? And which genres to mash-up? The secret is in the tropes.

Click to learn.

• What Is a Narrative in Movies and TV? (Definition and Examples) ›
• How Can You Get Narrative Ideas From Watching Non-Narrative Films? ›
• Tarantino Explains Nonlinear Storytelling in this 'Pulp Fiction' Video Essay ›
• What Are Cutaway Shots and How Will They Help Your Edit? ›
• What are Parallel Storylines? ›
• Level 10: Nonlinear Storytelling | Game Design Concepts ›
• Nonlinear narrative - Wikipedia ›
• Non-Linear Storytelling: Non-Linear Writing Tips and Examples ... ›

Mobile-Friendly Filmmakers Will Love This New Gear From Tiffen

We hang out at tiffen's nab 2024 booth to try out their phone camera-friendly nd filters and steadicam..

Love shooting on your phone but missing the control lens filters? The Tiffen Company has a solution with their magsafe filters perfect for smartphone filmmakers.

The Tiffen Company is widely respected for their production camera accessories, but now branching out to supply mobile-friendly options for filmmakers.

We got a chance to try out two new products—their filters, as well as their new steadicam for traditional cameras.

We stopped by their booth to check out what they had in store to show off at NAB 2024 . Check out the interviews below.

The Tifffen Company at NAB Show 2024—Smartphone Filters

NAB 2024: Tiffen Booth Part Two—Steadicam 

No Film School's coverage of NAB 2024 is brought to you by Blackmagic Design .

What Are The Best Adventure Movies of All Time?

What are the best comedy movies of all time, blackmagic camera app set to finally come to android, imax released details for a new next-gen cinema camera, michael arndt's advice on writing the beginning of your screenplay, why the 'blood for dust' filmmakers don't wait for permission, aputure unveils infinimat line and updated sidus ecosystem at nab 2024, get your horror feature funded with unknown nightmare, three xf and gf lenses for fujifilm filmmakers, what are the best fantasy movies of all time.

Bennie Hawra

Our Top Proficient Writers At Your Essays Service

Customer Reviews

Customer Reviews

Orders of are accepted for higher levels only (University, Master's, PHD). Please pay attention that your current order level was automatically changed from High School/College to University.

Orders of are accepted for more complex assignment types only (e.g. Dissertation, Thesis, Term paper, etc.). Special conditions are applied to such orders. That is why please kindly choose a proper type of your assignment.

Business Enquiries

Viola V. Madsen

Need an essay writer for me? Connect now!

Feeling tired to write drafts on your own or you do not have ample ideas to write with? Be it anything, our writers are here to assist you with the best essay writing service. With our service, you will save a lot of time and get recognition for the academic assignments you are given to write. This will give you ample time to relax as well. Let our experts write for you. With their years of experience in this domain and the knowledge from higher levels of education, the experts can do brilliant essay writing even with strict deadlines. They will get you remarkable remarks on the standard of the academic draft that you will write with us.

Sophia Melo Gomes

Customer Reviews

Finished Papers

A standard essay helper is an expert we assign at no extra cost when your order is placed. Within minutes, after payment has been made, this type of writer takes on the job. A standard writer is the best option when you’re on a budget but the deadline isn’t burning. Within a couple of days, a new custom essay will be done for you from the ground up. Unique content, genuine research, spot-on APA/MLA formatting, and peerless grammar are guaranteed. Also, we’ll provide you with a free title page, bibliography, and plagiarism check. With a standard writer, you can count on a quality essay that will live up to all your expectations.

There are questions about essay writing services that students ask about pretty often. So we’ve decided to answer them in the form of an F.A.Q.

Is essay writing legitimate?

As writing is a legit service as long as you stick to a reliable company. For example, is a great example of a reliable essay company. Choose us if you’re looking for competent helpers who, at the same time, don’t charge an arm and a leg. Also, our essays are original, which helps avoid copyright-related troubles.

Are your essay writers real people?

Yes, all our writers of essays and other college and university research papers are real human writers. Everyone holds at least a Bachelor’s degree across a requested subject and boats proven essay writing experience. To prove that our writers are real, feel free to contact a writer we’ll assign to work on your order from your Customer area.

Is there any cheap essay help?

You can have a cheap essay writing service by either of the two methods. First, claim your first-order discount – 15%. And second, order more essays to become a part of the Loyalty Discount Club and save 5% off each order to spend the bonus funds on each next essay bought from us.

Can I reach out to my essay helper?

Contact your currently assigned essay writer from your Customer area. If you already have a favorite writer, request their ID on the order page, and we’ll assign the expert to work on your order in case they are available at the moment. Requesting a favorite writer is a free service.

Write My Essay Service - Working to Help You

Do you want to have more free time for personal development and fun? Or are you confused with your professor's directions? Whatever your reason for coming to us is, you are welcome! We are a legitimate professional writing service with student-friendly prices and with an aim to help you achieve academic excellence. To get an A on your next assignment simply place an order or contact our 24/7 support team.

Finished Papers

Gombos Zoran

(415) 397-1966

Customer Reviews

Original Drafts

Our writers always follow the customers' requirements very carefully

How to Get the Best Essay Writing Service

(415) 520-5258