Writing a plot-driven story can be a daunting task for any writer. It requires a ton of creativity, attention to detail, and an understanding of how story structure and plot elements can be used to create an engaging narrative. In this article, I will cover the basics of how to write a plot-driven story, including tips on how to craft an interesting plot, develop characters, and find the perfect ending. We’ll also discuss common pitfalls and mistakes to avoid. Whether you’re a seasoned author or just getting started, this article will provide you with the tools and guidance you need to write an exciting and captivating plot-driven story. So continue reading for 5 essential tips for how to write plot-driven stories!
Outline Your Story
Outlining your plot-driven story can help you stay organized and focused on the main narrative arc. It allows you to map out the key events and plot points, ensuring that your story has a clear structure and direction. By outlining your story, you can also identify any potential plot holes or inconsistencies, which can be addressed before you begin writing. Ultimately, outlining can save you time and help you create a more cohesive and compelling story.
Center on External Conflict
External conflict is an essential element of any plot-driven story because it provides an interesting and engaging story arc. It helps to create tension and suspense and encourages the audience to keep reading or watching. External conflict is often the driving force behind a story, and it helps to propel the narrative forward. It involves a struggle between two forces, such as a character and a person, a character and an animal, or a character and an environment. This type of conflict can be physical, mental, or emotional, and it can help to establish stakes and create suspense. By focusing on external conflict, your story can become more exciting and dynamic, and your audience can become invested in the characters and their journey.
Raise the Stakes
It is very important to continually raise the stakes when writing a plot-driven story. Raising the stakes in plot-driven stories creates an exciting and engaging narrative. It helps to build tension and anticipation as the characters are faced with increasingly difficult challenges. By raising the stakes, readers are presented with a situation that is more important and dire than the one that came before. It allows the characters to grow and develop as they come up with solutions to the ever-increasing obstacles. Plus, it provides an incentive for the reader to keep reading, as they want to discover what is going to happen next. Raising the stakes in plot-driven stories creates an experience that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant.
Include Plot Twists
Plot twists can be incredibly effective tools if you are writing a plot-driven story. Plot twists can be used to create suspense, surprise, and intrigue, and can be used to add unexpected elements to the story. By introducing plot twists, you can add new layers to your story, and keep readers engaged and interested. Plot twists can also be used to introduce a sense of uncertainty into your story. By introducing unpredictable elements, readers are kept on their toes as they wonder what will happen next. This can help keep your story exciting and dynamic and can add a new level of complexity to the story. Plot twists can also be used to create a sense of tension and build up suspense. By introducing unexpected elements, you can create a heightened sense of anticipation and tension for readers. This is especially useful for stories with dramatic or suspenseful elements and can help keep readers invested in the story.
Keep Surprising the Reader
Related to the previous point, it is important to keep surprising your readers in a plot-driven story. Making sure readers remain surprised in plot-driven stories is important because it keeps the story engaging and suspenseful. It allows your readers to stay interested and become more invested in the story as they try to figure out what will happen next. Surprises can also add depth to the characters and help move the plot forward in unexpected ways. Plus, surprising readers will help create tension and raise the stakes, making your story more exciting and entertaining.
Plot-driven stories are quick, action-packed, and full of plot twists making them fun and engaging to read. Though they may be difficult to write, they aren't impossible! With the five tips listed above, you are sure to write an entertaining story that stays with readers long after the final page is flipped.