We’re all different, so it makes sense that the idea or inspiration a person gets would be different too. None the less, with the conclusion, *insert idea* could be a book!
There are different forms of these first sparks:
- A scene
- A sentence
- A dream
- A plot twist
- A character
How can I turn that spark into a fully fleshed story? We all know its hard work and effort. But you’re here for advice. What can make this process less painful? Repeatable tips you can use again and again.
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Table of Contents
3 Ways To Turn A Idea/Spark Into A Story
1 Watch tv shows + movies + books+ audiobooks +podcasts.
You are going to be spending your time enjoying these kinds of entertainments anyway. Lets put this time to use.
But how can this ordinary activity help me develop my idea?
Imagine you’re watching your new binge-worthy series, you’re intrigued with the plot, you love it. Let’s make a note of how the writer achieved this plot.
Now you are able to see if you can include a similar aspect into your own writing. Fret not, you are not copying the series, you are using it as a reference for what could potentially occur in your own story. Picking a few things, what you enjoyed the most.
For example, I love the film knives out. The way it leaves the audience second-guessing. How it is able to show the audience present and past events to paint a picture of clues to why different people could have been the killer (I’m not doing this film justice, please check it out yourselves!).
What I took from this was to write in a way that the full picture is never shown. I plan for the end results and what the readers need to know each step of the way. Including plenty of misleading clues and revisiting of event, which when they are played through longer, changes the whole scene. From pleasant words to a sinister motive.
Don’t stop at plots!
You’re watching and the scene fills you with emotion. Make a note of this. You can try to replicate their techniques to instil emotion in your future audience.
Don’t forget, by simply observing stories, you are able to unconsciously bring forth ideas for your story.
Do you remember when you were watching/listening and suddenly an idea came to you? Either it contains a small-large amount of whats occurred to what you’re observing or nothing at all.
2 Add Details By Brain-Storming
This is another way you can actively work on your story, what pops into your head when you think of your character? What suddenly makes sense when you have all the information you have gathered about the plot?
Simply having the information together in one place and help you fill in the missing gaps AND new situations, content, twists and turns. Let your imagination run wild.
On the other hand, if you struggle with coming up with ideas on the spot, closing looking at what you have so far. By being able to flesh out details it often offers a bridge. Something that helps you know/find out what happens next in your story.
Saying this, you will not always gain an idea no matter how long you will and stare at content in front of you. Your own story or another.
When you’re struggling by yourself an amazingly helpful and cheap idea is to search for an expert on Fiverr. Search exactly what you want them to do for example:
- Story plan
- Editing
- Ghostwriting
- And more
Alternatively, Fiverr also has a program called Fiverr Learn, where freelancers to deliver lessons for in-demand upskilling along with freelance training. Meaning you can learn from the experts how to write your book efficiently!
What can I do now?
3 When You Feel Stuck – Do Your Research
For example, your spark was a character. Their personality is set but you’re not quite sure how you want your character to look and additional questions.
- What personality traits would best suit the message you’re trying to tell?
- What backdrop would suit this scene?
- What items are in this era?
Going online when we have a query is natural. Make sure you also use it to your advantage when you’re stuck or idea searching for your book.
Furthermore, use it for fact-checking and refining. You may think you know how the background will look in this scene but you’re not sure if it will work.
Search books that have the same theme as what you’re writing, compare how they go about displaying in their writing style. Look at pictures in the area you are basing this in for reference. There are so many options.
It’ll also help you figure out what you want to write next!
Did these help you turn your spark into writing? Have you used these before? Let me know in the comments! Until then
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Thank you. I have just turned 60 and determined to concentrate on writing for my wee website. Just wish I had started a bit sooner in life but the joy it gives me is priceless.
I’m glad you’ve found a way to start. Good luck!
I really like the ways you provide options to spark the writer inside of us. I always feel panic at the idea of writing something new, I know I can and I want, but the fear is there. Thank you for these practical ideas.
You’re welcome! If this can help you a little then that helps you make progress.
These are some great tips for wannabe writers! I have some friends who are currently penning novels and books, I’ll share this with them 🙂
I’m glad you think this would be handy for others. Thanks for sharing 😊
These are really great ideas. I don’t feel like I come up with a lot of new ideas but I’m enjoying helping my kids with their stories at the moment.
Thank you! I’m glad you’re enjoying the process with you’re children 😊
Some really good points, I tend to brainstorm quite a lot of things, an absolute avid list and note maker.
Oh that’s great! It’ll really help with your ability to form and write your story. I’m glad you’ve enjoyed the content 😊