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What makes a good story plot?
How do you write a plot?
How do you make a good story?
What makes a story “good”? Why do some stories stay with us long after the book is closed, while others leave us feeling unsatisfied? We’ll guide you through everything you need to know about getting the most out of your own story, as well as some pitfalls to avoid.
Aug 19, 2021 · Below, you’ll see how story structure, story ideas, and backstory can all inform a good plot. Follow this guide to sharpen your creative writing skills and get better at crafting a good story plot.
Sep 30, 2022 · A story plot is the series of events through which a story’s character faces obstacles, culminating in the story’s conclusion. How does a plot work? A story plot moves the story’s action along by providing scenarios and obstacles for the characters to face.
- Lindsay Kramer
- Overview
- Outlining, Structure, & Worldbuilding
- Creating Unique Characters
- Adding Conflict & Style
- Plot Help
Plotting a narrative can be one of the most rewarding tasks for writers…but where do you begin? A good plot is well-structured, and bursting with conflict and character. In this article, we’ll offer you an expert guide on how to craft all three to make your story engaging from beginning to end. Whether it’s a novel, a script, or a short story, by the time you’re done reading, you’ll have plenty of tools to make your tale pop.
This article is based on an interview with our author and developmental editor, Lydia Stevens.
Check out the full interview here.
Begin plotting your story by writing down concepts you find interesting. These initial ideas can be detailed (two opposing samurai falling in love) or simple (a story about grief).
A good plot requires a relatable protagonist that reacts to situations organically. The best way to create a dynamic character is to give them clear goals and flaws.
Conflict adds tension to your plot. Place your characters in situations where they struggle and increase the difficulty as your story progresses.
Start with a simple, compelling premise and build from there.
by finding a concept you think is engaging. It can be big (dinosaurs destroying an island like in
) or small (men having a long talk about justice like in
Brainstorm your potential concepts by writing out ideas as they come to you. They can be in long sentences, loose words, or entire paragraphs. Just get them on the page; you’ll build and polish these concepts later.
Consider getting a notepad. The act of writing by hand can get your ideas flowing more freely.
You can find inspiration for concepts in books, music, paintings, or even people.
Set up your story’s characters with clear goals and motivations.
A good plot requires an interesting character to react organically. The more the audience feels like your character is behaving realistically, the more natural and engaging the story will be. The best way to create a dynamic character is to give them clear wants that suit their world and the tone of your story. Ask yourself the following questions to determine your character’s goals:
Does your character like attention or avoid it?
How big of a role does fear play in their day-to-day activities?
Does your character think they’re intelligent or dumb? How would they define these words?
Does your character prefer to leap into action or stay back and think?
Put your characters in story situations that invite conflict and difficulty.
Conflict is the struggle your characters must go through to create a satisfying plot. The harder you can make life for your main character throughout the story, the more engaged your audience will be. It can help to work backward. Think of your character’s worst nightmare. Then, slowly create a chain of events that sends them hurtling in that direction.
For example, if your character hates confrontation, find story beats that force them to debate and get into fights as often as possible. If your character is a control freak, strip them of power and force them to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to be mean to your characters! Relentlessness makes good storytelling.
Deepen your main plot with subplots.
How do I start writing a story?
If you want inspiration, look at some art or listen to music. This can surely help you develop settings, characters and dialogues. Getting in touch with yourself and going back to some childhood activities can also work.
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What are the qualities of a good plot?
Jul 6, 2021 · There are three elements to a good plot: challenge, conflict, and character. You can create them in any order; it’s really up to you and how you work. What matters is that you have all three—and give all three of them equal attention when you’re writing.
In this guide, we're going to talk about plot in literature. I'll share a broad definition of plot, then dive into the approach we use at The Write Practice (called The Write Structure), and finally you'll learn the six elements of plot that make stories entertaining and memorable.
Apr 10, 2022 · Content Manager and Indie Author. Whether it’s a short story, novel, or play, every type of story has the same basic elements. Today, we’re taking a look at the seven key elements of a story, as well as the five elements of plot. Knowing these essential elements will ensure that your story is well-developed and engaging. Contents:
