Simple Plot Tips

I like reading fiction as well as writing. I’ve spent a lot of time reading amateur fiction, fan fiction, and other serial formats over the years, since my favorite authors can’t write as fast as I read. Taking years to get a story complete has driven me away from many “main-stream” authors. Twenty-plus years to bring a story home may be good for the author, but it is frustrating as a reader. Hence, I’ve migrated much of my casual reading to the virtual “slush pile” of writing easily discoverable on the internet.

One of my disappointing observations is that many casual authors don’t understand that Plot is a verb. Plot implies action that moves the story forward. I sometimes find myself slipping into this trap, focusing on neat ideas or details that don’t actually move the story forward. It’s easy for us to rationalize this as authors, but my experience as a reader is that once the plot stagnates, I’m not that interested in continuing to read.

In addition to thinking about the Hero’s Journey, here are a few simple tips I try to keep in mind as I’m writing, and specifically when I need to move the plot forward in the story:

1. Conflict is Key:

Introduce a central conflict that drives the story forward. This could be a personal struggle, an external threat, or a moral dilemma. Engaging plots often revolve around characters trying to overcome obstacles, whether internal or external.

2. Character Development:

Invest time in developing well-rounded and relatable characters. Readers connect with characters who have depth, flaws, and desires. Make your protagonists face challenges that force them to grow and evolve throughout the story.

3. Twists and Turns:

Keep your readers on their toes by incorporating unexpected twists and turns in the plot. Subvert expectations, introduce surprising revelations, or challenge the status quo. This helps maintain intrigue and prevents predictability.

4. Pacing is Crucial:

Pay attention to the pacing of your story. Balancing moments of tension with moments of reflection or revelation can create a dynamic narrative. Don’t rush through important scenes, and ensure there’s a natural flow to maintain reader engagement.

5. Show, Don’t Tell:

Instead of simply stating events, use descriptive language to immerse readers in the story. Show the emotions, actions, and consequences. Let readers experience the plot through the characters’ perspectives, making the narrative more vivid and engaging.

Remember, these tips are starting points, and every writer has a unique style. Experiment with different approaches, and find what works best for your storytelling.