How to Write an Inciting Incident (With Examples)

In this blog, you’ll learn to write an inciting incident with incidents.

Some call it the “launching pad,” others prefer to describe it as the “necessary chaos.”

Whatever definition suits every writer, the fact remains that an inciting incident is critical in any story. It sets the plot into motion, grabs the reader’s attention, and keeps them invested throughout the narrative.

If you’re new to writing, it’s a sin to underestimate the value of an inciting incident, especially if you’re clueless about what it means.

Don’t worry; this guide teaches you about writing an inciting incident with examples.

What is an Inciting Incident?

The inciting incident describes the event or series that kickstarts your story.

The catalyst leads the main character’s journey and sets them on a path towards their goal. Without an inciting incident, your story suffers from a lack of direction and purpose.

It could be a single event or a combination of events; in most scenarios, the event(s) will pave the way for a conflict, with the protagonist as the focal point.

As a result of that conflict, the protagonist is left with no choice but to act.

It’s usually the first major plot point in a story and is often seen as the “point of no return” for the main character.

In other words, the story won’t be the same after the inciting incident.

It’s a pivotal moment that changes everything for the main character.

Characteristics of a Good Inciting Incident

A good inciting incident should possess several characteristics to make it effective and memorable.

• Relevance: The inciting incident should relate to your story’s plot, theme, and characters. It should make sense in the context of your story and contribute to its overall development.
• Impactful: The inciting incident needs to have a significant impact on the main character’s life. It should be a compelling event that forces them to take action and start their journey towards their goal.
• Surprising: A good inciting incident shouldn’t be predictable. It should catch the reader’s attention and make them curious about what will happen next.
• Logical: The inciting incident shouldn’t feel forced or out of place. It should fit organically into your story and must flow naturally.
• Timely: The timing of the inciting incident is crucial. It should occur immediately to grab the reader’s attention and set the story into motion.
• Memorable: A good inciting incident should stick with the reader long after they finish reading. It should leave a lasting impact and be memorable in its execution.

Tips for Writing an Inciting Incident

Effective and engaging: these attributes must be central to your inciting incident. To do so, you must commit to the following:

1. Start with Character Development

Before introducing the inciting incident, see that your audience understands who your protagonist is.

This doesn’t mean you need extensive backstory immediately, but some connection must be established.

Example: In The Hunger Games, we see Katniss Everdeen’s life in District 12, her love for her sister, and her archery skills before she volunteers as a tribute, an act that marks the story’s inciting incident. The idea here is to establish a connection between the character and the reader so they care about what happens next. It helped that District 12 happened to be the poorest of them all, and the Hunger Games was a brutal reminder to remain oppressed.

2. Create a Sense of Normalcy

Illustrate the protagonist’s normal world before the inciting incident disrupts it.

This contrast will make the impact of the incident more pronounced.

Example: In Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, Harry’s mundane, even miserable, life with the Dursleys sets the stage for the magic of the inciting incident when Harry receives his letter from Hogwarts. The concept of a “contrasting normal” allows for a seamless transition into the fantastical world of Hogwarts, all while keeping readers intrigued about what might happen in Harry’s new life.

3. It Must Be Proactive

The inciting incident should actively involve the protagonist, requiring a decision or action that demonstrates their character.

You never should deviate from this because it’s through these actions that we know your protagonist.

Example: In The Matrix, Neo’s decision to follow the white rabbit and ultimately take the red pill is a proactive move that firmly plants him on his new path. It’s a testament to his skepticism and curiosity, which continue to define him throughout the story. The main point is that the event’s focal point is Neo’s decision, not the “white rabbit” concept itself.

4. Link It to the Central Conflict

The incident should introduce or hint at the central conflict of your story, setting the stage for the forthcoming struggle.

The goal is to establish a connection between the event and your story’s main conflict.

Example: In The Lord of the Rings, Gandalf tells Frodo about the One Ring and its dangerous power, sparking Frodo’s journey to destroy it. This inciting incident sets Frodo on his path and introduces him as the ring bearer and Gollum as a potential antagonist. It ties the event directly to the main conflict of destroying the One Ring and defeating Sauron.

5. Invoke an Emotional Response

The inciting incident is designed to evoke an emotional response in both the protagonist and the readers, be it shock, curiosity, fear, or excitement.

Example: In The Fault in Our Stars, Hazel Grace Lancaster’s initial meeting with Augustus Waters at a support group stirs intrigue and excitement, propelling both her and the readers into the unfolding story.

6. Keep It Surprising, Albeit Inevitable

While the incident should be unexpected, in retrospect, it should feel inevitable to keep readers satisfied and engaged.

Example: In Fight Club, the narrator’s apartment explosion forces him into a new way of life. Although surprising, the discontent and peculiar events leading up to it render it an inevitable kickstart to his transformation.

How To Write An Inciting Incident

With seemingly all stories already being told throughout the history of storytelling, it’s no secret that creating a compelling and distinctive inciting incident will take time, effort, and creativity.

What you want is to be different, which will make readers realize, “I’ve never seen this before.”

But the payoff is worth it – a well-crafted inciting incident will hook readers from the start and set your story on its path to success.

All you must do is follow these tips to be on that path.