To follow the dos, simply observe real life closely. Notice how people interact, the places around you, and the small details that make things seem real. For the don'ts, always double - check your work. Make sure there are no elements that break the realism. For instance, if your story is set in the 1950s, no smartphones should be there.
Dos in realistic fiction: Create believable characters with real - world flaws and virtues. Use settings that are based on real places or could plausibly exist. Don'ts: Avoid overly contrived plots that seem unrealistic. Don't use anachronistic language or items in a story set in a specific time period if it doesn't make sense.
One of the dos is to do thorough research to make the story feel authentic. A don't is to avoid over-the-top or fantastical elements that don't fit the realistic genre.
Do focus on character development and make them complex and relatable. Don't ignore the impact of the setting and social context on the story.
Do: Create believable characters with real - life emotions and motives. For example, give them flaws and strengths. Don't: Make characters too perfect or overly simplistic. In realistic fiction, readers expect complex individuals.
Do: Depict real - life situations and problems. This makes the story relatable. Don't: Ignore the complexity of real - life emotions. For example, don't just have characters be happy all the time without any underlying issues.
Do pay attention to grammar and spelling. Don't rush through the editing process and think it's not important.
Do make sure the story has a clear message or theme. Don't rely on stereotypes for character development. Also, do research on the YA market and popular trends, but don't copy other successful novels too closely. Instead, find your unique voice and story to stand out.
Do make the language accessible and engaging. Don't include too much adult-oriented content that might alienate the target readers. Also, do build a sense of authenticity in the story world.
You should do your best to show empathy and understanding. Don't use mental illness as a plot device without considering the real impact. Also, avoid making it overly sensationalized.
When revising realistic fiction, pay attention to the dialogue. It should sound natural, like real people talking. Avoid overly formal or stilted language. Also, look at the setting. It should be described vividly enough to help the reader visualize the story's world. You can add small details like the smell of a room or the sound of traffic outside.