Chapter One: In the Beginning

Picture this: Teresa has an incredible idea for an award-winning novel. The burst of heavenly inspiration came to her in a vision, right before she got out of the shower. She dried off as quickly as she could, and sat down stark naked at her desk, eager to begin. Except....she has absolutely no idea where to start. She stared angrily at her laptop screen, wondering why the words that make so much sense in her mind refused to exit through her fingertips on the keys. And then Teresa realized: "I have no idea what the setting is for this story! What will the characters' names be? How long is this book going to last?! Will there be a cheesy romantic subplot between the two leads??!!" Frustrated, she has no idea how to release this pent-up creativity onto paper while maintaining her reputation as an amazing author. And that's where this chapter comes into play.

Working out the basics

So what happens whenever you get a great idea for a book? Do the characters come first, or maybe the setting of the story? No. The very first thing that pops into any author's mind is the plot. A vague idea for an adventure that takes place in either a fantastical alien world, the distant future, or maybe in an Ohio high school. And that is an excellent place to start! And so: The quest begins.
The first thing to take care of would be the five W's: Who, What, When, Where, and Why.

The Who

Characters are a great place to start! Think up some names and some character traits. Brainstorm their purpose to the tale you're spinning. You can create an aesthetic board or compile a cast list to help yourself visualize each person. Have fun creating hilarious personalities! This should be an enjoyable part of the writing process.

The What

Now it's time to cement your idea. Figure out a few more details on what you want the story to be about. Try to add where you think certain characters would be best introduced in the story. Make sure to write things down as you go!

The When

This part seems pretty easy, but only at first. Yes, part of it is simply deciding on the month and year your story occurs, but there is much more involved. Try answering these questions:

Is my story taking place over a long period of time or maybe just a couple weeks?
How long do I want my story to last?
(In other words, how long do you want to torture your beloved characters with life problems)
When is my story set? Is it in the past, present, or future?
Some stories require a bit of research, like books in the Historical Fiction genre. Don't let that scare you off!

Another important aspect of "The When" is the technical issues. Figure out when you will have time to update your story, and set a schedule. Make sure to let your readers know when you plan to release the next chapter!

The Where

Now it's time for the setting of your novel! First, it is a good idea to get a vague, basic outline of where you want the events of your story to take place. Is your novel set in the cold heart of space? Then take the time to creatively name the alien world where all the main stuff goes down. Travel from largest to smallest, naming the planet you want, then settling on the continent or country (if on Earth) and then go further into detail with the name of your characters' local town and homes. Figure out where different parts of your story will take place, maybe part of the tale will be in the deep dark woods, or in a college biology laboratory. Don't rush, as this is very important!

The Why

Ok, this is one part you're going to keep secret for quite a while! This is where all your sinister plans are fully revealed for your eyes only. Obviously, not all the details are going to come out now, so leave some room for inspiration flashes when you're halfway done drafting your story. Think up some motives for your characters here, maybe an idea for why the bad guy attacked that poor woman, or why that blonde bimbo Teresa shoved the freshman into his locker. Maybe devise the core of the story's conflict, and brainstorm different solutions to your issue. You definitely do not have to decide for good! Just have a set of ideas in place for how you want things to happen. Remember: you are the puppet master here. Manipulate your creations to do your bidding. *Insert maniacal laugh*

Another thing that would be good to add is an Author's Note. Before you begin your story, open up to your readers. Share with them how you are feeling as you begin the writing journey, and let them know you appreciate their time. Maybe tag some people who helped you out with starting your book as well! Always remember; this is your story, and your ideas. So don't listen to those who tell you otherwise, and pour your heart out however much you want! It is their choice if they want to read it or not. I do recommend that you wait on publishing your Author's Note until you have a ready first chapter to publish with it.

Other Helpful Additions

And lastly, every adventurous, intriguing novel needs a good prologue! It is completely up to you if you want to add one or not, but I highly recommend it. A well-written prologue sets the stage for a book and leaves your readers hanging on for the first chapter. Plus, it is extremely beneficial for the author as well, to finally see all your planning come to life in a little glimpse of the future is mesmerizing, and quite therapeutic for the stressed writer.

Ok. That's all set. Now all you've got to do is start writing!....Until you reach the middle of your story. Now we're stuck. I have no idea where to go from here....