1. BEAT BREAKDOWNS
The goal is to identify where a character's thought, tactic, or objective shifts.

Exercise A: Slash the Script
Using a monologue.
As you read, place a slash ( / ) every time:

• The topic changes
• A new idea appears
• The character changes tactics
• A realization occurs

Example:
I came here to apologize. /
But now that I'm here, /
I'm not sure you want to hear it. //
Then perform emphasizing each beat shift.

Exercise B: Beat Titles
After identifying beats, give each beat a title.
Remember: Beat Titles are usually determined by the "objective" (what the character wants) + the "action" (how am I trying to get it?) = Beat Title (what is happening?)
Examples:

• "Making Excuses"
• "Asking for Help"
• "Defending Myself"
• "Making a Promise"

If you can title the beat, you usually understand it.

Exercise C: Beat Cards

• Write each beat on an index card.
• Shuffle them.
• Improvisationally retell the scene using only the beat titles.

This reinforces structure rather than memorization.