What Does "Do It for the Plot" Mean and How to Use It

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Everything you need to know about this Gen Z phrase

Co-authored by Raven Minyard, BA Reviewed by Anyah Le Gilmore-Jones

Last Updated: May 20, 2024 Fact Checked

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Do It for the Plot Meaning

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Using the Phrase

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How to Do It for the Plot

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Phrase Origins

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Tips

“Do it for the plot” is Gen Z slang for doing something solely for the experience—and sometimes the drama. The phrase first gained popularity on TikTok in 2021 and has since spread across social media and into everyday use. In this article, we’ll teach you what “Do it for the plot” means, its origins, how to use the phrase, and how to do it for the plot in your own life.

What does “do it for the plot” mean?

When you "do it for the plot," you’re doing something for the drama and excitement it adds to your life (regardless of the end result). The idea is that when you do something irresponsible or regrettable, it can still make your life more interesting and the "plot" more exciting. Having a "do it for the plot" mindset can help you get out of your comfort zone—and stop worrying so much about mistakes.

Section 1 of 4:

Do It for the Plot Meaning

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When you “do it for the plot,” you're doing something for the excitement. This Gen Z slang yourself as the main character in your life and to do things that are exciting, memorable, and great material for amazing stories. This can help people do things that are riskier, but more fun and character-building.^{[1]
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- The idea is that, even if you do something that has some kind of negative result (maybe it makes you sad, or maybe it's a little embarrassing), you can stop feeling guilty or regretful: because you didn't do it for the outcome. You do it for the plot!
- You may do something for the plot if you just want to add drama to your life. For example, going on blind dates that you know won’t end in a relationship.
- The phrase can also be used for once-in-a-lifetime experiences. If you randomly decide to go skydiving one day, you’re doing it for the plot.
- Think of it as the Gen Z version of “YOLO.”

Section 2 of 4:

Using Do It for the Plot Online

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Talk about doing something that scared you. One of the best ways to do it for the plot is to try something out of your comfort zone. If you did something that scared you and it worked out in your favor (or even if it didn’t), tell everyone about your experience. Here are some examples:^{[2]
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- “I was really nervous to talk to the pretty girl at the bar, but I did it for the plot and ended up getting her number!”
- “I’ve never gone to a concert alone before, but all my friends are busy, so I’m going to do it for the plot.”
- “I decided to move abroad to France. I’m really nervous, but I’m doing it for the plot.”
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Laugh about your dating life. Many people on social media talk about dating “for the plot.” In this case, they’re not dating to try to find a lifelong partner, but instead to have fun and meet new, interesting people. If you’ve gone on some wacky dates, tell everyone how you did it for the plot. Here are some examples:^{[3]
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- “This guy I matched with on Tinder wants to take me to a heavy metal concert. I’m not into that kind of music, but I’m doing it for the plot.”
- “I decided to date for the plot and met a girl who plays the bagpipes. You never know who you’ll meet!”
- “The date I went on didn’t go very well, but at least I did it for the plot.”
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Use it as an excuse to do something reckless. While it’s probably not a good idea to do something dangerous just for the plot, many people use the phrase when they want to do something dumb or that they know won’t work out well in the end. Here are some examples:^{[4]
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- “I knew it wasn’t a good idea to go to the bar last night, but I did it for the plot.”
- “I decided to go bungee jumping even though I’m terrified of heights. Is it crazy? Yes, but I’m doing it for the plot.”
- “I’m really bored, so I’m about to text my ex just to do it for the plot.”

Section 3 of 4:

How to Do It for the Plot

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Remember, you’re the main character in your life, and you can’t advance your plot if you’re stuck in a rut. If someone invites you to something that’s out of your comfort zone, do it anyway! You may end up having a blast, and even if you don’t, at least you did it for the plot.^{[5]
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Adding new characters is a great way to advance the plot. Even if you aren’t looking for a relationship, try online dating or going on blind dates to meet new, interesting people. Talk to people when you’re out shopping or at events. Even if you don’t find lifelong friends in the process, you may meet someone so fascinating that you’re sure to think of them for years to come.^{[6]
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If you feel like your life has gotten dull, seeing new sights can help you remember how much there is to explore. If you want to do it for the plot, go on a spontaneous road trip, either alone or with some friends. Or, if you’re feeling really adventurous, get a fresh start and move to a new city, state, or even a new country. This way, there will be plenty of new side plots for you to discover.

Section 4 of 4:

Do It for the Plot Origins

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The phrase was popularized by TikToker Serena Kerrigan in 2021. While Kerrigan may not have been the first person to ever say “Do it for the plot,” her July 2021 TikTok video about doing it for the plot went viral. She went on to post more videos using the phrase, and other users across TikTok and other social media began using it as well.^{[7]
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- In her first viral “Do it for the plot” video, Kerrigan says, “This is your reminder that if something works out, great, and if it doesn’t, it’s for the plot.”
- The phrase continued to gain popularity throughout 2022 and 2023, with some popular videos gaining over 3 million views in just a few weeks.
- On August 15, 2022, “Do it for the plot” was added to Urban Dictionary.

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Tips

Even when doing it for the plot, remember to use your best judgment. Don’t do anything you’re actually uncomfortable with or that may put you in danger.

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