Every story begins with a spark, and developing it into a fully fleshed out narrative with compelling characters, immersive settings, powerful themes, and a gripping plot is the essence of storytelling. It’s also a process that can be as simple or complex as the writer wants. Some writers may have the perfect idea for a story right away, while others will need to work at it for months before they can turn the idea into a viable pitch.
Identify the key characters and their goals (as well as any obstacles) that will create the central conflict of your story. This is often referred to as character development, and it is an essential first step in teasing out your narrative.
Establish the world in which your story will unfold, including any historical context, geographical setting, or fantastical elements that add to the overall setting. This is a crucial element to consider for both fictional and non-fictional stories, as it helps to create a sense of immersion for readers.
Keep the stakes rising for your characters throughout the course of the story. This can be done in several ways, from increasing the monetary costs of their endeavors to adding other layers of challenge that will force them to make harder choices.
Ensure your story has both internal and external conflict. This will keep the tension high and help to build the climax scene of your story. For example, your main character can be faced with an external conflict such as the desire to destroy a sworn enemy while simultaneously battling a more subtle, internal conflict such as her vow towards pacifism.