1.
Indistinguishable/unbelievable dialogue
When characters all sound the same or don't sound like real people, the story doesn't come alive. Most readers will put down this book.
5 points - added 12 years ago by laneave -
2.
Unnecessary/unintentional shift in point of view
A story without a decided point of view comes across as unpolished and amateur. Experienced authors are able to write every detail from a singular (and consciously chosen) perspective.
4 points - added 12 years ago by laneave -
3.
Too many subplots
2 points - added 12 years ago by laneave -
4.
Lack of falling action
Once the climax is over, the story will still feel incomplete if there's not sufficient resolution. Even if the rest of the story is great, readers will remember being dissatisfied in the end.
2 points - added 12 years ago by laneave -
5.
Unlikely plot resolution
0 points - added 12 years ago by laneave -
6.
Unoriginality of plot/characters
Everyone knows there's no completely new story, but some authors "borrow" so much that they tread the dangerous line of plagiarism.
0 points - added 12 years ago by laneave -
7.
Unclear timeline
0 points - added 12 years ago by laneave -
8.
Lack of character development
0 points - added 12 years ago by laneave -
9.
Too much focus on tertiary characters
Authors often feel strong connections too all their characters—even the ones who aren't central to the plot; therefore, they give them more screen time than necessary. Well-known writers who publish in series get away with this, but it's not advisable for someone just getting started.
0 points - added 12 years ago by laneave -
10.
Plot points for which readers can't suspend disbelief
0 points - added 12 years ago by laneave -
11.
Underdeveloped plot
0 points - added 12 years ago by laneave -
12.
Too much narrative summary
0 points - added 12 years ago by laneave -
13.
Lack of motivation for character
0 points - added 12 years ago by laneave -
14.
Shocking scenes with no purpose
0 points - added 12 years ago by laneave -
15.
Rushed or missing scene endings
0 points - added 12 years ago by laneave -
16.
Over reliance on flashback
0 points - added 12 years ago by laneave -
17.
Lack of any likable character
This used to be considered a major flaw, but it's less egregious in today's market. Still, most audiences need at least two characters they like and can relate to.
0 points - added 12 years ago by laneave -
18.
Unnecessarily autobiographical
0 points - added 12 years ago by laneave -
19.
Too many scenes before plot is introduced
0 points - added 12 years ago by laneave -
20.
Illogical emotional responses from characters
-4 points - added 12 years ago by laneave -
Similar Top lists
| Category | Ranked | Added by | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Most Useful Critical Approaches to Literature | Books | 23 items | laneave |
| Top Well-Known Bible Verses | Books | 22 items | laneave |
| Top Bible Characters | Books | 21 items | laneave |
| Top Tips on Writing a Children's Book | Books | 20 items | laneave |
| Top Mythological Creatures in Harry Potter | Books | 17 items | laneave |
ShareRanks is about ranking things that are top, most, greatest, or even worst in all categories.
Use arrows to rank one item in Top Mistakes Made by First-Time Fiction Writers vs another.
Use arrows to rank one item in Top Mistakes Made by First-Time Fiction Writers vs another.
Top 10 Top Mistakes Made by First-Time Fiction Writers are especially marked