How to Avoid Plot Holes
What is a plot hole?
A plot hole is an inconsistency in a story made by the writer. It's something that contradicts what was already established with no explanation. For example, a character acts one way but radically changes without a logical explanation. Another example is that your magic system works one way and you later contradict what was previously established.
Sometimes plot holes are an easy fix. Other times they require close examination. Plot holes can feel like going down a rabbit hole, and it can become a daunting task to find a solution without messing up the rest of the story. So, how do you avoid plot holes? Here are some suggestions.
How to Avoid Plot Holes
Plan
Plan everything that will take place from the series of events to the transformation of the character’s development. You can make a plan by outlining, jotting down ideas on a whiteboard, talking through the story to yourself or with someone else, or using notecards to organize the story’s layout.
Know Your Characters
Get to know your characters inside and out to avoid inconsistencies. Create character profiles including their appearances from eye color, hair color, wardrobe, etcetera. Make notes about the characters and their personalities, how they speak, what they value, what they like and dislike, their strengths and weaknesses, and their flaws and desires.
Know the Setting
Solidify the setting and do your research. Ask yourself questions about the who, when, where, and why. Consider the environment. What’s the weather like and how often does it change? How do you envision the geography and how will you describe it? What are the cultures and social norms of the characters? How do the characters dress? What languages do they speak? What does daily life look like?
Not all of this information may be necessary for the reader to know, but for you as the writer, it can be helpful to have answers to these questions should you get stuck in the writing process or run into any issues about logistics, especially if the world you’re creating is a fictitious one.
Get Feedback
Talk about your story with someone you trust and someone who understands the craft of storytelling. And, when you feel ready, let them read the finished draft as well. The key ingredient is to encourage them to ask questions and let them challenge you. Listen to what they have to say and don’t get defensive. Having the perspective of an outsider who is not as closely involved with writing the story as you are can be a valuable tool to evaluate any possible inconsistencies you may have missed.
Conclusion
I hope these suggestions have helped give you ideas on how to avoid plot holes and develop your story. In my experience, even with extensive planning, plot holes still appear while I’m writing a draft. I’ve come to believe there isn’t a true escape from plot holes, but planning can help minimize them. If you have any additional suggestions on how to avoid plot holes, I’m open to ideas and would love it if you left them in the comments. Good luck on your writing journey!
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