This blog post outlines the essential elements of plotting a novel, emphasizing the importance of a clear protagonist objective, establishing stakes, and creating obstacles. It provides a structured approach to help writers develop compelling plots and includes a practical exercise to apply these concepts.
Many writers struggle with plotting, which is simply how you get your characters from point A to point B and beyond. An intriguing and swiftly moving plot can mean the difference between a reader eagerly turning pages and one who puts the book down after a few chapters. Therefore, learning how to plot successfully is a critical skill for any aspiring author.
There are numerous resources available to help writers learn different plotting methodologies, including webinars, courses, worksheets, and books. Some novelists swear by specific methods, such as the Save the Cat method, while others prefer a more organic approach, often referred to as "pantsing," where the story unfolds as they write. Regardless of your approach, understanding the essential elements of plot is crucial.
To simplify the concept of plot, we will break it down into three core elements: the protagonist's objectives, the stakes involved, and the obstacles they face. Understanding how these elements work together will help you create a compelling and engaging story.
The first essential element of plotting is to clearly identify your protagonist's objectives. Your protagonist needs to want something and actively seek to achieve a goal from the very beginning of your story. While their objectives may evolve throughout the narrative, having a clear goal is vital for reader engagement.
A well-defined objective acts as the "north star" of your story, guiding both the character and the reader. If the protagonist's desires are vague, such as wanting to be happy, it becomes challenging for readers to connect with them. Instead, aim for specificity. For example, rather than stating that the main character wants to find love, specify that they want to go on a date with a particular character. This clarity allows readers to track the protagonist's journey and investment in their success.
Once you have identified the protagonist's objective, the next step is to establish the stakes surrounding their pursuit. This involves determining what the protagonist stands to gain or lose by achieving their goal. Consider questions like:
If the stakes are too low or unclear, readers may disengage from the story. For instance, if the protagonist's objective is to go on a date, explore why that date is significant. Perhaps they fear social ridicule for being the only one in their group without a romantic partner. Understanding the stakes adds depth to the character's journey and enhances reader investment.
The final key element of plot is to introduce obstacles that hinder the protagonist's progress toward their objective. These obstacles create narrative tension and keep the story engaging. Without conflict, the plot can lose momentum, leading to reader boredom.
Obstacles can take many forms, including physical challenges, antagonistic characters, or internal struggles within the protagonist. It is essential that these obstacles feel realistic and appropriate for the story's context. For example, in a contemporary novel, an alien spaceship appearing would likely disrupt the narrative's believability.
While there is no set number of obstacles required, at least one must exist for each objective the protagonist pursues. This ensures that the character must work for their goals, making their journey more satisfying for readers.
To help you integrate these elements into your own story, try this sentence template:
Character wants [objective] because [stakes] but [obstacle] is getting in their way.
For example:
"Jill wants to go on a date with Jack because she wants to fit in with her social circle since all her friends have boyfriends, but her fear of rejection is getting in her way."
This exercise allows you to see how objectives, stakes, and obstacles work together to create a cohesive plot summary.
Understanding the essential elements of plot—objectives, stakes, and obstacles—can significantly enhance your storytelling. By ensuring that your protagonist has a clear goal, establishing meaningful stakes, and creating realistic obstacles, you can craft a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged.
Feel free to share your plotting strategies or the results of the exercise in the comments. If you're concerned about the effectiveness of your plot, consider exploring additional resources on plotting techniques. Happy writing!
