Pacing Analysis Skill

Analyze the pacing of your manuscript to identify sections that may be too slow or too fast.

Usage

/pacing-analysis --chapter 3
/pacing-analysis --all

Metrics Analyzed

• Scene Length: Word count per section
• Dialogue Density: Percentage of dialogue vs narration
• Action Verbs: Frequency of active vs passive voice
• Sentence Variety: Length and structure patterns
• Paragraph Rhythm: Short vs long paragraph balance

Pacing Types

Fast Pacing

• Short sentences
• High dialogue ratio
• Active verbs
• Brief descriptions
• Quick scene changes

Use For: Action, climax, tension

Medium Pacing

• Varied sentence length
• Balanced dialogue/narration
• Mix of active/descriptive
• Standard paragraphs

Use For: Development, revelation, transition

Slow Pacing

• Longer sentences
• Detailed description
• Internal monologue
• Extended paragraphs
• Deep reflection

Use For: Setup, backstory, atmosphere

Analysis Output

PACING REPORT - Chapter 3

Section 3.1: SLOW (2,450 words, 12% dialogue)
- Recommendation: Tighten exposition, add action beats

Section 3.2: FAST (850 words, 68% dialogue)
- Recommendation: Good for confrontation scene

Section 3.3: SLOW (2,100 words, 5% dialogue)
- Recommendation: Consider breaking into smaller scenes

Overall Chapter Pacing: Uneven
- Start: Too slow (lose reader momentum)
- Middle: Well-paced action
- End: Drags (needs sharper conclusion)

Suggestions:
- Cut 600 words from Section 3.1 opening
- Add tension earlier in chapter
- Sharpen ending of Section 3.3