It’s most powerful at specific stages. The canvas works best
before writing and when you’re checking. It’s not for adding more sentences;
it’s for seeing structure.
When to use it
Before you start writing
- When you’re not sure where to begin
- When structure only exists in your head
- When the main relationships aren’t clear yet
shows structure before text.
After a first draft
- When you want to check if the direction is right
- When the story feels unstable
- When you need to decide what to revise
the canvas quickly reveals structural issues.
How to use it
1) Design structure before writing
Place main characters, events, and themesand use connections to build a skeleton.
At this stage
relationship matters more than detail.
2) Mid-point check
Link the document you’re writingand see where it sits in the structure.
- Is the center still clear?
- Are there branches that don’t belong?
makes the weak spot obvious.
3) Adjust plot or document direction
Rearrange relationshipsto decide how to revise.
What to shorten,
what to strengthen
— you can judge visually.
Basic checking flow
- Link the document you’re working on to the canvas.
- Rearrange and check what’s central.
- Decide how to revise, then go back to the document.
not where you stay;
it’s where you decide direction and then return.
Principle
- The canvas doesn’t force a conclusion.
- If the relationship is clear, write;
if not, place again.
When structure is visible,
sentences follow more naturally.