forward, gives it momentum, speed, tension, mystery. Unexpected twists and turns also keep a story moving, changing and, ultimately, interesting. If the plot isn't clear then the novel feels like it's rambling and lacking in direction. Therefore, some of the biggest mistakes a writer might make are having no conflict or plot development, and lacking a clear storyline. To avoid this, the writer should have a clear idea of where the story is going. Now, I'm a writer myself and I don't know exactly where the story is headed 100% of the time, but the point I'm trying to make is that, even if you don't know precisely what will happen in your story, if you have a general overview of what is going to happen and keep the story moving down that track, then it will be far more organised and comprehensible to the reader. Don't allow your story to wander off track by accident; if it does then either adjust your plot and story direction to compensate, or rewrite that section so that it stays on track. Characters should go on a journey throughout the story; not necessarily a physical one, but an emotional one, where they grow, learn and develop. If a character doesn't grow or change then they stagnate and are very boring to read about. A character who is exactly the same as they were when the story began is flat, uninteresting and monotonous. To avoid this, make sure that your characters undergo new experiences, learn new things, and come up against challenging obstacles. Life is full of challenges and conflicts and so should the plot in a book. ] ]