Most good stories start with a fundamental list of ingredients: the initial situation, conflict, complication, climax, suspense, denouement, and conclusion. Great writers sometimes shake up the recipe and add some spice.
Exposition (Initial Situation)
Girl, Interrupted
Macy Queen is just trying to keep it together. In the exposition, we learn about how her dad's death has changed her, and how she's trying to deal.
Rising Action (Conflict, Complication)
He's Just Not That Into You
When her uptight boyfriend emails her that he wants a break from their relationship, Macy is finally propelled into taking a risk—getting a job with Wish Catering. Which sets all the good stuff into motion…
Climax (Crisis, Turning Point)
Death by Cocktail Party
While dealing with chaos every day has been helping Macy learn to cope better, it has pretty much the exact opposite effect on her mom. Deborah's total breakdown at the grand opening gala forces her to lean on someone else for a change, and opens her eyes to her daughters' needs, too. And with those eyes finally opened, the stage is set for…
Falling Action
You Had Me at Hello
Finally. Macy dumps Jason and kisses Wes, all in the space of four pages. Tie up those romantic loose ends, baby.
Resolution (Denouement)
Everything's Gonna Be Alright
Curtain rises on a peaceful morning at the beach house, with happy family members lounging around and Wes and Macy going for a jog on the beach. End scene.