Logline Template 1
When [inciting event], a [protagonist] must [goal] before [stakes], despite [main obstacle].
8 Logline Templates
Start with structure, then replace every placeholder with information that is true, relevant, and natural for your context. These templates are intentionally skeletal so your final writing does not sound mass-produced.
Use the framework
How to personalize a template
A strong logline lets a reader grasp the story engine on first reading. It selects the causal conflict that can sustain the work, uses specific but low-friction detail, and creates interest without becoming a miniature synopsis or a clever marketing phrase that omits the actual story.
- 1Choose the template closest to your actual purpose.
- 2Replace every bracketed field with specific information.
- 3Delete any sentence that does not belong in your situation.
- 4Read the result aloud for unnatural transitions or repeated phrasing.
- 5Verify names, dates, links, facts, and promises before sending or publishing.
Logline Template 2
A [protagonist] who [defining trait] is forced to [goal] when [problem], risking [specific consequence].
Logline Template 3
To [goal], [protagonist] must [difficult action], but [ironic complication/opposition].
Logline Template 4
After [disruption], [protagonist] has [time/constraint] to [goal] or [consequence].
Logline Template 5
Engine-first: When [disruption], a [protagonist] must [goal] before [specific consequence], but [opposition/constraint].
Logline Template 6
Irony-first: A [protagonist with relevant trait/job] who [normal rule/belief] must [contradictory action] when [problem], risking [stakes].
Logline Template 7
Deadline: After [inciting event], [protagonist] has [time/limited opportunity] to [goal] before [irreversible consequence].
Logline Template 8
Relationship engine: When [shared disruption] forces [two opposed characters] to [shared task], each must [private goal] while [relationship/structural obstacle] makes success mutually costly.