How to prepare to write the first chapter

If you are anything like me, and tend to start plenty of first drafts, you have been on the brink of starting a first chapter. But maybe this is your first time writing a book. All of us can agree that preparing to write the first chapter is something that can change our story.

I know, for me, it can feel overwhelming and a little bit scary to be staring down the blank page. Thus, preparing for the first chapter can help us remove some of the scare, and add a bit more fun. I’m not talking about elaborate planning and sheets of graphs and plot points. It can be helpful though, to have a quick think about how we are going to tackle the first chapter.

First chapter are actually very tricky little things. They need to grab the reader’s attention, introduce the main character, and set up the tension in the story. Of course, all of this could be added in the editing stage. It is such an important thing to keep in mind: editing exists. Editing doesn’t just exist, it exists to serve us. So don’t get too worried about getting the first chapter right. There’s so many layers of editing in the future where you can smooth over things.

But how can we choose a good place to start? Somewhere that will catapult us into a fun and exciting first draft.

Your side of the bridge

Imagine you are standing next to a stream or river. In front of you is a bridge, that bridge is your story. It is going to take you (and all future readers) somewhere different. Somewhere they couldn’t get to without your story. So, standing on your side of the bridge is the equivalent of sitting, ready to write the first chapter.

What do you want your first step to be?

Physically preparing for writing your first draft and chapter

The practicalities of preparing physically for your first chapter (and draft) and quite simple. Think about it, in all reality, all you need is a pen or pencil, and paper. (A pencil sharpener too I suppose then). Of course, many of us write our books on computers today, as it means they are easily printable, and can be changed with just a few clicks on the keyboard. But it’s totally up to you what you write on.

If you choose to write in paper form. Think about the later steps this will add to your process and consider if it is worth it to you. For instance, all your work will need to be transcribed into digital form at some point. Whether that is you transcribing, or you pay for someone else to do it. But I personally think that writing in paper form would be an amazing experience, and want to write one of my future books this way.

If you choose to write on a computer, there’s still decisions to be made. For instance, what software will you write on? I have a dedicated post where I talk all about the different software I have written on in my life so far (Google docs and Open Office). What you write on will not change your actual writing, but will likely affect your formatting. Thinking about how this will play a part in later processes is a good idea.

Where will you write?

Having a nice place to write is lovely, but not essential. I enjoy writing by a window, and having it open at times to let the fresh air in. Where you want to write is up to you. Perhaps you want to write in different places, not a set one. If you do wish to have a writing space, setting out some inspiring things can help boost motivation while writing. Having things like inspirational writing quotes, candles, plants, or a vase of flowers might inspire your creativity.

Having somewhere for your tea to sit, or some pictures from your Pinterest board pinned up might be fun. Whatever inspires you, surround yourself with that for writing.

Personally, in my writing space I have windows, plants, a painting, and plenty of space for my notes and tea to sit. I am blessed to have windows on two sides of me, which lets in that glorious light, helping with that computer screen sore eyes.

What will you write?

Knowing where you are going to start, and why you are starting there is important. If you are ready to start writing your first draft, you already have your book idea, and may have done a bit (or a lot) of plotting. So I’m guessing you know where you are going to start – but why? What is so significant about this part in your character’s life that your readers will be pricked with curiosity about it?

I’m not saying you need to have it all figured out. I often don’t! But knowing my why, right from the beginning has been a game changer for me. So WHY are you starting here?

Maybe it is because your character is about to get kidnapped, meet the love of their life, or discover a secret. Is it because they are at their breaking point and want out? Some of my books start with the mundane, with hints at tension and the end of the thread. Some of them start with someone new appearing in my character’s life and changing it forever. Others start with a restlessness, a longing for something more.

I love writing first chapters. I love the excitement, and the fresh passion I have for the story. Seeing the characters step into their story is amazing, and I hope the same for you too.

Do it even if you feel unprepared

Remember that it is better to start scared, than to never start at all. Even if you don’t feel you know what you are doing – do it anyway. There is always the editing process to clean up anything you don’t like later on.

If you would like to learn more about writing, feel free to browse more blog posts here , or contact me if you have any questions. You can also find me on YouTube at The Windy Wildflower, or the podcast at The Windy Wildflower Podcast. We talk about writing, songwriting, and being a Christian creative in all these places. I also have a free writing resource you can grab on this website here! Join me on the journey of learning to glorify God with our creativity and making dreams a reality.

Till next time friends,

Nika.