The First Draft Pro Blog

We freaking love stories

You do too? Well, well, well. That smells like BFF potential.

An illustrated image of a galaxy

Understanding the universal flow of a story (regardless of structure)

Discover the universal story flow transcending various narrative structures.
An image showing the plot of a story mapped out on note cards on a corkboard

What's the difference between plot and structure?

Uncover the distinctions between plot and structure, two vital components of effective storytelling.
A cast of 101 characters from multiple genres, including science fiction, fantasy, contemporary fiction, and YA.
Character & POV
3 min read

101 ideas to spark your character creation

Craft memorable characters with 101 creative ideas for character creation.
An image of a writer's pencil on a blank piece of paper
Character & POV
3 min read

How to write a character profile

Create consistent, believable characters with a detailed character profile.
An illustrated image of a writer interviewing a character in a novel to understand their motivations better
Character & POV
3 min read

Should you write character interviews?

Decide if character interviews can enhance your writing process.
An illustrated image of soundwaves representing the voice of a character in a novel
Character & POV
3 min read

How to give your character's unique and compelling voices

Give your characters unique voices for authentic and engaging storytelling.
An illustrated image of a writer's pen on a page of fiction writing
Character & POV
3 min read

How to respectfully write a depressed character

Respectfully portray characters with depression for narrative depth.
A pink and blue illustration of the galaxy, representing the wide emotional galaxy of your characters.
Character & POV
3 min read

How to show deepening intimacy between your characters

Depict deepening intimacy for realistic character relationships.
An illustrated representation of a forest of trees, representing the forest of events in your character's backstory
Character & POV
3 min read

How to create a compelling backstory for a character

Create a compelling character backstory for deeper narrative intrigue.
An illustrated image of an antagonist character in a novel
Character & POV
3 min read

How to make your readers sympathise with your antagonist

Craft an antagonist who's more than just a villain to engage readers.
An abstract illustrated image of curves and changes in a character's story arc
Character & POV
3 min read

4 types of character arcs

Leverage four types of character arcs for compelling narratives and character development.
An illustration of an antagonist in a novel
Character & POV
3 min read

How to write a great antagonist

Create a believable challenge for your protagonist with a compelling antagonist.