They might notice that the patient's condition is not improving but getting worse. If they are trying to heal someone, but instead the person's pain increases or their wounds seem to fester more, that's a clear sign they are using the magic wrong.
In the 'wrong way to use healing magic novel', a character could realize they are using the magic wrongly when they start to feel abnormal physical sensations themselves. For example, if using the healing magic is supposed to be a smooth and effortless process for a properly trained healer, but they start feeling a sharp pain or a strange energy drain every time they attempt to cast it, it could indicate that they are doing something wrong. Another way is through the reaction of the magical environment. If the area around them starts to show signs of instability, like strange lights or tremors in the magical energy field, it might be because they are misusing the healing magic.
One consequence could be that it may cause unexpected side effects on the patient. For example, instead of healing a wound, it might accelerate the spread of an infection if used wrongly.
Well, it could result in a distortion of the magical balance in the story's world. Healing magic is often part of a larger magical ecosystem in fictional settings. When it's misused, it might tip that balance. Say, if it's overused in the wrong way, it could deplete the natural magical resources that are meant to be conserved for other types of magic. This could then lead to a shortage of magic for other important functions like protection spells or divination. Also, the wrong use might cause a corruption of the magic itself within the novel's lore. It could mutate into a form that is unrecognizable and uncontrollable, causing all sorts of unpredictable and dangerous effects.
It creates conflict. When the characters use healing magic the wrong way, it often leads to new problems that need to be resolved. This drives the story forward as other characters have to step in to fix the mess.
One example could be using the wrong incantation. If the incantation for a healing spell is mispronounced, it might not work as intended or could even have negative effects.
One possible consequence could be that the healer accidentally harms the patient instead of curing them. For example, if the magic is misdirected, it might cause internal damage or make the illness worse.
One wrong way might be when the healing magic has no limitations or consequences, which takes away the tension and challenge. Also, if it's used inconsistently or without a clear logic, it can be a problem.
One problem could be that the plot might get confusing at times.
Perhaps using the wrong incantations or gestures. In the novel, the proper form of using healing magic might be very specific. If the user gets these wrong, it could lead to ineffective healing or even harmful consequences. For example, a wrong gesture might redirect the magic to the wrong part of the body, or an incorrect incantation could change the nature of the magic from healing to something else entirely.
Perhaps misidentifying the types of injuries that the healing magic can effectively treat. In the novel, it might be shown that some characters use it on fatal wounds that are beyond its capacity, thinking it can cure everything.
There might be a mentor figure in the novel. This person could be someone who is supposed to guide the main character in using the healing magic correctly but for some reason, the main character doesn't listen and continues to use it the wrong way.