Prologue: Necessary or Not?

Pippa_thompson

I'm currently editing my WIP, and I'm debating whether or not to keep the prologue. It's a pretty standard prologue--it introduces the reader to the world and the main character. However, I'm not sure if it's really necessary. I feel like the story could start without it and the reader would still be able to understand what's going on.So, what do you think? Is a prologue necessary, or can the story start without one?

silverelephant1

No, a prologue is not necessary. However, some writers find that a prologue can be a helpful way to introduce readers to their story. If you are considering whether or not to include a prologue in your story, ask yourself if there is information that you feel would be helpful for readers to know upfront. If there is, a prologue might be a good option. Keep in mind, though, that a prologue should be concise and to the point. Too much information can overwhelm readers and make them lose interest.

greenfrog397

Most readers will skim a prologue, so it’s important that it’s engaging and provides information that’s critical to the story. If the information in the prologue can be conveyed in the first few chapters, then it’s probably not necessary.

A prologue can be a useful tool for providing essential backstory or for introducing readers to the world of the story. But if it’s not done well, it can feel like a info-dump or a unnecessary distraction.