But Michael’s story was only one of the storylines in that episode. Let’s now look at A, B, and C stories.
The Office, like all television comedies, has multiple storylines that run through an episode. We’ll label them A, B, and C with the A story representing the main action, and B and C standing in for smaller stories told throughout the episode. (Sometimes there will only be an A and B story; other times there may be a D and an E. But you get the idea.)
This is where the beat sheet becomes essential! Laying out each of the script’s main story actions lets you know when you’ve abandoned the B and C stories for too long.
Back to Phyllis’ wedding. Let’s say this episode has three main storylines, which we'll label A, B, and C:
A: Phyliss is getting married -- we’ll see the preparations, the ceremony, and the celebratory party after.
B: As the stand-in “father of the bride,” Michael tries to make the day all about him.
C: Pam’s day is miserable -- Phyllis stole all her wedding ideas, and Jim is happy with his date, Karen. Her misery leads her back into a relationship with Roy.
Each story will have its own Act One, Act Two, and Act Three beats. Making sure each story plays out all of its required ‘beats’ ensures a funny show that also works to build suspense and develop characters.