Five Brainstorming Methods1/28/2023 So you have an idea for a story. It has been running laps around your thoughts, maybe you have a character, or perhaps you have a setting. But how can you turn this into your next piece? Brainstorming is step number one. We often talk about outlining methods, but brainstorming is just as important. To find a method that suits you, all you need to do is choose one and start to experiment. Mind Mapping This is one of the most popular techniques for brainstorming. It allows you to part from a central idea and branch out, getting more specific and adding categories and the research you have made as you progress. If you have a theme you want to develop your story around, mind mapping is one of your best options.
Rapid Ideation This method is commonly used by business teams to solve problems or improve products, but it can also be applied to writing. It works under the concept that many organize their work better and become more productive when there is a time limit. So in rapid ideation, all you need to do is start a timer (between 5 to 20 minutes) and write down all the ideas you come up with. The ones you think are great, regular, and ridiculous. You can always modify and filter them out later. Starbursting To try this technique, you will first have to draw a six-pointed star. Like in mind mapping, the starbursting technique parts from a main idea at the center. At each point of the star, you will write one of the 6 essential questions for writing: who, what, when, where, why, and how. Answer these questions in a short sentence or paragraph, and your story will develop a solid base.
Reverse Brainstorming In business, teams looking for a new product will often start brainstorming from the problem they aim to solve. In writing, this method is helpful if you have a loose idea of a scene, specifically if it is a climax or a scene that is closer to the end. You can make a timeline or a list of bullet points, in which you will travel from the last scene to the possible beginning. Make your way from the effect to the cause. You can also branch out at each point of the timeline to have “alternative beginnings” and see how this would change the course of your story. Writing boards If you are a visual learner, this method is designed for you. Writing boards give you the freedom of adding images, videos, colors, keywords, arrows, and any other element you want. The advantages of this method include that you can go back to your writing board for inspiration whenever you want during your writing process and, that you can create them in a variety of formats, from a Pinterest board to a cork board. Tips & Reminders: My art teacher used to ask us to write down at least seven ideas for a piece before starting to work on it. From this class, I learned that the best ideas will surface if you dig a little deeper and keep asking questions. Once you find one idea you want to go with, develop its details to form a backbone that will support you during outlining. Finally, whichever method you choose, keep in mind that your ideas will probably change during outlining and drafting. You will likely leave out many of the additions to your brainstorming, and that is natural. Still, this is a stage full of possibilities and potential, so remember to enjoy the process of creating. Paula Argudois an Ecuadorian writer who weaves culture and magic into her stories. Her work has been featured in literary magazines such as SeaGlass Literary and Ice Lolly Review, and she was an international finalist in the Metamorphosis contest. When not writing, you can find her dancing, baking, or daydreaming.
MORE FROM THIS AUTHOR:
0 Comments
Leave a Reply.Categories
All
Archives
May 2023
|