Beginners can start a story by using a time reference. 'In the year 2050, the world had changed a great deal.' It gives a context of time. Starting with a small moment of conflict is also effective. 'The siblings argued over who would get the last piece of cake.' Another option is to start with a place. 'On the small island, there was a hidden cave, and that's where our story begins.' This helps to set the location which is important in a story.
A good starting point for beginners could be to begin with a feeling. 'A sense of unease filled the air as she walked down the empty street.' This helps to create an atmosphere right from the start. Also, starting with a little mystery is great. 'The old box in the attic had been there for years, but today it seemed to be calling to her.' It makes the reader curious about what's in the box and what will happen next.
For beginners, starting a story with a relatable emotion can be effective. Say, 'She felt a sense of dread as she walked into the empty house.' Most people can understand emotions like dread, so it makes the story accessible. This also allows the reader to connect with the character quickly.
Start with a creepy discovery. For instance, a man exploring an old attic finds a locked box. When he finally manages to open it, he sees a strange object that gives off an evil aura. This discovery can launch the horror story.
Beginning a love story can be done through an unexpected encounter. For example, being stuck in an elevator together and having a deep conversation. Or, starting with a shared love for food. Meeting at a food festival and trying different delicacies together. You could also start by helping each other out in an academic or work - related situation, which can lead to a deeper bond.
For beginners, start simple. Just write down the basic idea that comes to your mind. Then, try to expand it. Make a list of the main characters and what they want. Use short sentences at first to get the flow going. Another good way is to write in a journal every day to practice your writing skills. This will help you get used to expressing your thoughts in words.
Sure. For beginners, it's a good idea to mimic the writing style of their favorite authors at first. They can study how those authors structure their stories, develop characters, and use language. Also, beginners could try collaborative writing with a friend or a writing group. This way, they can get different perspectives and feedback on their writing as they work on the novel. Moreover, writing in bursts, like writing for 20 minutes a day, can be a great start. It doesn't seem too overwhelming and can gradually build up the manuscript.
Start with a dream sequence. Have the main character in a vivid, strange dream that might be a premonition or a connection to a different world. It's a great way to introduce a touch of mystery.
One way is to start with a character's internal monologue. For instance, 'I always knew this day would come, but I never expected it to feel like this.' It gives an immediate insight into the character's thoughts and feelings, and the reader can start to form a connection with the character from the very beginning. This can also set up the conflict or the journey that the character is about to embark on.
Open with a dialogue that hints at something fantastical. Two characters could be talking in hushed tones about a 'portal that only opens on a full moon'. This immediately makes the reader curious about what this portal is and where it leads. Another way is to start with a feeling of being lost. The main character could find themselves in a place that looks familiar but is somehow different, like a town where all the buildings are made of ice, but they were just in a normal, warm town a moment ago.
Start with an interesting encounter that led to the vacation. 'I met a stranger on the bus who told me about this amazing place he had visited. His description was so vivid that I immediately booked a trip there, and that's how my vacation story begins.'