Developing story is the process of taking an idea from its inception as a small kernel of inspiration and expanding it into a fully fleshed-out script or pitchable concept. This is an exhilarating and challenging journey that many writers struggle with, but with the right tools you can develop your story from start to finish and bring it to life on the page.
Setting
When writing about your setting, focus on the five senses. Make sure to describe it in a way that will engage your readers and bring their imagination to life. Think about the mood you want to create and use those ideas to guide your writing.
Rising action
Establish the protagonist’s character and conflict, then introduce a series of increasing challenges that build anticipation. Introduce a crisis at the midpoint and escalate the tension to a climax. Finally, explore the aftermath of the climax in the denouement, tying up any loose ends and demonstrating the protagonist’s transformation or inner journey.
Theme
Understanding and incorporating themes into your story development is a critical element in creating a meaningful narrative that resonates with audiences on a deeper level. When you align your characters’ arcs with your themes, it strengthens their motivations and conflicts, making for a more impactful script.