The ABT (And, But, Therefore) Framework is a powerful tool developed by scientist-turned-filmmaker Randy Olson to create engaging narratives. It follows the natural human tendency to process information through conflict and resolution. This framework helps transform complex information into compelling stories by establishing a setup, introducing a problem, and providing a resolution.
10min
Storytelling
PresentationsPitchesCase StudiesPersonal Stories
Framework Steps
"
And (Setup)
Establish the context and background information by connecting related elements of your story.
Key Points
•Introduce relevant background information
•Create a stable initial situation
•Build context through connected ideas
Key Sentence Structures
We have [situation A] and [situation B]...
Our team focuses on [aspect X] and [aspect Y]...
The market shows [trend A] and [trend B]...
"
But (Problem/Conflict)
Introduce the central conflict, challenge, or problem that disrupts the initial situation.
Key Points
•Present a clear and compelling conflict
•Create tension through contrast
•Highlight the stakes involved
Key Sentence Structures
But then [problem/challenge] emerged...
But we discovered that [unexpected situation]...
But the market suddenly [challenging change]...
"
Therefore (Resolution)
Present the solution or resolution that addresses the conflict and brings about change.
Key Points
•Provide a clear resolution
•Show the transformation or change
•End with impact
Key Sentence Structures
Therefore, we developed [solution]...
Therefore, our team implemented [action]...
Therefore, this led to [positive outcome]...
Practice Guide
1. Content Preparation
•Identify your core message or main point
•List key elements of your initial situation
•Define your central conflict clearly
•Plan your resolution and its impact
2. Key Points of Expression
And (Setup) 25%But (Problem/Conflict) 37.5%Therefore (Resolution) 37.5%
•Use clear transition words (and, but, therefore) to signal each part
•Maintain a clear through-line from setup to resolution
•Keep your language concise and impactful
•End with a strong conclusion that reinforces the transformation
3. Practice Methods
1
Record your story using the app's practice mode
2
Review the AI feedback on your transition clarity
3
Analyze your timing distribution across sections
4
Refine based on the framework's checkpoints
Key Inspection Points
Clear transitions
Balanced timing
Conflict clarity
Resolution impact
Example Analysis
Product Launch Story
Basic Case
And (Setup)
Our team has strong technical expertise and market understanding, and we've been developing innovative solutions in the mobile payment space.
But (Problem/Conflict)
But we discovered that existing solutions were too complex for small businesses, causing them to lose potential sales.
Therefore (Resolution)
Therefore, we developed SimpleSwipe, a one-tap payment solution that has increased small business transactions by 40% in our pilot program.
Highlight Analysis
Clear progression from setup to solution
Specific problem identification
Quantifiable impact in resolution
Concise yet complete narrative
Career Transition Story
Advanced Case
And (Setup)
I had a successful career in traditional marketing and was consistently achieving my targets in traditional campaign strategies.
But (Problem/Conflict)
But I noticed that consumer behavior was rapidly shifting toward digital platforms, and traditional methods were becoming less effective.
Therefore (Resolution)
Therefore, I invested in digital marketing certification, led three successful digital campaigns, and increased our client engagement by 200% through integrated marketing approaches.