Creative Exercise:

Think of some information readers will need to learn to understand the story. This could be technical information or character backstory. Now write an argument between two characters in which you use conflict to share this information.

 

Something to Think About:

1. Is your hook inherent to the plot?

 

2. Does your hook involve action (characters physically moving and/or engaging in conflict)?

 

3. If not, how does your hook set up the action?

 

4. Does your hook waste time before getting to the plot?

 

5. How does your hook pull double or triple duty in introducing character, conflict, and plot (and perhaps even setting and theme)?

 

Resources:

• “In Medias Res: How to Do It and How Not to,” K.M. Weiland
• “Character: The Most Important Part of Your Story’s Beginning,” K.M. Weiland
• “How to Write a First Chapter That Rocks,” Suzannah Windsor Freeman
• “8 Ways to Write a 5-Star Chapter One,” Elizabeth Sims
• “Introducing Your Characters,” Linda Yezak