Planning: Brainstorming

 

Before you write a story, ideas are needed. Before you run away from writer's block, ideas are needed. Here are several tips on what to do while brainstorming. 

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1. Use the 6 Ws - Who, What, Where, When, Why and How 

 

 Steps: 

 

a) Think of a random topic. For the example, let's use the common word "friends." 

b) Ask "W" questions related to that word, "friends."

 

- Who are your character's friends? 

- What did they do to earn your character's trust?

- Where did they meet?

- When are they going to step out of your character's life?

- Why are they acting differently?

- How are your characters going to forgive each other? 

 

c) Answer the questions that you have just made.

 

 

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2. Mapping (use the 6 Ws here) 

 

Steps:

 

a)Think of a random topic (it can be anything, really).

b)Write it down on the middle of a piece of paper or blackboard (use the latter when presenting).

c)Draw a line that connects to the main idea.

d)Think of words that are related to the main idea, and write it down on the end of the line.

 

 

Examples: 

   and if you go even further, it becomes:  

 

 

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3. Note down any and every single idea that pops into your head

 

a) Keep any sort of writing materials close to you at all times.

b) Don't be bothered if the ideas don't match up; they will connect later when you map them out.

c) Remember that a single word can hint the plot of an entire novel.

 

 

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4. Listen to music

 

- If you're writing romance, listen to songs with a slightly faster rhythm than ballads.

- If you're writing angst, listen to ballads on breakups or death.

- If you're writing action, listen to fast pop or heavy metal songs.

- If you're writing poems, listen to the lyrics of rock music.

 

 

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5. Read quotes 

 

- They help you keep focused on an idea.

- They can help change your perspective on almost anything.

- You will receive inspiration from the message.

- Even if you don't think of an entire plot while reading, they will always be applicable in real life.

 

 

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6. Read other's stories

 

- The genre or theme can appeal to you.

- The events may spark an idea.

 

Note - There is an extremely fine line between inspiration and plagiarism. To learn more, visit this blog

 

 

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Just remember these 6 steps when you're stuck. 

Credits: pearlredknight, DailyWritingTips, and TheWritingCenter