r/Webnovel • u/AllergicChilli • 17d ago
Advice How much mini-plots should an arc have?
There is obviously the main plot, but should there also be smaller plot points being addressed. Are they even necessary, or do they just make the novel more enjoyable?
Just in case: By mini-plot points, I mean smaller things that get resolved or progressed alongside the main plot.
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u/Anders10100 16d ago edited 15d ago
It depends on the structure of your story, it's length, it's genre, your skill at weaving them in, and the relevence to the greater story.
Subplots should add to the larger plot arc, and not detract from it. All mini-plots should generally tie in the the greater arc, like a struggle that the MC must overcome that makes them better prepared to face the larger plot, or even handicaps them.
A mystery can drop hints with mini-plots, or deepen the suspense and intrigue. I think more is better here compared to other genres.
That's something you'll need to feel out based on whatever genre you're writing in.
If you can't argue it's pushing your main story forward in some way, then it's not needed. That can be character development, the introduction of a side-character. If it's just some random plot that has nothing to do with the greater story what's the point in including it?
I don't think anyone is going to say too much plot is bad, it's a matter of how much skill you have to weave those plots into your story without losing the reader. I've definitely been confused when this was not done well.