A Goodreads user
asked
Ruta Sepetys:
Do you have any advice for young writers relating to how to make plot/conflict realistic, new/unique, relatable, interesting, etc?
Ruta Sepetys
Hello Bryce!
Thanks for your question!
When I'm building a plot, I use the following ten questions to help make it realistic and compelling. Hope you find these helpful! :)
1.) Inciting Incident
What event sets the plot into motion?
2.) The Prize
What is it your character wants?
3.) The Strategy
What does your character decide to do in order to get what he/she wants?
4.) The Conflict
Who are some of the people who are working against your character?
5.) The Stakes
What will be the consequence if the plan does not work?
6.) The Bleakest Moment
What happens to make things look hopeless?
7.) The Lesson
What does your character learn about himself/herself, others or life?
8.) The Decision
What does your character do because of what he/she has learned?
9.) The Hole
In what way does your character need to grow emotionally? (Although probably unknown to him/her)
10.) The Back Story
What is it that is haunting your character as the story begins?
Thanks for your question!
When I'm building a plot, I use the following ten questions to help make it realistic and compelling. Hope you find these helpful! :)
1.) Inciting Incident
What event sets the plot into motion?
2.) The Prize
What is it your character wants?
3.) The Strategy
What does your character decide to do in order to get what he/she wants?
4.) The Conflict
Who are some of the people who are working against your character?
5.) The Stakes
What will be the consequence if the plan does not work?
6.) The Bleakest Moment
What happens to make things look hopeless?
7.) The Lesson
What does your character learn about himself/herself, others or life?
8.) The Decision
What does your character do because of what he/she has learned?
9.) The Hole
In what way does your character need to grow emotionally? (Although probably unknown to him/her)
10.) The Back Story
What is it that is haunting your character as the story begins?
More Answered Questions
About Goodreads Q&A
Ask and answer questions about books!
You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.
See Featured Authors Answering Questions
Learn more