But/Therefore Story Structure

The South Park creators shared a simple but powerful storytelling technique that transforms boring stories into engaging narratives by changing connector words.

The Core Problem with Bad Stories

• Using "and then" makes stories boring and linear
• When kids tell stories, they often default to: "This happened, and then this happened, and then this happened"
• This creates a flat narrative with no tension or meaningful progression

The But/Therefore Solution

• Replace "and then" with "but" or "therefore" to create better story structure
• "But" introduces conflict and unexpected turns
• "Therefore" shows causation and consequences
• This simple change forces more dynamic storytelling

Example Structure

• Bad version (And then):

  • "I came home from school and then my mom wasn't there and then I went outside"

• Better version (But/Therefore):

  • "I came home from school but my mom wasn't there, therefore I went outside"

Key Benefits

• Creates natural conflict and tension
• Shows cause and effect relationships
• Makes stories more engaging and meaningful
• Helps avoid redundant or unnecessary details
• Forces the storyteller to think about connections between events

Implementation

• Can review scripts/stories and literally cross out "and then"
• Replace with either "but" or "therefore" based on the relationship
• Works for both written and verbal storytelling
• Simple enough rule that it can be applied consistently

This framework comes from the South Park creators' experience in crafting engaging episodic stories under tight deadlines.