How to Write an Ending for Your Reader: They’re Smarter Than You Think

When it comes to writing, some writers (including myself) fear that they’re not telling the story clearly, leading to a novel ending that over explains and ruins the rest of the book. This way of thinking can lead to frustrating your audience. Here’s how to write for your reader if your tendency is to over explain in your novel.

No One Wants to be Handheld

First, understand that no one likes having someone explain every little thing to them. If you’ve ever watched The Village, you might remember towards the end where the characters explain the twist despite viewers being able to piece it together based on the information provided. This type of storytelling is frustrating because it takes agency away from the reader/viewer/participant and can feel demeaning as if the writer didn’t think we would be capable enough to figure everything out. If you don’t think you’re explaining your story well enough, this is where a beta reader comes in handy as they can tell you where there’s any confusion.

Don’t be Afraid to Withhold Information

So how do you stop handholding? You’re going to have to come to terms with the fact that your reader isn’t going to understand everything right away. It’s okay to not reveal everything all at once in your novel. In fact, this is a good thing! You don’t want all the pieces laid out perfectly from the get go. This will create interest, leading your readers wondering why certain things are relevant and will continue reading to figure that out.

Your Book is Like a Puzzle

Imagine solving a crossword puzzle. It would be frustrating to have someone shout all the answers out to you before you had a chance to solve it, right? Consider your book like a puzzle that needs to be solved. And yes, this applies to all genres, not just mysteries! Your book is leaving little pieces of information here and there that spark curiosity and leave your reader wondering and asking questions. And by the end of your novel, your reader should have all the clues and information to be able to complete the entire picture that is your novel.

To over explain your ending would rob your reader of their chance to understand your novel on their own. So the next time you working on writing an ending, remember that your reader is smarter than you think.