More Ideas on Ideas
Writers are always wondering where the next idea will come from, and I know some of you are because you told me so.But... I'm lucky. I never have that problem, to be honest. If anything, I can't get to them all.
Here are some tips that may help you keep your idea file full:
- When you're reading a book, use a 4 X 6 index card for your bookmark and always have a pen or pencil close by. When an idea pops into your head, write it down. If you see anything that will help your writing, write that down, too. Notice punctuation, if that's your sore point. Write down little tips to help you remember how it goes.
- Read the newspapers. If you see anything about kids, you may have something to write a story about, but even if you see an adult situation that could be turned into a story for kids, jot that onto one of your 4 X 6 "idea" cards, too. Here's an example:
Recent Excite.com, headlines read:
"Credit Card Offers Stacking Up at Homes of the Newly Bankrupt"
Maybe the story can be about how people come to realize that filing bankruptcy doesn't mean that their entire life will be upside down. Or maybe it will. Can you see the potential?
Here's another headline:
"Four U.S. Troops Killed in Iraq Violence"
A story where your protagonist learns what death is and how to deal with the loss of a relative or best friend might be something you can work up.
And this has enormous potential:
"XBOX 360 GAMES: the Good, Bad and the Ugly"
Use your imagination!
- If you're a parent, you probably take your kids to play in the park or even to McDonald's or Chuck E. Cheese's to play. Take a notebook with you. Jot down ideas, and trust me, you will get some ideas there.
There are many ways to come up with stories idea. Actually, they're all around you. Be observant, take notes, and have fun!
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posted by Pat Marcello @ Friday, October 06, 2006
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