One of the finer points of writing a novel is how to effectively use sub plots.
A sub plot is basically a secondary storyline that runs parallel to your main story.
They provide their own narrative which can act as a small detour from the main storyline without causing the entire novel to unravel.
There is no limit to how many sub plots a book can have.
Many writers consider them as a way to fill up the pages, but they need to do more than that.
They should add quality substance to the story.
The first objective of using a sub plot is to add a new dimension to the story.
In order for characters to be lifelike and easy to relate to, elements of who they are and how they think need to be gradually revealed.
Rather than just telling the reader about the character, it is much better to illustrate character traits in a sub plot.
Another factor to keep in mind about constructing the subplot is that you can choose to let it either resonate or contradict the main plot.
Those that resonate along with the story tend to confirm our evaluation of the highlighted character, while sub plots that contradict the main story will arouse suspense and mystery about them.
The sub plot also has the less complex function of adjusting the pace of the main story.
They can be used to either slow down or speed up the storyline's journey toward the main plot.
Sub plots can be treated either as a brief sidebar, or they can consist of a 100 page dialogue.