Tony Tips Tuesdays: Chapter Purpose—Every Chapter Should Have a Purpose

Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.
Jun 3, 2025
3 min read

Every chapter in your book should have a clear, intentional purpose—one that drives the plot forward, develops your characters, or deepens the story’s themes. In this post, I’ll walk you through the critical importance of chapter purpose, how to identify and craft it, practical exercises to apply to your writing process, examples from well-known books and authors, faith-based insights, and declarations to inspire your creative journey. Let’s dive in and make every chapter count!

Why Chapter Purpose Matters

A chapter without purpose is like a car without an engine—it might look nice, but it won’t take your reader anywhere. Readers can sense when a chapter is meandering or filler. That’s why it’s essential to ask: What is this chapter doing?

Does it move the plot forward?
Does it develop your characters in meaningful ways?
Does it reveal new information, heighten tension, or deepen your story’s theme?

The Spiritual Side of Purpose

As believers, we know God calls us to live purposefully. In the same way, our writing—every chapter—should reflect intentionality.

“Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” — Proverbs 16:3

This means trusting God with the words we write, the stories we tell, and the impact they have on our readers.

Examples from Bestselling Books

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: Each chapter reveals something crucial about Harry’s character, the wizarding world, or the challenges ahead.
The Hunger Games: Every chapter raises the stakes and develops Katniss’s character.
To Kill a Mockingbird: Scout’s narration is filled with chapters that shape her understanding of morality and justice.

Writing Exercises for Chapter Purpose

Purpose Statement: Write one sentence explaining what this chapter does for your story.
Scene Summary: Summarize the chapter in 2-3 sentences. What happens? Why does it matter?
Character Arc Check-In: How does this chapter move your character forward (or backward) on their journey?

Practical Tips

Start with Intent: Before writing a chapter, ask: What’s its goal?
Avoid Info Dumps: Weave in backstory naturally.
Use Subplots Purposefully: They should reinforce, not distract.
End with Impact: Leave your reader wanting more.

Declarations for Writers

“Every chapter I write has purpose and power.”
“My writing is intentional and inspired.”
“I trust God to guide my chapters and my story.”

Faith-Based Encouragement

Your writing is a ministry. Each chapter is an opportunity to inspire, challenge, and uplift your readers. Trust God to use your words.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” — Jeremiah 29:11

Extended Author Testimonies

Maya Angelou: She admitted she often felt like a fraud, yet every chapter she wrote had purpose and changed lives.
Toni Morrison: She wrote while working full time as an editor and mother. Her chapters were written with intention and grace, one page at a time.
Stephen King: Even with doubt and fear, he wrote every chapter with the goal of engaging and thrilling his readers.

Final Word

Every chapter is a step on your reader’s journey. Write it with purpose, with passion, and with faith.

Stay tuned for next week’s Tony Tips Tuesdays!

About the Author:

Tyrone Tony Reed Jr. is the author of the inspirational superhero novel series S.O.L.A.D.™: Soldiers of Light Against Darkness™. This faith-driven, action-packed series follows teen heroes Kevin Edwards (Angelo) and Juanita Grayson (Angeline) as they battle demons, face impossible odds, and discover their true purpose as defenders of light in a dark world.

If you're looking for stories filled with hope, purpose, action, and supernatural battles between good and evil—S.O.L.A.D.™ is for you.

Order your autographed copies today at: www.tyronetonyreedjr.com/shop

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