For more detailed advice please see our StorytrackS Guides

Developing a plot is something most authors find difficult. It does become easier with practice!

Plots or stories usually arise from the development or revelation of character. If you have the right characters in the right situations, they will help to determine the plot. So ask yourself what different characters would do in different situations, and also ask what the consequences of different courses of action would be.

It's always a good plan to write about people with whom you can identify - people who you can be, as opposed to people you are observing. Readers like to identify with heroes and heroines.

Children love the Harry Potter books because, as they read, they become Harry. Adult readers become Pip in Great Expectations, or Jane in Jane Eyre.

A well presented typescript puts a busy editor or agent on your side straight away. So always set out your work in double spacing, with wide margins, and use a large, clear typeface - 12 point Times Roman or Bookman are good choices. Indent your paragraphs - do not leave extra lines between them.