Plot holes are one of the fastest ways to pull readers out of a story. They create confusion, weaken tension, and make even the most compelling characters feel less believable. The good news? Most plot holes are easy to fix once you know what to look for.
Let’s break down the most common plot holes writers face—and practical ways to close them for good.
1. Characters Acting Out of Character
The problem:
A character suddenly makes a decision that contradicts their established personality, values, or goals—just to move the plot forward.
How to fix it:
Ask why the character would do this. Add motivation, pressure, or consequence.
- Introduce fear, desperation, or misinformation.
- Show internal conflict before the decision.
- Seed the behavior earlier so it feels earned.
If the action surprises the reader, make sure it also surprises the character.
2. Convenient Coincidences
The problem:
The hero finds the exact clue they need at the perfect moment—or runs into the one person who can solve everything.
How to fix it:
Coincidences can create problems, but they shouldn’t solve them.
- Replace luck with effort.
- Let characters fail before they succeed.
- Break discoveries into multiple steps instead of one lucky moment.
Readers want characters to earn their wins.
3. Unclear Stakes
The problem:
Something bad might happen… but readers aren’t sure what, when, or why it matters.
How to fix it:
Make stakes specific and personal.
- What does the character stand to lose right now?
- What happens if they fail?
- Who else is affected?
Raise stakes by tying them to relationships, identity, or long-term consequences—not just external danger.
4. Information That Appears Too Late (or Too Early)
The problem:
Key information is dumped all at once or withheld so long it feels manipulative.
How to fix it:
Think in terms of revelation timing.
- Foreshadow important facts early.
- Reveal information in layers.
- Ask: “What does the reader need to know now?”
A good rule: surprise the reader without confusing them.
5. Forgotten Subplots
The problem:
A side story or character arc disappears halfway through the book and never resolves.
How to fix it:
Track subplots like main plots.
- List each subplot and its resolution.
- Tie subplots into the main conflict where possible.
- If it doesn’t affect the ending, consider cutting it.
Every subplot should change something.6. Magical or Tech Solutions With No Limits
6. Magical or Tech Solutions With No Limits
The problem:
Powers, magic, or technology can suddenly do anything—until they can’t.
How to fix it:
Limitations create tension.
- Establish clear rules early.
- Show costs or consequences.
- Stay consistent—even when it’s inconvenient.
If a power solves every problem, it removes suspense.
7. Villains Who Could Have Won Easily
The problem:
Readers realize the antagonist had multiple chances to succeed but didn’t—for no real reason.
How to fix it:
Give your villain constraints.
- Ego, fear, misinformation, or emotional blind spots.
- Conflicting goals.
- Time pressure.
A smart villain makes the hero work harder—and the story stronger.
8. The “Why Didn’t They Just…” Question
The problem:
Readers think of an obvious solution the characters never consider.
How to fix it:
Address it directly.
- Show why that option won’t work.
- Let characters discuss and reject it.
- Add obstacles that make the easy solution impossible.
Acknowledging reader logic builds trust.
Final Tip: Plot Holes Are Editing Problems, Not Writing Failures
Most plot holes don’t appear in first drafts—they reveal themselves during revision. That’s normal. Distance, beta readers, and targeted rereads are your best tools.
When in doubt, ask:
- Does this make sense?
- Is this earned?
- Is this consistent?
Close those gaps, and your story becomes seamless, immersive, and unforgettable.
