The Rule of Three in Storytelling

By georgelthomas on 2 May 2023 • ( 0 )

Hi everyone! I hope you’re all well. Today I am talking about the rule of three, a storytelling technique used in various types and styles of stories.

The Rule of Three in Storytelling

The rule of three is a technique used in storytelling that involves putting things into groups of three to produce memorable structures. The rule of three can be seen in all forms of storytelling, from children’s books to popular movies and TV shows. It is a powerful tool for crafting compelling plots, great characters, and engaging settings, making it easy for readers to become immersed in the story.

Why is This Technique so Effective?

One reason the rule of three is so effective is that it creates predictable and satisfying patterns for readers. The human brain is wired to recognize and seek out patterns, and when presented with a set of three elements, the brain recognizes it as a complete and balanced group. This makes the story more engaging and satisfying.

The rule of three can also provide a structure that helps writers organize their story elements. By focusing on three key points, writers can create a clear beginning, middle, and end, allowing the story to flow more smoothly.

Examples of The Rule of Three

A famous example of a children’s book that effectively uses the rule of three is “Goldilocks and the Three Bears”. The story is about a young girl who stumbles upon a house in the woods inhabited by three bears. The plot is built around the number three, with Goldilocks trying out each bear’s chair, bowl of porridge and bed before finding the perfect one.

Another example of the rule of three can be seen in the classic fairy tale “The Three Little Pigs”. The story involves three pigs whom each build their houses using a different material – straw, sticks, and bricks. The rule of three helps create a pattern of building and destruction, with the Big Bad Wolf blowing down the first two houses and being unable to demolish the third one.

The rule of three is especially helpful in writing children’s stories, but it can be found in all kinds of tales.

Let me know below if you use the rule of three and how you find it. Also, let me know if you have other helpful techniques to plot or outline your stories.

Anyway…

Thanks so much for hanging out and spending some of your time with me today. It means a lot!

Until next time,

George