How do I choose a plot?
Choosing a plot for a story, novel, screenplay, or even a short piece of content is one of the most critical decisions a writer can make. A plot is the foundation upon which characters act, themes unfold, and emotions are evoked. It guides the narrative journey from beginning to end and serves as the skeleton of the story’s structure. Choosing the right plot doesn’t mean picking something complex or overly dramatic—it means selecting a concept that aligns with your characters, themes, and the message you want to deliver.
Understanding the Importance of a Plot
A good plot is not just a sequence of events. It is a carefully woven thread of cause and effect that creates tension, conflict, and ultimately resolution. Readers or viewers engage with stories that take them on a journey—whether it’s emotional, intellectual, or physical. Therefore, the process of choosing a plot begins with understanding what you want to say and how you want to make your audience feel.
Before you choose a plot, ask yourself: what do I want this story to be about? It could be a universal theme like love, revenge, freedom, redemption, or survival. The theme will guide the overall direction of your plot. For example, if you want to explore the theme of identity, your plot might involve a character discovering secrets about their past.
Often, characters can lead the way to the plot. Think about your protagonist: what do they want, what are they afraid of, and what do they need to overcome? A strong plot often grows from character desires and flaws. If your character is ambitious but insecure, your plot might revolve around them facing high-stakes challenges that test their self-worth.
The genre you choose will also influence your plot. A romance plot is very different from a mystery or a science fiction adventure. Genres come with certain expectations—romances usually involve two characters falling in love, while mysteries involve uncovering the truth. Use the conventions of your genre to build a compelling plot.
Conflict is the heart of any plot. It can be internal (within the character) or external (against other characters, society, nature, etc.). What obstacle is in the way of your protagonist’s goal? The bigger and more personal the conflict, the more compelling the story becomes.
The most classic structure is the three-act structure:
Act I (Setup): Introduce characters, setting, and the main conflict.
Act II (Confrontation): The protagonist faces challenges, learns, and grows.
Act III (Resolution): The conflict reaches a climax and is resolved.
You can also explore alternative structures like non-linear timelines or circular narratives, depending on your creative goals.
Before committing, test your plot idea. Summarize it in one or two sentences. Ask yourself: is this exciting? Does it raise questions or promise surprises? You can also outline the major beats or twists to see if the plot naturally builds tension and drives the story forward.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a plot is not about finding the most original idea in the world—it’s about finding the right structure to tell the story you care about. Many great stories share similar plots, but what makes them stand out is the execution: the characters, the dialogue, the setting, and the emotional depth. So, trust your instincts, let your characters lead, and above all, ensure your plot serves the heart of your story.