Writing fiction may seem like a very daunting task. However, it is easier if you have some guidelines to follow. If you want to create a great fictional story, read this set of rules first before you grab a pen and paper.
1. Show, don’t tell. This is the most basic yet most important rule, not just in fiction writing, but even in other types of work. If you say that your fictional character is “beautiful,” then prove it. What does her hair look like? Does she have red lips or rosy cheeks? Beautiful is too vague, so make sure that you describe it well.
2. Build three-dimensional characters. Three-dimensional characters are the fictional heroes and heroines that readers love and adore. They have quirky traits and characteristics that were developed due to deeper reasons; they take stands, make decisions, and are daring enough to take risks. Most of all, they have their own faults, weaknesses, and inner demons, making them more human and realistic.
3. Be a sadist. Even though your characters have a sweet and charming personality, give them nightmares and challenges that will make them suffer. That way, readers can see what their beloved characters are really made of.
4. Don’t think about the commercial possibilities of your story. Don’t think about whether it will garner a movie deal or a television series. That is a literary agent and publisher’s problem. Just focus on finishing a compelling story and everything will follow.
5. Finish what you started. You can never master the story elements like plot, character development, or elements of suspense if you do not write until the conclusion. No matter how weak your first pages are, do not toss out your manuscript. Press forward until you are finished. You can fix errors when you revise.
6. Don’t overwrite. Veer away from the redundant phrases, overwhelming adjectives that all have the same meaning, and the useless adverbs. Simple vocabulary can tell a powerful tale if you know how to mix your words right.
7. Practice discipline. Treat writing like it is your profession. You must get up every day and finish a particular word count at the end of the day. Whether it is just 500 words or 3,000, the most important thing is that your story must always move forward.
8. Even minor characters need respect. Even though these characters will only have a fleeting appearance in their story, make sure that they are still well-constructed and unique. Try building a story about them that you can tie in with the main plot.
9. Read a lot. But don’t forget to analyze while reading. The story devices used by other authors might come in handy in your next story.
10. Write a story that you want to read. If you are not interested in what you are writing, do you seriously think that people would want to read it?
To wrap things up
Although writing fiction is about letting your creative juices flow and just writing freely whatever your imagination desires, there are still some rules that you need to follow. These rules are not meant to confine your imagination inside a box, but rather they are meant to make your craft stronger.
