When it comes to penning a story, there are a few essential ingredients to add to the mix, and one of them is conflict.

Why? Because humans love drama. That’s the reason reality TV shows are still around and why readers enjoy stories that use conflict to hold their interest.

Does that mean your book needs to be filled with back-stabbing scenarios and crazy plot twists? No (although if that’s the book you want to write, go for it!). Conflict does not have to be over-the-top or even in the reader’s face. Quiet conflict, the kind a character internally wrestles with, can be just as entertaining and thought-provoking when done right, so try sprinkling it and other types of conflict in with these tips.

How To Give Your Characters Conflict

Take Away What Your Character Wants/Needs

A classic case of conflict is taking something important from your character