Clues are the foundation of the plot, the medium to promote the development of the plot, and the important elements to let the readers understand the background of the story, the relationship between the characters, and the development of the plot. In a novel, clues usually referred to details or elements that hinted at the plot, the relationship between characters, or the theme of the story. These clues can appear at the beginning, middle or end of the story, allowing the reader to gradually understand the background of the story, the relationship between the characters, the development of the plot, etc. The main functions of clues were as follows: 1. Guide the readers to understand the background of the story and the development of the plot: Through the display of clues, the readers can understand the background of the story and the relationship between the characters so as to better understand the development of the story. 2. Shaping the character's image: Clues can let the reader understand the character's personality, background, motivation, etc., so as to better understand the character's image and image-building. 3. Increase the interest of the novel: Some interesting clues can make the novel more interesting, attract the interest of the readers, and increase the reading experience. 4. Hint the story theme: Clues can help the reader better understand the theme and meaning of the novel by hinting at the story plot, character relationships, or the story theme. Clues are an important factor in the development of a novel's plot. They can help readers better understand the story and improve the readers 'reading ability and interest.