The quick and easy way to do story writing prompts and story writing topics
Last year I was helping a teacher in one of my children’s classrooms (before coronavirus hit).
And he got the students doing dance moves to a five-minute song before starting a new lesson.
Firstly this struck me because we never did such fun things in my childhood classrooms!
Secondly because the activity was a super way to jump start the kids’ energy and creativity.
But did you know you can use writing prompts in much the same way before sitting down to write an autobiography, memoir, biography or other life-story project?
Certainly writing prompts can be a fun tool to try so let’s take a closer look …
Related article – Writing tips: The ultimate guide of life-story tips for new writers
What is a writing prompt?
Writing prompts are a method designed to get you writing.
For example, they can be an idea, suggestion or topic.
In short, these cues are jumping off points for quick bursts of writing.
Indeed such mini assignments come in many shapes and sizes.
For instance a passage, short sentence, a few words or an image.
And sometimes they can be a combination of the above.
Related article – Writing flow: Finding the best places to write your autobiography
Why use a writing prompt?
There are a number of reasons why you might want to use writing prompts.
Firstly, they help warm-up your writing muscles in a creative way.
Certainly this stimulus can get you tapping into your imagination.
Secondly, writing prompts can be used to develop a regular writing habit.
Indeed some people use prompts daily to focus on writing.
But notably they are not a replacement or cue for actual life-story writing.
Related article – Writing time: How to schedule time for writing
How to write using writing prompts
Writing prompts aren’t meant to be taken too seriously.
The important thing is that you are writing as opposed to what you write.
For instance, some writers don’t worry about structure or even complete sentences.
Firstly, in terms of guidance, aim to write for at least five minutes.
Secondly, don’t stop writing during this time to ponder, re-read or edit.
And finally, ignore that inner voice critiquing your work and write, write, write!
Related article – First draft: Don’t start writing a first draft before reading this!
Where to find writing prompts?
Certainly try your local library or bookshop for writing prompts.
However, there are numerous guides for sale online, such as at Amazon or eBay.
In addition, simply do an internet search for writing prompts.
You are sure to find stacks of free articles and suggestions.
For example, here are a few I discovered:
- Writer’s Digest prompts – Weekly creative prompts with an image. Encourages you to post your response (500 words or fewer) in the comments below.
- Writer Igniter – Click the shuffle button to get a randomly generated prompt. Includes a suggested character, situation, prop and setting image. A fun way to click and write.
- Writing Prompts That Don’t Suck – Semi-regular and quirky prompts ranging from a few words, fill-in-the-blanks, endings and beginnings, and much more. Over 750 ideas here!
Related article – Writing break: The secret weapon of writing tips
Final say
Want a warm-up technique to get you set for a life-story writing session?
Try a quick writing prompt and tap into your creative side.
Most importantly you can find ideas offline or online (many for free).
So limber up and have some fun.
Happy writing!
Free gift!
Start life-story writing after a writing prompt. And know what to write next with a rough chapter outline. I show you how in the free Structure Success video training. Sign up here!
Your say
Got a writing prompt or resource to share? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Send me an email or leave a reply in the comments section at the end of this article.
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