How to Wear Plot Armor Properly: Tips and Examples

TLDRPlot armor is when a character is protected from serious injury or death for the sake of the plot. While it can be problematic if used poorly, there are ways to effectively use plot armor in your story. Establish and follow the rules of your story, provide reasonable excuses for the heroes' survival, and raise the stakes for your characters. It's also important to make your characters face consequences and allow them to grow throughout the story.

Key insights

🔒Plot armor is when a character is protected from harm for the sake of the plot.

📚Plot armor can be problematic if used in a way that stretches the credibility of the story.

🔥Raising the stakes and providing reasonable excuses for plot armor can make it more acceptable to the audience.

💥Consequences and character growth are important in minimizing the negative effects of plot armor.

🦸🏻‍♂️Certain stories can benefit from a superhuman main character with plot armor.

Q&A

What is plot armor?

—Plot armor is when a character is protected from serious harm or death in order to advance the plot.

Why do audiences hate plot armor?

—Audiences often dislike plot armor because it stretches the credibility of the story and reduces tension and suspense.

How can plot armor be used effectively?

—Plot armor can be used effectively by establishing and following the rules of the story, providing reasonable excuses for survival, and raising the stakes.

What are the downsides of plot armor?

—The downsides of plot armor include decreased tension and suspense, predictability in the story, and stretching the credibility of the plot.

Can plot armor be beneficial in certain stories?

—Yes, in some stories, having a superhuman main character with plot armor can enhance the sense of mystery and excitement.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Plot armor is when a character is protected from serious injury or death for the sake of the plot.

03:06Plot armor can be problematic if used in a way that stretches the credibility of the story.

05:48Raising the stakes and providing reasonable excuses for plot armor can make it more acceptable to the audience.

07:08Consequences and character growth are important in minimizing the negative effects of plot armor.

08:29Certain stories can benefit from a superhuman main character with plot armor.

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