The 'overcoming the odds' plot is also very effective. This involves a character or a group of characters facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles. It could be a small underdog team going up against a much more powerful and experienced rival in a sports competition. Or a hero trying to defeat an all - powerful villain in a fantasy world. The key is to show how they use their wits, courage, and determination to overcome those odds. Think of 'Rocky' where the title character, an amateur boxer, gets a chance to fight the world champion and manages to go the distance, winning the respect of everyone.
A possible plot could be that the four friends are in a magical world. They are given a quest to find a hidden treasure. Each of them has a special skill that they need to use to overcome the obstacles in their path. For instance, one is good at solving puzzles, one can communicate with animals, one is strong and can move heavy objects, and one has great intuition. They work together using their skills to find the treasure, and in the process, their friendship becomes unbreakable.
First, consider your own interests. If you're passionate about adventure, then plots like 'treasure hunt' or 'journey through an unknown land' might be good choices. Second, think about your target audience. For example, if it's for young children, simple and positive plots like 'making new friends' or 'helping a lost animal' would work well. Third, look at what has been successful in the past. Analyze popular books and movies and their plots. You can then take elements from those and put your own spin on them.
One of the best plots for stories is the 'hero's journey'. It involves a protagonist leaving their ordinary world, facing challenges and temptations in a special world, and finally returning home transformed. For example, in 'The Lord of the Rings', Frodo leaves the Shire, battles Sauron's forces, and comes back a changed hobbit.
A great plot could be a time - loop scenario. 10 and Rose keep reliving the same day over and over again. Each time they try different things to break the loop and in the process, they learn more about each other and their own feelings. It's a classic plot device that can add a lot of tension and character development.
The three friends could be part of a treasure - hunting adventure. Along the way, they get lost and run out of supplies. One friend gets injured. But the other two take care of him and they continue the search. They find the treasure not just in gold but in their unwavering friendship and loyalty to each other.
One common plot could be that one friend starts to show more physical affection gradually, like gentle touches on the arm or shoulder more often. Another might be when one friend starts complimenting the other in a more flirty way, such as saying things like 'You look amazing today, in a way that makes my heart skip a beat'. Also, there could be a plot where they end up sharing a really deep and emotional moment, which then leads to a shift in their relationship from just friends to something more.
One of the best fantasy novel plots is the 'Chosen One' narrative. For example, in 'The Lord of the Rings', Frodo is the chosen one to destroy the One Ring. It creates a sense of destiny and great responsibility, and readers are drawn into the hero's journey of facing overwhelming odds. Another great plot is the discovery of a hidden magical world within our own, like in 'Alice in Wonderland'. It allows for exploration of strange and wonderful places, full of unique creatures and magic. Also, the plot of a war between different magical races, as seen in 'A Song of Ice and Fire', where various houses and magical beings fight for power and survival. It adds political intrigue and complex character relationships.
The 'conflict' plot is among the best for short stories. It could be a person - against - person conflict, like two friends fighting over a girl. Or person - against - society, such as a rebel trying to change a corrupt system. Person - against - nature is also a good one, for instance, a hiker struggling to survive in a storm. These conflicts create tension and drive the story forward. Additionally, the 'redemption' plot, where a character who has made mistakes tries to make amends, can be very engaging in a short story.
Engaging characters and unexpected twists. A great plot often has characters that readers can relate to or root for, and surprising turns that keep them on the edge of their seats.