How to know when to cut a scene
Writing a story often means creating an abundance of scenes. However, not all of them will make the final cut. Recognising which scenes to keep and which to let go can significantly elevate the quality of your work. Here’s a guide to help you decide when it might be time to bid farewell to a scene.
9 reasons you should cut a scene
1. It doesn’t advance the plot
Every scene should propel your story forward. If the events in a particular scene could be removed without affecting the narrative’s progression, it’s a sign that the scene might not be essential.
2. Lack of purpose
Each scene should serve a distinct purpose, be it character development, introducing conflict, or setting the stage for future events. If you can’t pinpoint the scene’s primary function, it’s worth reconsidering its place in your story.
3. Repetition of information
It can feel redundant if a scene reiterates points or events that have already been made clear in other parts of the story. While reinforcement can sometimes be useful, ensuring it doesn’t lead to overkill is essential.
4. It slows down the pacing
Pacing is crucial in storytelling. If a scene halts the momentum or feels like a diversion from the main storyline without a good reason, it may need reworking or removal.
5. Characters are passive
Your characters should be active contributors to the scene. If they’re merely observers or if their actions have no bearing on the scene’s outcome or future events, it could be a cue to cut or revise.
6. The stakes aren’t clear
A memorable scene often involves clear stakes – something significant is gained or lost. If the stakes aren’t evident or if they don’t feel meaningful, the scene might not be pulling its weight.
7. It feels out of place
Sometimes, a scene might be well-written and engaging, but it doesn’t fit the story’s tone, setting, or timeline. If it feels jarring or out of sync with the rest of the narrative, it may be best to set it aside.
8. Feedback from readers
Beta readers or writing groups can be invaluable in the editing process. If multiple people flag a scene as unnecessary, confusing, or dragging, it’s a clear signal to take a closer look.
9. Gut feeling
Finally, trust your instincts as a writer. If something feels off or you’re consistently uncertain about a scene, it might be an inner cue that it doesn’t belong.
The art of letting go
Deciding to cut a scene can be challenging, especially when you’ve invested time and emotional energy into crafting it. However, prioritising the overall narrative and ensuring each scene genuinely enriches the story will lead to a tighter, more compelling final product. Always remember, cutting doesn’t mean discarding – some scenes might find their place in another story or serve as inspiration for future projects.
