Every writer has been there – you’re plugging along on your novel, everything’s going great… and then you realize that your plot has gone off the rails. Maybe a character’s actions no longer make sense, or perhaps you’ve written yourself into a corner with no clear way out. Don’t panic! A broken plot isn’t the end of the world. With a little creativity and some tough love, you can fix that plot and get your story back on track.

Step 1: Identify the Problem

Before you can fix the plot you need to know what’s broken. Take a step back from your manuscript and try to pinpoint where things started going south. Is it a particular scene, a character’s motivations, or the overall story arc? Be ruthless – if something’s not working, it’s better to know now than further down the road.

Step 2: Brainstorm Solutions

Once you’ve identified the problem, it’s time to brainstorm. Don’t censor yourself at this stage – no idea is too silly or outrageous. Write down everything that could potentially fix your plot, no matter how improbable it seems. You can refine these ideas later.

Step 3: Choose Your Solution

Now it’s time to get practical. Look over your list of potential solutions and pick the one (or ones) that will work best for your story. Consider what will have the greatest impact on your plot while still being true to your characters and the world you’ve created. Remember, this might involve cutting scenes or characters that you love – but if it serves the story, it’s worth it.

Step 4: Revise, Revise, Revise

With your solution in hand, it’s time to get to work. This might involve reworking a few key scenes, or it might mean tearing your manuscript apart and putting it back together again. Don’t be afraid to make big changes – that’s what revisions are for. And remember, it’s okay if your first draft is bad. That’s what editing is for.

Step 5: Get Feedback

Once you’ve revised, it’s time to get feedback. Let other writers read your work and tell you what they think. Do things make sense now? Are there still holes in the plot? Listen to what they have to say and be open to making more changes. Your beta readers are your best resource for catching any remaining problems.

Fixing a broken plot isn’t fun, but it’s a normal part of the writing process. With patience, creativity, and a willingness to make tough changes, you can take a story that’s gone off the rails and turn it back into a compelling narrative that will keep readers hooked until the very end.

Now that you’ve got a way out of that paperbag you’ve been in—get back to those darn keys and get busy! Thank you for your continued readership and support. Until next week…Blessings and Peace!

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