One common mistake is ignoring the minor characters. Sometimes, they can play a crucial role in the ending. Another mistake is being too influenced by your own wishes. Just because you want a happy ending doesn't mean that's what the story is leading to. Also, not noticing the sub - plots can lead to wrong predictions. Sub - plots can merge with the main plot at the end and change the whole direction of the story.
Often, people make the mistake of only focusing on the main character's immediate goals and not their long - term growth. This can lead to inaccurate predictions. For instance, if the main character's short - term goal is to win a competition but their long - term growth is about learning humility, the ending might not be just about winning the competition. Also, people tend to forget about the power of dialogue. The things characters say can be clues to the ending. If a character says something like 'I have a feeling this will all end in disaster' it might be a sign, but if you ignore it, you'll make a mistake in prediction. And not being able to see the bigger picture of the story, like how all the elements are interconnected, is also a common mistake.
The ending of a story can often be predicted by the foreshadowing within it. Authors drop little hints throughout the story that can give away what's going to happen at the end. For instance, if a character mentions a dangerous place early on and there are repeated references to it, it could be where the final confrontation takes place. Additionally, the character development can be a clue. If a character has been learning and growing in a certain way, the ending will likely reflect how far they've come. For example, a selfish character might learn to be selfless by the end.
One common mistake is a rushed ending. When the writer suddenly wraps up the story without properly developing the conclusion. For example, in a story about a long - journey adventure, if it just ends with 'And then they got home and the end', it feels too abrupt. There should be more reflection on the journey or how the characters have changed.
A third mistake is having an ending that doesn't fit the tone of the story. If it's a light - hearted comedy and then the ending is super dark and tragic without proper build - up, it will seem out of place.
Avoid ending abruptly without resolving the main conflict. It leaves the reader feeling cheated. For example, if it's a battle story and the fight just stops without a clear winner.
One common mistake is ending too abruptly. It can leave the readers feeling unsatisfied. For example, if you're writing a long adventure story and suddenly end it without resolving the main conflict, it's not good.
Avoid introducing new major plot elements at the end. It can confuse the reader. For example, don't suddenly bring in a new character who solves all the problems. Also, don't end it too abruptly without resolving the main conflict. It'll leave the reader feeling unsatisfied. And don't make the ending too predictable. If the reader can see the ending coming from a mile away, it's not very engaging.
Avoid ending a short story too abruptly. For example, if you've built up a complex plot and then just stop without any real resolution, it will leave the reader feeling cheated. It's like you've been leading them on a journey and then suddenly cut it short without reaching the destination.
One common mistake is being cowardly and not communicating directly. Ghosting, or disappearing without explanation, is very hurtful. Another mistake is using the end of the relationship as a chance to be cruel or to get revenge. This only creates more pain and animosity. Also, don't make false promises like saying you'll stay friends if you really don't mean it. It gives the other person false hope. For example, if you say you'll keep in touch but then never respond to their messages, it's just going to make the situation worse.
Another mistake is introducing new, major elements at the very end. It's like adding a new character or a big plot twist right at the end, which can be confusing for the readers. They've been following the story with certain expectations and this throws them off.
Read a lot of different stories. The more stories you read, the more familiar you'll become with common plot devices and endings. This will give you a better sense of how stories typically unfold. For example, in many fairy tales, the good characters live happily ever after. Another way is to analyze the characters' motives. If you understand why a character is doing something, you can better predict what they will do in the end. For instance, if a character is motivated by revenge, they might seek it until the end of the story.