How to Write Subplots: A Guide for Fiction Writers

Subplots add depth and complexity to your story. They develop characters, reinforce themes, and provide variety. But poorly executed subplots feel like distractions. Here's how to weave them effectively.

What Is a Subplot?

A subplot is a secondary storyline that runs alongside your main plot. It has its own beginning, middle, and end, but connects thematically or through characters to the main story.

The main plot answers the story's central question. Subplots explore related questions, develop characters, or provide contrast and relief.

Why Subplots Matter

• Character depth: Show different sides of your protagonist through different challenges.
• Theme reinforcement: Explore your theme from multiple angles.
• Pacing control: Subplots provide natural breaks from main plot intensity.
• World expansion: Develop secondary characters and settings.
• Complexity: Multiple threads create richer, more realistic narratives.

Common Types of Subplots

Romance Subplot

Love interest develops alongside the main plot. Often intersects at key moments, providing personal stakes.

Character Arc Subplot

A secondary character's journey parallels or contrasts the protagonist's arc, reinforcing themes.

Mirror Subplot

A subplot that presents the same theme but with a different outcome, showing what could happen if the protagonist made different choices.

Complication Subplot

A problem that creates obstacles for the main plot, raising stakes and adding pressure.

Integrating Subplots

Subplots shouldn't feel separate. Connect them to the main plot through:

• Shared characters
• Thematic connections
• Impact on the main plot
• Timing that affects main plot decisions
• Resolution that coincides with climax

Subplot Timing

Guidelines for when subplots should hit key beats:

• Introduce in the first quarter of the story
• Develop through the middle alongside the main plot
• Reach crisis before or at the main climax
• Resolve by the end, even if briefly

Common Subplot Problems

• Unrelated subplots: If readers can't see the connection, the subplot feels like padding.
• Too many: Limit subplots to avoid overwhelming readers. Most novels have 2-3 significant ones.
• Unresolved: Don't leave subplots hanging. Readers remember loose ends.
• Stealing focus: Subplots should support, not overshadow, the main plot.
• Wrong timing: Subplot beats at wrong moments can kill main plot momentum.

Tracking Subplots

For complex stories with multiple subplots:

• Create a document for each subplot tracking its arc
• Note which chapters advance which subplots
• Check that each subplot has setup, development, and resolution
• Verify subplots don't disappear for too long

Related Resources

• Three-Act Structure →
• Character Development →
• Pacing Techniques →