Backstory: Weaving the Past into Your Plot

"Backstory is like seasoning—a little goes a long way, but too much ruins the dish. The 90/10 rule suggests readers only need to glimpse 10% of your character's history. The key is revealing past details when they become emotionally or narratively necessary, not when you think they're interesting."

Pacing: Controlling the Speed of Your Story

Pacing doesn't just change how your story flows—it transforms how readers experience it. Like a rollercoaster designer, you'll create thrilling drops, meaningful climbs, and perfect moments of anticipation. Master the five pacing modes from breakneck to contemplative, and you'll keep readers glued to your pages from beginning to end.