Story Writing Tips and What Readers Want

Many aspiring writers have a great story to tell, but get stumped when it comes to the actual writing part. Many factors contribute to a great story or book. Some people don't know where to begin their writing and others might be stuck in the middle of their story. Here are a few tips that can help a writer stay focused and reminders of what readers are looking for.

Getting started:

Keep notebooks around you during the day, carry one if need be and write down your ideas as they happen. Nearly every published author will tell you to take notes constantly. Keep paper and pen near your bed at night. We've all had epiphanies at night, only to find we have forgotten them in the morning. No matter how silly the idea, write it down! When it comes time to start your story, notes will be invaluable.

The most prevalent reason we don't get to read the next great novel is that the writer fails to put pen to paper! Seriously, many people flesh out characters, plan entire scenarios and plots in their head and then fail to write any of it down. Take the time to write a little every day. Busy writers either get up earlier or go to bed later while writing a story or book. Make a date with your story and set goals, whether a time goal or amount of pages written.

Characterization:

If you don't care about the characters you write about, neither will your readers. Many writers flesh out the characters well in advance of actually writing any plot lines. Flesh out your characters into someone 'real'. Give them likes and dislikes. Do they have a nervous habit? An allergy to a food or animal? Do they have a natural talent? The little idiosyncrasies are what makes your character likable, or for the villain,detestable. We like to read about characters we can relate to and feel real emotions about.

Opening Line:

Many writers struggle with this part and rightfully so. The opening of a book is extremely important. How many times have you put down a book you started to read, because the first few pages were dull? The first paragraph should make a reader ask, "What comes next?" Fancy prose and colorful descriptions all have a place, but the first line of your book is not that place. Make your readers automatically turn that page. Draw them into the world you've created with the perfect opening.

Keep the Plot Moving:

Have you ever started a really good book only to find out that somewhere in the middle, the main plot has gone completely awry? Stories that get inundated with a myriad of sub-plots can lose track of the main storyline. Sub-plots and side storylines are an integral part of all great books, but as a writer, you must keep the main idea of the story flowing forward. This is what drew your readers to the story in the first place. When we read a story, we are working towards something. That pivotal moment that resolves the conflict and wraps up the loose ends. Don't detract from your plot line!

Have you noticed that most of the best and prolific writers are also avid readers? Writers are constantly learning as they write. Remember, if a story is interesting to you as a reader, that's the type of story you want to write.