Mastering the POV Switch

Mastering the POV Switchby Christie Craig and Faye Hughes

Every writer has come upon a scene where she feels as if she needs two people's POV to accomplish a certain purpose. For those times, there are some tips to help make that switch without jarring the reader.

The After-Dialogue Switch

After someone speaks, especially after a longer piece of dialogue, a POV change can move more smoothly.

For example: Luke watched the way Sarah nipped on her bottom lip as if nervous. She had good reason to be. Which was why he decided to help her.

“I told Ms. Brown that she could be looking for your resignation.” “What? You told her what?” Sarah edged closer. “I will not let you do this to me. I'd rather eat road kill than resign.” She couldn't believe Luke thought she would walk away. She really would rather eat road kill. Or maybe she'd rather just kill him.

The Sense-This Switch

When someone feels, smells, or tastes something, the reader seems instantly aware that they are in that POV character's head.

For example: Brent spotted her standing by the counter, wiping a worn Formica countertop that didn't need wiping. His gaze swept over her soft curves and remembered how it had felt to hold her next to him. His heart picked up speed. Oh, yeah, she looked good.

The hot smell of strong coffee tickled Annie's nose as she gave the counter one more swipe. She knew Bret stood behind her. Would he smell the coffee and know she'd made it just for him? Would he notice she'd worn his favorite perfume and guess she'd worn it for him?

The Pass-It-On Switch

Pass something from one person to the other. As the object moves from one person to the other, the readers seem to pass the POV over as well. It can be a physical object or it can be just an expression.

For example: Brent watched her move, mesmerized by the soft, swaying of her hips as she came closer. Tomorrow she would be his. He held out the pen for her to sign the contract.

Annie looked up at Brent's eyes as she took the pen from his hand. The smooth gold pen still held the warmth of his touch and she wondered how his touch would feel against her skin. If she signed the contract, she'd find out soon.

Again, switching POV during a scene is not the recommended formula to follow. But when you must … make sure the switch is smooth.