Know the purpose
Whether you write with an outline, or simply let the words flow without a plan, it's important to know the purpose of a scene. You need to ask yourself if this sentence, dialogue or paragraph advances the action or if it's only filler.
For discussion, let's say your story is a mystery. When you read it aloud do you find instances where your character rambles on about something completely unrelated to the plot? Does your protagonist have dialogue with the grocery store clerk that doesn't lead to the conclusion of the mystery? If two characters are driving is there a purpose in their destination?
You should ask yourself these questions. Why does the character say or do this? What will he/she gain by this action? How does my character accomplish his goal of resolving the mystery? Does this scene move the character closer towards a resolution?
If the answers are negative then you may need to review whether that piece can be removed. Even though it's tempting to have a scene which doesn't move the story forward, make sure it contributes in some way. Perhaps it gives a hint of back story or tells us about the character's motivation. The dialog with the clerk might tell us that the character has little money and has to put something back. It could show us that the character is easily swayed by impulse purchases.
If you know what you are trying to accomplish your scenes will carry more weight and move the plot towards the ultimate goal.
Happy trails,
Leslie
For discussion, let's say your story is a mystery. When you read it aloud do you find instances where your character rambles on about something completely unrelated to the plot? Does your protagonist have dialogue with the grocery store clerk that doesn't lead to the conclusion of the mystery? If two characters are driving is there a purpose in their destination?
You should ask yourself these questions. Why does the character say or do this? What will he/she gain by this action? How does my character accomplish his goal of resolving the mystery? Does this scene move the character closer towards a resolution?
If the answers are negative then you may need to review whether that piece can be removed. Even though it's tempting to have a scene which doesn't move the story forward, make sure it contributes in some way. Perhaps it gives a hint of back story or tells us about the character's motivation. The dialog with the clerk might tell us that the character has little money and has to put something back. It could show us that the character is easily swayed by impulse purchases.
If you know what you are trying to accomplish your scenes will carry more weight and move the plot towards the ultimate goal.
Happy trails,
Leslie
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