Writing Exercises

Post Reply New Topic

So I saw a thread about "how do you start writing a story" and I replied, as is true with me, that you should try some writing exercises. You can probably find these all over the internet, but why don't we compile a list here? If you write, and have used a writing exercise you found helpful or really enjoyed- post it here! I'll start with the few I've done.


1- Stream of consciousness- I explained this on the thread but this one is slightly difficult (but fun) in the sense that your job is to write nonstop whatever your brain is thinking for a set time period (15-20 minutes works best for me) Don't finish sentences if your mind switches thoughts in the middle of one, and don't get discouraged if the fist few minutes, or sometime in the middle you find yourself thinking- and therefore writing- "I don't know what to write here anymore" just keep channeling your thoughts from your mind to your hand and DO NOT CENSOR! Usually a character or plot or something will eventually present itself.

2- There's always elementary brainstorming. Pick your favorite format, favorite subject, and start connecting the lines.

3- This is my favorite! Pick the first sentence of an already-published book. Your favorite, one you hate, or one you just randomly pick. Fiction or nonfiction doesn't really matter, just copy it down. Set a timer (again 15-30 minutes is sufficient) and forget EVERYTHING you know about the book that you got your starting sentence from, and create your own story from that first sentence.

4- Ask a trusted friend/family member/random guy on the street (or for the truely random ask a combination of people) to list off a set amount of random words (10-15 depending how long you want this writing exercise to take) Then, return to your selected writing area, and write a scene/short story incorporating all of those random words. Before you start decide if you will allow yourself to use "similar" words or exactly what they say- that is it one says "jump into a puddle" will you allow "jumped into a puddle" or only what they say. Also, to mix it up more ask for situations or events that you have to also incorporate. the idea is to give you tools that you form into coherence.... or something a little less random at least

5. Use a prompt generator, such as the ones on seventhsanctum, set a timer, and just write the story that was generated.

My roommate and I do this all the time, and we don't care if we deviate from the prompt, because that usually makes it more fun

cool thread

Thanks I periodically try to kick myself into trying some creative writing and have a hard time figuring out where to get started.