Only the lazy don’t talk about storytelling these days, but not everyone has managed to saddle this wild filly. Where can you get breathtaking plot ideas to make an interesting story? We have studied the main methods and some questions that will help you turn your plot ideas into a full story.
If you get stuck at some point in creating your story, it is better to get help. For example, you can use Textero’ automatic literature review generator to get inspiration and structure your ideas effectively. Professional writers can also deliver a unique story sample that you can use while writing. Once you’ve gathered enough ideas and examples, the next step is to understand how storytelling works and how to build a strong narrative foundation for your piece.
Storytelling: What Is It?
Storytelling is telling gripping stories in which the reader either recognizes themselves or at least sympathizes with the main character of the story. Why is it necessary?
The human brain is designed in such a way that it perceives information better through stories. The readers unconsciously put themselves in the hero’s place, partly live their experience, and become emotionally involved. That is why we read books and watch TV series with bated breath.
Basic Plotting Questions
Who are your characters?
Start by asking the following questions:
- Who is the main character?
- What are their goals and motivations?
- Who are their friends and enemies?
- What are their weaknesses and strengths?
What happens in your story?
Events and actions are what drive the plot forward. Ask yourself the following questions:
- What is the main conflict?
- What key events happen in the story?
- What obstacles do the heroes face?
Where does the action take place?
The setting can greatly influence the atmosphere and development of the plot:
- Where does the main action take place?
- What unique features does this location have?
- How does the setting affect the characters and events?
When does the story take place?
Ask yourself the following questions about time:
- What time period does the story take place in?
- How does time affect events and characters?
- Are there important time frames or deadlines?
Why do things happen?
Motivation and reasons for events add depth and interest to a story:
- Why does the main character decide to act?
- What are the reasons behind the main conflict?
- Why do other characters behave the way they do?
How do events unfold?
The sequence of events and their logic are important for the integrity of the plot:
- How does the main character achieve their goals?
- How do the relationships between characters develop?
- How is the main conflict resolved?
How to Use Questions to Develop a Story
Creating a plot outline
Use the answers to the questions to create a plot outline. Divide the story into main acts or chapters and identify key events for each of them.
Character development
Based on the answers to the character questions, create detailed biographies of the characters.
Checking for logic and coherence
Return to the questions periodically to check for logic and coherence in the plot.
3 Storytelling Techniques
There are eight main storytelling techniques. We have identified three techniques that are most often used in writing.
Monomyth or the hero’s journey
In a monomyth, the hero leaves their home and goes on a journey. They do not yet know what awaits them, but they guess that the path will not be easy. Having passed all the tests, they return with new skills, wisdom, and strength. This structure is the basis of many fairy tales, adventure films, and books.
There is a technique similar to the monomyth – the mountain. In it, the hero overcomes obstacles, but the story does not have a happy ending. The character draws conclusions and lives on, or the author hints at victory, but behind the scenes.
Sparklines or comparison
It is storytelling in the format of comparison. The story tells how it was and how it should be. Or how it was and how it became. The emphasis is on the contrast between the real and the correct. It is necessary to formulate the problem and then convey the desire to change the situation. Suggest ways to transform from the real to the proper and create a mood of hope and joy.
Petals or frame
A petal structure involves multiple stories around a single concept or issue. This is useful when you have several smaller stories that lead the reader to a key idea. The petal stories can overlap in many ways, but should still be separate storylines.
Creating a plot is a creative process that takes time and effort. But with the right questions, you can craft a story that will grab your readers’ attention and leave a lasting impression. It’s important to remember that each plot element should be logical and connected to other elements. For example, if your hero is a young magician, their motivations and actions should be consistent and believable. Use questions to test the logic and coherence of your plot to create a compelling and believable story.
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