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You've got a killer plot. Your characters have chemistry. Your vibes are immaculate.
But... why does it feel like nothing's happening?
Or worse — why does it feel like too much is happening too fast?
That's pacing. And when it's off, your story feels off, even if everything else is working.
So What Is Pacing, Really?
Pacing is the rhythm of your story — how fast or slow the events unfold.
It's how long you linger in a moment... or how quickly you jump to the next.
The goal?
Keep readers turning the page. But don't leave them dizzy or bored while doing it.
Fast Pacing = Action, Conflict, Tension
Use it when:
• Your characters are fighting, running, arguing, panicking, or confessing
• Something dramatic is happening (break-ins, chases, heartbreaks, shocks)
How to do it:
• Shorter sentences
• Snappy dialogue
• Quick paragraph breaks
• Cut the fluff and internal monologue
Example:
Her heart pounded. She didn't knock — just ran. Down the hall, past the noise, through the exit.
He was already there.
Slow Pacing = Vibes, Emotion, World-Building
Use it when:
• You want readers to feel the weight of a moment
• You're exploring a character's thoughts, relationships, or atmosphere
How to do it:
• Longer, descriptive sentences
• Inner thoughts and sensory details
• Use setting and silence to build mood
Example:
The room smelled like old books and citrus shampoo. She sat on the edge of the bed, careful not to wrinkle the covers — like touching them too hard might erase what used to be.
Signs Your Pacing Is Off:
• Too fast? Readers feel lost, emotionally disconnected, or overwhelmed.
• Too slow? They start skimming or feel like nothing is actually happening.
Tip: Let Big Moments Breathe
When something intense happens — a first kiss, a death, a betrayal — give it space.
Don't skip to the next scene. Sit in it. Let your characters feel it.
Because if they don't, your reader won't either.