What are common mistakes in writing tension?

What are some common mistakes writers make when trying to create tension?

Some common mistakes include over-explaining, predictable plot twists, and not raising the stakes enough.

Can you elaborate on how over-explaining affects tension?

Over-explaining can dilute the suspense, as it removes the mystery and allows readers to anticipate outcomes.

What about pacing? How does it play a role in building tension?

Pacing is crucial; too fast can leave readers breathless without context, while too slow can lead to boredom.

Are there specific techniques to avoid these mistakes?

Yes, techniques like foreshadowing, cliffhangers, and varying sentence length can effectively build tension.