One of the hardest times I have with writing is finding the plot. This isn't the same has not having an idea. I have plenty of ideas. My ideas though usually come in the form of premises and a good premise is not the same thing as a plot.
A premise is a basic concept that, when well written, drives the story. A good premise encapsulates the feel of the world, states or at least strongly implies a main conflict, and includes a protagonist. A plot, by contrast, are all the events that make up the story. So if the plot is a car driving along the highway, a premise is the GPS. A good story needs both.
I have notebooks filled with basic premises. I have very few completed manuscripts. I have trouble putting together the events. I'll keep working at it though. At least I know I'm not alone. Many of my students have the same problem.
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