We're all tired of reading the same storylines and characters in our books, whether it's a world-renowned series or a casual book that interests you. Even those who don't read often might know these 8 commonly used cliche tropes and stereotypes:- 1)Love Triangle The added spice to a simple romance, this trope is way overused and barely adds depth to the plot. It's a great way to stir up drama but many stories tend to discard the rejected side lead as the story progresses, which may frustrate the readers rooting for said character. The suspense is often lacklustre and is predictable too. 2)The Shallow Villain Everyone likes a good story where evil is defeated but it is just as important to give the villian/s character some backstory. A bland villain with only their spite for humanity is not as engaging and readers may feel disconnected from the story as it progresses. 3)Average turned Special The classic "average person who suddenly discovers there is something special about them" trope can be found in almost every genre and media these days. It's evident why we all wish that this could happen to us, but it is far too exaggerated and romanticised to enjoy anymore. 4)Ugly turned beauty queen The story of the ugly duckling is a wholesome one, but this trope doesn't give it justice. The tale of someone who is considered below attractive goes on to become prom queen is not interesting at all. It is highly predictable and often projects the false belief that everything becomes sunshine and rainbows with an overnight glow up. 5)Forbidden Lovers A love beyond boundaries is truly heartwarming, but only for the right reasons. A lot of stories use slight differences such as popularity gap, stereotypical opposites or unlikely matches and slap the forbidden tag onto it. There is frankly nothing more disappointing as it ruins the plot depth and empathy amongst readers. 6) The Chosen One The hero who saves the world is definitely overused. Books like these are painfully predictable and often fall flat on expectations. There is no major element of suspense. Often as not the Chosen one is put in the limelight while side leads are present only as supporting cast. This reduces diversity and engagement in readers. Nobody wants to read a standalone diary entry of an overpowering teenager trying to save the world. 7) The 2D Heroine She's savage and badass, is built like a bear and cut her hair short so it doesn't get in her eyes when she brutally mutilates her enemies. Unless you want your heroine sounding like a wild animalistic hybrid, you have to avoid this two-dimensional stereotype. Strong women don't have to be portrayed as mean or tough or physically buff and masc, they can be feminine and gentle yet brave too. 8)Abusive/Neglecting Parents Don't resort to reasoning abusive parents for your character's behaviour/development. These scenarios are often dramatised and used as the shaping mould for many main characters. It can cause potholes in the plot and a lot of unnecessary justification. Needless to say, blaming a tough upbringing on their wrongs is an immature and selfish move. Instead try to elaborate on characterization, mainly personality, instead of the default bad upbringing in your writing.