051 - How to Plot Your Next Novel

Hey! Plotting is where the magic happens.

Mentioned in the pod were my 5 points to note during plotting - see below the links.

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Five Plotting Points to help Guide You:

1. Conflict and stakes

Identify the main conflict that drives your story forward

Ensure the stakes are high enough to keep readers engaged

Consider both external conflicts (between characters or characters and their environment) and internal conflicts (within the characters themselves)

2. Character arcs

Develop your main characters' journeys throughout the story

Ensure each main character has a clear goal, motivation, and potential for change

Consider how the plot events will affect and change your characters

3. Pacing and structure

Decide on the right structure for your story (e.g., three-act structure, hero's journey)

Balance action, dialogue, and description to maintain a good pace

Consider the timing of key events, revelations, and twists to keep readers engaged

4. Causality and coherence

Ensure that plot events have a cause-and-effect relationship

Avoid coincidences or deus ex machina solutions

Make sure all subplots and character arcs are coherently tied to the main plot

5. Theme and message

DO NOT WORRY ABOUT THEME IN FIRST DRAFT

Consider the overarching theme or message you want to convey through your story

Ensure that your plot, character arcs, and conflicts all reinforce this central theme

Avoid being too heavy-handed or preachy in your message delivery