I’m a writer blog

Guidelines for writing Poems, Stories and Tales

Can I have scenes that aren’t directly related to the main plot but strengthen the relationship between two characters (which is a subplot)?

Asked by: Brock Lambert

Yes, absolutely. Every scene should advance something, but that includes the main plot,sub plot, characterizations, explanations of setting, etc. Sometimes these are inter-linked, and a single scene can do work on multiple things at once.

What is main plot and subplot?

In simple terms, a plot is a sequence of connected events that are bound together by cause and effort. The subplot is a side story that exists within the main plot. The subplot is connected to the main story but never overpowers it.

Can a book have 2 plots?

Weaving several plot lines through a story creates a multilevel narrative arc. A story with just a main plot can come off as flat, but a story with subplots in addition to the main plot has complexity and depth. This makes the story more engaging for readers. Subplots intensify the conflict.

What are some examples of subplots?

A classic example would be a villain capturing a love interest, the protagonist further motivated to defeat this villain as the stakes have become personal (if they weren’t already). In a drama, a romantic/love interest subplot might raise the stakes for the protagonist, providing a barometer for their actions.

What are the 5 parts of a story structure?

A story has five basic but important elements. These five components are: the characters, the setting, the plot, the conflict, and the resolution.

How many subplots is too many?

Unless you’re a master writer, you shouldn’t use more than 2 subplots to your main one.

How do you plot a story with multiple main characters?

How to Successfully Feature Multiple Main Characters

  1. Think Reader-First. You want nothing to stand in the way of the reader’s experience. …
  2. Make Your POV Characters Distinct. In subsequent books in the Left Behind series, I used as many as five different perspective characters for one novel. …
  3. Choose Carefully.


How do you write a 8th grade book report?

The genre and the number of pages. Include biographical information about the author that helps explain the book. Step 4 summarize the book in the next paragraph. Give a brief overlook of the plot.

What are the different types of plots?

7 Types of Plots

  • Tragedy. In a tragedy, your main character should undergo a major change of fortune — almost always from good to bad, happy to sad. …
  • Comedy. …
  • Hero’s Journey. …
  • Rags to Riches. …
  • Rebirth. …
  • Overcoming the Monster. …
  • Voyage and Return.


What makes a good book?

Sharp dialogue: Good books are filled with sharp, memorable dialogue. Bestsellers contain dialogue that advances the plot, demonstrates your characters’ personalities, and adds texture to the world of your story.



How do you describe reading?

“Reading” is the process of looking at a series of written symbols and getting meaning from them. When we read, we use our eyes to receive written symbols (letters, punctuation marks and spaces) and we use our brain to convert them into words, sentences and paragraphs that communicate something to us.

What do you mean by a book?

Definition of book. noun. a handwritten or printed work of fiction or nonfiction, usually on sheets of paper fastened or bound together within covers.

What makes a good childrens book?

Here are some criteria for writing a good children’s book:



The story is easy to follow for your chosen age-range. The illustrations are high-quality and professional. It’s relatable to a wide range of children. It can entertain adults at the same time.

How do I self publish my book?

Self-publishing a book is done with these steps:

  1. Write a book you’re proud of.
  2. Decide which self-publishing platform to use.
  3. Get your book edited, a cover designed, and it formatted.
  4. Upload your manuscript and accompanying assets.
  5. Hit “Publish” when you’re ready.
  6. Your book is self-published!




How can I publish a book?

Here’s the simple step-by-step process to publish a book:

  1. Choose a publishing route.
  2. Edit the draft.
  3. Get feedback from editors and critique circles.
  4. Title your manuscript.
  5. Format your book for publication.
  6. Design a book cover that converts readers.
  7. Write a ‘publisher-ready’ book description.
  8. Create a book launch plan.