Developing story is the process of taking a concept from its inception as a small kernel of an idea to becoming a fully-formed narrative with characters and conflict. This can take months or even years from initial inspiration to a pitchable draft. Some writers (called plotters) like to plan out every aspect of their story before they write while others (called pansters) prefer to discover their stories by drafting as they go. Regardless of which style you choose, developing a story requires a clear set of guidelines to help you find the right direction from seed to draft.
Start with an intriguing image, conversation, or event that sparks your imagination. Then identify the “hot spots” where there’s potential for tension or emotion. This may be a specific character’s reaction to an unexpected situation or the inherent conflict in a setting.
Create an in-depth profile of your protagonist, the character whose journey will dominate your story. This should include personality traits, goals, and any significant flaws or strengths. Ideally, your protagonist’s flaws will lead to conflict with the story’s antagonist and contribute to your protagonist’s character arc.
Establish the world where your story takes place. This can be as simple as a park or as complex as a bustling city or medieval castle. In addition, establish the rules of this world – including magical, technological, or societal – and maintain consistency throughout your story. Finally, define the antagonist and provide a detailed profile of their backstory, motivations, and the nature of their conflict with the protagonist.
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