Writing plot twists can be one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences a writer can have. They can take an ordinary plot line and transform it into something unexpected and thrilling, grabbing the reader with a sudden plot shift that leaves them wanting more. Plot twists ignite stories with energy and intrigue; they are capable of turning innocuous characters unexpectedly wicked or creating suspenseful plot lines that keep readers engaged.
In this guide, author Dan Padavona investigates plot twists in detail – how to write them, why they’re valuable, and what types of plot twists exist – with writing tips to help aspiring authors craft engaging plot twists that can surprise their readers without feeling contrived.
The Definition of a Plot Twist
A plot twist is like a rush of adrenaline for any story; it adds a spark of excitement and intrigue that elevates the plot from dull to thrilling! Plot twists can range from sudden plot points to revelations about characters, but either way, they are known to rock the foundations of the readers’ expectations.
They make a story unpredictable, unfolding in directions never before expected. A plot twist is ultimately one of the most enjoyable elements of an engaging storyline — when done right, it can be downright devilish!
Plot twists can be powerful for keeping readers engaged and on the edge of their seats. When woven into an already intricate plot, plot twists draw readers in and create a level of excitement that can’t be matched. They foster discussion about the plot and encourage readers to think about what was just revealed.
Plot twists cause readers to both question and anticipate what comes next, forcing them to stay curious and connected to the story until its completion. Great stories with dynamic plot twists keep us yearning for more, eager to experience those thrilling moments when everything around us stops and we’re unable to look away.
Types of Plot Twists
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of being blindsided by a plot twist and realizing (in retrospect) all the hints that were strewn throughout the narrative. It’s a magical experience that can make even an average story a roller coaster ride of thrills and suspense! There are many different types of plot twists you can use to spice up your storytelling – from small plot elements that make huge differences, to unforeseen revealings of shocking information.
Surprise Ending
A surprise ending is the ultimate plot twist – it completely upends everything you thought was true and leaves you feeling like your entire perspective on the plot has been turned upside down! Whether it’s a mischievous plot to trick an enemy, a soothing romantic reverie that isn’t what it seemed, or a shocking return after all hope seemed lost, this kind of climax is unrivaled when it comes to providing memorable entertainment.
It doesn’t matter if your audience has seen countless plot twists before; with a well-executed surprise ending, they will be ready for more.
The Revelation of a Hidden Truth
A revelation of a hidden truth is that moment in any plot where the veil of secrecy is suddenly lifted and everything you once thought you knew about a character or event comes into question. This plot twist happens with such speed and power that it feels like a bomb has gone off, scattering puzzle pieces all around the reader while they try to piece together the new shape of things.
Revelations carry so much inherent drama; the experience thrusts us deep into a world where the unexpected becomes part of our new understanding. Every plot twist created by a revelation of hidden truth is unique and unforgettable because of the universality of its message – nothing is as we think it is, and world-altering plot twists can arise from even the most seemingly insignificant moments.
Unexpected Character Motivation
Unexpected character motivation is one of the most creatively fulfilling plot points for me as a reader because it’s so full of possibility. Instead of what we assumed was true, a plot twist reveals why a character acts in ways we weren’t expecting. It can trail off in unexpected directions or lead to an entirely different plot line.
Unexpected character motivation also forms an impactful connection between the audience and the characters – understanding someone’s true intentions or desires really helps bring them into our hearts. To me, plot twists wrapped up with some remarkable character development are always welcomed!
Role Reversal
Role reversal plot twists add a spark of excitement to stories that audiences can’t predict. They can make us gasp in shock as one of our beloved heroes turns out to be the villain in disguise, spinning the plot in an entirely new direction. On the other hand, could there be more than meets the eye with that villain?
Role reversal plot twists challenge readers and viewers alike to look beyond their expectations and consider alternative possibilities for whom a character really is. These plot twists are truly delightful when done right, leaving spent viewers with a newfound appreciation for storytellers who manage to pull them off without fail!
Fakeout
Fakeouts are plot twists like no other, intensely playing with our emotions and making us wonder what would’ve happened if things had gone differently. A fakeout occurs when something major is seemingly revealed or happens, only to later be revealed as completely insignificant or sometimes even untrue.
It’s a thrilling plot device often used in entertainment to keep things interesting and keep audiences on their toes. Though these plot twists may aggravate some audiences, they are undeniably one of the reasons why so many of us are constantly engaged with movies and TV series.
Double Twist
Plot twists can be the root of an exciting plot, adding a level of intrigue and delight. A double twist takes things to a whole new level – it is a plot device that serves to surprise readers with two revelations, typically one after another, making the plot line far more complex in the process.
It is an art form to inject this element skillfully; however, when done right it can heighten suspense, puzzle readers, and make for a thrilling read. A double twist is usually the final plot twist which leads up to a satisfying ending.
Switcheroo
A switcheroo is the plot twist of plot twists! It’s when your brain gets utterly bamboozled by a plot point that goes beyond anything you could imagine – when two seemingly independent plot threads or characters are revealed to be connected in a way that was, previously, unthinkable.
It can leave you speechless and shaking your head in awe. It’s often a playful plot technique used to shock readers and leave them with new personal revelations about the story or characters. If done right, a switcheroo packs an emotional punch and gives the plot a fascinating twist. Terry Pratchett was a master of the switcheroo, with the perfect example being the Scone of Stone in The Fifth Elephant.
Tips for Implementing Plot Twists
If you’re writing a story and want to add some plot twists to up the excitement, there are some key tips to keep in mind.
Never Be Too Predictable or Far-Fetched
There’s nothing worse than a plot twist that is too obvious or cliche. As readers, we want them to feel like an exciting surprise that is connected organically to the plot of the story. The trick is striking the perfect balance between unexpected plot twists that make sense with what has come before. Something we can look back on and recognize that it was set up all along.
This way, plot twists remain fresh, impactful, and entertaining!
Sow the Seeds
Planting plot twists earlier in your story is an absolute game-changer for your readers. It lets them know there’s something unique about your plot and will leave them constantly engaged as they watch these plot points come together. Not only that, but it will take away the feeling of being blindsided by the plot twist at the very end—it’ll give it a feeling of purpose from the very start.
Planting your plot twists further back also makes it easier to naturally pepper in subtle hints during your story, like clues or Easter eggs. Doing this creates a seamless experience as readers find themselves on an exciting journey with you!
Use Them Sparingly
Plot twists should not be overused – relying too heavily on plot twists in each chapter can make your plot seem random and contrived. Instead, use plot twists sparingly throughout your story so that readers learn to expect them and appreciate the suspense when they come.
The plot must also have enough reality to be grounded, as characters that lack depth or stories that feel too forced will ruin any momentum made by plot twists – make sure you create a strong foundation before allowing yourself to be carried away with the narrative!
Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Writing Plot Twists
Plot twists can be great tools for keeping a reader engaged, but it is important to do them justice by avoiding common pitfalls.
Making the Twist Too Obvious or Telegraphing It Too Early
When plot twists are executed effectively, they can truly elevate the story and add an extra layer of suspense. However, if plot twists are made overly obvious early on in the story, it can rob the twist of its effect and remove any anticipation or surprise when it is finally revealed.
That missing tension and intrigue just aren’t as fun. The art of plot twists lies in figuring out how to keep readers guessing without leaving them completely lost or confused. When done well, plot twists can give readers a delightful burst of energy that keeps them reading until the very end!
Relying Too Heavily on Plot Twists to Carry the Story
If a plot relies too heavily on plot twists, the story as a whole can become weak. It is important to strike a balance between plot twists that unfold throughout the plot line, with storylines and characters that grow, develop and lead readers down an engaging path.
Using plot twists judiciously can enhance your story dramatically and keep readers enthralled. However, when plot twists become too dominant, the result can be hollow characters and an artificial plot line that lacks any depth or satisfaction for readers. So let’s remember to not let plot twists carry an entire plot – they should complement it instead!
Making the Twist Feel Contrived or Unbelievable
When it comes to plot twists, writers must be particularly mindful of making sure their plot development feels organic and legitimate. The plot twist must not only feel delightful to the reader but also believable – otherwise, it will feel contrived and won’t engage your audience.
Writing plot twists can be an utterly exhilarating challenge! With gentle thought and careful writing, you can craft something unexpected yet logical that is guaranteed to bring joy to anyone who happens to read your story. Plot twists add a zesty zing to any piece of literature, so take up the challenge and push yourself as a writer by adding them to your stories today!
Techniques for Maintaining Reader Engagement after a Plot Twist
Plot twists provide endless possibilities for plot development and character growth, creating dynamic and captivating stories that will have readers hooked until the very last page. To make sure the plot twist is impactful and meaningful, it’s important to understand all of the techniques available to maintain reader engagement when a plot twist occurs.
Use the Twist to Reveal New Layers to the Story or Characters
Using plot twists to peel away the layers of a story or uncover new facets of characters is a surefire way to keep readers engaged. It adds an element of surprise, while still staying within the confines of plot logic and character development.
A good plot twist should be unexpected yet feel inevitable, elucidating more about what was already there in a way that’s exciting for both the characters and readers alike. Surprise plot twists are great fun, but done well, they can give an otherwise familiar plot an entirely different hue.
Use the Twist to Raise New Questions or Conflict
When choosing a plot twist, writers should consider the impact it will have on their plot. It’s important to ensure the plot twist not only raises new questions but also introduces some form of conflict or tension.
This will create a heightened sense of plot complexity, keeping readers engaged long after the reveal of the twist has taken place. Plot twists make a story memorable and exciting, so don’t be afraid to go big when planning yours!
Use the Twist to Bring the Story to a Satisfying Conclusion
After the plot twists and reveals, it’s important to keep the reader engaged until the story is over. This can be done in many different ways, with one of the most powerful being to use the plot twist itself to bring your story to a satisfying conclusion.
A plot twist has the potential to take your story in exciting new directions, meaning that even after discovering a twist readers will remain invested in your narrative. By using plot twists effectively you can ensure that the conclusion of your story not only leaves readers feeling satisfied but also excited for what’s next.
Learn to Love the Plot Twist
Plot twists have a magical way of captivating readers and leaving them on the edge of their seats. Few plot devices can surprise and delight in the same way as plot twists do, but it’s important to use them thoughtfully and strategically to make sure they have their intended impact.
When deployed masterfully, plot twists can elevate a story from average to extraordinary; it’s all about channeling your creativity and having a plan for when, where, and why each twist should appear. There is nothing quite like that moment when everything suddenly clicks into place – so dream big, write wide and make sure your plot twists are nothing short of spectacular!
Dan Padavona is the author of the The Wolf Lake thriller and mystery Series, as well as the Logan and Scarlett thriller series, among others. In July of 2022, his novel Her Last Breath reached the top #800 among several million novels on Amazon, alongside Stephen King and Dean Koontz. Dark Vanishings claimed Indie Thriller Novel of the Year Runner-up in August of 2016.