If you’ve ever felt like your writing is flat, you’re not alone!
Believe me, this is one of the most common struggles new writers face — and it often comes down to a single misunderstanding:
Plot and story are not the same thing.
Once you understand the difference, so much confusion melts away. Writing feels clearer. Editing feels more purposeful. And suddenly, you know what to fix — and why.
Let’s break it down!
What Plot Is
Plot is what happens.
It’s the sequence of events in your novel — the visible action the reader can point to and summarise.
Plot includes things like:
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The inciting incident
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Conflicts and obstacles
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Turning points
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Revelations
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The climax and resolution
If someone asked, “What happens in your book?” — your answer would describe the plot.
Plot gives your story structure. It keeps the pages turning. But on its own, it's not enough.
What Story Is
Story is why it matters.
Story lives beneath the plot. It’s the emotional journey your character goes on as those events unfold.
Story includes:
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Internal change
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Emotional growth
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Fears confronted
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Beliefs challenged
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Who the character becomes by the end
Story is what makes a reader care. It’s what stays with them long after they’ve closed the book.
A Simple Example
Let’s look at plot and story side by side.
Plot:
A nurse works on the WWII home front...
Story:
A woman learns to trust herself in a world falling apart.
The events might be the same — but the emotional meaning is completely different. That meaning is where connection lies.
Why You Need Both
Plot keeps readers turning pages.
Story keeps them emotionally invested.
A novel with strong plot but weak story can feel busy, rushed, or hollow.
A novel with strong story but weak plot can feel slow or meandering.
When the two work together, your writing feels purposeful and powerful.
If Your Writing Feels Flat…
Here’s the most important thing to remember:
It’s usually not a talent problem.
If your scenes aren’t landing, it often means:
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The emotional shift isn’t clear
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The character isn’t changing yet
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The internal stakes need strengthening
Strengthen the Story Beneath the Plot
A helpful question to ask as you write or edit is:
How does this scene change my character — even slightly?
Not every scene needs a dramatic transformation, but every scene should move something internally, not just externally.
Want Extra Support?
If you’re struggling to shape your novel or want more clarity as you write, I’ve created a collection of beginner-friendly writing tools designed to help you move forward with confidence!
You can explore them all in The Writer Printable Co. shop - https://thewriterprintableco.etsy.com
Happy writing!
Rachel x
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