plotting a horror story

Begin with a sense of unease. Maybe start with a character experiencing strange noises or unexplained events in their normal, everyday surroundings. This builds mystery and draws the reader in. For example, a person hears scratching at their window at night when they live on the top floor.

One key element is the atmosphere. Use descriptive language to create a sense of dread, like describing the air as thick and cold, and the shadows as menacing. Another is the antagonist. It should be truly terrifying, whether it's a supernatural being or a human with a dark side.

When plotting a horror novel, the characters' backstories are often overlooked but are very important. A character with a tragic past can add depth to the story. You can also play with different types of horror, such as psychological horror where the fear comes from the characters' minds, or physical horror with lots of gore. Additionally, the plot should have twists and turns. Just when the reader thinks they know what's going on, you throw in a surprise. This keeps them on the edge of their seats. You can also use symbolism, like a broken mirror symbolizing a fractured reality in the horror world.

One major difference is the length of the plot development. In a series, there is more room for extended plot arcs over multiple installments. For example, a TV series can have a season - long mystery that unfolds gradually. In a novel, the plot usually has to be more tightly contained within the length of the book. Also, in a series, characters can have more complex development across different episodes or books in the series. In a novel, character development is often more focused within the single narrative.

Both require a strong central idea. Whether it's a series like 'Breaking Bad' or a novel like 'To Kill a Mockingbird', there needs to be a core concept that drives the story forward. Also, character motivation is important in both. The characters need to have reasons for their actions, like the complex motives of the characters in the 'Sherlock' series and those in a detective novel.

Well, in plotting a story, first of all, you need a clear goal or objective for the story. This could be something the main character wants to achieve. Then, there are the plot points. These are the major events that happen in the story. For example, an inciting incident that starts the story's action. Also, the rising action which builds up the tension towards the climax. And of course, the resolution which ties up all the loose ends.

One way to build tension is through the use of pacing. Don't rush the scares. Let the reader sit in the unease for a while. You can also use the power of suggestion. Instead of showing the horror outright, hint at it. For instance, describe a shadow that seems to have a life of its own, but don't immediately show what it is. This makes the reader's imagination run wild, which is often scarier than actually seeing the horror. And make the characters' decisions matter. If they make a wrong choice, it should lead to more danger and more tension.

One key element is conflict. It can be internal, like a character's struggle with self - doubt, or external, such as a battle against a villain. The theme also matters. It gives the story a deeper meaning. For example, a theme of friendship in a story about a group of adventurers. Additionally, the pacing is important. You don't want the story to drag or move too quickly. You need to build up tension gradually.

One key element is the character. The characters should be believable and engaging. For example, a character like an old fisherman with a heart of gold and a lot of fishing stories. Another important element is the conflict. It could be internal, like the fisherman's struggle with his own aging and whether he can still be a great fisherman. Or it could be external, such as competing with younger fishermen for the best fishing spots. The third key element is the plot structure. It should have a clear beginning, middle, and end. Start with the fisherman getting ready for a big fishing day, then the challenges in the middle, and end with either success or a valuable lesson learned.

One can start plotting a story by coming up with an interesting idea. It could be a unique situation, a fascinating character, or an exciting concept. For example, you might think of a character who can time - travel.