Writing Tips - Writing Great Scenes

My scenes used to wander. Sometimes they didn't move the plot along at all. Then I learned the not-so-secret formula for writing scenes:

1. What does my main character want?

This is presented at the beginning of the scene. The goal doesn't have to be big or fancy, but the main character must want something. A satisfied character is a boring character.

2. What is preventing my main character from getting what they want?

The bulk of the scene is the main character following through on their plan to get what they want and encountering obstacles.

3. Main character thwarted.

Most scenes end when the main character's attempt to get what they want fails, and they must try a new strategy. To keep the reader from becoming totally frustrated, you can have your main character meet a few small goals, but new needs must be created and the ultimate goal cannot be met until the end of the book.