Plot vs. Character: Which Drives Your Story?

Have you ever wondered what makes a great story? Is it the plot or the characters that capture your attention and keep you engaged? Well, the answer is both. But the balance between character and plot can make or break a story.

There are two types of narratives: character-driven and plot-driven. A character-driven story focuses on the development of the characters, their growth and change, and their interactions. In contrast, a plot-driven story is structured around a sequence of events that drive the story forward.

“Blue pill or the red pill” by pinkangelbabe

Choosing the Right Narrative

So, how do you choose which narrative to use? Here are some specific tips to help you decide:

Consider your story’s genre.

Different genres lend themselves to different types of narratives. For example, romance stories often focus on character development and relationships, while thrillers are usually plot-driven.

Think about the story you want to tell.

What is the core of your story? Is it the journey of your character, or the events that happen to them? Knowing this can help you decide which narrative will best serve your story.

Consider your target audience.

Who are you writing for? What type of story will they most enjoy? Knowing your audience can help you tailor your narrative to their preferences.

Look at successful examples.

Read books or watch movies in your genre that have been successful. Pay attention to the narrative structure and the balance between plot and character. This can give you a good idea of what works and what doesn’t.

Strike a Balance — “balance scale” by winnifredxoxo

Balancing Character and Plot

The truth is that both character and plot are essential elements of a great story. But how do you balance them? The key is to create well-rounded characters that are integral to the plot. The actions of the characters should drive the plot forward, and the events of the plot should shape the character’s development.

To balance character development with plot progression, start by creating a clear outline of your story’s plot. This will help you structure your story and keep it moving forward. Next, spend time developing your characters. Create detailed character profiles that include their backstory, motivations, and flaws. This will make your characters feel like real people that readers can relate to.

Once you have your characters and plot outlined, let your characters make decisions that shape the narrative. Allow them to grow and change over the course of the story. This will make the story feel more authentic and emotionally engaging.

Frequently Asked Questions About Character-Driven vs. Plot-Driven Narratives

Absolutely! In fact, many great stories are a balance of both. A well-rounded character can drive the plot forward by creating conflict and making the story feel more authentic.

It all depends on the type of story you want to tell. If you’re writing a story about a character’s journey, their inner struggles and personal growth, then a character-driven narrative is the way to go. If you’re writing a thriller or action-packed story, a plot-driven narrative may be more appropriate.

To create well-rounded characters, start by developing their backstory, motivations, and flaws. Make them feel like real people that readers can relate to. Allow your characters to grow and change over the course of the story, and let their actions drive the plot forward.

For more information about building characters, check out my article on building character backstories.

Final Thoughts on Character-Driven vs. Plot-Driven Narratives

Overall, choosing the right narrative for your story depends on the type of story you want to tell. A character-driven narrative is great for exploring inner struggles and personal growth, while a plot-driven narrative is perfect for creating tension and suspense. But to create a great story, you need to balance character development with plot progression. With a clear plot outline and well-rounded characters, you

Plot vs. Character: Which Drives Your Story?