What Is A Plot Hole?

A plot hole is when part of a book doesn't make sense with regard to the rest of the book or previous books in the series. This can also be known as a continuity error. For example, if you had a scene where two characters acted as though they had never met each other before but they had actually encountered one another in a previous book, then unless you gave a reasonable explanation for it then it would be considered a plot hole.

It is important to think carefully about your plot before you write the actual book. J.K. Rowling, for example, discovered that she had a massive plot hole in her fourth book 'Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire' before it was published, thus resulting in her having to write nearly half the book again, a lengthy process seeing as Goblet of Fire was the biggest of her books at the time.

Minor plot holes may be excused, but if your book includes gaping plot holes then it is likely to receive criticism, though some readers may overlook plot holes if the book is well written and highly enjoyable.

As well as books, plot holes can also apply to films, television dramas and so on.