The Secret to Writing Stories that Hook Readers
Writing Scenes with Consequences
Let’s cut to the chase—this is an advanced writing technique, but it’s one I wish every new writer learned at the start of their journey. Why? Because once you get it, you’ll never write a scene that drags your story down again. (Or you’ll at least know how to fix it!) Not only will your first drafts improve, but you’ll also never be able to watch a movie or read a book without dissecting every scene and screaming internally, “That’s why this works!” (or, if you’re me, “This scene is going nowhere, and I’m offended.”)
So no gatekeeping here. Are you ready to level up your storytelling? Let’s get serious about writing scenes with consequences—the kind that make your readers turn the page instead of checking their phones. And yes, I’m going to be sharing an exercise that, if you are like me, you’ll want to print out and hang in your writing space. Because once you master this skill, you’ll never look back.
Crafting Consequences That Hook Readers
Here’s the golden rule for writing great stories: Every scene should create change. Something has to shift for your main character (MC)—their goals, relationships, understanding of the world, or even just their emotional state. If nothing changes, you don’t have a scene; you have filler.
Now, not every scene needs to be a life-or-death moment. There are big stakes (think: the MC’s best friend is kidnapped) and small stakes (the MC’s best friend doesn’t text back and they spiral into self-doubt). Both are important, and here’s why:
Big stakes drive the plot forward. They’re the tentpoles of your story—the big, dramatic events that readers can’t stop thinking about. Examples: escaping a burning building, confessing a deep secret, or choosing between two impossible options.
Small stakes build emotional investment. They’re the moments that make your readers care about your MC as a person. Examples: losing a favorite book, an awkward conversation, or feeling left out.
Let’s break it down with examples from popular movies:
In The Hunger Games, Katniss’s decision to volunteer for Prim is a big stake that changes everything. Later, her small moment of defiance in the Games (like saluting the cameras) adds emotional weight and deepens her connection with the audience.
In Legally Blonde, Elle Woods getting into Harvard is a big, plot-driving moment, but her awkward class introductions and personal victories (like impressing her professor with legal knowledge) keep the tension simmering and make us root for her.
Think about your own story: Are you balancing big and small stakes? Are your scenes creating shifts that make readers care more about what happens next? If not, it’s time to rework them.
Building Tension Scene by Scene
Writing a gripping story isn’t just about the big climactic moments. It’s about creating a steady current of tension that propels readers through the pages. Here’s how:
Brainstorm ways to make things worse for your MC. What’s the absolute worst thing that could happen in this moment? Even if you don’t go that far, pushing your character to their limits creates tension.
Raise the stakes. Here’s your challenge: for every scene, ask, “How could I make this harder for my MC?” But don’t stop there. Whatever idea you created to make things harder, now 3x it! Did they finally get a promotion? Great—now make them realize it comes with impossible expectations. Did they find a clue? Cool—what if it’s a trap?
Caution - Don’t rely on endless “mystery questions” to raise stakes for your story. A lot of new writers think unresolved questions (e.g., “What’s in the box?” “Is it dangerous?” “What if it’s a clue?”) are enough to create tension and raise stakes. They’re not. They are only a distraction for readers and a clear sign that the writer doesn’t know where their story is going. Readers need to feel the stakes now, not just wait around for answers later. Instead, focus on immediate consequences — what’s changing right here, right now.
Writing Scenes That Earn Their Place
Here’s the litmus test for every scene in your story: Does it earn its keep? To figure this out, ask yourself these questions:
Does this scene move the plot forward? If it’s not advancing the story, it’s dead weight.
Does this scene deepen character development? If it doesn’t reveal something new about your MC, why is it here?
Does this scene increase tension? If there are no stakes, readers will skim. And we don’t want skimmers. Skimmers are one step closer to someone quitting on your book.
If the answer to all three is “no,” congratulations, you have a filler scene! Now’s your chance to either cut it or rewrite it to include consequences. And hey, don’t be afraid to combine scenes—sometimes two mediocre moments can merge into one brilliant one.
The Ultimate Storytelling Hack: Writing Scenes with Consequences
This storytelling hack is a game-changer for both pantsers and plotters. Pantsers, you’ll love how it keeps your writing loose and creative while sneaking in purpose and tension. Plotters, it’s your new best friend for making sure every scene in your carefully crafted outline pulls its weight. Whether you thrive on creative chaos or color-coded charts, this technique will help you create stories so compelling your readers won’t know what hit them. (Seriously, this is writer gold. Print it out and post it up where you write.)
Write, Edit, Scream, Repeat
Now you’re ready to tackle your scenes with fresh eyes. Every moment should either push the story forward, change your MC, or dial up the tension. And yes, it’s work—but it’s the kind of work that transforms a decent story into one readers can’t put down and is one step closer to their new favorite book!
So grab your red pen, pour some coffee, and get to work. Make a list of all the scenes in your story and take them one at a time — you’ll be done in no time at all. Your can check them in order or you can skip around, maybe start with the scenes in Act 3 first. Your future readers will thank you.
Need help keeping track of your progress?
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