Tips for Finding Plot Holes
- Remain objective. The best practice of putting your manuscript aside and approaching with fresh eyes helps you maintain objectivity.
- Follow your characters. As you read, make sure that each character is consistent within the story and has a definite personality.
- Create a story timeline. Make a list of chapters and major events in the chapter. Make sure the sequence of events makes sense: days, months, years, or even morning to evening. Note the characters present in the chapter.
- Examine your plot. Question the plot logic. Has a journey been abandoned or question gone unanswered? Has a character made choices or said something that does not fit their personality?
- Is your story world consistent? Do cultural norms shift? Is your fantasy magic logic consistent?
- Check your subplots. Follow each one from beginning to end. Make sure all of them are complete.
- Keep revision notes. They may open up threads that create new plot holes.
- Hire a professional editor. If cost is a concern, ask a fellow writer to read your novel or suggest an exchange.
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