Definition
Chekhov's Gun is a storytelling principle coined by Russian playwright Anton Chekhov that states every notable element introduced in a story must be relevant to the outcome. If a detail is prominently placed, the reader expects it to matter. It is a promise between writer and reader: nothing is there just for decoration.
Why It Matters
This principle keeps your writing tight and purposeful. When you mention a detail - a locked drawer, a strange scar, a letter tucked under a mattress - your reader files it away, trusting it will pay off. Violating that trust makes your story feel cluttered and your reader feel cheated.
Types of Chekhov's Gun
Famous Examples
Tom Riddle's diary is introduced as a mysterious object and later revealed to be a Horcrux, a setup that echoes across the entire series.
The luminous hound is referenced in legend early on, building tension until the actual (decidedly non-supernatural) dog appears.
Amy's diary entries are introduced as innocent backstory but turn out to be a carefully fabricated weapon in her scheme.
Common Mistakes
Not everything needs to be a Chekhov's Gun. Let some details exist for atmosphere and texture - just make sure the prominently placed ones pay off.
Disguise your gun among other details. If a character shows off a knife collection, bury the important knife among the rest so the payoff feels earned, not telegraphed.
Keep a running list of every significant detail you introduce. During revision, check each one off when it pays off - or cut it if it never does.
Try It Yourself
Write a scene of about 500 words where a character enters a room and notices three objects. One of those objects must become the key to resolving the scene's conflict. Read it back and see if a friend can guess which object matters before the ending.
Never Lose Track of a Loaded Gun
Novelium's Consistency Guardian flags unresolved story elements so every setup finds its payoff.