You have a great story idea — one that’s captivating, compelling and full of promise. Developing it into a fully-realized narrative that can stand the test of time takes careful planning, organization and practice.
You may use a framework, such as Joseph Campbell’s monomyth or Blake Snyder’s beats, to help you structure your plot. Or you may choose to explore nonlinear structures or storytelling techniques, like flashbacks. Whatever approach you take, it’s important to consider the context of your story’s setting and the overall tone of the work.
Develop your story world, including its geographical location, historical context and any fantastical elements that add to its realism. The world you create sets the stage for your characters’ journeys. It’s important to think about your story’s setting before you begin drafting so that you can be sure to maintain consistency and realism throughout your work.
Define your protagonist’s inner obstacle, the internal sequence of challenges that will define their character arc and propel them toward their goal. Understanding your protagonist’s internal struggles will also help you develop and draft your story’s conflict.