The secret to page-turning fiction? Crafting irresistible scenes. Scenes are the building blocks that propel your story beat by beat. But creating mini-stories within your overall novel that truly captivate readers is an art.
Over many years and manuscripts, I’ve developed a handy checklist I review for each scene to ensure it pulls maximum weight. Here are 10 key questions to ask yourself:
1. Does this scene advance the plot?
Every scene should propel action and events forward. If not, be ruthless in cutting.
2. Does it reveal new information?
Scenes should unfold story details and clues. Raise new questions and mysteries.
3. Does it have an arc?
Give your scene a complete mini-narrative arc – intent, conflict, resolution, change. Satisfying in itself.
4. Does it show character development?
Characters should grow, learn, or change however subtly. No stagnancy.
5. Does it include telling action or dialogue?
Actions and dialogue should reveal character goals, motivations and inner obstacles. Show who they are.
6. Is it set in a vivid location?
Place your characters in tangible spaces that heighten the tension, mood and meaning.
7. Does it have meaningful conflict?
Conflict creates friction that engages readers. Push characters out of their comfort zones.
8. Does it change relationships?
Interactions should complicate ties between characters, for better or worse.
9. Is it relevant to the core story?
Excise scenes that distract or meander too far from central conflicts. Keep focus.
10. Does it end with a hook?
Close each scene on a cliffhanger, unanswered question or new revelation that spurs readers onward.
Run your scenes through questions like these to diagnose opportunities to tighten them up or dial up the drama. It’s amazing how scrutinizing flow, causality and conflict can clarify which scenes to expand or toss.
Here are a few other scene checklist questions:
– Is the characters’ motive for this scene clear?
– Does dialogue sound natural but also efficient?
– Could it be shortened or condensed without losing impact?
– Is the pacing dynamic, not dragging at any point?
– Does it transition smoothly into the next scene?
Vetting your scenes will strengthen your storycraft muscle and clarity of vision. Writing should feel intentional, not meandering. Let each moment pull the weight of advancing your overall story so readers stay glued to the pages.
What’s your process for creating compelling scenes? Share your insights! Let’s keep inspiring each other. Your masterpiece awaits.
Write on friends!
Angie
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