As a writer, you have the unique ability to transport readers into extraordinary worlds through your words. But you need more than just inspiration to create a story that can stand out among the competition. The art of developing story allows you to take your initial idea and build a complete, compelling narrative with fully fleshed out characters. Whether you’re creating an outline or a full screenplay, learning to develop is a crucial step in the process of crafting a powerful narrative that will leave audiences wanting more.
Every good story begins with a pivotal concept or core idea. Whether it’s a character’s struggle with a flaw or an outside challenge that forces them to change their ways, this concept is the foundation upon which your entire story will be built. Once you’ve settled on a concept, it’s important to identify the key themes and motifs that will drive the narrative and guide your audience’s experience.
Conflict is the lifeblood of any story. Without it, there’s no tension or forward momentum. But conflict can’t just be external; it must also be internal, forcing your protagonist to overcome a personal struggle.
Populate your story with subplots to keep the reader engaged and add depth to your narrative. Just make sure that any subplots you introduce are connected to the main plot and serve a purpose in your character’s journey. For example, the subplot in Debra’s company drama in which her primary developer falls behind schedule and delays the launch of their new website might seem irrelevant to the overall story, but it provides a useful context for the conflict of the other main characters.