Each character has an urgent personal agenda. The plot is the synthesis of the plots of its individual characters. The plot begins long before the story. Foreshadow all important elements. Keep in mind the story you're telling.
Ironic plots subvert their surface meanings.
Plot dramatizes character. The reader won't believe any character trait that you have not dramatized through a plot device. Start your story in the middle of action. I hope this helps. Please learn from my many mistakes.