Tag Archives: Writing

Plot Writing

AspectGood PracticesBad Practices
Plot Structures– Conflicts Resolved: Clear resolution pathways– Idiot Plot: Illogical choices (e.g., Prometheus)
– Escalating Stakes: Build tension with rising challenges– Scatterbrained Plot: Too many sidelines/villains, coincidences
– External/Internal Parallel: Reflect inner journey externally– Bare Bones Plot: Over-simplified and lacks depth
– Moral Dilemmas: Characters face complex, tough choices– Soulless Plot: Uninspired, just revives old characters (e.g., Wolverine)
– Subverted Expectations: Twist familiar tropes unexpectedly– Plot-Driving Dialogue: Exists only to push the plot
– Character Growth: Protagonist undergoes significant change– Job Resume Dialogue: Rehearsed, unnatural conversation
– Layered Mysteries: Multiple mysteries unravel slowly– Broken Banter: Tries too hard to be cute, confusing
– Symbolic Elements: Symbols gain meaning as the story progresses– Lazy Insults: Weak, undermines character credibility
Dialogues– Situation-Appropriate: Fit the context, attack and defend– Cliché Lines: Predictable, unoriginal
– Playful Banter: Poke fun at clichés– Cliché Lines: Predictable, unoriginal
– Subtext: Dialogue has layers of meaning– Braindead Replies: Characters say what’s expected
– Witty Repartee: Sharp, quick-witted exchanges– Lazy Insults: Weak, undermines character credibility
– Character Voice: Distinct speech reflecting personality– Broken Banter: Tries too hard to be cute, confusing
– Tension-Building: Dialogue escalates conflict subtly– Soulless Plot: Uninspired, just revives old characters (e.g., Wolverine)
– Emotional Resonance: Dialogue that deeply connects with the audience– Broken Banter: Tries too hard to be cute, confusing