A plot is probably the most important part of a story. It is the actual story. Good characters can only redeem a poor plot so much.
A plot all begins with an idea. Where these ideas come from I'm not sure. Maybe we all have our personal muse looking out for us. Mine sure has a strange sense of humor.
I find it hard to explain how an idea turns into a plot. I organize my story in my head so I know what is coming or just start writing and see where it goes. Some people write everything out before they start the actual story.
This site shows how to create a plot outline.http://www.how-to-write-a-book-now.com/plot-outline.html
When I write a story I make sure that the character and therefore the reader sees hints of what is coming. As the tension develops in the story, so does the plot. When I write I don't really concentrate on all of the parts that make up a plot. I go back through before I'm finished making sure my plot makes sense.
A conclusion has to wrap things up satisfactorily. It doesn't matter as much how many pages it takes as long as the story seems over. There is a delicate balance between leaving the reader wanting more and leaving them feeling cheated.
How do you develop a plot? Do you write out a whole summary or do you only know the basics before you start a story?
Nice post! I usually start with a general premise and some characters. Then I find that my characters will provide the rest of the plot, fleshing out the gaps with backstory and motivations. My characters create the plot, which I'm grateful for :) Good luck with your writing!
ReplyDeleteMy characters seem to have minds of their own deciding where the story will go. Thank you. Good luck with your writing as well.
ReplyDelete