Writing Tropes to Avoid for Authentic Storytelling Tips

We’ve all seen the same tired writing tropes over and over again, right? Those clichés that make you roll your eyes and mumble, “Oh, not this again!” It can be frustrating when stories fall into predictable patterns, leaving you craving something fresh and exciting.

But don’t worry! If you stick around, I promise we’ll explore the common writing pitfalls that can drag a story down. By recognizing and avoiding these pitfalls, you can elevate your writing and keep your readers engaged.

We’ll dive into everything from overused character types to predictable plots, all while emphasizing authenticity and originality. Get ready to challenge the norms and spice up your storytelling!

Avoid Common Writing Tropes and Clichés

We’ve all seen it before—you pick up a book, and before you even flip to the second page, you’re hit with a cliché you could spot from a mile away. It’s so predictable that it makes you want to put the book down. The first step to avoiding this pitfall is to be aware of the most common tropes, like the classic “love triangle.” This can feel tired and overdone, especially in Young Adult fiction.

A good rule of thumb is to brainstorm fresh alternatives for your characters and plot developments. Ask yourself what would happen if you turned a common trope on its head. For example, instead of having two characters vie for one person’s affection, why not explore a scenario where all parties are genuinely happy as friends? This can lead to new dynamics and deeper character exploration.

Identify Figurative and Phrase Clichés to Eliminate

Figurative language can elevate your writing, but overused phrases can drag it down like a lead balloon. Phrases like “drowning in work” or “walk a mile in someone’s shoes” can feel cliché and disengage your reader. Instead, try to find more specific and vivid ways to convey your message.

One helpful tip is to read your work aloud. If a phrase feels tired or overdone as it rolls off your tongue, chances are, it needs a makeover. Replace it with imagery that reflects your unique voice. For example, instead of saying your character was “feeling blue,” describe the way their heart “felt heavy as autumn leaves.” This small shift can make a big difference in how engaging your writing is.

Steer Clear of Overused Character Types

Every story seems to have that “brooding bad boy” or the “quirky best friend.” While archetypes can provide a framework, relying too heavily on them can make your characters feel one-dimensional. To create unique, relatable characters, take a look at your character’s background and motivations.

Try mixing traits from different archetypes to create something fresh. For instance, rather than just having a “damsel in distress,” why not create a character who appears helpless at first but then surprises everyone with their resourcefulness? This creates a more dynamic range of characters that your readers can connect with.

Recognize and Replace Predictable Plot Structures

Predictable plots can take the excitement out of a story, making readers feel like they already know the ending before they even start.

To avoid this, analyze your plot structure and look for any formulas that you’ve unknowingly repeated.

For example, if your story follows the classic “hero’s journey,” consider how you can add twists or deeper subplots that diverge from expectations.

Unexpected developments create tension and keep readers turning the pages, so mix things up with new challenges for your characters.

Instead of just “defeating the villain,” think about how your hero might confront complex moral dilemmas that lead to character growth.

Be Aware of Stereotypes and Prejudice in Writing

Stereotypes can perpetuate harmful ideas and alienate your audience. To create respectful and diverse characters, actively challenge common stereotypes in your writing.

Consider using authentic voices by diving into the nuances of different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences.

Avoid relying on stock characters like the “angry Black woman” or the “foreigner with a thick accent.”

Instead, flesh out your characters and give them unique traits that reflect real human experiences.

Engagement increases when readers can relate to characters that reflect a wide range of perspectives.

Make Dialogue and Character Actions More Realistic

Your characters should speak and act in ways that feel natural and believable. Consider how real people interact, filled with hesitations, interruptions, and idiosyncrasies.

Instead of perfect exchanges, embrace the imperfections of human communication.

Also, pay attention to how dialogue contributes to character development. Are your characters just saying what needs to be said for the plot, or do their words reflect their personalities and quirks?

Using slang, colloquialisms, or even silence can convey more than verbal expressions alone.

Even actions can be dialogue—how a character responds physically can speak volumes.

Subvert and Challenge Existing Tropes

The best way to breathe new life into tired tropes is to flip them on their head. Ask yourself, “What if the hero doesn’t get the girl?” or “What if the villain has a point?”

This kind of questioning leads to fresh and unpredictable narratives that pique readers’ curiosity.

For instance, instead of the “chosen one” trope, perhaps your protagonist is just an underdog who improves through hard work and perseverance, challenging the notion of destiny.

Always think about how you can reshape or twist the tropes to engage your audience and keep them guessing.

Emphasize Authenticity and Realism in Storytelling

Readers connect with stories that feel real and relatable. Authenticity trumps embellishments and unrealistic scenarios.

Drawing from real-life experiences or research helps ground your story. Adding context adds depth.

For instance, set your story in a specific location and infuse it with accurate details that represent the culture and environment.

Engage with your characters’ internal thought processes and real-life struggles—layers of complexity will resonate with readers.

Adding realistic consequences to actions within your story also cultivates a sense of authenticity.

Transform Ordinary Elements into Unique Story Points

Just because something is ordinary doesn’t mean it can’t hold significance. Consider taking mundane objects or situations and giving them an unusual twist.

For instance, a family heirloom might reveal a long-buried family secret, adding depth to the plot.

Make the commonplace matter; turn it into an avenue to show character growth or to reflect themes present in your story.

Readers love finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, so don’t shy away from doing so.

Prevent Melodrama in Scenes and Character Reactions

We’ve all read those cringeworthy moments where the drama feels over-the-top, losing any emotional impact.

Melodrama often pulls the reader out of the story, so keep dialogue and reactions grounded in reality.

Ask yourself how real people would react in extreme situations, and let characters process their emotions in a believable way.

Instead of characters eliciting tears every other page, consider building tension with subtler conflicts—the quieter moments often speak loudest.

Practice Originality for Memorable Storytelling

Every writer wants their story to stand out, and originality is key. Stay aware of what’s trending but don’t simply follow the crowd.

Invest time in exploring different genres and styles, which can spark inspiration for unique story concepts.

Create a blend of ideas to cultivate a fresh narrative that breaks through the noise.

Make a habit of jotting down ideas, no matter how outlandish—they could lead to your next big breakthrough.

Ultimately, your unique voice will shine through and attract readers who crave something different.

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