sceneswhere

Sceneswhere is a term used to describe a framework and, in some implementations, a software platform for organizing narrative scenes. It emphasizes the breakdown of a story into individual scenes and the metadata that governs how those scenes function within the whole.

In its core, each scene is captured as a card containing fields such as title, setting, time, point of view, objective, conflict, stakes, emotional arc, and outcome. Tags allow grouping by location, character, theme, or narrative function. Many versions support attachments like scripts, storyboards, images, or audio notes and provide linking between scenes to map pacing and continuity.

Development and use: The concept emerged in film and screenwriting education as a method to teach structure and pacing. It has since been deployed in both academic and professional contexts, with open frameworks and commercial tools that implement the card-based approach.

Applications: It supports planning, collaborative editing, and revision work. Writers can experiment with alternate scene orders, test pacing, or ensure character goals align across scenes.

Reception: Proponents say it clarifies complex narratives and facilitates collaboration, while critics warn that rigid card systems may constrain spontaneity or encourage formulaic drafting.

Related concepts include beat sheets, storyboards, scene cards, synopsis, and screenplay timelines.