Scene Planning

Where in the book is it (optional and subject to change, of course)?

Chapter ____ Scene _____

What is the short range goal, the goal of the scene? Stick to it.

Does the scene move the story forward? If you answer no, delete the scene.

Is the scene tedious? Each scene should have different problems to be faced.

Is there a sense of urgency to force your character into immediate action?

Is the opposition threatening?

Is there an unexpected event? Will it make the reader wonder what happens next?

Is the disaster unanticipated, but logical and evolved from the story?

Who is the focal character? Make sure their identity is clear.

Do your characters have different personalities? Go for a range.

Is there enough trouble for the h/H? Are there potentially distastrous consequences for the h/H? Good.

Is your character acting like a wimp or being too stupid to live? Make them stop.

Is the villian strong? A strong villian will make a more interesting read.

SETTING IN THE SCENE

Does your scene have. . .?

Place? Choose a place from plot and character development. And interesting and unique place can make your story plot extrordinary.

Mood? Such as the terror aboard a captive airliner or the homey feel of a small town.

Plot complications? Can pull these from all the setting components and get interesting and unexpected developments that are still logical.

Feeling?

The right time period. Would your story be more interesting set in a different time?

Senses. . .

Touch?

Smell?

Sound?

Taste?

Sight?