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7 Simple Guidelines To Master Multiple Point Of Views

Sometimes writers may discover that they can't find the right point of view (POV) for their novel. Although it has its disadvantages and is tricky to pull off, using multiple points of view can be your solution. 

Multiple POVs give the writer a way to create a complex novel when they introduce characters with opposing POVs, adding to the tension and suspense in the story. It is also a way to reveal an unreliable narrator, where the character is biased or subjective, or view a character through another character's eyes. 

But how do you make it work? Follow the guidelines below to use multiple POVs in your narrative effectively.

1. You need to ensure you have a good reason for using multiple POVs since if not done right, your reader will find it challenging to connect to your characters, and it can even confuse them. This tool is useful when you have more than one main character or if using only one perspective is too limiting.

2. When using multiple POVs, characterization is critical. Each character should have a unique voice so that readers can clearly distinguish the different POVs from each other. You as a writer use dialogue, and the character's thoughts, motivations, and actions to develop their individual POV. 

3. Inexperienced writers should be careful not to use too many POVs since your reader will feel overwhelmed, making it challenging to connect to your characters. It also challenges you as a writer to keep track of the many voices and story threads. Experienced writers can do it successfully, e.g. George R. Martin in 'A Song of Fire and Ice.'

4. The best way to transition between perspectives is through using only one POV per chapter. Switching POVs in a chapter can confuse your readers, especially if characters have similar names. If you need to change POV within a chapter, ensure you use a definite section break to indicate it to your reader. 

5. Ensure you choose the right POV for each scene. It isn't easy to establish which POV to use if several of your POV characters are present in the location. It would be best to determine which POV will have the most impact or which character have the highest stake in the scene.

6. For beginner writers, it can be helpful to establish the main POV character and then use supporting characters for the other POV perspectives. This main POV character will be telling the story most of the time, and his story arc is the main focus of the novel. It will help to focus your story, and the other POVs will enhance the main character's story arc.

7. Writers should be careful that they don't repeat scenes from different POVs since it will bring your story to a grinding halt. Choose the character with the most thrilling perspective for each scene or who brings a specific awareness or insight to your narrative. 

A great way to practice multiple POVs is to try it in short stories. Once you master it, use it to take your novels to a higher level. Your readers will thank you when they enjoy your complex, multi-layered stories, with well-developed characters and mind-blowing plot twists.

Sources:

6 Quick Tips For Writing Multiple Points of View

https://writersedit.com/fiction-writing/6-quick-tips-for-writing-multiple-points-of-view/

How to Write Multiple Perspectives: 5 Tips for Switching Points of View

https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-multiple-perspectives#5-tips-for-writing-from-multiple-points-of-view

How to Write a Novel with Multiple Points of View

https://nybookeditors.com/2016/09/write-novel-multiple-points-view/

Written by Readers’ Favorite Reviewer Susan van der Walt