So where do you think the authorr started, with a character, a setting, the beginning, some magic moment? Lets be frank, a good book has a great ending and that's probably where they started. This is our 'outcome'. If the story doesn't know where its going then the author starts to wonder as they progress whats the point, there seems no purpose in whats happening. You need to keep your ending in mind as you progress through your story to keep all the events relevant.
Like all good stories it should start with a bang, something to capture the iimagination of the participant. Characters, places, events are all clearly described. Each objective of our training courses could easily be chapters of the book. Nicely chunked, not too long, each has a defining point and something that is memorable. Above all its relevant to the story and not wandering off the point.
As you start to look at your structure you will see the course coming together, all moving towards the outcome that you had understood at the beginning. You'll be able to see if there are holes in your story as the ending just won't make sense. You'll see if some chapters start to become too long and really need chunking down. Above all else your story should flow from one chapter to another.
A good training course will demonstrate all these elements. I know we state the outcome at the beginning but it should start by explaining (signposting) how the story will progress (chapters). In our training courses how the story will progress should be clearly visible for the participants as well so they know where they are. Each chapter or objective should be written so it can be evaluated or checked. Otherwise how do you know the participant is following your story. It isn't good enough just to read it to them, how will you know they understood, where they listening and even if they just repeat back what you have said what have they learnt?
So remember that good book you read. I bet you bought it because the story looked interesting, it had you hooked from the beginning, it flowed seamlessly as it went along, each chapter was memorable and followed the last and the end made you smile and say what a great story.
