The First Draft Pro Blog

We freaking love stories

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

A field of wildflowers, symbolising rebirth.

7 types of stories: Rebirth

In "Rebirth" narratives, the protagonist experiences a massive transformation, often spurred by a realization or event that changes their perspective or lifestyle.
The tragedy mask.

7 types of stories: Tragedy

"Tragedy" stories focus on the protagonist's downfall due to their fatal flaw or a series of unfortunate events.
The comedy mask.

7 types of stories: Comedy

"Comedy" plots centre around misunderstandings, mistaken identities, or confusing situations that create humorous scenarios.
A ship on a voyage.

7 types of stories: Voyage & Return

"Voyage and Return" stories involve the protagonist embarking on a journey to an unfamiliar world.
A troupe of adventurers on a fantasy quest.

7 types of stories: The Quest

"The Quest" plot type is about a protagonist's journey towards a specific goal. This journey often involves overcoming obstacles, usually leading the protagonist to personal growth and self-discovery.
Tumbling Roman coins

7 types of stories: Rags to Riches

In "Rags to Riches" stories, the protagonist begins in a lowly state and achieves a significant transformation through a series of events, often involving wealth, status, or power.
A kraken from the deep.

7 types of stories: Overcoming The Monster

This type of plot involves a protagonist setting out to defeat an antagonistic force (often evil) which threatens the protagonist and/or protagonist's homeland.
This image contains the covers of several of the greatest books on writing of all time. Authors includes are Stephen King, William Zinsser, Ray Bradbury, Ross Hartmann, Stephen Pinker, George Saunders, Anne Lamott, Shawn Coyne, Lisa Cron, Margaret Atwood, Strunk and White, And Sol Stein

A comprehensive guide to books on writing

Whether you're just starting or looking to polish your skills, something here will help you write better, inspire you, and even make you laugh.
A selection of gifts that would be appropriate for a writer, including First Draft Pro, and other products like stationery, tea, candles, and books about writing.
News
5 min read

10 Gift Ideas for Writers in 2024

The best gifts for writers are those that acknowledge and celebrate their passion for stories. Here's a curated list of 10 thoughtful gift ideas.
An illustration of a scene from a novel on a laptop screen.
Writing Tips
3 min read

What is exposition and how to do it well

Effectively conveying background information without overwhelming the reader.
An illustration of an open book with a story spooling out of it.
Writing Tips
3 min read

The ultimate guide to your first draft

Comprehensive strategies and considerations for crafting your initial manuscript.
An illustration of a planet.
Writing Tips
3 min read

How to use the Kubler-Ross stages for managing change/grief in your story

Implementing the stages of grief to depict character development and conflict.