Expert Tips for Experienced Fiction Authors: Starting New Projects, Overcoming Writer’s Block, and Generating New Story Ideas
Experienced fiction authors understand that each new project brings its own set of challenges and opportunities. Whether you’re starting a new novel, or short story, or embarking on a different genre, it’s essential to approach each endeavor with fresh eyes and a creative mindset.
Expert Tips for Experienced Fiction Authors: Starting New Projects, Overcoming Writer’s Block, and Generating New Story Ideas
Below, we’ll explore a range of expert tips to help experienced fiction authors kickstart their new projects, overcome writer’s block, and generate fresh story ideas. So, without any further delay, let’s get those useful tips and tricks to make it happen!
Getting Started on New Projects
Even seasoned authors can run into challenges when moving from one project to another. No matter how much an author has previously written, there are still certain obstacles he or she may face. Regardless of what it is, there are effective ways to prime the pump and get started on a new work of fiction:
- Don’t be afraid to start small. If you’re feeling stuck, don’t try to write a full-length novel right away. Start with a short story or novella. This will help you get your creative juices flowing and build your confidence.
- Experiment with different genres and styles. Don’t feel like you have to stick to one genre or style of writing. Try experimenting with different things to see what works best for you.
- Brainstorm ideas. One of the best ways to get started on a new project is to brainstorm ideas. This can be done by freewriting, listing ideas, or talking to other writers.
- Do your research. If your story is set in a specific time or place, make sure you do your research so that you can accurately portray it.
- Create a character bible. A character bible is a document that contains all of the important information about your characters, such as their names, backstories, motivations, and goals. This can be a helpful tool for keeping track of your characters and making sure they are consistent throughout your story.
- Outline your story. An outline can help you map out your story and make sure it has a clear beginning, middle, and end. This can be helpful for keeping you on track as you write.
- Set goals. Set realistic goals for yourself, such as writing a certain number of words per day or finishing a draft of your story by a certain date. This can help you stay motivated and on track.
- Take breaks. It’s important to take breaks when you’re writing. This will help you stay refreshed and focused.
- Don’t be afraid to revise. Once you’ve finished writing your first draft, take some time to revise it. This will help you catch any errors and make sure your story flows smoothly.
- Get feedback from others. Once you’re happy with your revised draft, ask other people to read it and give you feedback. This can be helpful in identifying areas where your story can be improved.
Overcoming Writer’s Block
There is no shortage of advice on the internet about how to get past writer’s block. But, some methods work better than others. And, some strategies only have a temporary effect. Then, others work in particular instances, while failing to produce in other circumstances. So, here are some of the most popular ways authors can overcome writer’s block:
- Take a break. Sometimes the best way to overcome writer’s block is to take a break from writing. Go for a walk, read a book, or do something else that you enjoy.
- Change your environment. If you’re always writing in the same place, try changing your environment. Go to a coffee shop, the library, or even just sit in a different room of your house.
- Experiment with writing prompts. Writing prompts can be a valuable tool to jumpstart your creativity and generate new story ideas. Look for prompts online, in writing resources, or create your own. Use prompts as a springboard for exploration, pushing your writing in unexpected directions and sparking fresh narratives.
- Freewrite. Freewriting is a great way to get your creative juices flowing. Just start writing whatever comes to mind, without worrying about grammar or spelling.
- Brainstorm ideas. Sometimes all you need to do is brainstorm some ideas to get you started. Write down a list of potential plot points, characters, or settings.
- Read other books. Sometimes the best way to overcome writer’s block is to read other books. Pay attention to the techniques that the authors use and how they develop their stories.
- Talk to other writers. Sometimes talking to other writers can help you get over writer’s block. They may be able to offer you some helpful advice or suggestions.
Of course, do not, do not give up. Writer’s block is only a temporary problem. Just keep writing and eventually, you’ll get past it. When you do, make sure to record a little note so you can refer back to it in the future when you’re struck by writer’s block.
Getting New Story Ideas
When it comes to chasing a muse, inspiration may not always be present. So, just how do you come up with a new idea? Well, fortunately, there are some things you can try to spark your imagination, like the following:
- Read other books. One of the best ways to get new story ideas is to read other books. Pay attention to the different genres, styles, and themes that you enjoy.
- Watch movies and TV shows. Just like books, movies, and TV shows can also be a great source of inspiration for new story ideas.
- Pay attention to the world around you. The world is full of potential story ideas. Pay attention to the people you meet, the places you go, and the things you see.
- Talk to other people. Sometimes the best way to get new story ideas is to talk to other people. Ask them about their lives, their dreams, and their fears.
- Keep a journal. A journal is a great place to jot down your thoughts, ideas, and observations. This can be a helpful way to keep track of your creative ideas and inspiration.
And, as always, don’t be afraid to experiment. Don’t be afraid to take on a new voice, a new genre, or even a different format. By changing things up, you’ll get your creative instincts going and that can be a great source of new story ideas.
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Owen is the creator and author of more than sixty original short stories and counting, including drama, crime, suspense, action and adventure, family, historic fiction, sci-fi, and slices of life. He is also a musician who has written extensively about theory.
