a fresh start creative writing

Fresh Beginnings: Creative Writing About a New Beginning

My name is Debbie, and I am passionate about developing a love for the written word and planting a seed that will grow into a powerful voice that can inspire many.

In every journey we take, there comes a time when we yearn for a fresh start—a chance to leave behind the burdens of the past and blaze a new trail towards the unknown. Whether it is a new job, a new relationship, or simply a new outlook on life, embarking on a new beginning fills us with a heady mix of excitement, trepidation, and hope. And what better way to explore and express these emotions than through the art of creative writing?

At its heart, creative writing serves as a powerful medium to capture the essence of new beginnings. It allows us to delve deep into our thoughts and emotions while weaving tales of transformation, growth, and personal triumph. Through the written word, we can give shape to the emotions that often elude us, articulating the profound impact that change can have on our lives.

Whether you are a seasoned writer or someone who has never put pen to paper, this article aims to inspire and guide you through the process of writing about new beginnings. We will explore various techniques and exercises that will help channel your creative energy, enabling you to craft compelling narratives centered around the magical concept of a fresh start.

Join us as we uncover the boundless possibilities of creative writing about new beginnings. From capturing the nervous anticipation of stepping into uncharted territories to experiencing the euphoria of finding oneself anew, we will delve into the myriad emotions associated with embarking on a fresh chapter in life. Whether you want to write a short story, a poem, or a personal reflection, this article will equip you with the tools to breathe life into your ideas and bring your words to the page.

Planning Your New Beginning: Setting Goals and Objectives

Embracing change: tapping into your inner creativity, exploring different writing styles: finding your voice, crafting compelling characters: bringing life to your story, unleashing the power of intriguing characters, creating captivating settings: transporting readers to a new world, mastering the art of plot development: unveiling a riveting narrative journey, polishing your prose: editing and revising for excellence, frequently asked questions, the conclusion.

Embarking on a new path in life can be both exciting and daunting. However, with proper planning and goal setting, you can navigate this new beginning with confidence. Setting clear and achievable goals is vital for staying focused and motivated along the way. Here are a few key steps to help you effectively plan your new chapter:

• Reflect on your priorities: Take the time to identify what truly matters to you in this new phase of your life. Consider your values, passions, and aspirations. By aligning your goals with your core beliefs, you can create a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
• Set SMART goals: Rather than vague objectives, formulate Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART) goals. Break them down into smaller, manageable steps to make them less overwhelming. This approach will enable you to track your progress and celebrate each milestone along the way.

Change is an inevitable part of life, and it can be both exciting and challenging. Embracing change with an open mind allows us to tap into our inner creativity, unlocking endless possibilities and personal growth. By adapting to change, we not only expand our perspective but also develop valuable skills that can shape our future success.

Here are a few key ways to embrace change and unleash your inner creativity:

• Embrace curiosity: Cultivate a sense of wonder and curiosity about the world around you. Ask questions, explore new ideas, and challenge your assumptions. Curiosity fuels creativity.
• Embrace discomfort: Stepping outside of your comfort zone is often necessary for personal growth. Embrace discomfort as a sign of progress and growth, knowing that some of the best ideas are born in times of uncertainty.
• Embrace failure: Fear of failure can prevent us from taking risks and trying new things. Shift your perspective and see failure as a learning opportunity. Embrace it, learn from it, and use it to fuel your next creative endeavor.
• Embrace collaboration: Seek out diverse perspectives and collaborate with others. Surrounding yourself with people who think differently can ignite your creativity and inspire fresh ideas .

Remember, change is not an obstacle but a catalyst for growth and innovation. By embracing change and tapping into your inner creativity, you can navigate life’s ever-evolving landscape with confidence and resilience.

When it comes to writing, finding your unique voice is essential. It allows you to express your thoughts and ideas in a way that is authentic and captivating. Exploring different writing styles is a fantastic way to discover which approach resonates with you the most. Here are some tips to help you on this exciting journey:

• Read, read, read: Dive into various genres and authors to expose yourself to a wide range of writing styles. Pay attention to their use of language, tone, and structure, and take note of what resonates with you.
• Experiment: Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try different writing styles. Play with different tones, narrative techniques, and sentence structures. This experimentation will not only help you find your voice but also hone your writing skills.
• Reflect on your interests and experiences: Your unique voice often stems from your personal experiences and passions. Reflecting on your own life can provide you with the inspiration and content to create something truly authentic.

Finding your writing voice is a process that takes time and practice. Embrace the journey and don’t be discouraged if it takes a while. Remember that your writing style is an expression of who you are, so stay true to yourself and let your voice shine through.

Creating captivating characters is the key to immersing readers in your story and making them care deeply about its outcome. By crafting individuals who are relatable, multi-dimensional, and unique, you can bring your narrative to life and leave a lasting impact on your audience. Here are some tips to help you unleash the power of intriguing characters:

• Showcase Flaws and Vulnerabilities: Perfect characters may appear unattainable, which can alienate readers. Instead, develop flaws and vulnerabilities that make your characters relatable, allowing readers to connect with their struggles and cheer for their triumphs.
• Create Depth through Backstories: Develop rich backstories for your characters that explore their past experiences, motivations, and goals. A well-crafted backstory adds depth, providing insight into their actions and making them feel like real people.
• Embrace Unique Personalities: Give each character their own distinct personality traits, quirks, and mannerisms. Whether it’s a nervous twitch or a confident swagger, these small details add authenticity and make your characters stand out.

With these strategies, you can transform your characters from mere words on a page to unforgettable individuals that will resonate with your readers. Remember, compelling characters hold the power to breathe life into your story, making it an engaging and memorable experience for all who embark on the journey you’ve created.

Setting the Stage for Imagination

When crafting a captivating story, transport your readers to a new world through the power of vivid and enticing settings. A well-developed setting not only provides a backdrop for your characters but also serves as a compelling character itself. By immersing your readers in a richly described environment, you allow them to detach from their current realities and embark on a thrilling journey through their imaginations.

• Use sensory details: Engage your readers’ senses by describing the scenery, smells, sounds, and even tastes of your setting. These vivid sensory descriptions will evoke emotions and create a more immersive experience.
• Create a unique atmosphere: The ambiance of your setting should reflect the tone of your story. Whether it’s an eerie Gothic mansion or a cozy coffee shop , make sure the atmosphere serves to captivate your readers and enhance the overall mood.
• Introduce intriguing landmarks: Spark curiosity by incorporating interesting landmarks into your setting. Unusual buildings, mystical monuments, or hidden treasures can act as focal points that generate excitement and add depth to your fictional world.

Threading Reality with Fantasy

To fully transport readers to a new world, seamlessly weave elements of fantasy into the fabric of reality. By blending familiar details with fantastical elements, you create a setting that feels believable yet extraordinary, enticing readers to explore every nook and cranny of your imagined realm.

• Create believable rules: Even in a fictional world, consistency is key. Establish rules for how the setting operates, such as the behavior of magical creatures or the limits of supernatural powers. Consistency grounds your world in plausibility and helps readers become emotionally invested.
• Embrace cultural diversity: Just like our own world, your fictional setting should be filled with diverse cultures, traditions, and beliefs. This adds depth and realism, making your readers feel like they’ve truly stepped into an expansive and vibrant world.
• Uncover hidden secrets: Treat your setting as a character with hidden depths. Sprinkle tantalizing clues and secrets throughout the environment, challenging readers to uncover its mysteries. Whether it’s a forgotten door in a labyrinthine castle or a whispered rumor of buried treasure, these secrets will keep readers engaged and hungry for more.

Creating a compelling and well-crafted plot is the cornerstone of any captivating story. Whether you’re an aspiring author or a seasoned writer looking to enhance your storytelling skills, mastering the art of plot development is essential. In this section, we will explore the key elements and techniques that go into unraveling a riveting narrative journey that will leave your readers on the edge of their seats.

First and foremost, a successful plot requires a strong foundation. Building a solid framework ensures that your story flows seamlessly and engages readers from beginning to end. Start by outlining the main plot points in a linear fashion, from exposition to climax and resolution. This will allow you to map out the overarching structure and identify pivotal moments that drive the narrative forward. To add depth and complexity, consider incorporating subplots that intertwine with the main storyline, providing additional layers of intrigue. By carefully weaving these subplots, you can create a multifaceted world that keeps readers guessing and invested in the outcome.

Furthermore, the protagonist’s journey lies at the heart of an enthralling plot. It is crucial to develop a compelling protagonist with relatable flaws and aspirations. As the main driving force behind the narrative, their growth and transformation should be interwoven into the plot’s progression. Through a series of rising conflicts and challenges, the protagonist can overcome obstacles and evolve, captivating readers along the way. Don’t forget to include well-developed supporting characters who complement the protagonist and contribute to the overall narrative arc.

• Utilize suspense and foreshadowing to keep readers eagerly turning the pages.
• Balance the pacing by strategically alternating between moments of tension and calmness.
• Create unexpected plot twists that challenge readers’ expectations.
• Ensure there is a satisfying resolution that ties up loose ends and leaves a lasting impact.

In conclusion, mastering the art of plot development is about constructing a seamless and captivating narrative that takes readers on a thrilling journey. By establishing a strong foundation, incorporating compelling subplots, and focusing on the protagonist’s growth, you will create a plot that keeps readers hooked until the very last page. Remember, it is through the artful navigation of conflicts, suspenseful elements, and unexpected twists that your story will come alive, leaving a lasting impression on eager readers.

Once you have completed the exhilarating journey of writing, it’s time to shift gears and dive into the crucial stage of editing and revising. By meticulously fine-tuning your work, you can transform it into a polished gem that gleams with excellence. Here, we share some tried-and-tested strategies to help you refine your prose to perfection:

1. Take a break: Before you embark on the editing process, give yourself some distance from your writing. This break allows you to approach your work with fresh eyes and a renewed perspective, enabling you to spot errors and inconsistencies more effectively.

2. Structure and organization: Start your revision process by focusing on the overall structure and organization of your piece. Consider the flow of ideas, coherence in paragraphs, and logical transitions between sections. Use headings, subheadings, and bullet points to create a clear and readable structure. This will ensure that your readers can easily navigate through your content and grasp your main points with ease.

Q: What is “Fresh Beginnings: Creative Writing About a New Beginning” all about? A: “Fresh Beginnings: Creative Writing About a New Beginning” is an article that explores the process of writing creatively about new beginnings in various forms of literature.

Q: Why is creative writing about new beginnings important? A: Creative writing about new beginnings allows individuals to express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences related to starting over. It provides an outlet for self-reflection, personal growth, and exploration of new possibilities.

Q: What types of writing can be considered as creative writing about new beginnings? A: Creative writing about new beginnings can take several forms, including short stories, poetry, journal entries, personal essays, and even novels. Essentially, any form of writing that explores the theme of starting anew can be considered part of this genre.

Q: What are the potential benefits of writing about fresh beginnings? A: Writing about new beginnings can help individuals process their emotions, gain clarity about their experiences, and find catharsis. It can also foster resilience, inspire others, and serve as a source of inspiration for personal transformation.

Q: How can I start writing creatively about new beginnings? A: To begin writing creatively about new beginnings, start by reflecting on your own experiences and emotions. Consider the challenges you’ve faced, the lessons learned, and the hopes for the future. Then, choose a writing style that resonates with you and begin putting your thoughts into words.

Q: Are there any writing prompts available for creative writing about new beginnings? A: Absolutely! Some writing prompts that can inspire creative writing about new beginnings include: “Describe a time when you had to start over. How did it feel?”; “Write a poem about the excitement and uncertainties of a fresh beginning”; or “Imagine a character embarking on a new journey. What challenges do they face, and what do they learn?”

Q: Can beginner writers participate in this form of creative writing? A: Absolutely! Creative writing about new beginnings is open to writers of all levels. Beginners can start by journaling their thoughts or experimenting with shorter pieces such as flash fiction or micro-poetry. Writing workshops or online communities can also provide valuable feedback and support.

Q: Is there a specific process to follow while writing creatively about new beginnings? A: There is no one-size-fits-all process, as everyone’s creative journey is unique. However, it may be helpful to start by brainstorming ideas, creating an outline or structure, and then allowing the words to flow naturally. Remember, the most important part is to enjoy the process and be true to your own voice.

Q: Can writing about new beginnings be therapeutic? A: Yes, writing about new beginnings can serve as a form of therapy. It allows individuals to process complex emotions, find closure, and gain a new perspective on their experiences. Writing creatively about fresh starts can be a cathartic and transformative outlet for self-expression.

Q: Where can I find resources or workshops to further explore creative writing about new beginnings? A: There are many resources available to further explore creative writing about new beginnings. Look for local writing groups, join online writing communities, or seek out writing workshops and classes in your area. Additionally, numerous books and websites offer guidance and writing exercises specifically tailored to this genre.

In conclusion, exploring the theme of new beginnings in creative writing offers a fresh perspective and a chance for personal growth.

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Here's how our contest works: every Friday, we send out a newsletter containing five creative writing prompts. Each week, the story ideas center around a different theme. Authors then have one week — until the following Friday — to submit a short story based on one of our prompts. A winner is picked each week to win $250 and is highlighted on our Reedsy Prompts page.

Interested in participating in our short story contest? Sign up here for more information! Or you can check out our full Terms of Use and our FAQ page .

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If you've ever sat in front of a computer or notebook and felt the urge to start creating worlds, characters, and storylines — all the while finding yourself unable to do so — then you've met the author's age-old foe: writer's block. There's nothing more frustrating than finding the time but not the words to be creative. Enter our directory! If you're ready to kick writer's block to the curb and finally get started on your short story or novel, these unique story ideas might just be your ticket.

This list of 1800+ creative writing prompts has been created by the Reedsy team to help you develop a rock-solid writing routine. As all aspiring authors know, this is the #1 challenge — and solution! — for reaching your literary goals. Feel free to filter through different genres, which include...

Dramatic — If you want to make people laugh and cry within the same story, this might be your genre.

Funny — Whether satire or slapstick, this is an opportunity to write with your funny bone.

Romance — One of the most popular commercial genres out there. Check out these story ideas out if you love writing about love.

Fantasy — The beauty of this genre is that the possibilities are as endless as your imagination.

Dystopian – Explore the shadowy side of human nature and contemporary technology in dark speculative fiction.

Mystery — From whodunnits to cozy mysteries, it's time to bring out your inner detective.

Thriller and Suspense — There's nothing like a page-turner that elicits a gasp of surprise at the end.

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• Writing Contests in 2023 — the finest contests of 2021 for fiction and non-fiction authors of short stories, poetry, essays, and more.

Beyond creative writing prompts: how to build a writing routine

While writing prompts are a great tactic to spark your creative sessions, a writer generally needs a couple more tools in their toolbelt when it comes to developing a rock-solid writing routine . To that end, here are a few more additional tips for incorporating your craft into your everyday life.

• NNWT. Or, as book coach Kevin Johns calls it , “Non-Negotiable Writing Time.” This time should be scheduled into your routine, whether that’s once a day or once a week. Treat it as a serious commitment, and don’t schedule anything else during your NNWT unless it’s absolutely necessary.
• Set word count goals. And make them realistic! Don’t start out with lofty goals you’re unlikely to achieve. Give some thought to how many words you think you can write a week, and start there. If you find you’re hitting your weekly or daily goals easily, keep upping the stakes as your craft time becomes more ingrained in your routine.
• Talk to friends and family about the project you’re working on. Doing so means that those close to you are likely to check in about the status of your piece — which in turn keeps you more accountable.

Arm yourself against writer’s block. Writer’s block will inevitably come, no matter how much story ideas initially inspire you. So it’s best to be prepared with tips and tricks you can use to keep yourself on track before the block hits. You can find 20 solid tips here — including how to establish a relationship with your inner critic and apps that can help you defeat procrastination or lack of motivation.

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What is Creative Writing? A Key Piece of the Writer’s Toolbox

Not all writing is the same and there’s a type of writing that has the ability to transport, teach, and inspire others like no other.

Creative writing stands out due to its unique approach and focus on imagination. Here’s how to get started and grow as you explore the broad and beautiful world of creative writing!

What is Creative Writing?

Creative writing is a form of writing that extends beyond the bounds of regular professional, journalistic, academic, or technical forms of literature. It is characterized by its emphasis on narrative craft, character development, and the use of literary tropes or poetic techniques to express ideas in an original and imaginative way.

Creative writing can take on various forms such as:

• short stories
• screenplays

It’s a way for writers to express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas in a creative, often symbolic, way . It’s about using the power of words to transport readers into a world created by the writer.

5 Key Characteristics of Creative Writing

Creative writing is marked by several defining characteristics, each working to create a distinct form of expression:

1. Imagination and Creativity: Creative writing is all about harnessing your creativity and imagination to create an engaging and compelling piece of work. It allows writers to explore different scenarios, characters, and worlds that may not exist in reality.

2. Emotional Engagement: Creative writing often evokes strong emotions in the reader. It aims to make the reader feel something — whether it’s happiness, sorrow, excitement, or fear.

3. Originality: Creative writing values originality. It’s about presenting familiar things in new ways or exploring ideas that are less conventional.

4. Use of Literary Devices: Creative writing frequently employs literary devices such as metaphors, similes, personification, and others to enrich the text and convey meanings in a more subtle, layered manner.

5. Focus on Aesthetics: The beauty of language and the way words flow together is important in creative writing. The aim is to create a piece that’s not just interesting to read, but also beautiful to hear when read aloud.

Remember, creative writing is not just about producing a work of art. It’s also a means of self-expression and a way to share your perspective with the world. Whether you’re considering it as a hobby or contemplating a career in it, understanding the nature and characteristics of creative writing can help you hone your skills and create more engaging pieces .

For more insights into creative writing, check out our articles on creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree and is a degree in creative writing worth it .

Styles of Creative Writing

To fully understand creative writing , you must be aware of the various styles involved. Creative writing explores a multitude of genres, each with its own unique characteristics and techniques.

Poetry is a form of creative writing that uses expressive language to evoke emotions and ideas. Poets often employ rhythm, rhyme, and other poetic devices to create pieces that are deeply personal and impactful. Poems can vary greatly in length, style, and subject matter, making this a versatile and dynamic form of creative writing.

Short Stories

Short stories are another common style of creative writing. These are brief narratives that typically revolve around a single event or idea. Despite their length, short stories can provide a powerful punch, using precise language and tight narrative structures to convey a complete story in a limited space.

Novels represent a longer form of narrative creative writing. They usually involve complex plots, multiple characters, and various themes. Writing a novel requires a significant investment of time and effort; however, the result can be a rich and immersive reading experience.

Screenplays

Screenplays are written works intended for the screen, be it television, film, or online platforms. They require a specific format, incorporating dialogue and visual descriptions to guide the production process. Screenwriters must also consider the practical aspects of filmmaking, making this an intricate and specialized form of creative writing.

If you’re interested in this style, understanding creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree can provide useful insights.

Writing for the theater is another specialized form of creative writing. Plays, like screenplays, combine dialogue and action, but they also require an understanding of the unique dynamics of the theatrical stage. Playwrights must think about the live audience and the physical space of the theater when crafting their works.

Each of these styles offers unique opportunities for creativity and expression. Whether you’re drawn to the concise power of poetry, the detailed storytelling of novels, or the visual language of screenplays and plays, there’s a form of creative writing that will suit your artistic voice. The key is to explore, experiment, and find the style that resonates with you.

For those looking to spark their creativity, our article on creative writing prompts offers a wealth of ideas to get you started.

Importance of Creative Writing

Understanding what is creative writing involves recognizing its value and significance. Engaging in creative writing can provide numerous benefits – let’s take a closer look.

Developing Creativity and Imagination

Creative writing serves as a fertile ground for nurturing creativity and imagination. It encourages you to think outside the box, explore different perspectives, and create unique and original content. This leads to improved problem-solving skills and a broader worldview , both of which can be beneficial in various aspects of life.

Through creative writing, one can build entire worlds, create characters, and weave complex narratives, all of which are products of a creative mind and vivid imagination. This can be especially beneficial for those seeking creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree .

Enhancing Communication Skills

Creative writing can also play a crucial role in honing communication skills. It demands clarity, precision, and a strong command of language. This helps to improve your vocabulary, grammar, and syntax, making it easier to express thoughts and ideas effectively .

Moreover, creative writing encourages empathy as you often need to portray a variety of characters from different backgrounds and perspectives. This leads to a better understanding of people and improved interpersonal communication skills.

Exploring Emotions and Ideas

One of the most profound aspects of creative writing is its ability to provide a safe space for exploring emotions and ideas. It serves as an outlet for thoughts and feelings , allowing you to express yourself in ways that might not be possible in everyday conversation.

Writing can be therapeutic, helping you process complex emotions, navigate difficult life events, and gain insight into your own experiences and perceptions. It can also be a means of self-discovery , helping you to understand yourself and the world around you better.

So, whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, the benefits of creative writing are vast and varied. For those interested in developing their creative writing skills, check out our articles on creative writing prompts and how to teach creative writing . If you’re considering a career in this field, you might find our article on is a degree in creative writing worth it helpful.

4 Steps to Start Creative Writing

Creative writing can seem daunting to beginners, but with the right approach, anyone can start their journey into this creative field. Here are some steps to help you start creative writing .

1. Finding Inspiration

The first step in creative writing is finding inspiration . Inspiration can come from anywhere and anything. Observe the world around you, listen to conversations, explore different cultures, and delve into various topics of interest.

Reading widely can also be a significant source of inspiration. Read different types of books, articles, and blogs. Discover what resonates with you and sparks your imagination.

For structured creative prompts, visit our list of creative writing prompts to get your creative juices flowing.

Editor’s Note : When something excites or interests you, stop and take note – it could be the inspiration for your next creative writing piece.

2. Planning Your Piece

Once you have an idea, the next step is to plan your piece . Start by outlining:

• the main points

Remember, this can serve as a roadmap to guide your writing process. A plan doesn’t have to be rigid. It’s a flexible guideline that can be adjusted as you delve deeper into your writing. The primary purpose is to provide direction and prevent writer’s block.

3. Writing Your First Draft

After planning your piece, you can start writing your first draft . This is where you give life to your ideas and breathe life into your characters.

Don’t worry about making it perfect in the first go. The first draft is about getting your ideas down on paper . You can always refine and polish your work later. And if you don’t have a great place to write that first draft, consider a journal for writing .

4. Editing and Revising Your Work

The final step in the creative writing process is editing and revising your work . This is where you fine-tune your piece, correct grammatical errors, and improve sentence structure and flow.

Editing is also an opportunity to enhance your storytelling . You can add more descriptive details, develop your characters further, and make sure your plot is engaging and coherent.

Remember, writing is a craft that improves with practice . Don’t be discouraged if your first few pieces don’t meet your expectations. Keep writing, keep learning, and most importantly, enjoy the creative process.

For more insights on creative writing, check out our articles on how to teach creative writing or creative writing activities for kids.

Tips to Improve Creative Writing Skills

Understanding what is creative writing is the first step. But how can one improve their creative writing skills? Here are some tips that can help.

Read Widely

Reading is a vital part of becoming a better writer. By immersing oneself in a variety of genres, styles, and authors, one can gain a richer understanding of language and storytelling techniques . Different authors have unique voices and methods of telling stories, which can serve as inspiration for your own work. So, read widely and frequently!

Practice Regularly

Like any skill, creative writing improves with practice. Consistently writing — whether it be daily, weekly, or monthly — helps develop your writing style and voice . Using creative writing prompts can be a fun way to stimulate your imagination and get the words flowing.

Attend Writing Workshops and Courses

Formal education such as workshops and courses can offer structured learning and expert guidance. These can provide invaluable insights into the world of creative writing, from understanding plot development to character creation. If you’re wondering is a degree in creative writing worth it, these classes can also give you a taste of what studying creative writing at a higher level might look like .

Joining Writing Groups and Communities

Being part of a writing community can provide motivation, constructive feedback, and a sense of camaraderie. These groups often hold regular meetings where members share their work and give each other feedback. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with others who share your passion for writing.

Seeking Feedback on Your Work

Feedback is a crucial part of improving as a writer. It offers a fresh perspective on your work, highlighting areas of strength and opportunities for improvement. Whether it’s from a writing group, a mentor, or even friends and family, constructive criticism can help refine your writing .

Start Creative Writing Today!

Remember, becoming a proficient writer takes time and patience. So, don’t be discouraged by initial challenges. Keep writing, keep learning, and most importantly, keep enjoying the process. Who knows, your passion for creative writing might even lead to creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree .

Happy writing!

Brooks Manley

Creative Primer  is a resource on all things journaling, creativity, and productivity. We’ll help you produce better ideas, get more done, and live a more effective life.

My name is Brooks. I do a ton of journaling, like to think I’m a creative (jury’s out), and spend a lot of time thinking about productivity. I hope these resources and product recommendations serve you well. Reach out if you ever want to chat or let me know about a journal I need to check out!

Here’s my favorite journal for 2024: 

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Story Starters: Ten Fiction Writing Prompts

by Melissa Donovan | Jan 23, 2024 | Fiction Writing Prompts | 22 comments

Give these fiction writing prompts a try.

Fiction writing prompts are a fun and inspiring way to stimulate creativity when you’re in the mood to do a little writing but need some fresh story ideas.

Prompts and other creative writing exercises can activate your imagination. Sometimes, prompts and exercises help you come up with new ideas for projects you’re already working on, and other times, they give you ideas for projects you haven’t started yet. They’re also a great source of motivation.

10 Fiction Writing Prompts

The fiction writing prompts below are story starters. Try starting the first sentence of a new piece with one of the prompts and run with it, or write a story that includes one of the prompts somewhere in the text. As an alternative, outline a story based on a prompt. You can even use one of the prompts as the final sentence in a story and use your imagination to fill in what happens leading up to it.

Feel free to alter any of the prompts to your liking. Use one or use them all. Do what works for you. Have fun.

• She rolled over and felt her body push up against something hard.
• My wife disappeared on August 28, 1998.
• Sonny jumped up against the chain-link fence, wagging his tail furiously.
• Mom says it happens to all girls, but I think she’s just trying to make me feel normal.
• I’ve been to nine planets in twelve years and it’s starting to show.
• They say Old Weezie’s been reading palms out of her run-down shack for a hundred years or more.
• Acronyms give me a headache in general, but PBRT gives me a migraine.
• Ashley stared at the fruit, so lost in amazement that she didn’t think to comment on its size.
• Every day the sun comes up and every night it goes down again. Except when…
• When the elven guard put out a call to action, their plea went unheard and what followed was sheer terror.

Bonus challenge: Write a story that includes each and every one of the ten prompts above. That would be quite a feat!

Looking for more fiction writing prompts and story starters? Some of today’s fiction prompts appear in  1200 Creative Writing Prompts , available in paperback and e-book.

22 Comments

I really like the fourth prompt here. It leaves so many options for where to go. You can write a piece going in the direction of fantasy as a girl comes to grips with her powers. Or maybe about coming of age as a girl comes to terms with her changing body.

The other ones are up and down but that one really stands out for me!

I love any story where someone’s getting powers! I think based on the prompt, the coming of age and changing body would be expected. Having powers is more surprising – of course, those two events could happen simultaneously. That would be rough for the poor girl but a lot of fun for the writer.

Here is a little something I came up with after reading the 10 propmts, I went with the first one. I know it isn’t much, but it is a first thought piece. Let me know what you think.

She rolled over and felt her body push against something hard and solid. Startled, she turned quickly to face the large oak tree planted in her backyard. Relief washed over her as she sat up and cleared her thoughts. “Damn it.” Kylie mumbled under her breath as she stood up. “Where is he?” She bent down to pick up her cell phone and turned for the house, leaving the blanket and book on the ground. She ran upstairs before her mother could stop her. “Young lady, that boy better not come over here today, do you hear me?” Her mother yelled after her, clearly angered. Kylie slammed the bedroom door shut and laid down on her bed. She pressed her phone to her ear and waited for an answer. “Hello.” “Thomas, where are you? I fell asleep waiting.” “Don’t worry, I’m on my way, but I have a better plan.” His voice was eager. “Meet me at Joey’s.” “Won’t Joey be home?” Kylie asked, unsure of her fate. “No, trust me.” He paused, and then added, “I love you.” “I love you, too.” She replied, and he hung up.

Thomas speeded down the streets towards Joey’s house. He hated when Kylie called him for being late. “Why can’t she trust me?” He grumbled. “Can’t she understand what I’m doing?” He turned quickly and pulled into Joey’s driveway. The Hansen family was on vacation and Joey left Thomas a key as a favor, as long as they stayed out of his room, he didn’t care what they did. Thomas unlocked the door and walked up the stairs to Joey’s bedroom, he would forgive him one day. Thomas pulled a tin box from under the bed, he new where Joey stored his extra cash. Regretfully, he counted out three hundred dollars, and slid the box back into its place. He quickly left the room and went to wait for Kylie downstairs.

That’s great, Jennifer! I have a lot of fun with creative writing prompts, and I wish I could read more from people who’ve put them into action. It’s easy to see how this could evolve into a longer piece. Nice job.

Love this one!!! SO much. Great Job!

I took prompt number 9. A friend and I are writing a series of stories around two characters we created, so this helped a lot with a short little sweet one.

There are some things you just know. Every day, the sun comes up, and every night, it goes down again. You don’t have to explain how you know, you just know.

The two were sitting on a rock, Cattie in Caleb’s lap and leaning against him, his arms draped around her and his head against hers, both just enjoying being with each other. Cattie wiggled in closer, sighing contentedly. This was one of those little things that made both of them inexplicably happy.

They brought out the best in each other. Caleb was brusque and could go days without speaking, had gone days without speaking. And while Cattie didn’t talk a lot, she talked more than he did.

Caleb knew how to survive, and was teaching her. But Cattie knew how to live, and was teaching him. He was learning how to be sweet from her. She was learning how to be strong from him.

Caleb taught her how to fight. Cattie taught him how to play. He taught her how to observe everything around them. She taught him how to see everything around them.

And both of them were learning that they could be content to just sit with each other. Even if they did have to do the fingertip touching ritual to keep her from freezing up.

There were some things that you just know. They’d be together when they went to sleep. They’d be next to each other when they woke up. You don’t have to explain how you know, you just know.

Caleb would do anything to keep Cattie safe. Cattie would do the same for him.

The sun rises, the sun sets.

This was a good day.

Wow, you made great use of this prompt. My only suggestion would be more showing and less telling. For example, you wrote, “Caleb taught her how to fight. Cattie taught him how to play.” Those two sentences tell the reader something. You could draw each sentence out into an entire scene – one in which Caleb is showing Cattie different boxing moves or martial arts tricks and explaining self defense. Another scene could be Cattie luring Caleb into doing something just for fun. This is the essence of good storytelling – showing rather than telling. But you’ve done a fantastic job with the prompt.

Hey! Thank you so much! This gives me a lot of advice as well.

Could you critique this one? I used most of the prompts, which are all really good. Could you give a guess on my age as well? Just for fun?

Hey. Yeah same.

Hey guys! Could you tell me what you think of this? Thanks! (And could anyone tell me how you

Laura stared at the planet, so lost in amazement that she didn’t think to comment on its size. It overwhelmed her with thoughts. Every day the sun comes up and every night it goes down again. What if all of that stopped? They say the old woman on the top of the hill can read people’s minds, but the last time she walked for a week on foot, that woman had just said that the planet would come. Laura had been frustrated with those words, though, now that she thought of it, it made way more sense to her. She was bewildered. She was confused. What would happen next? The planet looked like it was hovering just feet above Earth’s surface, getting closer and closer, until everything that Laura could see went black. When Laura woke up, she couldn’t see anything. It was pitch black. A shiver ran down her spine. She could feel the grass beneath her. She didn’t remember laying down though. She rolled over and felt her body push up against something hard. She screamed. Terror filled her thoughts.

UPDATE FOR STORY (Just the end of it)

Laura stared at the planet, so lost in amazement that she didn’t think to comment on its size. It overwhelmed her with thoughts. Every day the sun comes up and every night it goes down again. What if all of that stopped? They say the old woman on the top of the hill can read people’s minds, but the last time she walked for a week on foot, that woman had just said that the planet would come. Laura had been frustrated with those words, though, now that she thought of it, it made way more sense to her. She was bewildered. She was confused. What would happen next? The planet looked like it was hovering just feet above Earth’s surface, getting closer and closer, until everything that Laura could see went black. When Laura woke up, she couldn’t see anything. It was pitch black. A shiver ran down her spine. She could feel the grass beneath her. She didn’t remember laying down though. She rolled over and felt her body push up against something hard. She screamed. Terror filled her thoughts. She felt around her. She sat up with relief as she patted against the object realizing it was a tree. It only there was some way she could just get back home. She could feel the ground. At least that was something. She smelt burning flesh. She burned her hand against a rock. Why was it so hot? She couldn’t do this. Not anymore. The woman had warned her. Why hadn’t she listened?

Hi Ana. Thanks for sharing your work here.

So the prompt is at the end, I liked it better that way.

Hannah ducked low in the mine shaft, light dimly illuminating her way back to the accident site. Her radio continued cackling at her hip. “Hannah Ragby. Hannah Ragby do not return. Repeat. Do not return.” Hannah grabbed the radio and pressed the button down with her coal-covered hand. “Sandra is my friend! I’m going back!” She trudged a few more feet before adding her favorite quote of the former: “Don’t tell me how to live my life!” she stuck the radio back on her hip and maneuvered around several fallen beams and rails sticking out of a mini-avalanche of coal-mine-wall. Sandra was trapped underneath the mess, mid-torso down. “Oh my lanta. What the crap are you doing?” she wheezed, looking up. “I thought I told you to get out.” Hannah smiled and sat next to her. “You did. But you see, I have this friend and she’s the most stubborn thing you’ll ever meet…she sorta’ rubbed off on me.” Sandra smiled, teeth a strange shade of grey from the air. “Who is this friend? I’m jealous!” a deep cough tore its way through her body and blood spattered outward. She gasped for a moment before choking up a few more drops. She wiped her hand roughly against her mouth. “Hannah, you should really get out of here, it’s not going to end well.” “No,” Hannah answered, grabbing her hand. “Don’t say stuff like that. It’s not true,” but even as she spoke the words she felt them slide off of a definite truth that everything was not going to be alright. It was as present as the mountain of rock and metal and wood pinning Sandra down, crushing half her body. She looked down at her friend’s face and saw that her eyes were watery. “Hey, don’t go getting soft on me now,” she laughed. “I’ll never go soft on you, geek-wad,” Sandra answered, a grin playing across her chapped lips. “I don’t believe in being nice to people.” Hannah laughed—that was a sentence that often left her mouth but was brazenly proved the opposite. Sandra was known to pack several extra sandwiches so on her way to work she could give them to the homeless people she saw; she was always the one running head-first into trouble to help others out. “Yeah right!” Sandra attempted a strangled laugh but wound up spitting up a considerable amount of blood. Hannah felt a tear roll down her grimy cheek. “Come on, you can’t leave me,” she pleaded, scooting so she could prop Sandra’s head up on her lap. She wiped crimson from the combination of tear-streaked dirt and coal from Sandra’s face. “You’re my best friend,” she whispered. “You’re mine too,” Sandra managed between ragged breaths. They heard the scratches and shouts of people digging through. “Hey! There they are, Sandra! It’ll be okay!” Hannah squeezed her hand. Sandra’s eyelids were drooping, but she squeezed back as well as she could. “Hannah…” Hannah looked down and put her other hand over the one she was holding already. “I love you,” she spluttered, red streaking out the sides of her mouth again. “I love you too,” she answered, tears falling and mingling with her blood.

Hannah stood at the front of the memorial service, microphone in hand. “Sandra always said there are only a few certainties in life,” she said, feeling the lump already rising in her throat. “One was that The Magic School bus was and forever will be legit. The second was that love isn’t only for husband and wife, boyfriend and girlfriend, but also for friend and friend. She always said the last was the most important because sometimes we forget. Every day the sun comes up and every night it goes down again.”

Oh dang. The stupid internet took out all my formatting….I am competent, despite what my English teacher believes. Sorry.

No worries. It happens.

Wow, Courtney, you got a lot of mileage out of these prompts. A whole scene! Good job!

Thanks for these! I do a daily writing prompt blog and I really liked a couple of these – they are on my schedule for October 28th and 29th and I can’t wait to use them 🙂

Awesome! Can’t wait to see what you do.

My husband disappeared on October 12, 2005. I was young then. We were newly married, had just celebrated our one-year anniversary. He’d given me a beautiful pearl necklace. I’d given him a new grill. The pearls now rest in the corner of my jewelry box. Unworn. Untouched for years. I had to sell the grill. I couldn’t bear to look at it. No matter how long John was gone, I don’t think I would ever truly believe he was dead. No. It’s not some sort of denial I’m going through. After all it’s been 6 years, and thousands spent on therapists. I know that he is physically not near me, but I know he is not dead. I’m sure he would’ve visited if he were. I can see ghosts, or spirits or specters or whatever you want to call them. They appear to me around the clock, and have since I was a girl. Luckily I was never really afraid of them, thanks to my Gran, but trust me, I was never particularly happy to have them hanging around.

I used number 2, but changed it to a husband. 🙂 I’m already 500 words in. Fun.

Wow, this is great. Actually, when I first read the opening line, I didn’t realize you were posting fiction — I thought it was real. Kind of startled me, which means it’s working!

Mom says it happens to all girls, but I think she’s just trying to make me feel normal. I wasn’t normal though. I see things, I can hear them. They haunt me every waking moment, they haunt my nightmares. I can see them crying for help, their deaths before they even know it. I was helpless to them, I could do nothing to save them. I blinked my eyes, trying to make the vision go away. The school bus, one of the safest places, was unsafe.

“Don’t!” I yelled as my brother walked to the bus stop. “I’ll drive you to school.”

Jake looked at me in confusion, he knew I hated driving him to school. The bus was going to crash though, some innocent kids were going to die. I couldn’t stop them all, but at least I could stop my brother.

“You’re weird.” Jake muttered, throwing his bag in the backseat.

Not weird, just not normal.

Your writing has a strong voice. I like the concept here. It’s just creepy enough for kids.

Awesome prompts, have a few ideas rolling around right now. I used #1.

She rolled over and felt something hard press against her body. It looped its arm around her, tugging her closer unconciously. She bit back a sigh, not wanting to wake him. As always neon numbers of the alarm clock showed it to be about three, but she already knew the time without having to spare a glance. It was always 3. Everday she woke at the same time on the dot. It’d become a pattern punctuated by nightmares, one that she couldn’t escape. The nightmares were the cause of her restlessness, reminding her of memories that she wanted to forget.They replayed in her head, ending just before she would have died, both in the dream and in real life. She likened the waking from the dream’s clutches to the police bursting through the door, the light from the kitchen spilling in heroically. The clock behind the police had read 3 o’clock, forever burning the time into her mind.

She stepped back into her memories for a moment to think about what had happened. Slipping back into them, as she did every night, she began to forget where she was. Blood seemed to seep down the walls of her bedroom, staining them a foul red. Her mother had painted the walls a dark red before she died, claiming them to be homey. Thankfully for her father, the paint blended almost perfectly with her blood, so he never had to see and feel guilty for what he did. The chains he’d hung seemed to swing just outside her line of sight, taking place of the curtains over the window. He’d chained her that night, not wanting her to struggle. His cuts had to be precise, otherwise he had to start all over again and he didn’t like that. His OCD often showed through, despite the medication. The blade always winked in the light from the hanging blub, winking as if it was all pretend.

“Elle, Baby, what’s wrong?”

His voice didn’t belong, there was never anyone else after her mother died. It was just her and her father. Just the two of them. If there had been someone else, maybe they could have saved her.

“Elle, come back to me. Come back to me baby. You’re safe, you’re not there any more. ” hands pulled at her own, pulling them back from her face. If she couldn’t see him coming, maybe she could pretend it wasn’t happening. The blade would always wink at her. She didn’t want to see it wink any more.

“He can’t hurt you any more. ” The voice lied, he would always hurt her.

It looks like you started a story. I hope you’ll keep going with it!

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New Year Writing Prompts for a Fresh Start

As the New Year unfolds, it brings with it a sense of renewal, fresh beginnings, and untapped possibilities. For writers, this is the perfect time to harness that energy and embark on a creative journey. In this blog post, we’ll explore a collection of writing prompts designed to inspire and ignite your imagination as you welcome the new chapter that lies ahead.

Reflect and Resolve:

Start by reflecting on the past year. What lessons have you learned? What achievements are you proud of? Delve into your reflections and craft a personal essay or journal entry that explores the highlights, challenges, and resolutions for the coming year.

A Letter to Your Future Self:

Write a letter to your future self, where you can imagine where you’ll be at the end of the new year. Share your hopes, dreams, and aspirations. Consider the personal and professional growth you wish to achieve, and capture the essence of your present self for future reflection.

Time Capsule Story:

Imagine you’re creating a time capsule to capture the essence of the current moment. Write a short story or series of vignettes that encapsulate the sights, sounds, and emotions of this particular New Year. Consider how technology, fashion, and culture are influencing the world around you.

The Quest for Change:

Craft a story about a character embarking on a quest for change in the New Year. This could be a physical journey, an internal transformation, or a quest for a long-lost goal. Explore the challenges, triumphs, and unexpected discoveries along the way.

Uncharted Territories:

Consider the metaphorical concept of uncharted territories in your life. Write a poem or short story about venturing into the unknown, exploring new horizons, and embracing the uncertainties that come with forging a path into uncharted territories.

Resilience in the Face of Challenges:

Create a narrative that centres around a character facing significant challenges at the start of the year. Explore their journey of resilience, self-discovery, and personal growth as they navigate obstacles and emerge stronger on the other side.

A Dialogue with Time:

Write a dialogue between your present self and Time personified. Explore the conversations, reflections, and revelations that unfold as you discuss the past, present, and future with this enigmatic character.

The Symbolism of a New Beginning:

Choose a symbol that represents a new beginning for you. It could be a sunrise, a blooming flower, or even a blank canvas. Write a descriptive piece or poem that explores the symbolism of this chosen image and its significance in your life.

Conclusion:

The start of a new year is a canvas awaiting the strokes of your creativity. These writing prompts are designed to spark your imagination, encourage introspection, and guide you on a literary journey as you embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. Whether you choose to pen a personal reflection, embark on a fictional adventure, or explore the symbolism of new beginnings, let these prompts be the catalyst for your creative expressions in the year to come. Happy writing!

Seeking some more writing guidance? Take a look at our Online Writing Courses!

45 Spring Journal Prompts for Adults for a Fresh Start

Last Updated on June 21, 2024

Spring is probably the most refreshing, exciting, and awakening season. How good does it feel to finally have some warm sunshine on your skin?! To bask in the good vibes of the spring season, I thought these spring journal prompts for adults would be perfect to share!

These are great to use any time during the spring, so feel free to use them as March journal prompts, April journal prompts, May journal prompts, and heck…even the first part of June is technically spring, so June journal prompts work too!

Let’s take some time for reflection and seasonal goals with these spring writing prompts!

Table of Contents

What can I write about spring?

Spring is often thought of as a “rebirth” or a time for hope and renewal . Spring is a time to reset your mindset and goals to start with a clean slate for the new season.

Keeping that theme in mind, you can write about topics like these this spring:

• What do you want out of spring?
• How will spring be different for you than winter?
• Are you keeping track of any goals? Need to revisit those new years goals you made a few months back? 
• Are you making sure to “refresh” your self care habits?

We’ll explore these ideas and more in these spring journal prompts for adults!

45 Spring Journal Prompts for Adults

Ready to spring into the spring season?! These spring journal prompts for adults will help you get creative writing about spring. This season is a great opportunity for fresh starts and feeling awakened, so use these spring writing prompts to your advantage!

Spring Journal Prompts for Reflection

• What do you look forward to about spring?
• How is your mental health in the spring compared to the winter?
• Do you feel more or less motivated in the spring? Why do you think this happens?
• Where are you at with the new years goals you set at the beginning of the year?
• What do you think about spring cleaning? Do you participate?
• If there is only one thing you could accomplish this season, what would it be?
• What are your favorite outdoor spring activities?
• What are your favorite indoor spring activities?
• What kind of spring self care will you prioritize this season?
• What is one bad habit you picked up during the winter that you want to reduce?
• What is one good habit you want to start up?
• What will you miss about winter?
• Where is your favorite place to go in the spring?
• With the longer brighter days ahead, what will you do with the extra hours of sunlight?
• What does your spring morning routine look like?

Creative Writing About Spring

• Describe the first 10 things that come to mind when you think about spring.
• What are some of your favorite springtime flowers?
• What are your thoughts on the rain that spring brings?
• Reflect on some of your favorite childhood spring memories.
• If you could cultivate the garden of your dreams, what would be in it?
• If you could pick any destination for the ultimate spring break, which would you choose and why?
• Describe your favorite spring break vacation you’ve ever taken.
• What is the first thing you do when you feel this season finally hitting?
• Which of your 5 senses is the most enjoyable in the springtime?
• Describe the emotions that rainy vs. sunny days evoke for you.
• When spending time outside, what is your favorite thing you love to see outdoors? Flowers, trees blooming, birds?
• Describe what would make the perfect spring day for you.
• Do you get excited about the warm weather? What makes it so awesome for you?
• Which part of the world would you prefer to be in when spring time hits?

Feeling good about spring?! Feel even happier with my gratitude journal!

My printable gratitude journal has everything you need to practice gratitude each day and develop life-changing positive habits to make you happier!

Includes 12 pages to break down your gratitude practice each morning and evening, as well as weekly and monthly. Jam-packed with thought-provoking gratitude journal prompts and activities to keep you focused and on track!

RELATED: 10 Spring Self Care Ideas for April Stress Awareness Month

Spring Writing Prompts

• Have you made any spring plans yet? What are you thinking of doing?
• What is the biggest challenge you overcame from last spring to this spring?
• What is one positive affirmation you really want to hold onto this season?
• What has been bringing you joy lately?
• What have you been avoiding or putting off lately? Why?
• Do you think you’ve been making enough time for yourself lately? If not, why?
• What’s a good memory you’ve shared with friends in the springtime?
• What’s a good memory you’ve shared with family in the springtime?
• What food or drinks do you look forward to in the spring?
• What are some of your intentions this spring?
• Do you celebrate Easter? If so, what is your favorite Easter holiday?
• What is your least favorite thing about spring?
• Do you have any personal and/or professional goals you especially want to focus on?
• What difficulties are you working on right now?
• Describe 3 ways life is different this year compared to last year.
• What movement do you want to include in your daily routine this season?

More Spring Inspiration and Journal Prompts You’ll Love

10 Spring Self Care Ideas for April Stress Awareness Month

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Morning Journal Prompts: 12 Prompts to Kickstart Your Day

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I love these. 😄 They really make me think. I’m going to try some of these!

Thanks Jasmine, I’m glad these prompts are thought-provoking!

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• Creativity Techniques

26+ Creative Writing Tips for Young Writers

So you want to be a writer? And not just any writer, you want to be a creative writer. The road to being a legendary storyteller won’t be easy, but with our creative writing tips for kids, you’ll be on the right track! Creative writing isn’t just about writing stories. You could write poems, graphic novels, song lyrics and even movie scripts. But there is one thing you’ll need and that is good creative writing skills. 

Here are over 26 tips to improve your creative writing skills :

Read a wide range of books

When it comes to creative writing, reading is essential. Reading allows you to explore the styles of other writers and gain inspiration to improve your own writing. But don’t just limit yourself to reading only popular books or your favourites. Read all sorts of books, everything from fairytales to scary stories. Take a look at comics, short stories, novels and poetry. Just fill your heads with the knowledge and wisdom of other writers and soon you’ll be just like them!

Write about real-life events

The hardest thing about creative writing is connecting emotionally with your audience. By focusing your writing on real-life events, you know that in some way or another your readers will be able to relate. And with creative writing you don’t need to use real names or details – There are certain things you can keep private while writing about the rare details. Using real-life events is also a good way to find inspiration for your stories. 

Be imaginative

Be as crazy and wild as you like with your imagination. Create your world, your own monsters , or even your own language! The more imaginative your story, the more exciting it will be to read. Remember that there are no rules on what makes a good idea in creative writing. So don’t be afraid to make stuff up!

Find your writing style

Thes best writers have a particular style about them. When you think of Roald Dahl , you know his books are going to have a sense of humour. While with Dr Seuss , you’re prepared to read some funny new words . Alternatively, when you look at R.L.Stine, you know that he is all about the horror. Think about your own writing style. Do you want to be a horror writer? Maybe someone who always writes in the first person? Will always focus your books on your culture or a particular character?

Stick to a routine

Routine is extremely important to writers. If you just write some stuff here and there, it’s likely that you’ll soon give up on writing altogether! A strict routine means that every day at a certain time you will make time to write about something, anything. Even if you’re bored or can’t think of anything, you’ll still pick up that pencil and write. Soon enough you’ll get into the habit of writing good stuff daily and this is definitely important for anyone who wants to be a professional creative writer!

Know your audience

Writing isn’t just about thinking about your own interests, it’s also about thinking about the interests of your audience. If you want to excite fellow classmates, know what they like. Do they like football , monsters or a particular video game? With that knowledge, you can create the most popular book for your target audience. A book that they can’t stop reading and will recommend to others! 

Daily Exercises

To keep your creative writing skills up to scratch it is important to keep practising every day. Even if you have no inspiration. At times when your mind is blank, you should try to use tools like writing prompts , video prompts or other ways of coming up with ideas . You could even take a look at these daily writing exercises as an example. We even created a whole list of over 100 creative writing exercises to try out when you need some inspiration or ideas. 

Work together with others

Everyone needs a little help now and then. We recommend joining a writing club or finding other classmates who are also interested in writing to improve your own creative writing skills. Together you can share ideas, tips and even write a story together! A good storytelling game to play in a group is the “ finish the story” game . 

Get feedback

Without feedback, you’ll never be able to improve your writing. Feedback, whether good or bad is important to all writers. Good feedback gives you the motivation to carry on. While bad feedback just gives you areas to improve and adapt your writing, so you can be the best! After every piece of writing always try to get feedback from it, whether it is from friends, family, teachers or an online writing community .

Enter writing competitions

The best way to improve your creative writing is by entering all sorts of writing competitions . Whether it’s a poetry competition or short story competition, competitions let you compete against other writers and even help you get useful feedback on your writing. Most competitions even have rules to structure your writing, these rules can help you prepare for the real world of writing and getting your work published. And not only that you might even win some cool prizes!

Keep a notebook

Every writer’s best friend is their notebook. Wherever you go make sure you have a notebook handy to jot down any ideas you get on the go. Inspiration can come from anywhere , so the next time you get an idea instead of forgetting about it, write it down. You never know, this idea could become a best-selling novel in the future. 

Research your ideas

So, you got a couple of ideas for short stories. The next step is to research these ideas deeper. 

Researching your ideas could involve reading books similar to your ideas or going online to learn more about a particular topic. For example, if you wanted to write a book on dragons, you would want to know everything about them in history to come up with a good, relatable storyline for your book.

Create Writing Goals

How do you know if your writing is improving over time? Simple – Just create writing goals for yourself. Examples of writing goals might include, to write 100 words every day or to write 600 words by the end of next week. Whatever your goals make sure you can measure them easily. That way you’ll know if you met them or not. You might want to take a look at these bullet journal layouts for writers to help you track the progress of your writing.

Follow your passions

Writing can be tedious and many people even give up after writing a few words. The only way you can keep that fire burning is by writing about your true passions. Whatever it is you enjoy doing or love, you could just write about those things. These are the types of things you’ll enjoy researching and already know so much about, making writing a whole lot more fun!

Don’t Settle for the first draft

You finally wrote your first story. But the writing process isn’t complete yet! Now it’s time to read your story and make the all-important edits. Editing your story is more than just fixing spelling or grammar mistakes. It’s also about criticising your own work and looking for areas of improvement. For example, is the conflict strong enough? Is your opening line exciting? How can you improve your ending?

Plan before writing

Never just jump into writing your story. Always plan first! Whether this means listing down the key scenes in your story or using a storyboard template to map out these scenes. You should have an outline of your story somewhere, which you can refer to when actually writing your story. This way you won’t make basic mistakes like not having a climax in your story which builds up to your main conflict or missing crucial characters out.

It’s strange the difference it makes to read your writing out aloud compared to reading it in your head. When reading aloud you tend to notice more mistakes in your sentences or discover paragraphs which make no sense at all. You might even want to read your story aloud to your family or a group of friends to get feedback on how your story sounds. 

Pace your story

Pacing is important. You don’t want to just start and then quickly jump into the main conflict because this will take all the excitement away from your conflict. And at the same time, you don’t want to give the solution away too early and this will make your conflict too easy for your characters to solve. The key is to gradually build up to your conflict by describing your characters and the many events that lead up to the main conflict. Then you might want to make the conflict more difficult for your characters by including more than one issue in your story to solve. 

Think about themes

Every story has a theme or moral. Some stories are about friendship, others are about the dangers of trusting strangers. And a story can even have more than one theme. The point of a theme is to give something valuable to your readers once they have finished reading your book. In other words, to give them a life lesson, they’ll never forget!

Use dialogue carefully

Dialogue is a tricky thing to get right. Your whole story should not be made up of dialogue unless you’re writing a script. Alternatively, it can be strange to include no dialogue at all in your story. The purpose of dialogue should be to move your story forward. It should also help your readers learn more about a particular character’s personality and their relationship with other characters in your book. 

One thing to avoid with dialogue is… small talk! There’s no point in writing dialogue, such as “How’s the weather?”, if your story has nothing to do with the weather. This is because it doesn’t move your story along.  For more information check out this guide on how to write dialogue in a story .

Write now, edit later

Writing is a magical process. Don’t lose that magic by focusing on editing your sentences while you’re still writing your story up. Not only could this make your story sound fragmented, but you might also forget some key ideas to include in your story or take away the imagination from your writing. When it comes to creative writing, just write and come back to editing your story later.

Ask yourself questions

Always question your writing. Once done, think about any holes in your story. Is there something the reader won’t understand or needs further describing? What if your character finds another solution to solving the conflict? How about adding a new character or removing a character from your story? There are so many questions to ask and keep asking them until you feel confident about your final piece.

Create a dedicated writing space

Some kids like writing on their beds, others at the kitchen table. While this is good for beginners, going pro with your writing might require having a dedicated writing space. Some of the basics you’ll need is a desk and comfy chair, along with writing materials like pens, pencils and notebooks. But to really create an inspiring place, you could also stick some beautiful pictures, some inspiring quotes from writers and anything else that will keep you motivated and prepared. 

Beware of flowery words

Vocabulary is good. It’s always exciting when you learn a new word that you have never heard before. But don’t go around plotting in complicated words into your story, unless it’s necessary to show a character’s personality. Most long words are not natural sounding, meaning your audience will have a hard time relating to your story if it’s full of complicated words from the dictionary like Xenophobia or Xylograph .

Create believable characters

Nobody’s perfect. And why should your story characters be any different? To create believable characters, you’ll need to give them some common flaws as well as some really cool strengths. Your character’s flaws can be used as a setback to why they can’t achieve their goals, while their strengths are the things that will help win over adversity. Just think about your own strengths and weaknesses and use them as inspirations for your storybook characters. You can use the Imagine Forest character creator to plan out your story characters. 

Show, don’t tell

You can say that someone is nice or you can show them how that person is nice. Take the following as an example, “Katie was a nice girl.” Now compare that sentence to this, “Katie spent her weekends at the retirement home, singing to the seniors and making them laugh.”. The difference between the two sentences is huge. The first one sounds boring and you don’t really know why Katie is nice. While in the second sentence, you get the sense that Katie is nice from her actions without even using the word nice in the sentence!

Make the conflict impossible

Imagine the following scenario, you are a championship boxer who has won many medals over the year and the conflict is…Well, you got a boxing match coming up. Now that doesn’t sound so exciting! In fact, most readers won’t even care about the boxer winning the match or not! 

Now imagine this scenario: You’re a poor kid from New Jersey, you barely have enough money to pay the bills. You never did any professional boxing, but you want to enter a boxing competition, so you can win and use the money to pay your bills. 

The second scenario has a bigger mountain to climb. In other words, a much harder challenge to face compared to the character in the first scenario. Giving your characters an almost impossible task or conflict is essential in good story-telling.

Write powerful scenes

Scenes help build a picture in your reader’s mind without even including any actual pictures in your story. Creating powerful scenes involves more than describing the appearance of a setting, it’s also about thinking about the smell, the sounds and what your characters are feeling while they are in a particular setting. By being descriptive with your scenes, your audience can imagine themselves being right there with characters through the hard times and good times!

There’s nothing worse than an ending which leaves the reader feeling underwhelmed. You read all the way through and then it just ends in the most typical, obvious way ever! Strong endings don’t always end on a happy ending. They can end with a sad ending or a cliff-hanger.  In fact, most stories actually leave the reader with more questions in their head, as they wonder what happens next. This then gives you the opportunity to create even more books to continue the story and keep your readers hooked for life (or at least for a very long time)! 

Over 25 creative writing tips later and you should now be ready to master the art of creative writing! The most important tip for all you creative writers out there is to be imaginative! Without a good imagination, you’ll struggle to wow your audience with your writing skills. Do you have any more creative writing tips to share? Let us know in the comments!

Marty the wizard is the master of Imagine Forest. When he's not reading a ton of books or writing some of his own tales, he loves to be surrounded by the magical creatures that live in Imagine Forest. While living in his tree house he has devoted his time to helping children around the world with their writing skills and creativity.

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A FRESH START (11) - Creative Writing, Brainstorm, Outline, Story!

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Looking for a fun and engaging way to get your high school students excited about creative writing? Look no further than this realistic fiction story outline and brainstorming activity! This activity is perfect for both general education English classes and creative writing electives, and is sure to challenge and inspire students of all skill levels.

The story outline and brainstorming activity is designed to help students develop their creative writing skills while exploring the world of fiction. Students will be tasked with crafting a compelling story about: A person moves to a new city for a fresh start, but struggles to make new friends and find their place in the community.

This activity is perfect for general education English classes because it aligns with Common Core ELA standards, including those related to reading, writing, and language. Students will be challenged to think critically about the elements of fiction, including setting, character development, and plot twists. In addition, students will practice their writing skills by developing a compelling narrative that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.

Here are some specific Common Core ELA standards that this creative writing activity aligns with:

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.9-10.3: Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, well-chosen details, and well-structured event sequences.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.9-10.4: Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.9-10.2: Determine a theme or central idea of a text and analyze in detail its development over the course of the text, including how it emerges and is shaped and refined by specific details.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.9-10.3: Analyze how complex characters (e.g., those with multiple or conflicting motivations) develop over the course of a text, interact with other characters, and advance the plot or develop the theme.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.9-10.5: Analyze how an author's choices concerning how to structure specific parts of a text (e.g., the choice of where to begin or end a story, the choice to provide a comedic or tragic resolution) contribute to its overall structure and meaning as well as its aesthetic impact.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.9-10.6: Analyze a particular point of view or cultural experience reflected in a work of literature from outside the United States, drawing on a wide reading of world literature.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.9-10.1: Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.

For creative writing electives, this activity is a great way to challenge students to think outside the box and explore their own creative potential. Students will be able to experiment with different writing styles, techniques, and genres as they craft their own unique realistic fiction piece.

Overall, this story outline and brainstorming activity is a great way to engage your high school students and help them develop their writing skills while exploring the world of fiction. Don't miss out on this opportunity to inspire and challenge your students!

Also be sure to check out the different prompts or consider purchasing a bundle to get ALL of the prompts for the realistic fiction genre.

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12 Creative Ways to Use Protein Powder That Go Beyond Smoothies

A nutritionist shares her delicious hacks.

Stuck in a protein shake rut? It’s time to rethink your protein powder game. While we love smoothies—and they’re the most common way to use protein powder—they’re simply the tip of the iceberg. Delicious, protein-packed possibilities go far beyond the blender. From savory dips and breakfast bowls, to baked treats and homemade ice cream, protein powder is as versatile as it is convenient. Plus, it’s the easiest hack to add nutrition and satiation to your meals and snacks. To expand your creativity, we’re exploring innovative (but low-lift) ways to add this pantry staple to your diet. From breakfast to dessert, these protein powder recipes will revolutionize your approach to healthy eating.

Is protein powder healthy?

Is protein powder necessary, who should consume protein powder, the different types of protein powder, are certain types of protein powder better for specific recipes.

• 12 Delicious Ways to Use Protein Powders That Aren't Smoothies

Tips for Cooking and Baking With Protein Powder

Edie is the founder of nutrition coaching business, Wellness with Edie. With her background and expertise, she specializes in women’s health, including fertility, hormone balance, and postpartum wellness.

Like many trends in the wellness world, protein powder isn’t without controversy. Yes—protein powder (like protein bars ) can be a smart and healthful addition. But its healthiness depends on a slew of factors: quality of ingredients, absence of refined sugar, how it fits into your overall diet, etc. Let’s dig into both sides of the debate.

Why Protein Powder is Considered Healthy

• Convenient source of essential nutrients: Protein powders provide a concentrated dose of high-quality protein , which is essential for muscle repair, hormone production, and overall health.
• Supports fitness goals: Whether you’re an athlete or love to be active, protein powder can aid in muscle recovery and growth—when used in conjunction with exercise.
• Weight management: Protein increases feelings of fullness , potentially aiding in weight loss or maintenance efforts.
• Nutrient gaps: From dietary restrictions to increased protein needs, protein powder can help you meet your daily requirements .
• Versatility: Protein powder is easily incorporated into various recipes (the ultimate protein-boosting meal hack).

Why Protein Powder Isn’t Considered Healthy

• Processed nature: Protein powders are highly processed. This ensures they’re a concentrated source of protein, but this also means they’re lower in overall nutrients (compared to whole-food protein sources).
• Additives and contaminants: Certain protein powders contain artificial sweeteners or other risky additives . There are also concerns about contaminants, i.e., heavy metals. Always check labels and the quality of ingredients!
• Potential for overconsumption: It’s easier to consume large amounts of protein via powder than through whole foods. Although rare, it could lead to excessive protein intake.
• Digestive issues: Some people experience bloating , gas, or other digestive discomfort from certain types of protein powder.
• Reliance on supplements: Critics say protein powder can overshadow a balanced, whole-food diet.
• Regulation concerns: The supplement industry is less regulated than the food industry. In turn, this can lead to concerns about quality control and label accuracy.
• Potential interactions: Protein powders can interfere with medications or impact nutrient absorption.

So long as you’re fueling up on a variety of minimally processed foods, protein powder isn’t required . In fact, whole food proteins should be the mainstay of your nutrition. Think lean meats, fish, eggs, beans, nuts, and seeds. These offer a wider range of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and fiber (that most protein powders lack). But if you have increased protein needs (or need convenient nutrition), protein powder is a game changer. To summarize: yes, protein powder is a useful supplement! But it should complement—rather than replace—a well-rounded diet.

Whether you’re looking to build muscle , support weight management, or fill nutritional gaps , protein powder does the trick. But who benefits most from adding this supplement to their daily routine?

• High-protein needs for muscle recovery and growth
• Often use protein powder for pre- and post-workout nutrition
• May benefit from fast-absorbing proteins—like whey—for quick recovery
• Require protein for muscle repair and recovery
• Can use protein powder to supplement their higher caloric needs
• May prefer easily digestible options that don’t cause gastrointestinal distress
• Have increased protein needs to support milk production
• Can benefit from time-saving, nutrient-dense protein sources
• May struggle to meet protein needs through diet alone
• Can use plant-based protein powders to supplement their intake
• Benefit from complete protein sources like pea-rice protein blends
• Often have increased protein needs to maintain muscle mass
• May benefit from easily digestible protein sources
• Can use protein powder to combat age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia)
• Have increased protein needs for tissue repair and healing (including childbirth !)
• Can use protein powder to supplement their diet when appetite is low
• May benefit from collagen protein for joint and connective tissue support
• Can use protein powder to feel fuller and preserve muscle mass
• May benefit from the convenience of low-calorie, high-protein options
• Can use protein powder to make nutrient-dense meal replacements
• Can use protein powder for quick, nutritious meals or snacks
• Benefit from the convenience and portability of protein supplements
• May use protein powder to maintain energy levels throughout the day

Consult with a healthcare provider or Registered Dietitian before incorporating protein powder into your routine—especially if you have any health conditions or concerns.

Before we jump into protein powder recipes, let’s briefly explore the most common types of protein powder .

• Whey protein. A fast-absorbing protein derived from milk. This is ideal for post-workout recovery.
• Casein protein. Also derived from milk, but it’s slower-absorbing (making it great for sustained protein release).
• Plant-based proteins. Options like pea, hemp, and non-GMO soy protein are excellent for vegans and those with dairy allergies.
• Collagen protein. Supports skin, hair, nail, and joint health.
• Egg white protein. A complete protein source that’s dairy-free and easily digestible.

Yes. Different protein powders work better in various cooking methods.

Whey Protein. Whey protein is great for pancakes , waffles, muffins, and overnight oats because it creates a fluffy yet smooth texture. It’s also fabulous in fruit-forward smoothies .

Casein Protein. When it comes to puddings, mug cakes, cheesecakes, and no-bake recipes—like energy bites —casein is ideal (because of its thickening properties).

Plant Protein. Plant-based proteins are versatile in baking and no-bake recipes, but you may need to tweak the liquid ratio (by adding more liquid).

Collagen Peptides. Lastly, collagen dissolves easily, making it great for drinks and soups.

Consider the flavor and texture implications when choosing a protein powder for your recipes. Some powders have a stronger taste than others. When in doubt, choose an unflavored protein powder !

12 Delicious Ways to Use Protein Powders That Aren’t Smoothies

Ready to think outside your smoothie cup? Below are 12 creative ways to add protein powder to your favorite dishes. From energizing breakfasts to satisfying desserts, there’s a protein-packed recipe for every craving.

1. Pumpkin Protein Pancakes

We finally landed on the most delicious protein-packed pancakes that feel like a treat—without the  blood sugar crash . Add a scoop of your favorite vanilla protein powder for an extra 10-20 grams of protein!

2. Grain-Free Overnight Oatmeal

Packed with nuts and seeds (hello, protein and healthy fats!), this grain-free oatmeal is so easy—and can be customized to your liking. Toss in a scoop of plant-based chocolate protein powder for a decadent yet nourishing breakfast.

3. Salted Caramel Cheesecake Brownies

Who said you can’t have a protein-rich dessert? Satisfy your sweet tooth with these salty and sweet brownies . To up the protein count, remove 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and replace it with 1/4 cup chocolate protein powder of choice.

4. One Bowl Morning Glory Muffins

In a rush in the morning? Crumble one of these morning glory muffins over a bowl of Greek yogurt with a drizzle of almond butter and you’re good to go. Toss three tablespoons of unflavored collagen peptides into the batter, then bake.

5. Greek Yogurt Bowl

One of our favorite ways to give our breakfast a protein boost? By adding a scoop of protein powder (vanilla, strawberry, chocolate, etc.) to plain Greek yogurt . This adds flavor, texture, and substantial satiation! Be sure to mix well—and if necessary, pour in a splash or two of milk. Top with nuts, seeds, and fruit.

6. Grain-Free Granola

Speaking of breakfast, did you know you can add protein powder to granola ? A few tips: use a protein powder that complements the flavors of your granola, i.e., vanilla or chocolate. Whey, casein, pea, or hemp protein are all good options. Combine the protein powder with other dry ingredients, like oats, nuts, seeds, and spices. Keep in mind it can make the granola mixture slightly drier, so you may need to increase the amount of wet ingredients (like honey, maple syrup, coconut oil, or nut butter) by about 1-2 tablespoons.

7. Homemade Ice Cream

Take your favorite homemade ice cream flavor (we’re loving this golden milk latte right now), and mix all of your wet ingredients, along with your protein powder of choice. Follow the rest of the instructions as is!

8. Adaptogenic Hot Chocolate

Protein hot chocolate, anyone? All you need to do is add a scoop of chocolate collagen peptides to this superfood hot chocolate . Et voilà, you have a nutritious and satisfying afternoon pick-me-up.

9. Curry Butternut Squash Soup

Warm, cozy, and full of fall flavors, give this curry butternut squash soup a protein upgrade by adding a scoop or two of unflavored plant-based protein to the pot. Once blended, you won’t know it’s in there!

10. Sausage Burrata Pizza

Replace 1/4 cup flour in your pizza dough recipe with 1/4 cup pea protein powder. This adds protein without sacrificing the deliciousness of a homemade pizza crust!

11. Vanilla Chia Pudding

Another fool-proof way to add protein powder to your diet? Chia pudding . For the best consistency, blend your protein powder of choice with chia seeds, milk, and a bit of maple syrup. Refrigerate overnight for a thick, creamy, and protein-rich pudding.

12. Protein Coffee

Calling all coffee lovers. If you haven’t tried protein coffee, prepare to fall in love. Hot or iced , coffee is a perfect vehicle for protein powder! Add a scoop of unflavored collagen peptides, chocolate whey (for a mocha experience!), or vanilla plant-based protein power to your hot coffee. Use a hand-frother to mix. Otherwise, pour cold brew, ice, milk of choice, and vanilla or chocolate protein powder to a blender and blend for an icy, caffeinated boost.

Unsure about adding protein powder to your cooking and baking? Don’t fret. Use these tips for incorporating this versatile ingredient into your favorite recipes:

• Start by substituting 1/4 of the flour in a recipe with protein powder.
• Increase liquid slightly to compensate for the protein powder’s absorbency (1-2 tablespoons at a time).
• Use a whisk or sifter to prevent clumping.
• For baked goods, reduce cooking time and temperature by 3-5 minutes to prevent drying out.
• Experiment with flavors: vanilla protein powder can enhance sweet recipes, while unflavored works well in savory dishes.

Don’t be afraid to experiment! Take your cooking and baking to the next level with your own protein-packed masterpiece s.

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NotebookTherapy Blog

The ultimate guide to reading journals.

Are you an avid reader looking to enhance your reading experience?📚 A reading journal might be just what you need! 🤎 Whether you want to remember key details, track your progress, or reflect on your thoughts, get more creative, a reading journal can be the perfect tool to help you! In this blog, we'll explore everything you need to know about starting and maintaining a reading journal.✨

Table of Content

What is a reading journal.

The Benefits of Keeping a Reading Journal

Enhanced Memory and Understanding

Personal development, track your reading journey, discover patterns and preferences, improve writing skills, how to start a reading journal, physical journals, digital journals.

• Decide What to Include
• Set Up a Consistent Format
• Make It a Habit

Creative Ideas for Your Reading Journal

Tips for maintaining your reading journal.

A reading journal is a personal journal where you can log all your reading experiences. It’s a space to jot down your thoughts, favourite quotes, character analyses, and so much more. Unlike book reviews, which are typically shared publicly, reading journals are often more private, allowing for more honest and personal reflections. This also allows the reader to be more experimental with different layouts and you can decorate and get creative with your journal!

The Benefits of Keeping a Reading Journal:

I’ve been keeping a reading journal for quite some time now since joining a book club and I can honestly tell you that it really has amazing benefits!!

Writing about what you read helps reinforce the material and enhances your understanding of the story and the characters. I find that when I write about what I just read, I end up remembering it more which helps when discussing books in my book club!

(Credit: @ raesdailypage )

There are also some quotes I want to remember and certain lessons from a book so I write them down and I remember them better or I can always look back and reread the highlights.

A reading journal provides a space to reflect on how books affect you, challenge your beliefs, or resonate with your experiences. As I mentioned, I love learning from what I read whether it’s a self-help book or a piece of fiction with so many good lessons.

(Credit: @ blossomsandbujos )

I like to remember them by writing them out and I like to make a note of what I think about certain topics discussed and the lessons I learnt! In a way, this also helps me with personal development.

(Credit: nela )

You can keep track of the books you've read, your favourite quotes, and new vocabulary. This helps you remember them better.

A lot of my favourite words are words I learnt from my favourite books. This helps me become a better conversationalist as well!

As you keep a reading journal, naturally, you will be able to see patterns in the types of books you enjoy and the themes that interest you.

So if you are new to reading or just want to read more, keeping a reading journal will really help you understand the genres and themes you like and you can explore it more. You can also track the genres that you haven’t explored much in case you end up wanting to explore it more.

(Credit: @mashaplans )

A reader doesn’t necessarily have to be good at writing but it’s such a good skill to have. Regularly journaling about your reading can enhance your writing and analytical skills so this can really help you if you are in school and have to analyse papers.

For me, I just really enjoy writing and would love to keep improving and I find that reading more helps me widen my vocabulary and also change up my writing style once in a while which is a good challenge.

Starting a reading journal is simple! Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Choose Your Journal

First, decide whether you want a physical journal or a digital one. Both have their pros and cons:

Great for those who love the tactile feel of writing on paper. You can get creative with doodles, sticky notes, and other decorations. I personally prefer physical journals as I just love all things analogue. The same reason why I keep a bullet journal.

(Credit: @ mandyjournals )

It’s the perfect way for me to have some time away from the screen and it really is such a therapeutic activity for me.

Perfect for those who prefer typing or want to include digital media, like screenshots or links. Apps like Notion, Evernote, or even a simple Word document can work well for digital journaling. You can still get creative with this too if you like to do digital doodles and illustrations!

2. Decide What to Include

Your reading journal can include anything you find useful or interesting. Here are some common elements:

• Book Details : Title, author, genre, publication date, page numbers.
• Reading Dates : The date you started and finished the book.
• Summary : A brief overview of the plot.
• Characters : Notes on main and supporting characters.
• Themes and Motifs : Recurring ideas or messages in the book.
• Quotes : Favorite passages or quotes that stood out to you.
• Personal Reflections : Your thoughts, feelings, and opinions about the book.
• Ratings and Reviews : A personal rating system and brief review.
• New Words : Any new vocabulary you encountered.

You can even get more creative and add more things like your favourite villains, favourite scenes, etc. This is for yourself so think about what you would enjoy knowing again when you look back to your pages.

3. Set Up a Consistent Format

Having a consistent format helps in organising your thoughts and makes it easier to revisit your entries later. You might want to create a template with sections for each book or keep it more freeform and flexible.

However, don’t let this stop you from switching up your template if it no longer works for you. Remember that everything is an experiment and you will find what will eventually stick. So keep exploring especially if you are new to book journaling!

4. Make It a Habit

Consistency is key!! Try to write in your journal shortly after reading, while your thoughts are fresh and you can still remember key points about what you read. You don’t need to write extensively; even a few lines can be valuable.

If you also have reading goals like reading a new book each week or reading a chapter everyday, keeping a reading journal can help you stay consistent and keep these habits!

(Credit: @celestial.reads.bujo )

To make your reading journal more engaging, consider incorporating some creative elements:

• Drawings and Doodles : Illustrate scenes, characters, or symbols from the book.
• Mood Trackers : Record your emotions before and after reading a book.
• Book Playlists : Create a playlist of songs that remind you of the book.
• Comparisons : Compare books by the same author or within the same genre.
• Challenges and Goals : Set reading challenges or goals, like reading a certain number of books per year or exploring new genres.
• Don’t Stress About Perfection - Your journal is for you, so don't worry about perfect grammar or writing style.
• Be Honest - Write your true thoughts and feelings. There’s no right or wrong way to journal. If a well-loved book is not your cup of tea, your reading journal is a safe space to say that. And if there’s a book that you particularly like that could also be deemed “embarrassing” to like, you can still log it with no worries!
• Review and Reflect - Periodically go back and read your previous entries. It can be enlightening to see how your thoughts and tastes have evolved. I also find this really fun because I love to see small changes and notice if any phases or patterns stand out.
• Join a Community - Share your experiences with other readers. Online forums, book clubs, bookstagram, or any other social media groups can provide inspiration and support.

A reading journal is a wonderful tool for any book lover. It not only helps you remember and analyse what you've read but also deepens your appreciation for literature. Whether you’re a casual reader or a dedicated bibliophile, starting a reading journal can transform your reading experience. So, grab your favorite pen amd journal and start journaling! Happy reading!

And of course, a budding reading journaler needs somewhere cute and safe to keep all of their supplies! You can find all of the most adorable pencil cases in our pencil case essentials guide !

Other useful links:

Monthly Phone Wallpaper

Free Botanical-Themed Weekly Planner Printable 🌿

Bullet Journal Dutch Door Ideas

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