A common misconception is that a melody must be complex to be interesting. The most effective melodies are often extremely simple. It is the pitches and their rhythmic placement, not the number of notes, which determines the quality of a melody. Using too much new material and not enough repetition can actually weaken your melody, as it is too complex for a listener to easily follow.

A helpful goal is to use the fewest notes possible to express your desired idea. Notes can always be added to accentuate or accessorize your idea, but it is the basic framework of your melodic shape which determines its quality.