051 - How to Plot Your Next Novel

There's no correct way to plot, but here are our suggestions.

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