Fantasy writing is an exciting and magical journey. You get to build entire worlds, create new rules of reality, and take readers on epic adventures. But as enchanting as it is, writing fantasy comes with its challenges, especially for new writers. I have been writing for almost 10 years and I'm still battling with a lot of mistakes. The more you write, the more you grow. Here are 5 common mistakes fantasy writers make, especially in the beginning of their journeys and, more importantly, how to fix them to improve your craft and create stories that shine.
1. Overloading the Story with Info-Dumping
The Mistake: New fantasy writers often need to explain everything about their world upfront — the history, the magic system, the politics, the geography—all within the first few chapters. While this comes from enthusiasm, info-dumping can overwhelm readers and slow down the story. Info-dumping can be used in your first draft, to help you incorporate your world into the story. But the more you read through your drafts, the less the info needs to be.
How to Fix It:
- Weave world-building into the story naturally. Reveal details through character actions, dialogue, and experiences.
- Start with what’s relevant. Focus on the aspects of your world that immediately impact the characters and plot.
- Use a reader’s curiosity. Leave breadcrumbs that make readers want to learn more as the story progresses.
Example: Instead of starting with three paragraphs on how magic works, show a character struggling to cast a spell or a mentor teaching a new magical concept. This keeps readers engaged while introducing key information.
2. Flat or Overpowered Characters
The Mistake: Fantasy stories often involve heroes, villains, and side characters, but new writers sometimes create characters who are either too perfect or too underdeveloped. Perfect characters (or Mary Sues) can feel unrealistic, while flat characters lack depth and motivation. See the character in your mind's eye, and write a background description for each of them. Scrivener has a binder where you can insert character sketches with all the details you need to remember. You can categorize your book to have different chapters and scenes. Even keep photos of places and characters. This has helped me a lot with keeping all my ideas in one place.
How to Fix It:
- Give your characters flaws. Real people are imperfect, and your characters should be too.
- Focus on growth. How does your character change over the course of the story?
- Define goals and stakes. Every character should want something, whether it’s survival, love, power, or freedom. Give them something to lose if they fail.
Example: Instead of creating a flawless warrior who can defeat anyone, introduce a character who struggles with self-doubt or a past failure they’re trying to overcome.
3. Neglecting Internal Logic in World-Building
The Mistake: Fantasy gives you the freedom to make your own rules, but those rules still need to make sense. If your magic system, politics, or geography lack consistency, readers will struggle to suspend their disbelief. Try to keep to your rules, a new world can be confusing.
How to Fix It:
- Establish clear rules for your world. How does the magic work? What are its limits? How do governments and societies function?
- Be consistent. If you say magic requires a price (like physical exhaustion), don’t let a character use it endlessly without consequences.
- Ask questions. Why does your world work the way it does? Who benefits from the systems you’ve created, and who suffers?
Example: If you decide your magic system requires years of training, don’t have a novice suddenly master it without explanation. Stick to the rules you set.
4. Forgetting the Balance Between Action and Description
The Mistake: While vivid descriptions are crucial for fantasy, too much can bog down the pacing. Conversely, a constant stream of action without breathing room can leave readers overwhelmed and disconnected.
How to Fix It:
- Use description to enhance, not distract. Describe settings and scenes when they impact mood, character, or story.
- Pace your scenes. Mix intense action with quieter moments for reflection, dialogue, or world-building. Let the readers get to know your characters and they will fall in love with them as much as you did.
- Show, don’t tell. Use sensory details and active verbs to immerse readers rather than overloading with adjectives.
Example: Instead of describing every corner of a castle for two paragraphs, focus on what stands out to the character—perhaps a broken throne that symbolizes the kingdom’s fall.
5. Starting the Story Too Late or Too Early
The Mistake: New writers sometimes struggle with where to begin their story. Starting too early can lead to unnecessary buildup, while starting too late can leave readers disoriented or emotionally disconnected from the characters.
How to Fix It:
- Start with a hook. Drop readers into a moment of tension, change, or intrigue.
- Introduce the protagonist early. Let readers see who the story is about and why they should care.
- Establish stakes. What’s at risk if the protagonist fails? Hint at the bigger conflict to come.
Example: Instead of starting with a character waking up and going about their day, begin with the moment they discover an ancient map or witness a magical event that kicks off the adventure.
Mistakes are a natural part of the writing process, especially when you’re starting out. By recognizing and addressing these common pitfalls, you can sharpen your skills and create fantasy stories that captivate readers. Remember, every great writer starts somewhere, and every draft can be improved.
Good luck and keep writing.