The Fiction Writer's Checklist

When a writer get's an idea for a story, chances are they are excited about a blur of details. Sometimes that excitement can cause us to forget a few (or many) details along the way. To ensure that we're all ready to embark out to write our story, I've created a checklist for us to use before a single word hits the page. Keep this handy anytime you need it and feel free to add your own special touches to the process.

Table of Contents

Core Elements

Plot & Structure

Characters

World Details

Writing Plan

Core Elements

• What is your Premise/Logline?

• What Genre are you writing in?

• Who is your Audience?

• What Tone/Style/Vibe is your story giving?

• What is the Theme/Message you want to leave your audience with?

• What is the Story POV and how does this POV enhance the story?

Plot & Structure

• What are the major plot points?

• Do you have a mood board to keep “the vibe” alive?

• What are the major internal and external conflicts in your main character(s)?

• How is the story's pace related to the piece's length?

• What is at stake?

• How do the stakes escalate as the story goes on?

Characters

• Who is the main character(s)?

• Who is the conflict character(s)?

• Are there any side characters that are vital to the story?

• Do you have enough details in your character bios to pull from while you write?

• What does your main character(s) arch look like from the beginning of the story to the end?

• How does the arch of your side character(s) enhance the arch of your main character?

World Details

• Do you have a clear vision for the main locations in your story?

• Do your locations match the kind of story you’re trying to tell?

• If you have magic in your story, have you established the basics of your magic system?

• What are the deeper cultures and structures that make up your world?

• Do you have a map of your world/ mood board to visualize your concept while you write?

Writing Plan

• Do you have a writing playlist that helps you reconnect to the story?

• Do you have an outline of all the chapters/scenes you plan to write?

• Do you have a timeline for how you plan to tackle each section?

• Do you have a word count goal per writing session in mind?

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About the Author

Crystal Cabrae is a storyteller who writes dystopian, romantic, and adventurous worlds for animation and fantastical fiction. Born as Angelica Cabrera, she is a proud graduate of Full Sail University, AMDA NYC, and New World School of the Arts. Her six years of acting training in New York and Miami gives her a unique perspective when approaching her characters. Crystal has a passion for sharing how to create stories with the world and inspiring the storyteller that lives within all of us. While she tries to keep up with her social media accounts, the best way to get to know her is over a cup of tea or a good plate of food.