User blog comment:Teammcb/What makes a good story?/@comment-4759442-20100503004824

Give each character a focused, unique personality. Characters should come alive in the story. You should have a good idea of how each character will act and talk.

It's good to have an overall idea of how the story is going to go, but don't over-plan it. This can bore the writer, and in some cases, the reader. Lots of action makes for awesome chapters.

Keep the word choice and description vivid, and don't overuse words. It's a good way to add flavor to writing. Imagery is just as important as the story, as it should be appealing in every way for the reader. If you really want an idea of a perfect epic, take a look at Running From Death.