Turning an idea into a manuscript isn't rocket science. It is actually a step by step procedure and, in the end, all you have to do is... well, do it! Here are five steps to turn your idea for a story into an actual story:
1. Describe your idea in a few words. If you don't have an idea, think of one right now (it's about time you made this dream come true!). Think of words, phrases, characters and events. Keep it brief and limit yourself to a few sentences or short descriptions.
2. Fill the gaps below to see how it goes:
The protagonist of my story is...
What he/she wants to do is... his/her purposes are... he/she craves for...
He/she is hindered by
because...
In this story, the ending is impressive because...
Once you cover these gaps, you immediately have the outline of an interesting plot.
3. Are there any gaps in the plot? Consider the questions that may arise in the head of your readers. Make a list and answer each question "reasonably".
4. Make a brief description for the following list. Keep the descriptions short and to the point. Do not write scenes and details... just the general plan.
Ordinary world - The protagonist's everyday life where everything begins.
Different new world - where things evolve.
Characters (protagonist / supporting roles)
Antagonist (one or more)
Allies (of the "good guys" and the "bad guys" of your story)
Enemies (again of the "good guys" and the "bad guys" of your story)
Note: Antagonists, allies and enemies can be - besides real persons - situations, emotions, spiritual realities, psychological issues, etc.
5. Answer the following questions:
The beginning
How will you introduce your protagonist in an interesting way?
What is your story's "world" like?
Write down some things about the place, setting, time and the initial scene.
What will your tone be like? Try to write your first paragraph or your first page to realize the tone and style of your narrative.
What is the disturbing / unsettling incident that will make your protagonist "flee" from his/her everyday life and keep the reader interested? Make a list.
Who or what are the hindrances and predicaments your protagonist faces? Write a few things about that.
The Middle
How will you go deeper into the relations and situations your protagonist experiences?
Make a list your protagonist's "battles", with everything he/she will need to confront.
What could be the final showdown?
What is that incident that will lead things towards the end and mark the final showdown? Make a list of these potential events.
The End
Write a rough sketch of the protagonist's final "battle" - the showdown.
Consider how to close any remaining "open fronts" and tie up loose ends.
What could be the story's impressive finale? Make a list of possible finales.
That's it. Your story is ready. To put it simply, you have created your story manual and now all you have to do is follow the instructions to write it down. So, stop waiting around for that great inspiration to visit you. Writing is an actual job, with steps and procedures. Get to it!
Hi. My name is Maria Gousiou and I am a published author in Greece. Visit my website on Writing for greek speaking aspired writers.
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