How to Start a Story: Examples, Tips and Strategies

Introduction

A story is a narrative that tells a sequence of events, usually with characters and a plot. The opening of a story is essential in establishing the tone and atmosphere, introducing characters and setting, as well as giving some foreshadowing of what’s to come. It can be challenging to write a strong opening, but there are many helpful tips and strategies to get you started.

Provide Examples of Different Types of Introductions

A good opening scene has the power to draw readers in and make them want to keep reading. Here are some types of introductory scenes to consider:

Description

Description is a common way to introduce a story. You can use vivid language to set the scene and establish the mood. For example, in Charles Dickens’ Great Expectations, he opens with “My father’s family name being Pirrip, and my Christian name Philip, my infant tongue could make of both names nothing longer or more explicit than Pip.” This sets up the main character and paints a picture of his humble background.

Dialogue

Dialogue is another great way to open a story. It can be used to introduce characters and give insight into their personalities. Consider the opening line from Ernest Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises: “Robert Cohn was once middleweight boxing champion of Princeton. Do not think that I am very much impressed by that as a boxing title, but it meant a lot to Cohn.” This gives us a glimpse into Cohn’s past and his inflated ego.

Action

Opening a story with action can immediately grab a reader’s attention. In J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, the story begins with an exciting description of a mysterious stranger on the run from the law. This creates suspense and intrigue from the very first sentence.

Character Development

Developing characters in the opening scene can be a great way to hook readers. In Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, we are introduced to Scout and Jem Finch, two siblings growing up in a small Southern town. We learn a lot about their personalities and interests right away, setting up the rest of the story.

Share Tips on Crafting Engaging Openings to Stories

In order to write an effective introduction, it’s important to understand the basics of storytelling. Here are some tips to keep in mind when writing your opening scene:

Show, don’t tell

Instead of simply telling your reader what’s happening, show them. Use vivid language and sensory details to paint a picture in their minds. According to author and writing coach Marcy Kennedy, “Readers need to experience your story world through actions and images rather than just being told about it.”

Use sensory details

Sensory details are an important part of any story. They allow readers to feel like they are a part of the scene. Use sight, sound, smell, touch and taste to bring your story to life. For example, if you’re describing a beach, you might include the sound of waves crashing against the shore, the smell of salty air, and the feeling of sand between your toes.

Introduce the main conflict

The opening scene should hint at the main conflict of your story. What struggle will your protagonist have to overcome? Introducing this early on will help to keep readers engaged and eager to find out what happens next.

Avoid cliches

It’s important to avoid cliches when writing your opening scene. Instead, try to be creative and think outside the box. According to author Margaret Atwood, “Clichés are tired old phrases that have been overused and offer no new insight or perspective.”

Discuss Strategies for Generating Ideas and Plot Points

Coming up with ideas for stories can be difficult, but there are some strategies that can help. Here are some ideas for generating ideas and plot points:

Brainstorming

Brainstorming is a great way to generate ideas. Take a blank piece of paper and write down anything that comes to mind. Don’t worry about making sense or being organized; just let your ideas flow freely. You can then go back and organize your thoughts into a cohesive story.

Research

Research can be a great way to come up with new ideas and plot points. Look up different cultures and locations and read about them. You may even find inspiration in real-life events. Doing research can help spark your creativity and give you new perspectives.

Draw inspiration from existing works

Reading books and watching movies can also be a great source of inspiration. Pay attention to the way authors and directors craft stories and how they use words and images to create a certain atmosphere. You may find yourself inspired to create something similar or to take a completely different approach.

Offer Advice on How to Hook Readers Right Away

In order to keep readers engaged, it’s important to hook them right away. Here are some tips for doing so:

Establish setting quickly

Readers need to be able to visualize the setting of your story right away. Make sure to include enough details to give them a clear picture of where your story is taking place.

Create an intriguing protagonist

Your protagonist should be interesting and relatable. Introduce them in a way that makes readers want to know more. Let us in on their hopes, dreams, fears and motivations.

Pose a question

Posing a question can be a great way to engage readers. Give them something to ponder and make them curious about what will happen next.

Use suspense

Suspense is key to keeping readers hooked. Try to create tension and anticipation throughout your opening scene. Give hints of what’s to come without revealing too much.

Share Examples of Popular Story Openings

Here are some popular stories with memorable openings:

Harry Potter

J.K. Rowling opens her beloved series with the following lines: “Mr. and Mrs. Dursley, of number four, Privet Drive, were proud to say that they were perfectly normal, thank you very much.” This immediately sets up the Dursleys as eccentric and out of touch with the magical world.

The Catcher in the Rye

J.D. Salinger starts off The Catcher in the Rye with the iconic line: “If you really want to hear about it, the first thing you’ll probably want to know is where I was born, and what my lousy childhood was like, and how my parents were occupied and all before they had me, and all that David Copperfield kind of crap, but I don’t feel like going into it.” This introduces us to Holden Caulfield, a rebellious and disaffected teen.

To Kill a Mockingbird

Harper Lee begins To Kill a Mockingbird with the following description: “When he was nearly thirteen, my brother Jem got his arm badly broken at the elbow. When it healed, and Jem’s fears of never being able to play football were assuaged, he was seldom self-conscious about his injury. His left arm was somewhat shorter than his right; when he stood or walked, the back of his hand was at right angles to his body, his thumb parallel to his thigh.” This immediately draws us into the world of the Finch children and their sleepy Southern town.

Outline the Elements of a Good Opening Scene

A good opening scene should have the following elements:

Establish the tone and atmosphere

Your opening scene should set the tone for the entire story. Use vivid language and sensory details to create the desired atmosphere.

Introduce characters and setting

Make sure to introduce your characters and setting in the opening scene. Give readers enough information to get a sense of who they are and where they are.

Give some foreshadowing

Foreshadowing is a great way to keep readers guessing. Plant clues throughout your opening scene that hint at what’s to come.

Set up the main conflict

The opening scene should hint at the main conflict of your story. Give readers a glimpse of what struggles your protagonist will have to face.

Conclusion

Writing a compelling opening scene is essential in any story. By providing examples of different types of introductions, sharing tips on crafting engaging openings, discussing strategies for generating ideas and plot points, offering advice on how to hook readers right away, and outlining the elements of a good opening scene, you can create an unforgettable story that will keep readers wanting more.