Tips, Tricks, & Hacks: Writing Fanfiction

Before you commit yourself to any one story, you need to have solid ideas. Often, I've seen others get into a story and then pitch it, or they just won't update it any longer because of ill planning (me included). There are many crucial steps to this process. Of course, plan how you please. This is just my way of doing it.

#1. Brainstorm. Even when you think you have enough ideas, brainstorm some more. Write down everything you think of and don't judge any of it. Editing comes later and that's when you can judge your ideas. Characters, plots, settings, drama, etc. write it all down. Sometimes this may take awhile, so you have to be patient with it. If you really want to get cracking on a story, it might not take you too long.

#2. Here is the editing process. Go back and edit everything you've brainstormed. Sift through it, sort it out. Match possible settings, characters, etc. together. Whatever helps you make sense of it. Just keep an open mind. Also, pay attention to the type of audience that will be reading your writing. What do they like? What age are they? Would they be interested? If you don't think they'd be interested, come up with something interesting such as a twist and add it to your growing list. Throughout the editing stage, you may incorporate more.

#3. Once you're finished and you're pretty sure you have a general idea, you want to focus on the details. Focus on the main plot and the characters. Develop your characters, their qualities, the hardships they'll face, their backstory, anything. This adds dynamic to the character, which is what attracts audiences.
The plot is probably not finished. The plot of the story is what happens and some authors write as they go, which is completely okay. However, it can lead you into the famous trap of writer's block, which nobody likes or wants to cope with. Add to the plot. What will happen? What will be the fate of your characters? What drama will ensue? How will this fanfic end? Question yourself. If need be, find character and plot developing questions online or create some yourself. They help you clear the way somewhat easily and move you closer to writing.

#4. After you think you have a great idea of your characters and plot, go back and edit. Read multiple times and make sure that is what you want. It's okay to make changes as you go about writing. Writing is all about making, changing, and revising work.

#5. If you're completely confident and know exactly what you're doing, just start writing! The most fun part of it all. I suggest writing them on a separate document (such as Pages, NeoOffice, Notes, or Google Drive), editing them, and then copying and pasting them to the website being used. This makes sure that they are saved and you can refer back to them when needed. **

**If you still feel wishy-washy about your work, that's totally alright. We all do that. Just keep in mind that the goal is not only to have your audience entertained, but you as well. If you don't like it, keep revising! Also, we all have set expectations for ourselves. Once we create something and realize that it's not up to our standards, we often experience disappoint with the work and with ourselves. This is where an open mind comes in. We need to gradually let go of these high expectations and be open to our amazing work. (:

Notes