==== The Four basic elements of the story

---- Concept
The idea or seed that evolves into a platform for a story. Best and most empower
ing when expressed as a what if? question. The answer leads to further what if? ques
tions in a branching and descending hierarchy, and the collective whole of those
choices and answers becomes your story.

---- Character
Don't leave home without one. Every story needs a hero. We don't need to like hi
m (contrary to what your high school composition teacher told you), but we do ne
ed to root for him.

---- Theme
Yes, it's like putting smoke into a bottle, but it can be done. Not to be confus
ed with concept, theme is what your story is illuminating about real life.

---- Structure
What comes first, what comes next, and so forth and why. And no, you can't just
make it up for yourself. There are expectations and standards here. Knowing what
they are is the first step toward getting published.

==== The two narrative skills required to implement them

---- Scene Execution
You can know the game, but if you can't play it well you can't win. A story is a
series of scenes with some connective tissue in place. And there are principles
and guidelines to make them work.

---- Writing Voice

The coat of paint, or if you prefer, the suit of clothes, that delivers the stor
y to the reader. The biggest risk here is letting your writing voice get in the
way. Less is more. Sparingly clever or sparsely eloquent is even better.