Z-PATTERNS: BUMP-SLIDE-BUMP

A Z pattern is created when the transition between act 1 and 2 is a BUMP, the transition between act 2 and 3 is a SLIDE, and the transition between act 3 and 4 is a BUMP. Here are some examples of the Z pattern in various orientations:

Example Z-Pattern Act Transitions: BUMP–SLIDE–BUMP

The four-act, Z-pattern structure most closely matches the screenplay/story structure put forward by Syd Field. In his earlier descriptions, he identified a three act structure consisting of an Act 1, a long Act 2 (the slide), and the final Act 3. In a later, modified description of the screenplay act structure, he split the long Act 2 into two parts, thereby more accurately describing the four-act Z-pattern Dramatica structure. This is a popular act progression for modern, American-style, motion picture screenplays.