How Often to change POV

POV (Point of View) is a writer’s term to define a reader’s experience to a story. The reader will become involved in the character’s viewpoint. POV has many options.


First Person
Second Person
Third Person
Omniscient



These techniques could be discussed in-depth in the future. The topic for today’s blog is “When to Change POV?”


Change POV at the end of every chapter? Or switch after every scene? Can a writer change POV if the character changes settings?


I use the method of POV change from scene to scene. Using the characters with the most at stake and having the most to lose or gain at that moment. I write suspense, so there might be a point during the scene, I’ll change POV. With a traumatic or scary event involving more than one character during that scene.


For Example: I usually have the heroine’s need first. I try to remain in that POV during that scene. Second scene will be the Villains. Then back to my heroine in the third scene. If the character POV changes during that scene, it usually is through dialogue. I call this pacing. Some writers use the word rhythm to the story.



Don’t switch POV too often though. This is known as head hopping. Your story will take away the emotional excitement the reader is experiencing. Once this happens the reader’s involvement with your characters will lose interest. The reader may put the book down, never knowing how your characters work out their conflict, or knowing how you bring your story to it’s happy ending.


Once you know your craft, the transition can be done smoothly keeping the reader’s interest from chapter to chapter, scene to scene, reaching the happy ending. POV has many faces. Use the one that works best for you. Point of View takes practice. The more you write and read your story out loud, you will find what Point of View technique will work the best for you. Sharon.