>>> Item number 16402 from WRITERS LOG9308D --- (48 records) ----- <<< Date: Sun, 29 Aug 1993 10:35:18 JST Reply-To: WRITERS Sender: WRITERS From: Mike Barker Subject: TECH: a pre-writing checklist (I think this vanished into the black hole, so I'm sending it again - apologies if it is a repeat) Let me suggest something I've been doing recently (before writing). Based on Barry Longyear's suggestions in Science Fiction Writer's Workshop I, although I believe his recommendations can be used for any kind of story. Mostly, I try to at least sketch answers to the following questions: Background 1. Where are we? (setting) 2. Who is involved? (characters, strengths, flaws) 3. Where are they headed? (goals, motives) 4. What stops or blocks them? (obstacle(s)) 5. What are they going to do about it? (plans to overcome problems) Story 6. What hook(s) or bait for the reader will I use? (where start) What story question do I pose for the reader? 7. What backfill is needed? (background that needs to be filled in) 8. What buildup do I want? (scenes) 9. What is the climax? - how does the character change? (overcome weakness, etc.) - how is the plot resolved? (overcome problems and achieve goals) - What answer does the reader get to the story question? Higher Level 10. What purpose, moral, or theme am I writing about? I may do bits and pieces of writing as I'm answering these - jot down little sections or interactions when I happen to think of them - but I think the discipline of making sure I have some grasp on the answers to these questions before I do a draft is useful. Longyear also suggests using these (and some other points) as a way of reviewing stories that aren't quite working, and then fixing them once you identify the part that is causing trouble. I want see those stories working! Get those words moving now, people! Write, finish, submit, one! Write, finish, submit, two! ... tink (I coulda been a contenda!)