Elena Smith asked Ruta Sepetys:

Hello Ruta, I'm a high school student who enjoys writing some of her own stories, however I still make mistakes. I'm considering minoring in creative writing in college, just to see how it goes. Salt to the Sea became my favorite book ever, even after I gave myself a few days to be sure. My question for you is what system do you use to organize the characters and other details to prevent errors or plot holes?

Ruta Sepetys Hi Elena!

So glad you enjoyed "Salt to the Sea!"
In terms of your question, below is a series of questions I ask myself when I'm building characters and a plot. Hope this is helpful!

1.) Inciting Incident

What event sets the plot into motion?

2.) The Prize

What is it your character wants?

3.) The Strategy

What does your character decide to do in order to get what he/she wants?

4.) The Conflict

Who are some of the people who are working against your character?

5.) The Stakes

What will be the consequence if the plan does not work?

6.) The Bleakest Moment

What happens to make things look hopeless?

7.) The Lesson

What does your character learn about himself/herself, others or life?

8.) The Decision

What does your character do because of what he/she has learned?

9.) The Hole

In what way does your character need to grow emotionally? (Although probably unknown to him/her)

10.) The Back Story

What is it that is haunting your character as the story begins?

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