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Writers' Treasure

Effective writing advice for aspiring writers

Creative Writing 101

Creative writing is any form of writing which is written with the creativity of mind: fiction writing, poetry writing, creative nonfiction writing and more. The purpose is to express something, whether it be feelings, thoughts, or emotions.

Rather than only giving information or inciting the reader to make an action beneficial to the writer, creative writing is written to entertain or educate someone, to spread awareness about something or someone, or to express one’s thoughts.

There are two kinds of creative writing: good and bad, effective and ineffective. Bad, ineffective creative writing cannot make any impression on the reader. It won’t achieve its purpose.

So whether you’re a novelist, a poet, a short-story writer, an essayist, a biographer or an aspiring beginner, you want to improve your craft. The question is: how?

When you write great fiction, poetry, or nonfiction, amazing things can happen. Readers can’t put it down. The work you wrote becomes a bestseller. It becomes famous. But you have to reach to that level… first .

The best way to increase your proficiency in creative writing is to write, write compulsively, but it doesn’t mean write whatever you want. There are certain things you should know first… it helps to start with the right foot.

To do exactly that, here we have a beginners’ guide from Writers’ Treasure on the subject:

An Introduction to Creative Writing
How to Get Started in Creative Writing in Just Three Steps
Creative Writing vs. Technical Writing
Fiction Writing 101: The Elements of Stories
Poetry Writing: Forms and Terms Galore
Creative Non-Fiction: What is it?
Tips and Tricks to Improve Your Creative Writing
Common Mistakes Made by Creative Writers

For novelists: do you want to write compelling opening chapters?

Are you an aspiring novelist? Will your novel see the light of day? For that, you will need to make the first chapter of your story as compelling as possible. Otherwise, readers won’t even pick up your novel. That chapter can be the make-or-break point that decides whether your novel is published or not. It’s because good editors know how you write from the first three pages… or sometimes even from the opening lines.

To solve this problem, I created a five-part tutorial on Writing Compelling Opening Chapters . It outlines why you need to write a compelling opening chapter, my personal favourite way of beginning it, what should be told and shown in it, general dos and don’ts, and what you need to do after having written it. Check it out for more.

Need more writing tips?

Sometimes you reach that stage when you outgrow the beginner stage of writing but feel that you’re not yet an expert. If I just described you, no worries– Writers’ Treasure’s writing tips are here. Whether you want to make your writing more readable, more irresistible, more professional, we’ve got you covered. So check out our writing tips , and be on your way to fast track your success.

I offer writing, editing and proofreading , as well as website creation services. I’ve been in this field for seven years, and I know the tools of the trade. I’ve seen the directions where the writing industry is going, the changes, the new platforms. Get your work done through me, and get fast and efficient service. Get a quote .

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Introduction to Fiction Writing: The Six Elements of Fiction

Before we delve into any writing tips, let’s review the essentials of creative writing in fiction. Whether you’re writing flash fiction , short stories, or epic trilogies, most fiction stories require these six components:

Plot: the “what happens” of your story.
Characters: whose lives are we watching?
Setting: the world that the story is set in.
Point of View: from whose eyes do we see the story unfold?
Theme: the “deeper meaning” of the story, or what the story represents.
Style: how you use words to tell the story.

It’s important to recognize that all of these elements are intertwined. You can’t build the setting without writing it through a certain point of view; you can’t develop important themes with arbitrary characters, etc. We’ll get into the relationship between these elements later, but for now, let’s explore how to use each element to write fiction.

1. Fiction Writing Tip: Developing Fictional Plots

Plot is the series of causes and effects that produce the story as a whole. Because A, then B, then C—ultimately leading to the story’s climax , the result of all the story’s events and character’s decisions.

If you don’t know where to start your story, but you have a few story ideas, then start with the conflict . Some novels take their time to introduce characters or explain the world of the piece, but if the conflict that drives the story doesn’t show up within the first 15 pages, then the story loses direction quickly.

That’s not to say you have to be explicit about the conflict. In Harry Potter, Voldemort isn’t introduced as the main antagonist until later in the first book; the series’ conflict begins with the Dursley family hiding Harry from his magical talents. Let the conflict unfold naturally in the story, but start with the story’s impetus, then go from there.

2. Fiction Writing Tip: Creating Characters

Think far back to 9th grade English, and you might remember the basic types of story conflicts: man vs. nature, man vs. man, and man vs. self. The conflicts that occur within stories happen to its characters—there can be no story without its people. Sometimes, your story needs to start there: in the middle of a conversation, a disrupted routine, or simply with what makes your characters special.

There are many ways to craft characters with depth and complexity. These include writing backstory, giving characters goals and fatal flaws, and making your characters contend with complicated themes and ideas. This guide on character development will help you sort out the traits your characters need, and how to interweave those traits into the story.

3. Fiction Writing Tip: Give Life to Living Worlds

Whether your story is set on Earth or a land far, far away, your setting lives in the same way your characters do. In the same way that we read to get inside the heads of other people, we also read to escape to a world outside of our own. Consider starting the story with what makes your world live: a pulsing city, the whispered susurrus of orchards, hills that roil with unsolved mysteries, etc. Tell us where the conflict is happening, and the story will follow.

4. Fiction Writing Tip: Play With Narrative Point of View

Point of view refers to the “cameraman” of the story—the vantage point we are viewing the story through. Maybe you’re stuck starting your story because you’re trying to write it in the wrong person. There are four POVs that authors work with:

First person—the story is told from the “I” perspective, and that “I” is the protagonist.
First person peripheral—the story is told from the “I” perspective, but the “I” is not the protagonist, but someone adjacent to the protagonist. (Think: Nick Carraway, narrator of The Great Gatsby. )
Second person—the story is told from the “you” perspective. This point of view is rare, but when done effectively, it can create a sense of eeriness or a personalized piece.
Third person limited—the story is told from the “he/she/they” perspective. The narrator is not directly involved in the lives of the characters; additionally, the narrator usually writes from the perspective of one or two characters.
Third person omniscient—the story is told from the “he/she/they” perspective. The narrator is not directly involved in the lives of the characters; additionally, the narrator knows what is happening in each character’s heads and in the world at large.

If you can’t find the right words to begin your piece, consider switching up the pronouns you use and the perspective you write from. You might find that the story flows onto the page from a different point of view.

5. Fiction Writing Tip: Use the Story to Investigate Themes

Generally, the themes of the story aren’t explored until after the aforementioned elements are established, and writers don’t always know the themes of their own work until after the work is written. Still, it might help to consider the broader implications of the story you want to write. How does the conflict or story extend into a bigger picture?

Let’s revisit Harry Potter’s opening scenes. When we revisit the Dursleys preventing Harry from knowing about his true nature, several themes are established: the meaning of family, the importance of identity, and the idea of fate can all be explored here. Themes often develop organically, but it doesn’t hurt to consider the message of your story from the start.

6. Fiction Writing Tip: Experiment With Words

Style is the last of the six fiction elements, but certainly as important as the others. The words you use to tell your story, the way you structure your sentences, how you alternate between characters, and the sounds of the words you use all contribute to the mood of the work itself.

If you’re struggling to get past the first sentence, try rewriting it. Write it in 10 words or write it in 200 words; write a single word sentence; experiment with metaphors, alliteration, or onomatopoeia . Then, once you’ve found the right words, build from there, and let your first sentence guide the style and mood of the narrative.

Now, let’s take a deeper look at the craft of fiction writing. The above elements are great starting points, but to learn how to start writing fiction, we need to examine the craft of combining these elements.

Primer on the Elements of Fiction Writing

First, before we get into the craft of fiction writing, it’s important to understand the elements of fiction. You don’t need to understand everything about the craft of fiction before you start keying in ideas or planning your novel. But this primer will be something you can consult if you need clarification on any term (e.g., point of view) as you learn how to start writing fiction.

The Elements of Fiction Writing

A standard novel runs between 80,000 to 100,000 words. A short novel, going by the National Novel Writing Month , is at least 50,000. To begin with, don’t think about length—think about development. Length will come. It is true that some works lend themselves more to novellas, but if that’s the case, you don’t want to pad them to make a longer work. If you write a plot summary—that’s one option on getting started writing fiction—you will be able to get a fairly good idea about your project as to whether it lends itself to a full-blown novel.

For now, let’s think about the various elements of fiction—the building blocks.

Writing Fiction: Your Protagonist

Readers want an interesting protagonist , or main character. One that seems real, that deals with the various things in life we all deal with. If the writer makes life too simple, and doesn’t reflect the kinds of problems we all face, most readers are going to lose interest.

Don’t cheat it. Make the work honest. Do as much as you can to develop a character who is fully developed, fully real—many-sided. Complex. In Aspects of the Novel , E.M Forster called this character a “round” characte r. This character is capable of surprising us. Don’t be afraid to make your protagonist, or any of your characters, a bit contradictory. Most of us are somewhat contradictory at one time or another. The deeper you see into your protagonist, the more complex, the more believable they will be.

If a character has no depth, is merely “flat,” as Forster terms it, then we can sum this character up in a sentence: “George hates his ex-wife.” This is much too limited. Find out why. What is it that causes George to hate his ex-wife? Is it because of something she did or didn’t do? Is it because of a basic personality clash? Is it because George can’t stand a certain type of person, and he didn’t realize, until too late, that his ex-wife was really that kind of person? Imagine some moments of illumination, and you will have a much richer character than one who just hates his ex-wife.

And so… to sum up: think about fleshing out your protagonist as much as you can. Consider personality, character (or moral makeup), inclinations, proclivities, likes, dislikes, etc. What makes this character happy? What makes this character sad or frustrated? What motivates your character? Readers don’t want to know only what —they want to know why .

Usually, readers want a sympathetic character, one they can root for. Or if not that, one that is interesting in different ways. You might not find the protagonist of The Girl on the Train totally sympathetic, but she’s interesting! She’s compelling.

Here’s an article I wrote on what makes a good protagonist.

Also on clichéd characters.

Now, we’re ready for a key question: what is your protagonist’s main goal in this story? And secondly, who or what will stand in the way of your character achieving this goal?

There are two kinds of conflicts: internal and external. In some cases, characters may not be opposing an external antagonist, but be self-conflicted. Once you decide on your character’s goal, you can more easily determine the nature of the obstacles that your protagonist must overcome. There must be conflict, of course, and stories must involve movement. Things go from Phase A to Phase B to Phase C, and so on. Overall, the protagonist begins here and ends there. She isn’t the same at the end of the story as she was in the beginning. There is a character arc.

I spoke of character arc. Now let’s move on to plot, the mechanism governing the overall logic of the story. What causes the protagonist to change? What key events lead up to the final resolution?

But before we go there, let’s stop a moment and think about point of view, the lens through which the story is told.

Writing Fiction: Point of View as Lens

Is this the right protagonist for this story? Is this character the one who has the most at stake? Does this character have real potential for change? Remember, you must have change or movement—in terms of character growth—in your story. Your character should not be quite the same at the end as in the beginning. Otherwise, it’s more of a sketch.

Such a story used to be called “slice of life.” For example, what if a man thinks his job can’t get any worse—and it doesn’t? He started with a great dislike for the job, for the people he works with, just for the pay. His hate factor is 9 on a scale of 10. He doesn’t learn anything about himself either. He just realizes he’s got to get out of there. The reader knew that from page 1.

Choose a character who has a chance of undergoing change of some kind. The more complex the change, the better. Characters that change are dynamic characters , according to E. M. Forster. Characters that remain the same are static characters. Be sure your protagonist is dynamic.

Okay, an exception: Let’s say your character resists change—that can involve some sort of movement—the resisting of change.

Here’s another thing to look at on protagonists—a blog I wrote: https://elizabethspanncraig.com/writing-tips-2/creating-strong-characters-typical-challenges/

Writing Fiction: Point of View and Person

Usually when we think of point of view, we have in mind the choice of person: first, second, and third. First person provides intimacy. As readers we’re allowed into the I-narrator’s mind and heart. A story told from the first person can sometimes be highly confessional, frank, bold. Think of some of the great first-person narrators like Huck Finn and Holden Caulfield. With first person we can also create narrators that are not completely reliable, leading to dramatic irony : we as readers believe one thing while the narrator believes another. This creates some interesting tension, but be careful to make your protagonist likable, sympathetic. Or at least empathetic, someone we can relate to.

What if a novel is told in first person from the point of view of a mob hit man? As author of such a tale, you probably wouldn’t want your reader to root for this character, but you could at least make the character human and believable. With first person, your reader would be constantly in the mind of this character, so you’d need to find a way to deal with this sympathy question. First person is a good choice for many works of fiction, as long as one doesn’t confuse the I-narrator with themselves. It may be a temptation, especially in the case of fiction based on one’s own life—not that it wouldn’t be in third person narrations. But perhaps even more with a first person story: that character is me . But it’s not—it’s a fictional character.

Check out my article on writing autobiographical fiction, which appeared in The Writer magazine. https://www.writermag.com/2018/07/31/filtering-fact-through-fiction/

Third person provides more distance. With third person, you have a choice between three forms: omniscient, limited omniscient, and objective or dramatic. If you get outside of your protagonist’s mind and enter other characters’ minds, you are being omniscient or godlike. If you limit your access to your protagonist’s mind only, this is limited omniscience. Let’s consider these two forms of third-person narrators before moving on to the objective or dramatic POV.

The omniscient form is rather risky, but it is certainly used, and it can certainly serve a worthwhile function. With this form, the author knows everything that has occurred, is occurring, or will occur in a given place, or in given places, for all the characters in the story. The author can provide historical background, look into the future, and even speculate on characters and make judgments. This point of view, writers tend to feel today, is more the method of nineteenth-century fiction, and not for today. It seems like too heavy an authorial footprint. Not handled well—and it is difficult to handle well—the characters seem to be pawns of an all-knowing author.

Today’s omniscience tends to take the form of multiple points of view, sometimes alternating, sometimes in sections. An author is behind it all, but the author is effaced, not making an appearance. BUT there are notable examples of well-handled authorial omniscience–read Nobel-prize winning Jose Saramago’s Blindness as a good example.

For more help, here’s an article I wrote on the omniscient point of view for The Writer : https://www.writermag.com/improve-your-writing/fiction/omniscient-pov/

The limited omniscient form is typical of much of today’s fiction. You stick to your protagonist’s mind. You see others from the outside. Even so, you do have to be careful that you don’t get out of this point of view from time to time, and bring in things the character can’t see or observe—unless you want to stand outside this character, and therein lies the omniscience, however limited it is.

But anyway, note the difference between: “George’s smiles were very welcoming” and “George felt like his smiles were very welcoming”—see the difference? In the case of the first, we’re seeing George from the outside; in the case of the second, from the inside. It’s safer to stay within your protagonist’s perspective as much as possible and not describe them from the outside. Doing so comes off like a point-of-view shift. Yet it’s true that in some stories, the narrator will describe what the character is wearing, tell us what his hopes and dreams are, mention things he doesn’t know right now but will later—and perhaps, in rather quirky stories, the narrator will even say something like “Our hero…” This can work, and has, if you create an interesting narrative voice. But it’s certainly a risk.

The dramatic or objective point of view is one you’ll probably use from time to time, but not throughout your whole novel. Hemingway’s “Hills like White Elephants” is handled with this point of view. Mostly, with maybe one exception, all we know is what the characters say and do, as in a play. Using this point of view from time to time in a longer work can certainly create interest. You can intensify a scene sometimes with this point of view. An interesting back and forth can be accomplished, especially if the dialogue is clipped.

I’ve saved the second-person point of view for the last. I would advise you not to use this point of view for an entire work. In his short novel Bright Lights, Big City , Jay McInerney famously uses this point of view, and with some force, but it’s hard to pull off. In lesser hands, it can get old. You also cause the reader to become the character. Does the reader want to become this character? One problem with this point of view is it may seem overly arty, an attempt at sophistication. I think it’s best to choose either first or third.

Here’s an article I wrote on use of second person for The Writer magazine. Check it out if you’re interested. https://www.writermag.com/2016/11/02/second-person-pov/

Writing Fiction: Protagonist and Plot and Structure

We come now to plot, keeping in mind character. You might consider the traditional five-stage structure : exposition, rising action, crisis and climax, falling action, and resolution. Not every plot works this way, but it’s a tried-and-true structure. Certainly a number of pieces of literature you read will begin in media re s—that is, in the middle of things. Instead of beginning with standard exposition, or explanation of the condition of the protagonist’s life at the story’s starting point, the author will begin with a scene. But even so, as in Jerzy Kosiński’s famous novella Being There , which begins with a scene, we’ll still pick up the present state of the character’s life before we see something that complicates it or changes the existing equilibrium. This so-called complication can be something apparently good—like winning the lottery—or something decidedly bad—like losing a huge amount of money at the gaming tables. One thing is true in both cases: whatever has happened will cause the character to change. And so now you have to fill in the events that bring this about.

How do you do that? One way is to write a chapter outline to prevent false starts. But some writers don’t like plotting in this fashion, but want to discover as they write. If you do plot your novel in advance, do realize that as you write, you will discover a lot of things about your character that you didn’t have in mind when you first set pen to paper. Or fingers to keyboard. And so, while it’s a good idea to do some planning, do keep your options open.

Let’s think some more about plot. To have a workable plot, you need a sequence of actions or events that give the story an overall movement. This includes two elements which we’ll take up later: foreshadowing and echoing (things that prepare us for something in the future and things that remind us of what has already happened). These two elements knit a story together.

Think carefully about character motivations. Some things may happen to your character; some things your character may decide to do, however wisely or unwisely. In the revision stage, if not earlier, ask yourself: What motivates my character to act in one way or another? And ask yourself: What is the overall logic of this story? What caused my character to change? What were the various forces, whether inner or outer, that caused this change? Can I describe my character’s overall arc, from A to Z? Try to do that. Write a short paragraph. Then try to write down your summary in one sentence, called a log line in film script writing, but also a useful technique in fiction writing as well. If you write by the discovery method, you probably won’t want to do this in the midst of the drafting, but at least in the revision stage, you should consider doing so.

With a novel you may have a subplot or two. Assuming you will, you’ll need to decide how the plot and the subplot relate. Are they related enough to make one story? If you think the subplot is crucial for the telling of your tale, try to say why—in a paragraph, then in a sentence.

Here’s an article I wrote on structure for The Writer : https://www.writermag.com/improve-your-writing/revision-grammar/find-novels-structure/

Writing Fiction: Setting

Let’s move on to setting . Your novel has to take place somewhere. Where is it? Is it someplace that is particularly striking and calls for a lot of solid description? If it’s a wilderness area where your character is lost, give your reader a strong sense for the place. If it’s a factory job, and much of the story takes place at the worksite, again readers will want to feel they’re there with your character, putting in the hours. If it’s an apartment and the apartment itself isn’t related to the problems your character is having, then there’s no need to provide that much detail. Exception: If your protagonist concentrates on certain things in the apartment and begins to associate certain things about the apartment with their misery, now there’s reason to get concrete. Take a look, when you have a chance, at the short story “The Yellow Wall-Paper.” It’s not an apartment—it’s a house—but clearly the setting itself becomes important when it becomes important to the character. She reads the wallpaper as a statement about her own condition.

Here’s the URL for ”The Yellow Wall-Paper”: https://www.nlm.nih.gov/theliteratureofprescription/exhibitionAssets/digitalDocs/The-Yellow-Wall-Paper.pdf

Sometimes setting is pretty important; sometimes it’s much less important. When it doesn’t serve a purpose to describe it, don’t, other than to give the reader a sense for where the story takes place. If you provide very many details, even in a longer work like a novel, the reader will think that these details have some significance in terms of character, plot, or theme—or all three. And if they don’t, why are they there? If setting details are important, be selective. Provide a dominant impression. More on description below.

If you’re interested, here’s a blog on setting I wrote for Writers.com: https://writers.com/what-is-the-setting-of-a-story

Writing Fiction: Theme and Idea

Most literary works have a theme or idea. It’s possible to decide on this theme before you write, as you plan out your novel. But be careful here. If the theme seems imposed on the work, the novel will lose a lot of force. It will seem—and it may well be—engineered by the author much like a nonfiction piece, and lose the felt experience of the characters.

Theme must emerge from the work naturally, or at least appear to do so. Once you have a draft, you can certainly build ideas that are apparent in the work, and you can even do this while you’re generating your first draft. But watch out for overdoing it. Let the characters (what they do, what they say) and the plot (the whole storyline with its logical connections) contribute on their own to the theme. Also you can depend on metaphors, similes, and analogies to point to the theme—as long as these are not heavy-handed. Avoid authorial intrusion, authorial impositions of any kind. If you do end up creating a simile, metaphor, or analogy through rational thinking, make sure it sounds natural. That’s not easy, of course.

Writing Fiction: Handling Scenes

Keep a few things in mind about writing scenes. Not every event deserves a whole scene, maybe only a half-scene, a short interaction between characters. Scenes need to do two things: reveal character and advance plot. If a scene seems to stall out and lack interest, in the revision mode you might try using narrative summary instead (see below).

Good fiction is strongly dramatic, calling for scenes, many of them scenes with dialogue and action. Scenes need to involve conflict of some kind. If everyone is happy, that’s probably going to be a dull scene. Some scenes will be narrative, without dialogue. You need some interesting action to make these work.

Let’s consider scenes with dialogue.

The best dialogue is speech that sounds natural, and yet isn’t. Everything about fiction is an artifice, including speech. But try to make it sound real. The best way to do this is to “hear” the voices in your head and transcribe them. Take dictation. If you can do this, whole conversations will seem very real, believable. If you force what each character has to say, and plan it out too much, it will certainly sound planned out, and not real at all. Not that in the revision mode you can’t doctor up the speech here and there, but still, make sure it comes off as natural sounding.

Some things to think about when writing dialogue: people usually speak in fragments, interrupt each other, engage in pauses, follow up a question with a comment that takes the conversation off course (non sequiturs). Note these aspects of dialogue in the fiction you read.

Also, note how writers intersperse action with dialogue, setting details, and character thoughts. As far as the latter goes, though, if you’ll recall, I spoke of the dramatic point of view, which doesn’t get into a character’s mind but depends instead on what characters do and say, as in a play. You may try this point of view out in some scenes to make them really move.

One technique is to use indirect dialogue, or summary of what a character said, not in the character’s own words. For instance: Bill made it clear that he wasn’t going to the city after all. If anybody thought that, they were wrong .

Now and then you’ll come upon dialogue that doesn’t use the standard double quotes, but perhaps a single quote (this is British), or dashes, or no punctuation at all. The latter two methods create some distance from the speech. If you want to give your work a surreal quality, this certainly adds to it. It also makes it seem more interior.

One way to kill good dialogue is to make characters too obviously expository devices—that is, functioning to provide background or explanations of certain important story facts. Certainly characters can serve as expository devices, but don’t be too heavy-handed about this. Don’t force it like the following:

“We always used to go to the beach, you recall? You recall how first we would have breakfast, then take a long walk on the beach, and then we would change into our swimsuits, and spend an hour in the water. And you recall how we usually followed that with a picnic lunch, maybe an hour later.”

This sounds like the character is saying all this to fill the reader in on backstory. You’d need a motive for the utterance of all of these details—maybe sharing a memory?

But the above sounds stilted, doesn’t it?

One final word about dialogue. Watch out for dialogue tags that tell but don’t show . Here’s an example:

“Do you think that’s the case,” said Ted, hoping to hear some good news. “Not necessarily,” responded Laura, in a barky voice. “I just wish life wasn’t so difficult,” replied Ted.

If you’re going to use a tag at all—and many times you don’t need to—use “said.” Dialogue tags like the above examples can really kill the dialogue.

Writing Fiction: Writing Solid Prose

Narrative summary : As I’ve stated above, not everything will be a scene. You’ll need to write narrative summary now and then. Narrative summary telescopes time, covering a day, a week, a month, a year, or even longer. Often it will be followed up by a scene, whether a narrative scene or one with dialogue. Narrative summary can also relate how things generally went over a given period. You can write strong narrative summary if you make it specific and concrete—and dramatic. Also, if we hear the voice of the writer, it can be interesting—if the voice is compelling enough.

Exposition : It’s the first stage of the 5-stage plot structure, where things are set up prior to some sort of complication, but more generally, it’s a prose form which tells or informs. You use exposition when you get inside your character, dealing with his or her thoughts and emotions, memories, plans, dreams. This can be difficult to do well because it can come off too much like authorial “telling” instead of “showing,” and readers want to feel like they’re experiencing the world of the protagonist, not being told about this world. Still, it’s important to get inside characters, and exposition is often the right tool, along with narrative summary, if the character is remembering a sequence of events from the past.

Description : Description is a word picture, providing specific and concrete details to allow the reader to see, not just be told. Concreteness is putting the reader in the world of the five senses, what we call imagery . Some writers provide a lot of details, some only a few—just enough that the reader can imagine the rest. Consider choosing details that create a dominant impression—whether it’s a character or a place. Similes, metaphors, and analogies help readers see people and places and can make thoughts and ideas (the reflections of your character or characters) more interesting. Not that you should always make your reader see. To do so might cause an overload of images.

Check out these two articles: https://www.writermag.com/improve-your-writing/fiction/the-definitive-guide-to-show-dont-tell/ https://www.writermag.com/improve-your-writing/fiction/figurative-language-in-fiction/

Writing Fiction: Research

Some novels require research. Obviously historical novels do, but others do, too, like Sci Fi novels. Almost any novel can call for a little research. Here’s a short article I wrote for The Writer magazine on handling research materials. It’s in no way an in-depth commentary on research–but it will serve as an introduction. https://www.writermag.com/improve-your-writing/fiction/research-in-fiction/

For a blog on novel writing, check this link at Writers.com: https://writers.com/novel-writing-tips

For more articles I’ve published in The Writer , go here: https://www.writermag.com/author/jack-smith/

How to Start Writing Fiction: Take a Writing Class!

To write a story or even write a book, fiction writers need these tools first and foremost. Although there’s no comprehensive guide on how to write fiction for beginners, working with these elements of fiction will help your story bloom.

All six elements synergize to make a work of fiction, and like most works of art, the sum of these elements is greater than the individual parts. Still, you might find that you struggle with one of these elements, like maybe you’re great at writing characters but not very good with exploring setting. If this is the case, then use your strengths: use characters to explore the setting, or use style to explore themes, etc.

Getting the first draft written is the hardest part, but it deserves to be written. Once you’ve got a working draft of a story or novel and you need an extra set of eyes, the Writers.com community is here to give feedback: take a look at our upcoming courses on fiction writing, and check out our talented writing community .

Good luck, and happy writing!

I have had a story in my mind for over 15 years. I just haven’t had an idea how to start , putting it down on print just seems too confusing. After reading this article I’m even more confused but also more determined to give it a try. It has given me answers to some of my questions. Thank you !

You’ve got this, Earl!

Just reading this as I have decided to attempt a fiction work. I am terrible at writing outside of research papers and such. I have about 50 single spaced pages “written” and an entire outline. These tips are great because where I struggle it seems is drawing the reader in. My private proof reader tells me it is to much like an explanation and not enough of a story, but working on it.

first class

Creative Writing Tips for Beginners: 10 Top Tips

Hannah Yang

Creative writing can be a very fulfilling hobby.

Writing can help you explore deep questions, use your imagination, and express your thoughts and feelings in a healthy way.

If you want to learn creative writing, you’ve come to the right place. Read on to learn our top ten creative writing tips to help you get started.

How to Write Creatively

10 creative writing tips for beginners, how to get better at creative writing, where to find creative writing help.

Anyone can learn creative writing—all you need is a pen and paper, or your writing software of choice.

Once you’ve got your tools ready, it’s time to think of a story idea. You can draw inspiration from your own life, newspaper headlines, songs you like, or anything else around you.

If you don’t have any story ideas in mind, you can also try starting with a prompt. Here are a few creative writing prompts you can choose from:

Write about someone with a dangerous secret
Write a scene set at your favorite restaurant
Write a story about someone who wakes up with no memories, except for a single name
Write a story from the perspective of someone who isn’t human
Complete the sentence: “It was a completely normal Saturday except for…”

Pick up your pen, choose your favorite prompt, and start writing!

If you’re new to creative writing, here are ten fiction writing tips that you can try.

Tip 1: Read Widely

It’s hard to become a great musician without having heard a lot of great music.

The same is true for writing. Reading a lot of books is a great way to get inspired and to learn more about the anatomy of a story.

It’s important to read in whatever genre you want so you can understand the conventions of that genre. If you’re writing a fantasy story, for example, you should familiarize yourself with popular fantasy novels and short stories so you know what readers expect.

On the other hand, it’s just as important to read a diverse variety of books. Exposing yourself to lots of genres and authors can help you learn about different writing styles and techniques.

Tip 2: Experiment With Different Formats and Points of View

Creative writing can involve countless different formats. You can write a story that looks like a diary entry, a song, or a Charles Dickens novel.

Maybe you want to write a story in the form of a series of instructions to the reader, like a cooking recipe or a how-to manual.

Or maybe you want to write a story in the form of a confession from one character to another, in a mix of first-person and second-person POV.

Try out different styles, even ones that don’t feel like your usual writing style. Doing this experimentation early on in your creative writing journey can help you find your own voice and figure out what works best for you.

Tip 3: Take Inspiration From Many Sources

No story is written in a vacuum. Every artist takes inspiration from other works of art, and you shouldn’t feel bad about writing a story that’s inspired by your favorite book or movie.

At the same time, though, it’s important not to write a story that actually plagiarizes an existing one. Directly copying the work of other creative writers is both unethical and illegal. Plus, it’s much less fun than writing your own stories.

A good rule of thumb if you’re looking for ideas is to take inspiration from many sources rather than a single one.

For example, maybe you like the sarcastic humor of one book, the sweet romance arc of another book, and the Gothic setting of your favorite TV show. When you merge those three things together, you’ll most likely create a story that feels unique and original, even though you took inspiration from existing stories.

Tip 4: Show, Don’t Tell

The phrase “Show, don’t tell” is a popular piece of writing advice that almost every writer has heard before.

Essentially, “show, don’t tell” means that you should immerse the reader in your story through sensory details and descriptive language instead of simply summarizing the story to them.

For example, you could tell someone, “My sister’s room is messy.” That sentence conveys the facts, but the person you’re talking to probably wouldn’t be able to picture your sister’s room in their head.

On the other hand, you could say, “My sister basically uses the floor of her room as a giant laundry hamper—it’s covered with so many sweaters and scarves that I don’t even remember what color her carpet is.” This sentence gives your listener a much more specific idea of what your sister’s room looks like.

Tip 5: Write With Intention

Many newer writers put down words on the page based on what comes to mind first.

For example, let’s say you’re trying to describe a character. A new writer might note down whatever details they visualize right away, like the color of the character’s hair or the type of clothes they’re wearing.

This is a great way to write when you’re just starting out, but if you want to improve your skills, it’s important to learn how to write with intention.

Try to get in the habit of asking yourself: What details does the reader need to know and why? For example, what aspects of this character’s hair color and outfit could tell the reader something deeper about the character’s personality and motivations?

It’s also important to figure out what you want to convey emotionally. What do you want your reader to feel? Excited? Creeped out? Hopeful?

For example, you might describe a sunset as “blood-red” if you want the reader to feel creeped out, or as “glowing and bright” if you want the reader to feel hopeful.

Tip 6: Learn How to Edit

No first draft is perfect, even if you’re a seasoned writer.

Learning how to edit your work is just as important as learning how to write on a blank page. That’s how you can create a creative work you feel proud of.

One helpful tip is to try reading your work out loud. That can often help you spot places where your prose doesn’t flow.

AI-powered grammar checkers like ProWritingAid can also help you identify weaknesses in your prose and learn how to strengthen them. You can catch your grammatical mistakes, avoid unnecessary repetition, choose more evocative words, and more with our powerful tool.

Tip 7: Practice Overcoming Writer’s Block

At some point in their writing journey, every writer has reached a point where writing doesn’t feel fun anymore.

There are lots of different causes for writer’s block. You might be unsure what to write, afraid of failing, or simply burned out from writing too much.

It’s important to find ways to overcome creative blocks, so you don’t end up putting down your pen for good.

One useful technique is to change your environment. If you normally write at home, try writing in a coffee shop or in your local library.

Another technique is to try a different activity for a while. Go for a walk, take a shower, do your dishes, or try another hobby. Before long, you’ll find yourself wanting to write again.

Perhaps the most underrated method is to simply take a break from writing. Give yourself permission to stop for a while—it’s always okay to take a step back.

Tip 8: Study Writing Craft

Many new writers falsely believe that writing can’t be taught; you’re either good at it or you’re not.

But the truth is that creative writing is a craft, just like woodworking, oil painting, or ballet. You wouldn’t expect anyone to be naturally good at ballet without years of training, so why is writing any different?

One way to learn new creative writing techniques is by reading craft books . Some great books to start with include On Writing by Stephen King, Story Genius by Lisa Cron, and The Creative Writer’s Handbook by Philip K. Jason.

These books can help you learn the basics of how to write well. For example, you can learn how to construct high-quality sentences, how to avoid passive voice, and how to use poetic devices.

The more you learn, the more powerful your writing will become.

Tip 9: Invent Your Own Process

When you’re just starting out as a writer, it can be tempting to copy someone else’s writing process.

Maybe you heard an interview with a bestselling author who said you have to outline a story before you draft it. Or maybe you found out your favorite author writes 1,000 words every day, and now you think you have to write 1,000 words every day too.

But it’s important to remember that no two writers have the exact same writing process. What works best for someone else might not work for you.

There’s no right or wrong way to be a creative writer. Your job is to find a writing process that makes you feel fulfilled, productive, and inspired—and if your favorite writers don’t write the same way, that’s perfectly okay.

Tip 10: Don’t Aim for Perfection

There’s a good chance your writing is never going to be perfect. Mine definitely isn’t!

Remember that writing is about the process, not the product. Even if the final product is never perfect, the process has helped you grow as a writer—and hopefully, it’s also been a lot of fun.

You should decide what your main goal for writing is. Maybe it’s writing stories you might be able to publish someday. Maybe it’s telling stories about characters you rarely see in existing stories. Maybe it’s simply a fun new hobby.

Whatever your goal is, remember that you’re already on your way to achieving it. You don’t need to aim for perfection in order to succeed.

There’s no secret to getting better at creative writing. The process is very simple—it just takes a lot of hard work.

All you have to do is follow this two-step process:

Step 1: Write consistently
Step 2: Ask for feedback on your writing

The first step is fairly self-explanatory. Whenever you’re learning a new skill, it’s important to practice it. The more you write, the more you’ll learn about how to be a successful creative writer.

The second step is the one that receives more pushback from writers because it requires a lot of courage and vulnerability, but it’s just as important as the first step.

If you don’t get feedback, you could write every day and still never improve. That’s because most people can’t spot the weaknesses in their own stories.

You can ask for feedback from your friends, family, or writing groups. They can help you see your work from a different perspective and identify areas for improvement.

As long as you write consistently and listen to the feedback on the work you’re producing, you’ll be able to create a positive cycle where you create better and better stories over time.

If you want to improve your creative writing skills, there are numerous resources you can use to find help.

One great method is to join a writing community where you can share your work and get feedback from other writers.

You can look for free critique groups online, on websites such as Scribophile and Critique Circle. Or you can start your own group with your friends.

You can also consider joining a local writing class or retreat. Many schools and community centers offer classes and workshops you can join.

Another option is to use creative writing tools. ProWritingAid can give you AI-powered suggestions about how to improve your prose and make your writing shine.

Good luck, and happy writing!

Be confident about grammar

Check every email, essay, or story for grammar mistakes. Fix them before you press send.

Hannah Yang is a speculative fiction writer who writes about all things strange and surreal. Her work has appeared in Analog Science Fiction, Apex Magazine, The Dark, and elsewhere, and two of her stories have been finalists for the Locus Award. Her favorite hobbies include watercolor painting, playing guitar, and rock climbing. You can follow her work on hannahyang.com, or subscribe to her newsletter for publication updates.

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I don’t know about you, but when I start learning a new skill, I want to know everything about it right away. How do I get started? What do I need to get started? How could this new skill transform my life?

Being an incessant researcher of new pastimes, I love a good master post. So, I’ve made one today for one of my favorite things in the world: creative writing .

I wrote this for people who are just getting into creative writing, but even if you’ve been writing for a while, stay tuned—some of the tricks and resources in this post will be helpful for you, too.

Need A Fiction Book Outline?

What is creative writing?

Creative writing examples, how to start creative writing, creative writing prompts, creative writing jobs, creative writing degrees, online creative writing courses.

Creative writing is imaginative writing. It’s meant to entertain its readers and get some emotional response from them. You’ll note that I said imaginative , but I didn’t say fictional writing, because while fiction is a subcategory of creative writing, it doesn’t define creative writing. All fiction is creative writing, but not all creative writing is fiction.

While technical, legal, or academic writing might be focused on conveying information in the most efficient and clear manner possible, the goal of creative writing is slightly different. You still want to communicate effectively and clearly, but you also want to put some pep in there. Creative writing uses tools like metaphor and imagery to evoke an image, emotion, or both from the reader.

Another way to look at it: if you were to say what makes creative writing distinct as a form, you could say it’s the artsy one.

Creative writing covers more than just fiction, or even just novels . Here’s a quick rundown of some types of creative writing you might encounter.

Novels (which fall under the ‘fiction’ umbrella) are a type of creative writing where the reader follows a character or characters through a plot. A novel might be a standalone, or it might be part of a series.

Example: Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler

2. Short Stories

Short stories (which also fall under the ‘fiction’ umbrella) follow a character through a plot, like you’d see in a novel, but short stories are, well, shorter. Generally, short stories run between 1,000 and 10,000 words, with works under 1,000 words falling under the subcategory ‘flash fiction.’

Example: The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman

Poetry is a form of writing which focuses heavily on imagery, metaphor, symbolism, and other figurative tools. It also involves a lot of technical work with form; meter and rhythm are commonly used to enhance meaning. You can generally tell what poems are by looking at them, since they’re usually divided into groups of lines (stanzas) instead of paragraphs, like you might see in other forms of creative writing.

Example: Little Beast by Richard Siken

Related: Where to Publish Poetry

Plays are written for the stage. They include stage direction, brief scene descriptions, and character dialogue, but there’s often not a lot of prose. Plays are intended to be watched by an audience instead of read, so whatever prose exists, it is intended for the people participating in the play.

Example: Hamlet by Shakespeare

Songs are similar to poetry in terms of their structure and use of figurative language, but songs are meant to be performed. People don’t generally read song lyrics without listening to it, and the instrumentation and production often enhance the meaning of a song. Songwriters also use music theory to play with meaning—at a basic level, for example, minor chords generally convey sadness, while major chords generally convey happiness.

Example: Let it Be by the Beatles

6. Memoirs & Personal Essays

Memoirs and personal essays are a form of creative writing where an author draws on their real lived experience to create a narrative. Memoir specifically sometimes plays with chronological order and specific technical fact in favor of symbolic resonance—the author is getting at an emotional truth rather than a literal or objective truth.

Example: Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris

7. Journaling

Not everyone uses journaling as a creative writing exercise—some people want to log their daily activities and be done with it—but if you’ve ever poured your heart out about a breakup to the nonjudgmental pages of a notebook, you’ve probably already done some creative writing!

Want to find more examples? I wrote on this topic for another site, and it includes even more examples of creative writing for you to try.

Now that you know what creative writing looks like, let’s talk about how to get started, even if you’ve never practiced creative writing before.

1. Try stuff on until something fits

Take a look at the list above (or do a Google search for ‘types of creative writing’ and see if there’s anything else you might be interested in—I won’t be offended) and pick one that seems fun. If you want to try, for example, a screenplay, but you’re not sure how to write one, read a bunch. Get a feel for how they work.

Maybe you do that and decide you don't want to write screenplays after all. Okay! Try short stories. Try poetry. Try songwriting. Practicing different forms will make you a more well-rounded writer in the long run, and you might be surprised at what resonates with you.

2. Practice, practice, practice

Once you’ve found a form or a few forms that suit you, your job as a newbie is simple: practice. Write whatever you want as often as you can and, if possible, for your eyes only. Create a relationship between yourself and your craft.

Some say you should start with short stories before jumping into novels so you can practice completing narrative arcs. That might work great! But if you hate writing short stories, just practice with writing novels.

If you have an idea that feels a little too advanced for you, that’s probably what you should be working on, since it’ll teach you a lot about the craft along the way. Don’t be intimidated, and don’t worry about anyone else’s opinions (this includes any fretting about publishing). Your singular goal here is to create, and your secondary goal is to challenge yourself.

3. Join some kind of writerly group

But hold on, you might be thinking. How do I know I’m not getting worse the more I practice? How do I know I’m not just churning out garbage?

At some point, especially if your goal is to publish , you’ll want feedback on your work. And while it’s important to have the support of your loved ones, it’s also important to get feedback from other writers.

I do not recommend sending your very first manuscript to an editor or well-established writer for feedback—their feedback, generally aimed at moderate to advanced writers, is probably going to devastate you at the fledgling stage. I do recommend finding other writers at approximately your skill level to bounce ideas off of and exchange critiques. These other writers can be found online or at local writing circles—check your local public library for creative writing workshops.

Have you picked out a form of creative writing to try, but you just can’t come up with any ideas? Try using a creative writing prompt to get those creative gears turning. These are totally for you to use however is most helpful: use the prompt as-is, tweak it a little, whatever works.

Prompts are a great way to explore different types of tones in writing and hone your own personal style as an author!

Use this FREE tool: Writing Prompts Generator

Looking to make some money with your creative writing endeavors? Here’s a few options to kickstart your job search:

Ghostwriting

As a ghostwriter, your job is to write the story your client assigns you . This might be a fictional novel, or it might be a memoir. The client often has specific requests for content, length, and so on. The catch? Your name is not on the book. You’re not allowed to say that you wrote it—the client’s name or pen name usually goes on the author line. You can find ghostwriting gigs on sites like Upwork or Fiverr.

Marketing does involve some technical elements like copywriting, but creative writers have a place in marketing, too. Brands need catchy slogans, funny commercials, and even social media gurus to run entertaining Twitter accounts. For more ideas on how to market your upcoming book , check out our post on the topic.

Columnist/Blog Writer

You can also look for work as an op-ed columnist or blog writer. This might be something you do for an existing website, or it might be a blog you start from scratch on Wix, SquareSpace, or Tumblr.

You might have heard of people getting creative writing degrees, or at least you might have heard some of the discourse surrounding these degrees. Off the bat, I want to say that you don’t need a creative writing degree to be a writer. It doesn’t make you a ‘real’ writer, and it doesn’t indicate your seriousness toward the craft.

If you do want to get a creative writing degree, though, you’re looking (broadly) at two options:

Undergraduate writing programs

This is your BFA in creative writing. Not all colleges offer them—many (like my alma mater) offer a creative writing concentration or focus as part of an English degree. So you might graduate, hypothetically, for example, with a degree in English with a concentration in creative writing. Some colleges don’t offer a major, but they do offer minors.

Check to see what sorts of courses your college or prospective college offers. Do you have to be an English major to take their creative writing course? Does their creative writing course offer guidance in the type of creative writing you want to pursue? For example, my alma mater offered a creative writing concentration with two tracks, one for fiction and one for poetry. There was also a separate film studies concentration for aspiring screenplay writers and film students.

Graduate writing programs (a.k.a., the MFA)

MFA programs can be extremely competitive and prohibitively expensive, not to mention that you’re obviously not guaranteed to come out of them a better writer. They can be a great tool, but they’re not a necessary one. Look at it this way: are you willing to get this MFA if it means you might come out of it without a successfully published novel? If so, proceed.

If you want to pursue an MFA, do your research. Don’t go straight for the Iowa Writers Workshop application page and hope for the best—investigate the universities that look appealing to you, see if your interests align with theirs, and make that application fee count.

Going to college isn’t the only way to take classes on creative writing! If you’re looking for more cost-friendly options, the Internet is your friend. I’ve linked to a few places loaded with creative writing courses to get you started.

1. Intelligent.com: The Best 10 Online Creative Writing Courses

2. Coursera: Best Creative Writing Courses and Certifications

3. Self-Publishing School: Best Self-Publishing Courses

4. Our Programs: Fiction Write Your Book Program

Are you ready to try an online creative writing course? Are you ready to start some creative writing prompts? Or, are you think you're ready to go for a full creative writing project of your own? Here is a resource to help you get started:

What is a Biography? Definition, Elements, and More

Editorial, Writing

25 Personification Examples for Writers: What It Is & How to Use It

Fiction, Learning, Writing

5 Tips For Mastering Your Rough Draft

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What is Creative Writing? A Key Piece of the Writer’s Toolbox

Not all writing is the same and there’s a type of writing that has the ability to transport, teach, and inspire others like no other.

Creative writing stands out due to its unique approach and focus on imagination. Here’s how to get started and grow as you explore the broad and beautiful world of creative writing!

What is Creative Writing?

Creative writing is a form of writing that extends beyond the bounds of regular professional, journalistic, academic, or technical forms of literature. It is characterized by its emphasis on narrative craft, character development, and the use of literary tropes or poetic techniques to express ideas in an original and imaginative way.

Creative writing can take on various forms such as:

short stories
screenplays

It’s a way for writers to express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas in a creative, often symbolic, way . It’s about using the power of words to transport readers into a world created by the writer.

5 Key Characteristics of Creative Writing

Creative writing is marked by several defining characteristics, each working to create a distinct form of expression:

1. Imagination and Creativity: Creative writing is all about harnessing your creativity and imagination to create an engaging and compelling piece of work. It allows writers to explore different scenarios, characters, and worlds that may not exist in reality.

2. Emotional Engagement: Creative writing often evokes strong emotions in the reader. It aims to make the reader feel something — whether it’s happiness, sorrow, excitement, or fear.

3. Originality: Creative writing values originality. It’s about presenting familiar things in new ways or exploring ideas that are less conventional.

4. Use of Literary Devices: Creative writing frequently employs literary devices such as metaphors, similes, personification, and others to enrich the text and convey meanings in a more subtle, layered manner.

5. Focus on Aesthetics: The beauty of language and the way words flow together is important in creative writing. The aim is to create a piece that’s not just interesting to read, but also beautiful to hear when read aloud.

Remember, creative writing is not just about producing a work of art. It’s also a means of self-expression and a way to share your perspective with the world. Whether you’re considering it as a hobby or contemplating a career in it, understanding the nature and characteristics of creative writing can help you hone your skills and create more engaging pieces .

For more insights into creative writing, check out our articles on creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree and is a degree in creative writing worth it .

Styles of Creative Writing

To fully understand creative writing , you must be aware of the various styles involved. Creative writing explores a multitude of genres, each with its own unique characteristics and techniques.

Poetry is a form of creative writing that uses expressive language to evoke emotions and ideas. Poets often employ rhythm, rhyme, and other poetic devices to create pieces that are deeply personal and impactful. Poems can vary greatly in length, style, and subject matter, making this a versatile and dynamic form of creative writing.

Short Stories

Short stories are another common style of creative writing. These are brief narratives that typically revolve around a single event or idea. Despite their length, short stories can provide a powerful punch, using precise language and tight narrative structures to convey a complete story in a limited space.

Novels represent a longer form of narrative creative writing. They usually involve complex plots, multiple characters, and various themes. Writing a novel requires a significant investment of time and effort; however, the result can be a rich and immersive reading experience.

Screenplays

Screenplays are written works intended for the screen, be it television, film, or online platforms. They require a specific format, incorporating dialogue and visual descriptions to guide the production process. Screenwriters must also consider the practical aspects of filmmaking, making this an intricate and specialized form of creative writing.

If you’re interested in this style, understanding creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree can provide useful insights.

Writing for the theater is another specialized form of creative writing. Plays, like screenplays, combine dialogue and action, but they also require an understanding of the unique dynamics of the theatrical stage. Playwrights must think about the live audience and the physical space of the theater when crafting their works.

Each of these styles offers unique opportunities for creativity and expression. Whether you’re drawn to the concise power of poetry, the detailed storytelling of novels, or the visual language of screenplays and plays, there’s a form of creative writing that will suit your artistic voice. The key is to explore, experiment, and find the style that resonates with you.

For those looking to spark their creativity, our article on creative writing prompts offers a wealth of ideas to get you started.

Importance of Creative Writing

Understanding what is creative writing involves recognizing its value and significance. Engaging in creative writing can provide numerous benefits – let’s take a closer look.

Developing Creativity and Imagination

Creative writing serves as a fertile ground for nurturing creativity and imagination. It encourages you to think outside the box, explore different perspectives, and create unique and original content. This leads to improved problem-solving skills and a broader worldview , both of which can be beneficial in various aspects of life.

Through creative writing, one can build entire worlds, create characters, and weave complex narratives, all of which are products of a creative mind and vivid imagination. This can be especially beneficial for those seeking creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree .

Enhancing Communication Skills

Creative writing can also play a crucial role in honing communication skills. It demands clarity, precision, and a strong command of language. This helps to improve your vocabulary, grammar, and syntax, making it easier to express thoughts and ideas effectively .

Moreover, creative writing encourages empathy as you often need to portray a variety of characters from different backgrounds and perspectives. This leads to a better understanding of people and improved interpersonal communication skills.

Exploring Emotions and Ideas

One of the most profound aspects of creative writing is its ability to provide a safe space for exploring emotions and ideas. It serves as an outlet for thoughts and feelings , allowing you to express yourself in ways that might not be possible in everyday conversation.

Writing can be therapeutic, helping you process complex emotions, navigate difficult life events, and gain insight into your own experiences and perceptions. It can also be a means of self-discovery , helping you to understand yourself and the world around you better.

So, whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, the benefits of creative writing are vast and varied. For those interested in developing their creative writing skills, check out our articles on creative writing prompts and how to teach creative writing . If you’re considering a career in this field, you might find our article on is a degree in creative writing worth it helpful.

4 Steps to Start Creative Writing

Creative writing can seem daunting to beginners, but with the right approach, anyone can start their journey into this creative field. Here are some steps to help you start creative writing .

1. Finding Inspiration

The first step in creative writing is finding inspiration . Inspiration can come from anywhere and anything. Observe the world around you, listen to conversations, explore different cultures, and delve into various topics of interest.

Reading widely can also be a significant source of inspiration. Read different types of books, articles, and blogs. Discover what resonates with you and sparks your imagination.

For structured creative prompts, visit our list of creative writing prompts to get your creative juices flowing.

Editor’s Note : When something excites or interests you, stop and take note – it could be the inspiration for your next creative writing piece.

2. Planning Your Piece

Once you have an idea, the next step is to plan your piece . Start by outlining:

the main points

Remember, this can serve as a roadmap to guide your writing process. A plan doesn’t have to be rigid. It’s a flexible guideline that can be adjusted as you delve deeper into your writing. The primary purpose is to provide direction and prevent writer’s block.

3. Writing Your First Draft

After planning your piece, you can start writing your first draft . This is where you give life to your ideas and breathe life into your characters.

Don’t worry about making it perfect in the first go. The first draft is about getting your ideas down on paper . You can always refine and polish your work later. And if you don’t have a great place to write that first draft, consider a journal for writing .

4. Editing and Revising Your Work

The final step in the creative writing process is editing and revising your work . This is where you fine-tune your piece, correct grammatical errors, and improve sentence structure and flow.

Editing is also an opportunity to enhance your storytelling . You can add more descriptive details, develop your characters further, and make sure your plot is engaging and coherent.

Remember, writing is a craft that improves with practice . Don’t be discouraged if your first few pieces don’t meet your expectations. Keep writing, keep learning, and most importantly, enjoy the creative process.

For more insights on creative writing, check out our articles on how to teach creative writing or creative writing activities for kids.

Tips to Improve Creative Writing Skills

Understanding what is creative writing is the first step. But how can one improve their creative writing skills? Here are some tips that can help.

Read Widely

Reading is a vital part of becoming a better writer. By immersing oneself in a variety of genres, styles, and authors, one can gain a richer understanding of language and storytelling techniques . Different authors have unique voices and methods of telling stories, which can serve as inspiration for your own work. So, read widely and frequently!

Practice Regularly

Like any skill, creative writing improves with practice. Consistently writing — whether it be daily, weekly, or monthly — helps develop your writing style and voice . Using creative writing prompts can be a fun way to stimulate your imagination and get the words flowing.

Attend Writing Workshops and Courses

Formal education such as workshops and courses can offer structured learning and expert guidance. These can provide invaluable insights into the world of creative writing, from understanding plot development to character creation. If you’re wondering is a degree in creative writing worth it, these classes can also give you a taste of what studying creative writing at a higher level might look like .

Joining Writing Groups and Communities

Being part of a writing community can provide motivation, constructive feedback, and a sense of camaraderie. These groups often hold regular meetings where members share their work and give each other feedback. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with others who share your passion for writing.

Seeking Feedback on Your Work

Feedback is a crucial part of improving as a writer. It offers a fresh perspective on your work, highlighting areas of strength and opportunities for improvement. Whether it’s from a writing group, a mentor, or even friends and family, constructive criticism can help refine your writing .

Start Creative Writing Today!

Remember, becoming a proficient writer takes time and patience. So, don’t be discouraged by initial challenges. Keep writing, keep learning, and most importantly, keep enjoying the process. Who knows, your passion for creative writing might even lead to creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree .

Happy writing!

Brooks Manley

Creative Primer is a resource on all things journaling, creativity, and productivity. We’ll help you produce better ideas, get more done, and live a more effective life.

My name is Brooks. I do a ton of journaling, like to think I’m a creative (jury’s out), and spend a lot of time thinking about productivity. I hope these resources and product recommendations serve you well. Reach out if you ever want to chat or let me know about a journal I need to check out!

Here’s my favorite journal for 2024:

Gratitude Journal Prompts Mindfulness Journal Prompts Journal Prompts for Anxiety Reflective Journal Prompts Healing Journal Prompts Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Journal Prompts Mental Health Journal Prompts ASMR Journal Prompts Manifestation Journal Prompts Self-Care Journal Prompts Morning Journal Prompts Evening Journal Prompts Self-Improvement Journal Prompts Creative Writing Journal Prompts Dream Journal Prompts Relationship Journal Prompts "What If" Journal Prompts New Year Journal Prompts Shadow Work Journal Prompts Journal Prompts for Overcoming Fear Journal Prompts for Dealing with Loss Journal Prompts for Discerning and Decision Making Travel Journal Prompts Fun Journal Prompts

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15 Awesome Ideas To Get Your Story Started (With Examples)

June 25, 2020

There are many great ways to start a story .

Depending on the genre, you might begin mysteriously and gradually build to a climax. Or you might start with an image or description to orient the reader in the story’s setting.

Whatever you choose, it needs to engage your reader immediately and encourage them to keep turning pages.

Let’s take a look at some exciting ways to start a story. Who knows? You may become inspired to write the next bestseller!

Before You Start Writing

Most of the time, you need to have an idea of your key story elements before you can write the opening lines.

To avoid wasting time or writing yourself into a corner, it’s wise to have at least a rough idea of what your characters are like and what the plot will involve.

Sound plot and character development are essential in every story, so try to have their foundations in place before you begin.

Know Your Characters

Try to get to know your characters a little before you start writing.

Who is your main character (or characters)? What will they accomplish during the novel? How might they grow and change throughout the story?

Who are the supporting characters? How will they contribute to the story?

When you know who your characters are, you’ll have a better idea of how you want to begin (and continue) the story.

Plan Your Plot

A good novel also has an interesting, well-paced, believable plot.

Whether you’re a plotter, a pantser or somewhere in between, you need to have at least some idea of what your plot will entail before you dive in to write.

You also need to be ready to move the plot along quickly through your opening sequence, or your reader will not be interested in continuing with your book.

Think of any good movie or TV show that jumps right into the plot before the opening credits roll. A lead-in scene often throws viewers directly into the story by creating mystery or questions.

Without an idea of the overarching plot, you’ll find it hard to come up with such a compelling opening scene.

Idea #1: Create a Hook

A great way to start a story is to draw the reader in with a hook – something that will create intrigue.

‘I’ve often wondered what happened to Steve – did he find the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow?’

Now you’re wondering what happened to Steve as well, and you want to know why he thought he could find that elusive pot of gold.

You’re also wondering what happened before the above musing, and how it all started.

Beginning your novel with a hook encourages the reader to keep reading , if only to find the answers to the questions the first sentence created.

Idea #2: Start with Dialogue

You might have seen advice about never starting a novel with a dialogue opening. But in certain cases it works, such as when you want to introduce a character quickly without a lot of explanation.

‘”Mistakes are a part of life,” she told me, “but what you did this time is inexcusable!”‘

Dialogue at the beginning of a novel can potentially confuse the reader, as the characters are not yet known, nor is the situation.

But this particular dialogue shows readers that the story starts in a place of conflict , inviting them to read on to find out how a simple mistake went too far.

Dialogue that introduces your plot without explanation can entice your reader to discover the story behind it.

Idea #3: Ask a Question

Questions are a great way to open a novel, especially when the answer (and the story that follows) could go in many different directions.

A questioning beginning has the effect of appealing directly to the reader. If they want to find out more, they have no choice but to read on.

‘What would you do if you knew the exact moment you would die?’

The story that comes after such a question is bound to contain surprising twists and turns.

Dealing with a universal subject such as death , it also suggests that the story will take the reader on an emotional roller coaster until the end.

Idea #4: Write Something Unexpected

‘I never knew the impact of the purple pen until it exploded in my face.’

Starting your novel with an unexpected statement takes your reader off guard and makes them wonder how your character got to this point.

The unexpected can create a sense of mystery and suspense . It can also subvert readers’ expectations.

Think about how people might expect the story to start, then surprise them by taking it in another direction entirely.

Once you have them in your grasp with the unexpected, they’ll be more invested in continuing the story.

Idea #5: Begin with an Action Sequence

Action creates excitement and propels your novel forward. Starting with an action scene can be dangerous, though, as you might leave yourself nowhere to go.

You don’t want to have a big action scene at the beginning that overshadows the rest of the story.

An action sequence should lead to the story, but not take away from the big showdown later.

‘Her heart in her throat, she sat in the car, watching the men frantically searching for a way in. She fumbled with a phone hastily sending a one-word text to her husband: HELP .’

This kind of opening sets the scene and creates a future segue into more significant action.

When the woman’s husband comes out, he will inevitably have a showdown with the men harassing the woman. But why are they in that situation? How will they get out of it? What other action scenes will happen?

Start small, build suspense and add more action as you get closer to the showdown.

Idea #6: One-Word Sentences

‘Run.’

A one-word sentence like this piece of dialogue will send chills down most people’s spines and implies so much with a single word. Who is running, and why?

The sentence creates mystery and intrigue. You don’t know why someone is telling another person to run.

Are authorities working to uncover a crime syndicate? Is someone coming to kill the main character?

It sets up an intense scene that propels the reader forward.

Idea #7: Start with Something Unusual

A random or unusual opening immediately catches a reader’s attention, setting your writing and story apart as something unique .

‘The light did not flicker; she did.’

This opening makes you do a double-take. ‘What does that mean?’ you wonder.

It’s the beginning of what promises to be an unusual story, making your reader take note and read on to find out what you meant.

It could be the beginning of a supernatural story where a girl disappears and reappears every time a light switch is flicked. Or it could just be a metaphor.

No one knows until they read further. An ambiguous opening has so many possibilities.

But remember: unusual turns of phrase throughout a book can be confusing to the reader, so don’t overdo the experimental language.

Idea #8: Write an Intense Opening

Intense doesn’t mean you have to start with something showy or spectacular, like a car going off a cliff in a fiery explosion.

Rather than beginning the story in the thick of the action, you can start in the aftermath. Think of a smoldering fire that is barely burning, but still red-hot.

“Ashes rained from the sky for days. Not a single sign of vegetation remained, and we were hungry – no, starving for any morsel of food.”

This opening to what might be a firsthand account of surviving a volcanic eruption is intense enough to propel readers to find out more.

It describes the consequences of what has happened rather than the event itself, leading into what promises to be a compelling post-apocalyptic narrative.

Idea #9: Establish a Genre-Appropriate Atmosphere

The opening of a novel should create the atmosphere you want for your readers .

“The moment we stepped into the room, the putrid smell of death assaulted our senses.”

Immediately, you know that something terrible has happened, and what follows will most likely involve bone-chilling horror or intriguing mystery.

Or perhaps you’re writing an adventure novel, and need to evoke the thrills and dangers of seeking hidden treasure in your first sentence:

“As we entered what we thought was the treasure chamber, we discovered that we had been given the wrong map.”

The above begs several questions: who gave them the wrong map and why? What treasure were they seeking, and where have they found themselves instead?

Idea #10: Start in the Middle of a Scene

Many good stories start in the middle of the scene for a good reason: it generates momentum right from the start, so you don’t lose your reader before the conflict begins.

“Police cars barricaded the street. Ambulances and fire trucks raced to the scene. The house was surrounded, and yet… nothing. No communication. No one knew if the hostages were alive or dead.”

Starting in the middle of a scene drops readers right into the exciting part, giving them questions they want to read on to answer.

Readers want to know who is being held hostage, who is holding them, why they aren’t communicating, and how the situation will be resolved.

Rather than starting with a long lead-up to this key scene, readers get to delve right in, gleaning details along the way.

Idea #11: Disorient the Reader

Another great way to start a story is to disorient your readers. Throw them off-balance and make them re-read the opening lines more than once.

A great example is from George Orwell’s Nineteen Eighty-Four :

“It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen.”

The clocks striking thirteen creates a sense of something not quite right, suggesting to readers that an intriguing world unlike our own lies beyond this first sentence.

To add further impact, introduce plot twists later in the story that make readers reevaluate the book’s opening words.

They’ll return to that section in amazement to understand what just happened and how their expectations were subverted.

Idea #12: Mysterious Beginnings

There’s nothing better to start a novel than with a puzzle for your readers to solve.

Starting with a mysterious beginning or an unanswered question gives readers a chance to mull it over and meditate on it before it’s answered later in your novel.

“The door was never opened, yet everything was out of place. Someone had been here, but who?”

The above example raises all the important questions: Who, What, Where, When, and Why (plus the bonus question: How). You’ll have the rest of the novel to delve into the answers.

Who went into the house? What were they looking for? How did they get in if the door was never opened?

The underlying feeling of a mysterious opening sequence is tension and foreboding, which lends itself particularly well to a crime novel or a murder mystery .

Idea #13: Prologue with Purpose

Often, starting a novel with an explanation or precursor to the main events can discourage your audience.

But if you do it right, writing a prologue can create suspense that keeps your audience’s attention.

For example, if you start with a chase scene where the protagonist searches for a hidden doorway but is murdered before he finds it, you’ve placed the driving force of your story in centre stage.

The most common prologues provide context for the main story through a past event. Once this is in place, you are free to flesh out the story, exploring why it happened and its consequences.

Idea #14: A Startling Start

Starting your story with a dangerous element, like many opening scenes in James Bond movies, can startle the reader into continuing.

“As soon as she sat down in his car, she knew she made a disastrous mistake.”

Now you want to know who she is, who she’s in the car with, and what mistake she made. There is an element of danger that must be addressed.

“It seemed the cat grew five inches overnight – five-inch teeth, that is.”

What?! The question of why a cat’s teeth grew into fangs overnight makes people sit up and take notice. No one expects that to happen to their cute, cuddly pet!

This could be the start to a supernatural novel, a horror novel, or even a children’s book .

The story that follows will differ, but the startling, intriguing opening element works just the same.

Idea #15: Use a Strong Narrative Voice

“Let’s get one thing straight: Holmes was a businessman. A dishonest, murdering bastard, but a businessman nonetheless.”

Immediately establishing a strong, engaging narrative voice is a surefire way to get readers invested in your novel.

If their attention is caught by the character’s voice and the style of writing, they’re much more likely to connect with the book and read on.

There are hundreds of ways to start a novel. Your imagination is the only limit! The ideas above are simply prompts to help get your creativity flowing.

The important thing to remember is that your opening sequence must draw the audience in from its very first words. How exactly you achieve this is up to you.

This post was written by Writer's Edit

Inspiration

Creative Writing 101

You love to write and have been told you have a way with words. So you’ve decided to give writing a try—creative writing.

The problem is, you’re finding it tougher than you thought it would be.

You have a great story idea , but you’re not sure how to turn it into something people will read.

Don’t be discouraged—writing a compelling story can be grueling, even for veterans. Conflicting advice online may confuse you and make you want to quit before you start.

But you know more than you think. Stories saturate our lives.

We tell and hear stories every day in music, on television, in video games, in books, in movies, even in conversation.

What is Creative Writing?

Creative Writing is prose that tells a story featuring someone who wants something.

That person runs into trouble and begins an adventure, a journey, or a quest, faces obstacles, and is ultimately transformed—for the good or for the bad.

While Creative Writing can also educate and/or entertain, but it does its best work when it emotionally moves the reader.

Elements of Creative Writing

Writing a story is much like building a house.

You may have all the right tools and design ideas, but if your foundation isn’t solid, even the most beautiful structure won’t stand.

Most storytelling experts agree, these 7 key elements must exist in a story.

Plot (more on that below) is what happens in a story. Theme is why it happens.

Before you begin writing, determine why you want to tell your story.

What message do you wish to convey? What will it teach the reader?

Resist the urge to explicitly state your theme. Just tell the story, and let it make its own point.

Give your readers credit. Subtly weave your theme into the story and trust them to get it.

They may remember a great plot, but you want them thinking about your theme long after they’ve finished reading.

2. Characters

Every story needs believable characters who feel knowable.

In fiction, your main character is the protagonist, also known as the lead or hero/heroine.

The protagonist must have:

redeemable flaws
potentially heroic qualities that emerge in the climax
a character arc (he must be different, better, stronger by the end)

Resist the temptation to create a perfect lead. Perfect is boring. (Even Indiana Jones suffered a snake phobia.)

You also need an antagonist, the villain , who should be every bit as formidable and compelling as your hero.

Don’t make your bad guy bad just because he’s the bad guy. Make him a worthy foe by giving him motives for his actions.

Villains don’t see themselves as bad. They think they’re right! A fully rounded bad guy is much more realistic and memorable.

Depending on the length of your story , you may also need important orbital cast members.

For each character, ask:

What do they want?
What or who is keeping them from getting it?
What will they do about it?

The more challenges your characters face, the more relatable they are.

Much as in real life, the toughest challenges result in the most transformation.

Setting may include a location, time, or era, but it should also include how things look, smell, taste, feel, and sound.

Thoroughly research details about your setting so it informs your writing, but use those details as seasoning, not the main course. The main course is the story.

But, beware.

Agents and acquisitions editors tell me one of the biggest mistakes beginning writers make is feeling they must begin by describing the setting.

That’s important, don’t get me wrong. But a sure way to put readers to sleep is to promise a thrilling story on the cover—only to start with some variation of:

The house sat in a deep wood surrounded by…

Rather than describing your setting, subtly layer it into the story.

Show readers your setting. Don’t tell them. Description as a separate element slows your story to crawl.

By layering in what things look and feel and sound like you subtly register the setting in the theater of readers’ minds.

While they’re concentrating on the action, the dialogue , the tension , the drama, and conflict that keep them turning the pages, they’re also getting a look and feel for your setting.

4. Point of View

POV is more than which perspective you choose to tell your story: First Person ( I, me ), Second Person ( you, your ), or Third Person ( he, she, or it ).

Determine your perspective (POV) character for each scene—the one who serves as your camera and recorder—by deciding who has the most at stake. Who’s story is this?

The cardinal rule is that you’re limited to one perspective character per scene, but I prefer only one per chapter, and ideally one per novel.

Readers experience everything in your story from this character’s perspective.

For a more in-depth explanation of Voice and POV, read A Writer’s Guide to Point of View .

This is the sequence of events that make up a story —in short, what happens. It either compels your reader to keep turning pages or set the book aside.

A successful story answers:

What happens? (Plot)
What does it mean? (Theme: see above)

Writing coaches call various story structures by different names, but they’re all largely similar. All such structures include some variation of:

An inciting incident that changes everything
A series of crises that build tension
A resolution (or conclusion)

How effectively you create drama, intrigue, conflict, and tension, determines whether you can grab readers from the start and keep them to the end.

6. Conflict

This is the engine of fiction and crucial to effective nonfiction as well.

Readers crave conflict and what results from it.

If everything in your plot is going well and everyone is agreeing, you’ll quickly bore your reader—the cardinal sin of writing.

If two characters are chatting amicably and the scene feels flat (which it will), inject conflict. Have one say something that makes the other storm out, revealing a deep-seated rift.

Readers will stay with you to find out what it’s all about.

7. Resolution

Whether you’re an Outliner or a Pantser like me (one who writes by the seat of your pants), you must have an idea where your story is going.

How you expect the story to end should inform every scene and chapter. It may change, evolve, and grow as you and your characters do, but never leave it to chance.

Keep your lead character center stage to the very end. Everything he learns through all the complications you plunged him into should, in the end, allow him to rise to the occasion and succeed.

If you get near the end and something’s missing, don’t rush it. Give your ending a few days, even a few weeks if necessary.

Read through everything you’ve written. Take a long walk. Think about it. Sleep on it. Jot notes. Let your subconscious work. Play what-if games. Reach for the heart, and deliver a satisfying ending that resonates .

Give your readers a payoff for their investment by making it unforgettable.

14 Types of Creative Writing

Novels are fiction by definition. Lengths typically fall between 75,000 to 100,000 words. The author must create a story that can carry an entire book.

Novellas usually run between 10,000 and 40,000 words and typically follow a single character’s point of view. Otherwise, they tend to feature the structural and narrative elements of a full-length novel. Example: Edith Wharton’s Ethan Frome.

Short Story

Short stories, including super short micro or flash fiction—which can be as short as just a few words, are usually between a thousand and five thousand words and thus must telescope the creative writing techniques and properties of a novel. This creative writing type gained popularity during the 19th century in literary magazines, and many such magazines still carry short stories.

Narrative Nonfiction

Also known as Creative Nonfiction, this form displays techniques and literary styles such as story and tone to convey emotion in nonfiction narratives. A common example is a personal essay.

Biographies capture the stories of individuals whose lives can provide a lesson to readers.

Autobiography

An autobiography is written by the author, about the author, following a chronological account of their life.

As opposed to an autobiography, a memoir emphasizes takeaway value to the reader and is thus theme-oriented. Readers should be able to see themselves in the anecdotes chosen to show life transformation. Creative writing techniques similar to those in a novel will bring the story to life.

Poets use traditional structures such as rhyme, rhythm, and subject matter to tell their stories. They can also experiment with prose-poetry or free verse.

Song lyrics

Song lyrics are another form of poetry, the aim being to tell a story in the fewest, most evocative words possible.

Speeches require creative writing to keep audiences engaged.

A blog is usually based on the writer’s own life and interests. The best ones tell stories readers relate to and interact with.

Journaling, usually intended for the author’s eyes only, can become, in essence, a creatively written diary.

Screenwriting

Screenwriting is a form of scriptwriting specific to television shows, films, and other visual media. Screenwriting relies heavily on dialogue to tell a story, but not exclusively. The writer must include action and response takes.

Playwriting

Playwriting is a form of scriptwriting specific to theater productions, again relying heavily on dialogue and action. Playwriting also requires stage direction suggestions for lighting, sound, and actors.

11 Creative Writing Tips

In How to Write a Novel , I cover each step of the writing process:

Come up with a great story idea .

That may sound obvious, but make sure it’s compelling enough to draw you back to the keyboard every day.

Determine whether you’re an Outliner or a Pantser or a Hybrid.

If you’re an Outliner, you prefer to map out everything before you start writing your novel.

If you’re a Pantser, you write by the seat of your pants, putting, as Stephen King advises, interesting characters in difficult situations and writing to find out what happens.

I cover both types and how to structure a novel here .

And though I’m primarily a Pantser, I never start writing a novel without an idea where I’m going — or think I’m going.

Create an unforgettable main character.

Resist the temptation to create a perfect character, even if it’s a superhero. Main characters must exhibit human flaws to make them relatable.

For more on character development, check out my blog posts Your Ultimate Guide to Character Development: 9 Steps to Creating Memorable Heroes , How to Create a Powerful Character Arc , and Character Motivation: How to Craft Realistic Characters .

Expand your idea into a plot.

Regardless of whether you’re a Panster or an Outliner, you need some semblance of a structure.

Dean Koontz calls this the Classic Story Structure (in his How to Write Best-Selling Fiction ):

Plunge the main character into terrible trouble
Everything the character does to get out of trouble makes things worse until…
All appears hopeless
The qualities the main character develops trying to fix the trouble make him heroic enough to succeed in the end

Conduct your research.

The best fiction must ironically feel believable.

You must research to add flavor and authenticity.

One caveat : Resist the urge to show off your research by loading your story with every esoteric fact you’ve learned. Add specifics the way you would season food. It enhances the experience, but it’s not the main course.

Choose your Voice and Point of View.

Point of View (POV) is more than simply deciding what voice to use:

First Person ( I, me ), Second Person ( you, your ), or Third Person ( he, she, or it ).

It also involves deciding who will be your perspective character, serving as your story’s camera.

The cardinal rule is one POV character per scene .

For a more in-depth explanation, read my post A Writer’s Guide to Point of View .

Start in medias res (in the midst of things).

Grab the reader by the throat on page one.

Avoid what’s called throat clearing—too much scene setting and description. Get to the good stuff—the guts of the story .

The goal of every sentence, in fact of every word , is to compel the reader to read the next.

Intensify your main character’s problems.

Do not give him a break. Remember, conflict is the engine of fiction.

(For more on conflict, read my post Internal and External Conflict: Tips for Creating Unforgettable Characters )

Your main character’s trouble should escalate with his every attempt to fix it.

Make the predicament appear hopeless.

You’ll be tempted to give your protagonist a break, invent an escape, or inject a miracle. Don’t do it!

This darkest, bleakest moment forces your hero to use every new skill and muscle gained through battling those obstacles.

The more hopeless the situation appears, the more powerful your climax will be.

Bring it all to a climax.

This is where your hero faces his toughest test yet. The stakes must be dire, the prospect of failure catastrophic.

The tension that has been building throughout crescendos during an ultimate confrontation, and all the major book-length setups are paid off.

Note: the climax is not the end. The real conclusion ties up loose ends and puts the journey into perspective.

Leave readers wholly satisfied.

A great ending :

Honors the reader for his investment of time and money.
Aims for the heart.
Keeps your hero on stage till the last word.

Don’t rush it.

A fully satisfying ending drops the curtain with a resounding thud.

More to Think About

1. Carry a writing pad, electronic or otherwise. I like the Moleskine™ notebook .

Ideas can come at any moment. Record ideas for:

Anything that might expand your story

2. Start small.

Take time to learn the craft and hone your skills on smaller projects before attempting to write a book . A book is not where you start; it’s where you arrive.

Journal. Write a newsletter. Start a blog. Write short stories . Submit articles to magazines, newspapers, or e-zines.

Take a night school or online course in journalism or creative writing. Attend a writers conference.

3. Keep perfectionism in its place.

Reserve it for the editing and revision stage.

While writing, take off that perfectionist cap and just get the story down. At that stage, perfectionism is the enemy of progress.

Time to Get to Work

Few pleasures in life compare to getting lost in a great story.

Learn how to write creatively, and the characters you birth have the potential to live in readers’ hearts for years.

Are You Making This #1 Amateur Writing Mistake?

Faith-Based Words and Phrases

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Blog • Perfecting your Craft

Last updated on Aug 16, 2023

How to Start a Story: 10 Top Tips From Literary Editors

This post has been written with contributions from editors and authors including Tom Bromley , Fran Lebowitz , and Rebecca Heyman .

The opening lines of a story carry a lot of responsibility. They act as an invitation for someone who’s glanced at the first page of your book to either put it back down or keep reading.

To help us understand how bestselling authors open up their stories, we've asked for tips from ten of Reedsy's top professionals.

How to start a story:

1. Craft an unexpected story opening

2. start with a compelling image, 3. create interest with immediate action, 4. begin the book with a short sentence , 5. pose a question for the reader, 6. engage a sense of curiosity, 7. build a convincing world and setting, 8. do something new with your writing, 9. create tension that has room to grow, 10. capture your readers’ attention.

Some of the most memorable opening lines are ones that hook readers with something out of the ordinary. Literary editor Gareth Watkins often encourages writers to explore this in their own books.

"Think of the opening to Nineteen Eighty-Four , or Iain Banks’s, The Crow Road (It was the day my grandmother exploded ). Of course, your opening doesn’t have to be as outrageous as these but always aim for the unusual.

"In other words: think of how people will expect the book to start, then take the plot in another direction."

Example: Nineteen Eighty-Four , George Orwell

Orwell immediately alerts the reader to the fact that we're not in a normal world by deploying a single strange fact at the end of Nineteen Eighty-Four's opening sentence

It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen.

However, not all books need to start with a twist. Sometimes, all you need is a single strong image.

Tweet "We asked our editors: "how would you start a story?" They came up with 10 insightful ways #amwriting"]

Many editors will tell you to avoid exposition — the dreaded info dump — at the start of your manuscript. Editor Harrison Demchick suggests one of the best ways to avoid this is to begin with an image.

"By focusing on sensory detail right at the start — sight, sound, taste, touch, smell — and by conveying a particular, defined setting, you can immediately absorb readers within your novel's tangible world.

"Context and background will come later, but a compelling image can be a fantastic hook."

Example: Fahrenheit 451 , Ray Bradbury

The image of fire is central to Bradbury's dystopian classic. Appropriately enough, he opens his novel with a maelstrom of images comparing the fire to a snake and a symphony.

It was a special pleasure to see things eaten, to see things blackened and changed. With the brass nozzle in his fists, with this great python spitting its venomous kerosene upon the world, the blood pounded in his head, and his hands were the hands of some amazing conductor playing all the symphonies of blazing and burning to bring down the tatters and charcoal ruins of history.

Starting with an image requires a deft hand from the writer. This image must be compelling enough to make the reader continue turning the pages. A simpler alternative may be to throw readers into the middle of the story.

Novels that open in medias res (Latin for "in the midst of action" ) are often really effective at immediately grabbing the reader and establishing stakes and tension.

However, editor Jeanette Shaw warns that readers can become untethered without context and a central character. "If you go this route, you must be sure your opening action is compelling enough that the reader is prepared to wait for character setup later."

Example: Lord of the Flies, William Golding

This classic novel starts with a scene of young boys living on a deserted island with no adults in sight. Only later do we learn how they got there in the first place.

The boy with fair hair lowered himself down the last few feet of rock and began to pick his way toward the lagoon. Though he had taken off his school sweater and trailed it now from one hand, his grey shirt stuck to him and his hair was plastered to his forehead.

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As Polonius tells young Hamlet, brevity is the soul of wit. But for editor and literary agent Fran Lebowitz (who has represented the Bridgerton novels amongst other bestsellers), being frugal with your opening sentence can also intrigue a reader and force them to lean in: "Start with something sparse that flicks on our curiosity, above all."

Example: The Hobbit , J.R.R. Tolkien

For a man who's known for writing lengthy tomes, Tolkien opens up his novel, The Hobbit, with a simple and matter-of-fact sentence that introduces something readers had never encountered before: a hobbit.

“In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit.”

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But sometimes, a simple question can be just as powerful as a statement.

"The reader should be looking for an answer," says Nathan Connolly , an editor and the directing publisher of Dead Ink Books.

"The opening to your novel should be a question that can only be answered by reading on. This doesn't need to be literal, or overt, it can even be poetic, or abstract, but there must be a wound that can only be healed by reading on."

Example: The Bell Jar, Sylvia Plath

While the first line of Plath's only novel doesn't end with a question mark, it certainly poses a few mysteries.

It was a queer, sultry summer, the summer they electrocuted the Rosenbergs, and I didn't know what I was doing in New York.

What was queer and sultry about this summer? How does the narrator's story relate to the execution of Julius and Ethel Rosenberg? And does she actually not know why she's in the Big Apple? The only way to find out is to read on...

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And speaking of unanswered questions, the next tip digs deeper into this idea of intriguing openings.

For in the experience of editor Britanie Wilson , the most successful beginnings have the magnetic effect of appealing to an emotion that all readers possess: curiosity.

"Make them immediately ask of your characters: What is this place? Why are they here? What are they doing? Who is involved? Where is this going?

"If you can pique your readers' curiosity from the very first sentence, you can will them to keep reading before they even know they like your book."

Example: "Royal Beatings", Alice Munro

The first story in Munro's 1978 short story collection, Who Do You Think You Are? gives its readers an unusual phrase that instantly piques their curiosity.

Royal Beating. That was Flo's promise. You are going to get one Royal Beating.

As with the Orwell opening, the reader is presented with an unusual turn of phrase repeated several times — including in the title. By the time we're just 15-words deep into the story, we have a burning question: what is a Royal Beating?

While creating curiosity and mystery is powerful, it's important that the start of your book isn't entirely cryptic . Your opening must sustain your readers' interest in some way if you are to keep them reading through to chapter two, and reveal more and more information in the plot points to come .

Pro tip: Starting your writing with dialogue is considered a no-no by some, but can actually be a great way of achieving this effect.

"To give readers the confidence to continue reading a story they've just started, it's important to give them enough detail to know where and when a story takes place," says author and ghostwriter Tom Bromley .

"Sometimes when stories begin, there's a danger that the scenes are a little bit 'floating' — where the reader isn't given enough information to visualize what's going on. Details of location and time, when provided with enough specificity, will ground the reader and make them feel secure."

Example: The Corrections , Jonathan Franzen

This novel, set in the American Midwest, opens by instantly grounding the reader in visuals related to the when and where of the story.

The madness of an autumn prairie cold front coming through. You could feel it: something terrible was going to happen. The sun low in the sky, a minor light, a cooling star. Gust after gust of disorder. Trees restless, temperatures falling, the whole northern religion of things coming to an end. No children in the yards here. Shadows lengthened on yellowing zoysia. Red oaks and pin oaks and swamp white oaks rained acorns on houses with no mortgage. Storm windows shuddered in the empty bedrooms. And the drone and hiccup of a clothes dryer, the nasal contention of a leaf blower, the ripening of local apples in a paper bag, the smell of the gasoline with which Alfred Lambert had cleaned the paintbrush from his morning painting of the wicker love seat.

If you were to think of this opening scene in a cinematic sense, it reads like a slow montage that cuts between different images that set up the tone and atmosphere of the piece. Note how the first sentence describes the wind — a classic piece of literary imagery that almost always signifies the same thing: that change is a'coming.

Avoiding clichés is something that should always be avoided. And in the experience of Thalia Suzuma , and editor who has worked with authors ranging from David Baldacci to Ken Follett, clichés can be avoided with some simple, unusual choices:

"Consider these two lines:

1) I'm sitting writing this at my desk.

2) I write this sitting in the kitchen sink.

"Which line makes you want to read on? I'd hazard a guess that it's probably the sentence about being perched at a sink — the opening line to one of my favorite novels, I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith.

"Say something in your first few sentences that hasn't often been said before! A brief line laden with foreboding and heavy with what has not been said often works well, too."

Example: Jane Eyre , Charlotte Brontë

Opening a book by talking about the weather is just about as clichéd as things come. ( It was a dark and stormy night... ) But in the opening paragraph of Jane Eyre, we are presented with an image of cold weather — but filtered through the eyes of its title character.

There was no possibility of taking a walk that day.

More importantly than discovering the weather in chapter one, we learn something about the narrator: that she is a woman of absolutes.

Again, the weather is used to create a sense of foreboding — a perfect segue into our next tip.

Openings should be intense, but for editor Rebecca Heyman , that doesn’t necessarily mean loud or explosive .

"So many authors are keen to start with a literal bang — something going up in flames, or a car accident, or some other catastrophe. But recall that even a smoldering fire can burn your hand; draw us in like moths to the flame, but don’t let the bonfire rage so fierce we can’t get close."

Example: All The Light We Cannot See, Anthony Doerr

Remember what we said about winds signifying change? In the opening chapter of Anthony Doerr's novel set around the Second World War, we open with a description of the wind, bringing with it a literal message of change:

At dusk they pour from the sky. They blow across the ramparts, turn cartwheels over rooftops, flutter into the ravines between houses. Entire streets swirl with them, flashing white against the cobbles. Urgent message to the inhabitants of this town, they say. Depart immediately to open country.

This image we're presented with is almost playful (turning cartwheels, fluttering into ravines), making the message the pamphlets bear even more insidious.

For the final tip of this post, we give you what is perhaps the cardinal rule of starting a story...

You want your reader to be swept up in the story— for its entirety, but especially at the beginning, says editor Anne McPeak:

"This is your chance to intoxicate your reader and convince them that they can’t not read on. This doesn’t mean your story needs drama, or fireworks, or shocking material; what your story really needs is close attention to language, tone, and pacing.

"Dazzle your reader from the start, and they will willingly take your hand for the ride."

Example: Fortress of Solitude , Jonathan Lethem

Centering on the lives of two friends in Brooklyn and spanning decades, Lethem's novel opens with an everyday image — of girls rollerskating on the sidewalk — and filters it through the eyes of a narrator, who interprets the scene in quite an arresting fashion that's bound to capture the reader's attention:

Like a match struck in a darkened room:

Two white girls in flannel nightgowns and red vinyl roller skates with white laces, tracing tentative circles on a cracked blue slate sidewalk at seven o'clock on an evening in July.

The girls murmured rhymes, were murmured rhymes, their gauzy, sky-pink hair streaming like it had never once been cut.

Establishing best practices for starting a story can be tricky because, as Nathan Connolly says, “Fiction should, by nature, seek to defy, redefine or expand beyond rules." It should not be an author’s goal to emulate the words or tastes of another person while writing a novel.

However, many well-loved novels share a thread of commonality when it comes to their first few lines — such as a question, a brief to-the-point line, or in the middle of action. While there’s no hard rule for what works, these are guidelines you can follow when determining how to hook readers down your story’s path.

26 responses

Paynes says:

04/01/2017 – 21:13

"Years ago, down in the Amazon, Santiago set me up. He said, 'Lives are stories told over and over. The good ones keep getting better. Think about that, Daniel. And while you're at it, think about thinking. We learn best by thinking, just as fish breathe by drinking.' He said this very matter-of-factly. Then he asked me, 'Don't they?' He asked me this when he was about to die." "Santiago and the Drinking Party" by Clay Morgan That's one of my favorite beginnings.

↪️ Reedsy replied:

09/01/2017 – 16:48

This is really great because I actually did sit and think for a few moments about the line "lives are stories told over and over." So mission accomplished! Thanks for the contribution, Paynes!

Nathan Van Coops says:

06/01/2017 – 14:26

"There was a boy called Eustace Clarence Scrubb, and he almost deserved it." --C.S. Lewis- The Voyage of the Dawn Treader.

06/01/2017 – 14:36

Haha, that's a good one, Nathan!

Tripehound says:

07/01/2017 – 12:33

The Dodie Smith sentence - she's not sitting at the sink. She's sitting in the sink.

07/01/2017 – 16:56

Ah, good catch, thanks! We've edited accordingly.

RanaShubair says:

07/01/2017 – 16:16

The ideas are great. I find number 1 and number 9 most appealing to me. And thanks for the book examples you included- this helped me look them up and put them on my reading list.

07/01/2017 – 16:57

Glad you like it, Rana!

Carol Pearson says:

08/01/2017 – 20:01

"There are gods in Alabama: Jack Daniel's, high school quarterbacks, trucks, big tits, and also Jesus. I left one back there myself, back in Possett. I kicked it under the kudzu and left it to the roaches." Gods in Alabama by Joshilyn Jackson. Stunning.

09/01/2017 – 16:45

That is definitely unique — it's not "once upon a time", that's for sure :) Thanks for the comment Carol!

↪️ Carol Pearson replied:

09/01/2017 – 17:14

ha! no indeed. And the book delivered, too. Compelling from start to finish. Great read!

Rock Higgins says:

17/01/2017 – 17:08

"I am doomed to remember a boy with a wrecked voice – not because of his voice, or because he was the smallest person I ever knew, or even because he was the instrument of my mother’s death, but because he is the reason I believe in God; I am a Christian because of Owen Meany." John Irving, A Prayer for Owen Meany It is the whole 600+ page novel in a sentence, that takes 600+ pages to unpack.

17/01/2017 – 17:18

Wow, great one, Rock! You know an author really knows their story when they're able to condense 600 pages of it into a single sentence. Thanks for the quote :)

polfilmblog says:

24/02/2017 – 22:08

Venomous python? Really? "with this great python spitting its venomous kerosene upon the world," The only thing I get from this opening is that the author royally fucked it up. Pythons are constrictors of course. Most everyone knows that.

↪️ Elizabeth replied:

19/11/2019 – 08:01

Well, shoot! And Mr. Bradbury seemed to have such promise. I'm sure if he was still among the living you could teach him a thing or two. About snakes, anyway.

Dennis Fleming says:

24/07/2017 – 21:52

"Not wanting to arouse Vishnu in case he hadn't died yet, Mrs. Asrani tiptoed down to the third step above the landing on which he lived, teakettle in hand." The Death of Vishnu by Manil Suri

Astoria Eincaster says:

17/10/2017 – 19:57

I don't see anything strange and unexpected with 1984's opening sentence. Thirteen o'clock is basically 1 pm. In Europe the clock goes from 0 to 23. So 1:15 pm for example will be 13:15, 3:45 pm will be 15:45, while 4 am would be simply 4 o'clock. I don't know about other continents, but I'm sure about Europe, as I live there. And where does 1984 take part? In London, you ignorant Americans! Just stop citing 1984 as an example of an unexpected opening. Seriously, this is not the first post about types of book openings where I see 1984 mentioned. Its first sentence is not and it wasn't supposed to be strange, although some ignorant hacks still think it is.

17/10/2017 – 20:06

Analog clocks do not generally include the number "13." So while it is not strange for it to be thirteen o'clock, it remains a strange image for the hand of a clock to "strike thirteen," and I don't believe anyone aside from George Orwell ever said or wrote "the clock strikes thirteen." In 1984, the clock "strikes thirteen", as we can later surmise, because this is a military state and they use military time. So this opening is not only unexpected, it sets the mood for the rest of the book. Ah, and most of Reedsy's team is based in Europe, by the way, so the "ignorant American" argument doesn't really stand with us — sorry!

↪️ 4kidsandacat replied:

24/07/2018 – 11:09

Keep in mind, Orwell wrote this story in 1948, long before digital clocks were in common use. Thirteen o'clock doesn't sound strange today, but it may well have at the time.

↪️ Doug McNett replied:

19/04/2020 – 13:32

I completely agree with you. I am American, but when I first read those lines I thought nothing of it as to me they were referring to military time,

Diane Callahan says:

30/01/2018 – 16:11

Loved this article! I found it through your Novel Revision course. I'm pleased to see that your editors picked many of the same first lines I discussed in my YouTube video on the topic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bm9trk8xRpg&t=2s Patrick Ness’s "The Knife of Never Letting Go" hooked me right away by opening with a strong narrative voice and humor: “The first thing you find out when yer dog learns to talk is that dogs don’t got nothing much to say.”

Evelyn Sinclair says:

11/03/2018 – 16:42

"Master was a little crazy: he had spent too many years reding books overseas, talked to himself in his office,did not always return greetings and had too much hair." Opening sentence from 'Half a Yellow Sun' definitely hooked me in to this story.

Candace says:

03/08/2019 – 01:56

Yeah. I know. You guys are going to read about how I died in agony, and you're going to be like, "Wow! That sounds cool, Magnus! Can I die in agony too?" - Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard: The Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan One of my favorite opening lines of all time.

↪️ Yvonne replied:

08/08/2019 – 02:01

That is indeed an awesome line! Thanks so much for the quote (and the book rec).

Alice says:

19/09/2019 – 19:20

My favorite line is from Charles Dickens "a Tale of two Cities" It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.

Elizabeth says:

19/11/2019 – 08:18

“We were somewhere around Barstow on the edge of the desert when the drugs began to take hold.” "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas" by Hunter S Thompson. Okay, technically it's a classic HST hybrid - part semi-autobiography and part novel. But still one of the greatest beginnings I've ever had the pleasure of reading.

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How to Start a Story: 10 Ways to Get Your Story Off to a Great Start

by Joslyn Chase | 0 comments

Perhaps you’ve heard the old publishing proverb: The first page sells the book; the last page sells the next book. I’m convinced there’s a mammoth grain of truth in that. The beginning and the end of any story are critical elements that you really want to nail. Today, we’re going to focus on how to start a story—in other words, how you can craft a spectacular beginning that will hold readers spellbound and get them to turn that first all-important page.

How to Start a Story: 10 Ways to Get Your Story Off to a Great Start

Whether you’re pitching to an agent, a publisher, or direct to the reader, your opening lines form the basis for how they’ll judge the rest of your story. You have about a sixty-second window of influence before that initial judgment solidifies. It follows that this is a good place to invest your time and effort.

Granted, a compelling opening is not an easy task to accomplish. Besides grabbing the reader's attention, you want to ground readers in a setting, establish voice, hint at theme, and introduce a protagonist readers can get behind. To do this, you need to answer specific questions for your reader, while at the same time planting others.

Story Revolves Around Questions

Cultivating questions for your reader is what keeps them turning the pages, but you’ll lose them if you don’t provide answers, as well. If you want your reader to commit to your story, it’s best to establish a few essentials right up front.

Whose story is it? You’re asking your reader to spend serious time with your protagonist. They’ll want to know who they’ll be rooting for.
What kind of story is it? Readers go into a book looking for a particular type of reading experience and you need to let them know they’ve come to the right place.
When and where is the story happening? Setting is hugely important to selling your reader. I did a workshop with top editor Kristine Kathryn Rusch, and one of the most frequent critiques she gave writers was: “There’s no setting. You lost me on setting.”
What’s the story behind the story? When readers think story, they think plot. Writers know the real story is internal—not what happens, but how those events affect the characters. While you won’t necessarily lay your hero open on the first page of your story, hinting at his internal struggle gets the reader on his side.
Why should the reader care? The most glorious descriptions or action-packed drama won’t hook your reader if you don’t give them a reason to care about your character. Answering the four questions above will help do this, but you’ll need to give more.

10 Compelling Ways to Start a Story

You’ve got to command reader attention and answer some important questions, but what does that look like on the page? How do you structure your opening to accomplish those objectives?

Have you heard of modeling? Life coaches and success gurus talk about it a lot. It involves finding someone who’s wildly effective at doing what you want to do and studying their methods to duplicate their success. If in doubt, go to the opening pages of bestselling books in your chosen genre and see how the masters did it.

Beyond that, there are so many ways to go. Here are ten ways to start a story you might consider:

1. Strong Voice

Example: “Mae Mobley was born on a early Sunday morning in August 1960. A church baby we like to call it. Taking care a white babies, that’s what I do, along with all the cooking and the cleaning. I done raised seventeen kids in my lifetime. I know how to get them babies to sleep, stop crying, and go in the toilet bowl before they mamas even get out a bed in the morning.” The Help, Kathryn Stockett

Example: “I smiled when I saw the dead girl. Just for a moment. Reflex, I suppose.” The Snow Angel, Doug Allyn

2. Relevant Anecdote

Example: “When Ella Brady was six she went to Quentins. It was the first time anyone had called her Madam. A woman in a black dress with a lace collar had led them to the table. She had settled Ella’s parents in and then held out a chair for the six-year-old. ‘You might like to sit here, Madam, it will give you a full view of everything,’ she said. Ella was delighted.” Quentins, Maeve Binchy

Example: “I hope this video camera works. Anyway, this (click) is a blowup of a model’s eye, the bluest I’ve ever seen. The only other time I remember seeing that exact color of blue was the day my sister Nicole drowned. It was everwhere: in the water, in the sky, Nicole’s skin. Blue, I remember, and coughing.” Forgetting The Girl, Peter Moore Smith

3. Intriguing Mystery

Example: “Who am I? And how, I wonder, will this story end?” The Notebook, Nicholas Sparks

Example: “People’s lives—their real lives, as opposed to their simple physical existences—begin at different times. The real life of Thad Beaumont, a young boy who was born and raised in the Ridgeway section of Bergenfield, New Jersey, began in 1960. Two things happened to him that year. The first shaped his life; the second almost ended it.” The Dark Half, Stephen King

4. Uneasy Suspense

Example: “The smell of newly rotting flesh hit Jakaya Makinda. He stopped his Land Rover, grabbed his binoculars off the seat beside him, and trained them in the direction of the odor’s source.” Death in the Serengeti , David H. Hendrickson

I used this as an example of Uneasy Suspense, but Hendrickson kicked it off with a startling first sentence and infused it with setting, layering the effect.

Example: “Water gushed out of the corroded faucet into the chipped, porcelain tub, pooling at the bottom with a few tangled strands of long, brown hair. The water was easily 120 degrees. So hot that Katelyn Berkley could hardly stand to dip her painted green toenails into it. The scalding water instantly turned her pale skin mottled shades of crimson.” Envy, Gregg Olsen

5. Stirring Theme

Example: “I became what I am today at the age of twelve, on a frigid overcast day in the winter of 1975. I remember the precise moment, crouching behind a crumbling mud wall, peeking into the alley near the frozen creek. That was a long time ago, but it’s wrong what they say about the past, I’ve learned, about how you can bury it. Because the past claws its way out.” The Kite Runner, Khaled Hosseini

I used this excerpt as an example of stirring theme, but it is bursting with other elements and could be placed under setting, suspense, voice, character, world tilting off-center, and an enthralling first sentence.

Example: “Sometimes it’s overwhelming: the burden of knowing that the man you most admire isn’t real. Then the depression that you’ve fought all your life creeps in, the anxiety. The borders of your life contract, stifling, suffocating.” The Adventure of the Laughing Fisherman, Jeffery Deaver

This one’s got a pretty kicking first sentence, too.

6. Dynamic Setting

Example: “Out of a cloudless sky on a windless November day came a sudden shadow that swooped across the bright aqua Corvette. Tommy Phan was standing beside the car, in pleasantly warm autumn sunshine, holding out his hand to accept the keys from Jim Shine, the salesman, when the fleeting shade touched him. He heard a brief thrumming like frantic wings. Glancing up, he expected to glimpse a sea gull, but not a single bird was in sight.” Tick Tock, Dean Koontz

This is also a nice instance of uneasy suspense.

Example: “They were parked on Union, in front of her place, their knees locked in conference around the stick shift, Janna and Justin talking, necking a little, the windows just beginning to steam.” Shared Room on Union, Steven Heighton

7. Quirky or Startling Opening Sentence

Example: “The world had teeth and it could bite you with them anytime it wanted.” The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon, Stephen King

Example: “As soon as he stepped into the dim apartment he knew he was dead.” Garden of Beasts, Jeffery Deaver

Both of these examples also instill suspense, as they suggest danger and leave the reader anxious to find out more.

8. Compelling Character

Example: “First the colors. Then the humans. That’s usually how I see things. Or at least, how I try.” The Book Thief, Markus Zusak

What kind of character is this you ask yourself, compelled to go on.

Example: “Everyone knows this kid. He is dirty and dumb and sits in a corner, lonely, but not alone. His face has an involuntary twitch, and when he makes eye contact, his lids and cheeks squeeze his eyes shut. We call him Blinky. Blinky rolls with it, though, smiles big and toothy when kids shout his name across the schoolyard.” A Bottle of Scotch and a Sharp Buck Knife, Scott Grand

I chose this for character, but it’s got a big dose of voice in it, as well.

9. Tilting World

Example: “The ravens were the first sign. As the horse-drawn wagon traveled down the rutted track between rolling fields of barley, a flock of ravens rose up in a black wash. They hurled themselves into the blue of the morning and swept high in a panicked rout, but this was more than the usual startled flight. The ravens wheeled and swooped, tumbled and flapped. Over the road, they crashed into each other and rained down out of the skies. Small bodies struck the road, breaking wing and beak. They twitched in ruts. Wings fluttered weakly. But most disturbing was the silence of it all.” The Doomsday Key, James Rollins

Is there any doubt the world in this story is twisting off its axis?

Example: “On the afternoon I met my new neighbor, a woman others in the cul-de-sac would dub ‘Ramba,’ I wasn’t looking for trouble. In fact, I wasn’t looking for anything other than to enter my first full month of retirement with a small military pension and dreams of a hop to Florida or Hawaii once a year until my expiration date arrived.” Many Dogs Have Died Here, James Mathews

Nothing explicit occurs off the bat, but Mathews sets up for the punch. This poor sucker’s world is tilting.

10. Engaging Dialogue

Example: “'You look like crap, Pen.' Pendleton Rozier, my longtime mentor, opened the door wide, then coughed into the crook of his elbow. ‘If only I felt that good.’” Rule Number One, Alan Orloff

Example: “'Which is even weirder yet,’ Gowan said. ‘But that ain’t the best part.’ At approximately which point, Kramer didn’t want to hear any more. It had been a mistake to let Gowan get started. He went outside into the mild March evening to take a leak and get away from Gowan for a little while before hitting the sack. ‘Seriousy, I got the skinny on ‘em,’ Gowan said, unzipping and joining him at the edge of the porch.” Spring Rite, Tom Berdine

You’ll notice writing voice and character here, too.

Invest in a Great Beginning

Spending the time and effort to craft a superb opening for your story is a good investment. However, worrying over it can hold you up. If you’re spinning your wheels over how to start a story, just get something down and move on.

Then, when you’ve reached the end of your story and you have a better understanding of the theme, tone, and characters, you can go back and fine tune or start from scratch to design your perfect beginning.

Beautiful Bookends

In fact, doing so may afford you the opportunity to bookend your story with a beginning and ending that reflect on each other, enclosing your entire story in a nice, thematic package that’s very satisfying to readers.

For instance, my thriller novel Nocturne In Ashes opens with the protagonist, a concert pianist, bombing her comeback performance. Then at the end, after surviving a series of harrowing experiences and battling her inner flaw, she’s gained the confidence she needed and nails the Beethoven that was her downfall.

I’ve touched on some ideas to get you off to a great start, but there are many other types of openings to explore. If you’re having trouble, hit the library and see how others have done it. You’re sure to find something that works for your story. And have fun!

How about you? Do you struggle with how to start a story? What book openings have made an impression on you? Tell us about it in the comments section .

Using one of the types of openings outlined above, write the beginning for a story idea you have in mind, or choose from one of these prompts:

Stella is nervous about meeting her ex-husband for dinner.

Darren takes his son on a hunting trip, determined to teach him how to be a man.

Cheryl wants to try out for the girls’ softball team, but the captain is her ex-best-friend.

Write for fifteen minutes and when you’re finished, post your work in the practice box below. And if you post, be sure to leave feedback for your fellow readers!

Joslyn Chase

Any day where she can send readers to the edge of their seats, prickling with suspense and chewing their fingernails to the nub, is a good day for Joslyn. Pick up her latest thriller, Steadman's Blind , an explosive read that will keep you turning pages to the end. No Rest: 14 Tales of Chilling Suspense , Joslyn's latest collection of short suspense, is available for free at joslynchase.com .

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Here’s How to Get Started with Creative Writing

It’s not just about ‘reading a lot’..

Anthony L. Wolf

The Startup

S ometimes, I just happen to be wandering around Reddit in boredom. Such is the life of the procrastinating creative writer who should really be working on his next novel right now .

It happened a few days ago. One user had a dream, and he decided to show it to Reddit: he wanted to learn creative writing. But he did not know where to start.

Make no mistakes, creative writing is an awful lot . There’s a lot to know, a lot to do, a lot to think about. And there are those who will try and sell you THE ULTIMATE FORMULA TO CREATIVE WRITING (oh, yes, I’m sure you know all about that), which can certainly sound enticing to someone who doesn’t know where to start. Don’t fall into their trap. Because, here’s the news: there is no ultimate formula to creative writing .

As I can picture a lot of people wanting to know how to get started, I decided to adapt my reply to that Reddit post , expand it and put it here on Medium for everyone to see.

Some people there mentioned outlining, the Snowflake method, three acts and more. But, no. Please, no. This is only going to mess with your mind more.

Start small.

How to get started with Creative Writing: the basics

Reading is just as important as writing.

This was probably the most quoted solution within that Reddit thread. In order to write well, you must read a lot. This is true, but it’s not just for the sake of reading, nor only for analyzing someone else’s style.

Creative writing is like a constant study of both your capabilities and the ones of others. You must have the right attitude to be surprised, to find novel things on beaten paths. Be willing to explore new ideas, to unravel theories and find ways to improve at your craft. The catch: you can only do that by reading.

The ultimate choice of what to read is up to you, but I do recommend not to stick to your reference genre only. If you’re planning to write science fiction, explore horror as well. Read magical realism, read speculative fiction, read historical, if you can. You don’t have to read what you don’t like, but you should read what isn’t necessarily up your alley. You might find out you loved a genre you didn’t even know to begin with.

Most importantly, you can find ways to weave that mash-up of genres into your own writing, if you so wish. Who said western and sci-fi stories don’t go together? Does Westworld ring a bell? Think outside of the box. That’s why we call it creative writing.

Meanwhile, you will have fun studying the most popular tropes and structures of storytelling. You may then decide to follow them or defy them altogether in your stories.

Of course, feel free to explore non-fiction as well. There is a lot of structured style in that too, and you will progressively absorb more words, concepts, metaphors and rhetorical figures as you keep reading.

But don’t just read. Support that with your writing.

Writing is just as important as reading

Sure, creative writing can be ‘learned’ just as it can be taught, but you’re going to learn much quicker if you start experimenting with stories yourself. Listen to your gut instincts; any time you feel the compelling need to tell a story, just sit down and write.

Just sit down and write . I can’t state that enough.

Writing has a way larger impact on your own self if you’re the one fuelling your instincts. And all writing is about ‘making an impact’, isn’t it? It won’t always be on others — most of the time, you’ll find out you’ve learned something about your own self.

Besides, you don’t need a writing prompt to start telling a story. Let your inner voice guide you, and you’ll find that anything can put you on the right path. Again, be willing to welcome new ideas: characters, worlds, situations, rules, and people.

But do bear in mind that you need to write just as much as you need to read. Absorbing all that style, vocabulary and knowledge will be of no use to you if you only write one story a year. Put all that into practice. Complement lots of reading with lots of writing. You’ll make progress much quicker.

Write a short story every two weeks, for instance. Force yourself to sit down and find an idea worth less than 2000 words (reading short stories too can help with structure, there). Who knows—perhaps one of them will expand into your first novel.

And don’t worry too much about style and voice. Those will come with time, by experimenting with vocabulary, sentence structure and pace. Keep it simple at first. Soon, you’ll develop your own style.

Regardless, you need to give it a try.

In writing, you can only get started by *actually* getting started. Just grab a pen or open your laptop and write.

Where to start with your first story

As said, you don’t need a writing prompt to tell a story. Those are just extremely useful for making practice. So I’m not going to give you one.

What I can give you is a teeny wee bit of structure, and a little nudge to get you on the right track.

Here’s one thing you should know straight away: before having worlds, pretty much all stories have characters. So start with one. Character-driven stories are my personal favorites, and there are many writers out there who believe the best stories can only be character-driven. Abbie Emmons , to name one (you should follow that lady — she loves waffles).

It doesn’t have to be a totally invented character—you can even write about yourself. Matter of fact, you should; the best authors write from experience, or, rather, know how to turn that experience into a story. Maybe you have a funny story to tell. Perhaps there’s a traumatic event you’d like to write about, like a break-up or a loss—and the best thing is you don’t even need to show it to anybody if you don’t want to. You could just write about it and let it go. It will be good practice all the same.

Or it could be something entirely different and extremely trivial in appearance, like the image of a bottle floating towards a sewer canal. It doesn’t matter. What matters is that you will imbue it with your meanings and reflections. You will make it a story .

Whatever you choose, just try to put that in writing, then start again. After you move past that initial strategy and providing you’ve been reading a lot in the meantime , you should be able to find your own original ideas to develop.

Regardless of what happens, don’t give up on your writing. Be the most stubborn worker you can be.

If writing isn’t for you, believe me, you’ll know soon enough. If you’re a sane person (unlike most of us, to be fair), you won’t enjoy it. Writing is like stripping yourself of all clothes and running naked in front of a crowd. Putting words on a page is scary.

Even if you like it, there will be an initial discouragement. Words won’t come to you, characters won’t speak as you’d want them to. Find the strength to move past that. Undress all of your fears and transfer those fears to the page. The sooner you open your heart to one blank piece of virtual paper, the sooner you’ll find out that writing can be the most beautiful gift in the world.

So, write, write, write. If you don’t like the first story, write the second one, then the third one, and so on until you lose count. If you really want to become an author, the only thing that can stop you is yourself.

The only way from there is upwards.

Resources for Creative Writers

Say you’ve started thinking seriously about creative writing and you’ve made a lot of practice. You’ll probably want to study the craft a bit more in-depth.

Lucky for all of us, there are resources for that.

Most books about creative writing will cover voice, storytelling structure(s) and character development, which is really all you should know before starting a novel, a film or anything else. These elements are so universal they can be applied across most of the entertainment we know — even some video games, to an extent.

This will be the time to think about character arcs and all that. What’s important is to not rush into it before you’ve had the chance to work on your style.

You’ll find there are a lot of different approaches to anything in creative writing. For instance, some authors advocate the three-act structure, while others go for five, seven acts or even none. Either way, as I said, beware of the gurus trying to sell you the ultimate formula. There isn’t one to be found; all stories work for their own different reasons.

What you can find is a couple of books that can help with that. Off the top of my head, I can think of three amazing ones for general storytelling:

Into The Woods: How Stories Work and Why We Tell Them , by John Yorke ( Amazon UK link );
On Writing , Stephen King’s memoir ( Amazon UK link );
The Storytelling Animal , by Jonathan Gottschall (more of an anthropological reflection on storytelling, rather than a book of tips) ( Amazon UK link ).

And a little extra for screenwriters:

Screenplay: the Foundations of Screenwriting , by Syd Field ( Amazon UK link ).

That’s really all I had to say. Now it’s up to you; think of an idea, a story, a prompt, a dream you had, anything.

Just sit down and write .

Best of luck, my friend.

Written by Anthony L. Wolf

Your friendly neighbourhood introvert | Content Writer & Narrative Designer in London | Devoted Gamer 👾

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Creative Writing: Start Your Creative Writing Journey

Posted on May 22, 2023

Written by Bella Rose Emmorey

Creative writing is one of those skills you can eternally get better at, but often suck at when you start… I’ve been there. I’ve so been there. Now, we’re not saying your creative writing is bad necessarily, but just that if you want to continue to push yourself in this industry, you’ll need some work since literature is more competitive now than it ever has been. You might not like to face that truth, but it is indeed a truth everyone who wants to write and publish successfully has to face. I’ll go into more detail about that in a little bit but every writer out there needs some writing tips to help them get better. And one of the best ways to get better at creative writing is to first learn and understand the craft of it, and then challenge yourself by completing writing exercises .

Because when your time comes to publish, you want a high-quality final product in order to actually sell your book and acquire raving fans.

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Here’s what you’ll learn about creative writing:

What is creative writing?
Creative writing topics
Elements of creative writing
Examples of creative writing
9 powerful creative writing exercises

What is Creative Writing?

Creative writing is a form of writing where creativity is at the forefront of its purpose through using imagination, creativity, and innovation in order to tell a story through strong written visuals with an emotional impact, like in poetry writing , short story writing , novel writing , and more.

It’s often seen as the opposite of journalistic or academic writing.

When it comes to writing, there are many different types. As you already know, all writing does not read in the same way.

Creative writing uses senses and emotions in order to create a strong visual in the reader’s mind whereas other forms of writing typically only leave the reader with facts and information instead of emotional intrigue.

It can be a book series or a single installation, the factors that make up creative writing have more to do with how it sits with the reader artistically.

What are the Elements of Creative Writing?

In order to get better at creative writing, you have to understand the elements of what makes writing a book great.

You can’t build a car engine without understanding how each part plays a role, right…?

That’s the same case with writing.

And just a note, this is all stuff we cover , and you get to talk about 1-on-1 with your coach when you join Self-Publishing School .

Here are the elements that make up creative writing and why each is just as important as the other.

Unique Plot

What differentiates creative writing and other forms of writing the most is the fact that the former always has a plot of some sort – and a unique one.

Yes, remakes are also considered creative writing, however, most creative writers create their own plot formed by their own unique ideas . Without having a plot, there’s no story.

And without a story, you’re really just writing facts on paper, much like a journalist. Learn how to plot your novel and you’ll open up the possibility of writing at a higher level without the need to find your story as much.

Character development

Characters are necessary for creative writing. While you can certainly write a book creatively using the second person point of view (which I’ll cover below), you still have to develop the character in order to tell the story.

Character development can be defined as the uncovering of who a character is and how they change throughout the duration of your story. From start to end, readers should be able to understand your main characters deeply.

Underlying Theme

Almost every story out there has an underlying theme or message – even if the author didn’t necessarily intend for it to. But creative writing needs that theme or message in order to be complete.

That’s part of the beauty of this form of art. By telling a story, you can also teach lessons.

Visual Descriptions

When you’re reading a newspaper, you don’t often read paragraphs of descriptions depicting the surrounding areas of where the events took place. Visual descriptions are largely saved for creative writing.

You need them in order to help the reader understand what the surroundings of the characters look like.

Show don’t tell writing pulls readers in and allows them to imagine themselves in the characters’ shoes – which is the reason people read.

Point of View

There are a few points of views you can write in. That being said, the two that are most common in creative writing are first person and third person .

First Person – In this point of view, the narrator is actually the main character. This means that you will read passages including, “I” and understand that it is the main character narrating the story.
Second Person – Most often, this point of view isn’t used in creative writing, but rather instructional writing – like this blog post. When you see the word “you” and the narrator is speaking directly to you, it’s second person point of view.
Third person limited’s narrator uses “he/she/they” when speaking about the character you’re following. They know that character’s inner thoughts and feelings but nobody else’s. It’s much like first person, but instead of the character telling the story, a narrator takes their place.
Third person multiple is the same as limited except that the narrator now knows the inner thoughts and feelings of several characters.
The last, third person omniscient, is when the narrator still uses “he/she/they” but has all of the knowledge. They know everything about everyone.

While non-creative writing can have dialogue (like in interviews), that dialogue is not used in the same way as it is in creative writing. Creative writing (aside from silent films) requires dialogue to support the story.

Your characters should interact with one another in order to further the plot and develop each other more.

Imaginative Language

Part of what makes creative writing creative is the way you choose to craft the vision in your mind.

And that means creative writing uses more anecdotes, metaphors , similes , figures of speech , and other figurative language in order to paint a vivid image in the reader’s mind .

Emotional Appeal

All writing can have emotional appeal. However, it’s the entire goal of creative writing. Your job as a writer is to make people feel how you want them to by telling them a story.

Creative Writing Examples

Since creative writing covers such a wide variety of writing, we wanted to break down the different types of creative writing out there to help you make sense of it. Y ou may know that novels are considered creative writing, but what about memoirs?

Here are examples of creative writing:

Short stories
TV show scripts
Movie scripts

9 Creative Writing Exercises to Improve Your Writing

Writing is just like any other skill. You have to work at it in order to get better.

It’s also much like other skills because the more you do it, the stronger you become in it. That’s why exercising your creative writing skills is so important.

How do you start creative writing?

The best authors out there, including Stephen King, recommend writing something every single day . These writing exercises will help you accomplish that and improve your talent immensely.

#1 – Describe your day with creative writing

This is one of my favorite little exercises to keep my writing sharp and in shape.

Just like with missing gym sessions, the less you write, the more of that skill you lose. Hannah Lee Kidder, a very talented author and Youtuber, gave me this writing exercise and I have used it many times.

Creative Writing Exercise:

All you have to do is sit down and describe your day – starting with waking up – as if you were writing it about another person. Use your creative writing skills to bring life to even the dullest moments, like showering or brushing your teeth.

#2 – Description depiction

If you’re someone who struggles with writing descriptions or you just want to get better in general, this exercise will help you do just that – and quickly.

In order to improve your descriptions, you have to write them with a specific intention.

With this exercise, the goal is to write your description with the goal of showing the reader as much as you can about your character without ever mentioning them at all.

#3 – Edit your old writing

Believe it or not, editing does count as writing and can actually sharpen those creative writing skill more than you think.

It can be a little scary to pull up a story you wrote last week or even two years ago and tear it apart. But that’s exactly what I want you to do.

Check out this video of me editing my old writing in order to replace weak verbs with stronger, better ones to get a taste of what this can look like and how it can help you get better.

#4 – Voice v ariations

One of my favorite parts of writing is giving unique voices to each character, using multiple points of view . I believe that’s what truly brings them to life.

Their dialogue has the power to pull readers in, or push them out of the book completely.

Obviously, you want the former.

During this creative writing exercise, your focus will be to pick 4 different emotional states and write dialogue examples of how your character feels and interprets those feelings.

For this one, craft a character in your mind. It can be one you already created or a completely new one.

Choose your 4 emotional states – and get creative. You can choose sadness, anger, happiness, and excitement BUT you can also go a bit further and choose to use drunk, flirty, terrified, and eager.

After you have 4 emotional states, write one page of each using dialogue and narrative your character would use.

#5 – Single senses

Creating strong visuals is one of the most powerful ways to become a great creative writer. In fact, practicing this will help you craft books that really hook readers.

This exercise’s goal is to help you develop writing the senses in ways that not only make sense, but are also imaginative and unique.

A Creative Writing Exercise Where A Character Has One Sense

#6 – Dialogue destruction

During this exercise, you will learn a lot about how to write a scene using entirely dialogue.

Now, this isn’t something you’ll always do in your writing, but it’s very important to know how to move a scene forward using dialogue if you need to.

This will also help you understand how to show and not tell in creative writing.

To start, choose a scene you wrote previously that has little to no dialogue, but is still very important.

Next, rewrite the entire thing using dialogue (including dialogue tags and body language descriptions). You will quickly become better at using dialogue to show and not tell.

#7 – Tell the origin story of the Tooth Fairy

This writing exercise will really help you think creatively about something a large part of the world knows about.

However, you have to think of a very unique, interesting way of presenting this common idea. The purpose of this is to help you dig deeper within your own story and plot in order to come up with the very best, most unique ideas – because that is what will stand out in your book.

Begin this story like you would any other. Develop who the very first Tooth Fairy is and understand their character. Then, start creating a backstory that coincides with how they ended up becoming the tooth fairy.

Write this in full, ending with the Tooth Fairy taking their first tooth.

#8 – Thematic attic

This is a fun one! The idea behind this creative writing exercise is to focus on interpreting themes through story.

Since all creative writing has an underlying theme behind it, it’s really important for you to be able to accurately depict that theme throughout the story you’re telling.

Creative Writing Quote From Herman Melville

Otherwise, it can get lost. Not knowing the theme can often leave readers feeling unsatisfied – and rightfully so.

For this exercise, pick an overarching theme you want to focus on. This can be anything from equality to the difference between right and wrong.

Next, craft a short story with the setting being and do your best to make sure that theme shines through

Get creative! Your attic can even contain a portal to another dimension if you really want it to.

#9 – Break language barriers

This isn’t quite what you think it is. So no, we will not be creating new languages with this exercise.

Instead, we’ll be working on using unique language to describe very common, everyday occurrences and experiences.

One of the beauties of creative writing is that you have the power to change the way someone sees the world. You can make it more appealing and special to them – if you know how.

This exercise will help you develop the skill of using a unique narrative within your story.

In this creative writing exercise, you’ll start by reading. You can read a new book or even some of your old writing.

Highlight or copy sentences or paragraphs you think are very common experiences that most everyone in the world knows of. For example: the sunset, brushing your teeth, looking up at the sky.

Your job is to rewrite these experiences in the most unique way you can using visuals that you don’t normally see in writing.<

Here’s an example:

BEFORE – The sun set beyond the trees.

AFTER – The trees tucked the sun in for the night.

Continue Reading

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How to Start a Story: 6 Creative Ways to Get Up and Writing

by Yen Cabag | 2 comments

Starting a story is often the most daunting part of the writing process. Staring at a blank page, knowing that the first line plays a crucial role in whether your audience will keep reading or not can certainly add pressure.

Whether you are writing a short story or a novel, getting started is half the battle, so don’t let fear stop you in your tracks! Instead, use some proven techniques to jumpstart your writing.

How to Start a Story

Understand that you don’t always have to start at the beginning—you can actually start by writing any part of your story. Some writers even start by writing the ending!

But if you already know what you want your story to be and just need a little push getting started, these options for starting a story might help trigger the right words:

1. Dialogue

Nothing draws readers in like introducing them to your characters in the middle of an ongoing conversation.

If you want to use dialogue to open up your story, you can choose to start with a heated conversation that leads to action, or even casual talk that introduces to the characters and their relationships.

The following example is the opening scene of Eleanor Porter’s “When Father and Mother Rebelled” in her short story collection Across the Years:

“’Tain’t more ’n a month ter Christmas, Lyddy Ann; did ye know it?” said the old man, settling back in his chair with a curiously resigned sigh. “Yes, I know, Samuel,” returned his wife, sending a swift glance over the top of her glasses. If Samuel Bertram noticed the glance he made no sign. “Hm!” he murmured. “I’ve got ten neckerchiefs now. How many crocheted bed-slippers you got?–eh?” “Oh, Samuel!” remonstrated Lydia Ann feebly. “I don’t care,” asserted Samuel with sudden vehemence, sitting erect in his chair. “Seems as if we might get somethin’ for Christmas ’sides slippers an’ neckerchiefs. Jest ’cause we ain’t so young as we once was ain’t no sign that we’ve lost all our faculty for enj’yment!”

This conversation, though seemingly trivial, helps introduce readers to the two characters and offers insight to the dynamic of their relationship.

Another way of luring readers into the thick of things is by opening your story with action. This strategy is particularly common in fantasy and science fiction stories.

Here is an example from the opening scene of the dystopian fantasy Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury:

It was a pleasure to burn. It was a special pleasure to see things eaten, to see things blackened and changed. With the brass nozzle in his fists, with this great python spitting its venomous kerosene upon the world, the blood pounded in his head, and his hands were the hands of some amazing conductor playing all the symphonies of blazing and burning to bring down the tatters and charcoal ruins of history. With his symbolic helmet numbered 451 on his stolid head, and his eyes all orange flame with the thought of what came next, he flicked the igniter and the house jumped up in a gorging fire that burned the evening sky red and yellow and black.

3. Character Description

An exposition that describes your characters can be another effective way to draw your readers in.

Take this example from L.M. Montgomery’s “The Hurrying of Ludovic” in The Chronicles of Avonlea” :

Anne Shirley was curled up on the window-seat of Theodora Dix’s sitting-room one Saturday evening, looking dreamily afar at some fair starland beyond the hills of sunset. Anne was visiting for a fortnight of her vacation at Echo Lodge, where Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Irving were spending the summer, and she often ran over to the old Dix homestead to chat for awhile with Theodora. They had had their chat out, on this particular evening, and Anne was giving herself over to the delight of building an air-castle. She leaned her shapely head, with its braided coronet of dark red hair, against the window-casing, and her gray eyes were like the moonlight gleam of shadowy pools. Then she saw Ludovic Speed coming down the lane. He was yet far from the house, for the Dix lane was a long one, but Ludovic could be recognized as far as he could be seen. No one else in Middle Grafton had such a tall, gently-stooping, placidly-moving figure. In every kink and turn of it there was an individuality all Ludovic’s own. Anne roused herself from her dreams, thinking it would only be tactful to take her departure. Ludovic was courting Theodora. Everyone in Grafton knew that, or, if anyone were in ignorance of the fact, it was not because he had not had time to find out. Ludovic had been coming down that lane to see Theodora, in the same ruminating, unhastening fashion, for fifteen years!

4. A Character’s Thoughts

Another good way to grab your readers’ attention is by opening up a character’s thoughts, especially those that seem strange or out of the ordinary.

Anna Sewell’s Black Beauty uses this approach in starting the story:

The first place that I can well remember was a large pleasant meadow with a pond of clear water in it. Some shady trees leaned over it, and rushes and water-lilies grew at the deep end. Over the hedge on one side we looked into a plowed field, and on the other we looked over a gate at our master’s house, which stood by the roadside; at the top of the meadow was a grove of fir trees, and at the bottom a running brook overhung by a steep bank. While I was young I lived upon my mother’s milk, as I could not eat grass. In the daytime I ran by her side, and at night I lay down close by her. When it was hot we used to stand by the pond in the shade of the trees, and when it was cold we had a nice warm shed near the grove.

5. Prologue

When you start a story with a prologue, it’s usually to share some important information or backstory about your character(s). This can help your reader understand something important about the characters or the story before jumping right in.

Bodie Thone’s Warsaw Requiem , Book 6 of The Zion Covenant, starts with the following excerpt:

January 19, 1991 All the reading lamps had gone out, leaving the cabin of the jet muted by the soft twilight of recessed lighting. Through the small window of the El Al passenger plane, the stars above the Mediterranean seemed hard and cold, unblinking in the thin atmosphere of 35,000 feet. David Kopecky stared out across the moonlit wing, watching as a red light winked on and off with a steady rhythm. Closing his eyes for an instant, he remembered his own longing as he had watched lights like this pass over the night sky above Russia. Always he had craned his neck to watch, dreaming of the freedom that must surely lie at the end of the journey. He had imagined men and women encased in the sleek silver cocoon of a passenger jet high above his head. Where are they going? he had wondered. And how are they so privileged that they can leave Russia?

6. A Letter

Another unique way of opening a story is with a letter, which can reveal information about relationships between certain characters or their ongoing situations.

For example, in L.M. Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables series, she takes a different twist with Book 4, Anne of Windy Poplars , starting with a letter and using letters to tell most of the story.

(Letter from Anne Shirley, B.A., Principal of Summerside High School, to Gilbert Blythe, medical student at Redmond College, Kingsport.) Windy Poplars, Spook’s Lane, “S’side, P. E. I., Monday, September 12th. DEAREST: Isn’t that an address! Did you ever hear anything so delicious? Windy Poplars is the name of my new home and I love it. I also love Spook’s Lane, which has no legal existence. It should be Trent Street but it is never called Trent Street except on the rare occasions when it is mentioned in the Weekly Courier . . . and then people look at each other and say, ‘Where on earth is that?’ Spook’s Lane it is . . . although for what reason I cannot tell you. I have already asked Rebecca Dew about it, but all she can say is that it has always been Spook’s Lane and there was some old yarn years ago of its being haunted. But she has never seen anything worse-looking than herself in it.

Hook Readers from the First Line

By choosing the right type of opening for your story, you can tackle one of the most difficult aspects of storytelling: getting started!

So what are you waiting for? Grab a pen, pour another cup of coffee, and let those ideas start flowing!

Did you find this post helpful? Let us know in the comments below!

If you enjoyed this post, then you might also like:

How to Write the Setting of a Story: 4 Tips for a Memorable Backdrop
40 Short Story Prompts You Can Write in a Day
How to Write the First Chapter of a Book: A Checklist for Novelists
How to End Your Book: 5 Steps to Writing a Fantastic Final Chapter

Yen Cabag is the Blog Writer of TCK Publishing. She is also a homeschooling mom, family coach, and speaker for the Charlotte Mason method, an educational philosophy that places great emphasis on classic literature and the masterpieces in art and music. She has also written several books, both fiction and nonfiction. Her passion is to see the next generation of children become lovers of reading and learning in the midst of short attention spans.

What great ideas. Thank you.

We’re so glad you found the post helpful! :)

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Writing Prompts

56 Dystopian Writing Prompts

Escape to a dark, disheartened world with these 56 dystopian writing prompts .

Mass poverty, cruelty and fear cover a dystopian world. From the shelter-like homes to the dark, broken streets. Life is hard. When writing a story set in a dystopian world you need to describe the harsh reality of this world in great detail. Make the reader fear this world. Think about the leaders who have control. This control might be significant, where harsh rules are made to keep the peace. Alternatively, there could be a rebellion, where leaders have no control and civilians are running havoc. See our master list of world-building questions to help develop a believable dystopian world.

A dystopian world is a world in shatters and ruins. How did it become this way? What rules and regimes do civilians follow, if any? What type of crime is most prominent in this world? These questions will help you create a realistic and powerful dystopian world for your readers.

Looking for some name ideas for your new world? Check out this world name generator . You might also find this list of Earth day writing prompts and this list of over 110 sci-fi writing prompts .

Dystopian writing prompts

To help you create a powerful story about a society in crisis, here are our 56 dystopian writing prompts:

In the year 2,121, sea levels have risen at an extreme rate. 98% of the Earth is now underwater. The remaining 2% is made of small islands scattered across the Earth. With resources at a scarcity, the islands must work together if they are to survive.
A virus has wiped out 95% of humanity in the future. The only survivors are machines and a group of secret underground warriors who rebelled against technology for centuries.
In the future, a virus has caused some humans to mutate into ravenous troll-like beasts. While the remaining humans have to learn to survive in the world with these beasts.
The life expectancy of people has dropped drastically in the future. At the age of 18, humans start to deteriorate and slowly pass away. The ruler is an arrogant 14-year-old kid.
Scientists have combined robotics with human tissue to increase the life expectancy of humans. Apart from the vital organs, such as lungs and heart, as well as parts of the brain, humans are mostly robotic. Eventually, humans start losing control of their bodies to machines.
From the moment a human is born to the day they die, humans are connected to the internet. Everything they need to know about life is on a screen to which they are connected. One day, a technology outbreak completely wipes the internet. Humans are switched off. What happens next?
Scientists have found the secret to endless happiness. They create a new pill that needs to be taken once a day to remain happy. But is this new pill all as it seems?
To promote equality in the future, humans have to dress the same and talk the same. Any inappropriate English and slang words are banned. All around the world, everyone must speak English. If these rules are broken, the rule breaker will be sentenced to prison or even death.
With the brand new Cloner 3000, cloning is just a button press away. Clone your cat, your dog and even yourself if you dare. What are the potential dangers of cloning yourself too many times?
Law and order is destroyed in the future. People are free to do whatever they want without any consequences. Until a group of vigilante heroes decide to recreate the law.
There are two types of people, the rich and the poor. The rich have an extreme amount of money and power. And the poor are living on the streets and undergrounds, struggling to get by. A poor orphan girl is adopted by a rich family and discovers a deadly secret about how the rich become rich.
The excessive use of technology and social media has meant that 95% of the world suffers from extreme social phobia. The slightest human interaction results in mass panic attacks. One brave human decides to create a group where people can meet face to face regularly to help them overcome this fear.
Crime has become such a huge issue in the future, that every home in the world has become a prison cell. Prison guards patrol the streets and provide prisoners with the essentials. One guard feeling guilty that his family is locked behind bars, tries freeing them, and soon things get out of control.
Oxygen is the new currency in the future. Instead of money people buy, earn and sell little canisters of oxygen. Continue this dystopian story…
Desperate to create the perfect world, the government provides every person with a free virtual reality headset. Once worn, the person is transported to a tranquil utopia. Meanwhile, the government secretly has other plans in the real world.
A virus has turned every tree, plant and flower on earth into flesh-eating monsters. The only way to survive is to kill all plant life on Earth, but how will the planet survive?
A new mobile app in the future tells people when to eat, sleep, drink and essentially live. Without the app, humans would be lost, confused and clueless. A group of cyber hackers, hack this app to gain control of all humans.
Being the main cause of social disorders and suicides, the internet is banned in the year 2,098. With the ban of the internet, people slowly resort to the old ways of living before the internet ever existed. Until a group of individuals find a way to bring back the net.
Bored of old-style video gaming, humans resort to sticking chips inside prisoners. Once a prisoner is chipped, they can be controlled like a video game character.
Desperate to be beautiful and young, rich people resort to stealing the actual skin and facial features of ordinary people. These extreme surgeries soon start to have a weird effect on humans.
The Earth has been destroyed by a huge asteroid. A few humans that survived by living underground finally emerge to start a new life on Earth.
With the Earth’s population at an all-time high, it’s time for every human to prove their worth. After the age of 16, humans must take a test every year. If they fail the test, they are killed immediately. One young adult scores incredibly high on the test making them the ‘chosen one’.
Due to the lack of resources on Earth, all luxury items have been banned. People survive on basic rations of bread, rice and beans each month. No vanity items, such as jewellery or make-up are allowed. One day a group of civilians discover that luxury items do exist, but only the leaders can use them.
For the sake of human evolution, scientists have turned the small town of Whitefish into a huge science experiment. No one is allowed to enter or leave the city unless they are told so. Every now and then, a new stimulus is introduced, so that scientists can record the human reactions for a research paper.
Write a story about the aftermath of World War 5. Who was at war and who lost it? What devastation did the war create on Earth?
In the far future, robots are responsible for creating human life. They carefully program each human when they are born to do certain tasks in life. One human realizes that they don’t need to follow the orders programmed in them and fights for freedom.
After a huge asteroid hits Earth, the last two survivors have to find a way to recreate life. It’s a modern, dystopian Adam and Eve story.
World leaders ban religion and talk of God in the future. A man discovers a secret church up in the mountains where people secretly believe in God.
Due to animal cruelty, people are no longer allowed to have animals as pets in the future. All pets live out in the wild without any human masters. One homeless teenager finds a hurt dog in the wild and takes care of it. Eventually, authorities find out about this forbidden friendship.
A bored scientist dedicates his whole life to recreating popular monsters like vampires, werewolves and Frankenstein’s monster in real life. He finally masters the procedure and offers it to rich people at a price.
Tired of the rat race and busy city-living, people move to the country to live a peaceful and calm life. Eventually, cities like New York City become a playground for criminals and runaways.
When the human population on land reaches an all-time high. One man goes on a quest to create the ultimate underwater city for humans. Continue this story.
In the year 2,121, 100% of the population becomes vegan. Eating any sort of animal product is considered cannibalism. Farm animals realize that humans will no longer eat them, so decide to plan their revenge.
Cyber-pets become a huge thing in the future. Technology advances so much that people would rather buy robotic pets inside of real ones. This results in more stray animals on the streets. With no human love, the pets turn into savages attacking both humans and the cyber-pets.
Humans have left Earth for a better life on Mars. One day, thousands of years later, a space astronaut from Mars lands on Earth to find…
In the future, the majority of jobs have been taken over by robots. The only way to earn money is to take part in a series of games and challenges created by the rich for their entertainment.
Everyone on Earth has experienced some sort of mutation in the future. This mutation has made humans powerful and troll-like. As the only pure human (with no mutations), your character’s daughter is kidnapped by a group of mutants who want to use her blood to make humans human-like again.
Imagine you are the last human survivor on Earth. What would you do alone on Earth?
Describe a future where all humans are either deaf or blind.
You and your family live underground away from all the technology. Write a series of diary entries about life underground.
Sugar is banned completely in the future. Even fruits that taste sugary are no longer available. You are the leader of a secret underground group that creates your own homemade sugar. However since humans haven’t tasted sugar in a long time, the results become very dangerous.
Since Earth has been destroyed, every family lives in their own spaceship homes floating around the galaxy. Every now and then you need to protect your home from space invaders, pirates and of course black holes.
Write a story about one boy, his dog and a group of robots living on Earth as the only survivors.
Lying dormant deep at the core of the Earth, dragons finally awake. After a series of powerful earthquakes, they burst through the ground one by one.
With surveillance cameras watching everyone. A new TV show called, ‘Did They Really Do That’ airs across the nation showing the most embarrassing moments of civilians living in your area. You then go on a mission to destroy all surveillance and destroy the TV show.
One man’s dream to swim with the dolphins is taken to extremes, as he genetically modifies a group of humans, so that they can swim underwater. Unknowingly these humans turn into monstrous mermaid-like creatures.
Huge floating islands are created all over Earth to cope with the increase in the human population. These floating islands become new countries on the map with their own rules and way of life.
In the year 3,021 world peace is finally achieved. Everyone lives in perfect harmony. But how was this world peace achieved? One curious civilian makes a shocking discovery.
Write a news article about the latest riot happening in your town in the year 2,899. Why did this riot happen? Who was involved? Where did it happen? What exactly happened before and during the riot?
You are a lab assistant for a company that creates genetic make-up for humans. The make-up keeps humans looking young for their entire lifespan of 180 years. One day you discover something shocking…
Cats and dogs have evolved into human-shaped beings. They now rule Earth and treat humans like pets.
Due to natural extinction and the threat of disease, all animals are gone in the future. You and your family have created a secret underground zoo, which holds the last remaining animals on Earth.
Write a story from the perspective of a servant robot who wants to be the mayor of the city.
Scientists have learned to extract emotions from humans and contain them in jars. At a price, you can remove negative emotions like anger, sadness and fear. You can also sell and buy positive emotions like happiness. To obtain a new emotion, you simply inhale the emotion directly from the jar. In a special clinic, over 10,000 jars of emotions are contained, until one day…
The Earth is a massive video game for advanced aliens living on a distant planet. They randomly spawn monsters whenever they feel like, and can control any human they like. One day the aliens are so bored that they create a big scary boss monster for a town of people to fight.
In an effort to create a better world, all humans must take a personality test. If your personality does not meet the criteria set by the government, then you are sent to work camps. People at the work camps live a horrible life of abuse, torture and endless hard work for 18 hours a day. Imagine that your main character fails the personality test, and is sent to one of these camps.

For more gritty ideas, check out our guide on what is dieselpunk plus story ideas .

What do you think of these dystopian writing prompts? Which one is your favourite? Let us know in the comments below.

Marty the wizard is the master of Imagine Forest. When he's not reading a ton of books or writing some of his own tales, he loves to be surrounded by the magical creatures that live in Imagine Forest. While living in his tree house he has devoted his time to helping children around the world with their writing skills and creativity.

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You will have 8 questions to choose from. You must respond to only 4 of the 8 questions.
Each response is limited to a maximum of 350 words.
Which questions you choose to answer is entirely up to you. However, you should select questions that are most relevant to your experience and that best reflect your individual circumstances.

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All questions are equal. All are given equal consideration in the application review process, which means there is no advantage or disadvantage to choosing certain questions over others.
There is no right or wrong way to answer these questions. It’s about getting to know your personality, background, interests and achievements in your own unique voice.
Use the additional comments field if there are issues you'd like to address that you didn't have the opportunity to discuss elsewhere on the application. This shouldn't be an essay, but rather a place to note unusual circumstances or anything that might be unclear in other parts of the application. You may use the additional comments field to note extraordinary circumstances related to COVID-19, if necessary.

Questions & guidance

Remember, the personal insight questions are just that—personal. Which means you should use our guidance for each question just as a suggestion in case you need help. The important thing is expressing who you are, what matters to you and what you want to share with UC.

1. Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time. Things to consider: A leadership role can mean more than just a title. It can mean being a mentor to others, acting as the person in charge of a specific task, or taking the lead role in organizing an event or project. Think about what you accomplished and what you learned from the experience. What were your responsibilities?

Did you lead a team? How did your experience change your perspective on leading others? Did you help to resolve an important dispute at your school, church, in your community or an organization? And your leadership role doesn't necessarily have to be limited to school activities. For example, do you help out or take care of your family? 2. Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side. Things to consider: What does creativity mean to you? Do you have a creative skill that is important to you? What have you been able to do with that skill? If you used creativity to solve a problem, what was your solution? What are the steps you took to solve the problem?

How does your creativity influence your decisions inside or outside the classroom? Does your creativity relate to your major or a future career? 3. What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time? Things to consider: If there is a talent or skill that you're proud of, this is the time to share it.You don't necessarily have to be recognized or have received awards for your talent (although if you did and you want to talk about it, feel free to do so). Why is this talent or skill meaningful to you?

Does the talent come naturally or have you worked hard to develop this skill or talent? Does your talent or skill allow you opportunities in or outside the classroom? If so, what are they and how do they fit into your schedule? 4. Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced. Things to consider: An educational opportunity can be anything that has added value to your educational experience and better prepared you for college. For example, participation in an honors or academic enrichment program, or enrollment in an academy that's geared toward an occupation or a major, or taking advanced courses that interest you; just to name a few.

If you choose to write about educational barriers you've faced, how did you overcome or strive to overcome them? What personal characteristics or skills did you call on to overcome this challenge? How did overcoming this barrier help shape who you are today? 5. Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement? Things to consider: A challenge could be personal, or something you have faced in your community or school. Why was the challenge significant to you? This is a good opportunity to talk about any obstacles you've faced and what you've learned from the experience. Did you have support from someone else or did you handle it alone?

If you're currently working your way through a challenge, what are you doing now, and does that affect different aspects of your life? For example, ask yourself, How has my life changed at home, at my school, with my friends or with my family? 6. Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom. Things to consider: Many students have a passion for one specific academic subject area, something that they just can't get enough of. If that applies to you, what have you done to further that interest? Discuss how your interest in the subject developed and describe any experience you have had inside and outside the classroom such as volunteer work, internships, employment, summer programs, participation in student organizations and/or clubs and what you have gained from your involvement.

Has your interest in the subject influenced you in choosing a major and/or future career? Have you been able to pursue coursework at a higher level in this subject (honors, AP, IB, college or university work)? Are you inspired to pursue this subject further at UC, and how might you do that?

7. What have you done to make your school or your community a better place? Things to consider: Think of community as a term that can encompass a group, team or a place like your high school, hometown or home. You can define community as you see fit, just make sure you talk about your role in that community. Was there a problem that you wanted to fix in your community?

Why were you inspired to act? What did you learn from your effort? How did your actions benefit others, the wider community or both? Did you work alone or with others to initiate change in your community? 8. Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California? Things to consider: If there's anything you want us to know about you but didn't find a question or place in the application to tell us, now's your chance. What have you not shared with us that will highlight a skill, talent, challenge or opportunity that you think will help us know you better?

From your point of view, what do you feel makes you an excellent choice for UC? Don't be afraid to brag a little.

Writing tips

Start early..

Give yourself plenty of time for preparation, careful composition and revisions.

Write persuasively.

Making a list of accomplishments, activities, awards or work will lessen the impact of your words. Expand on a topic by using specific, concrete examples to support the points you want to make.

Use “I” statements.

Talk about yourself so that we can get to know your personality, talents, accomplishments and potential for success on a UC campus. Use “I” and “my” statements in your responses.

Proofread and edit.

Although you will not be evaluated on grammar, spelling or sentence structure, you should proofread your work and make sure your writing is clear. Grammatical and spelling errors can be distracting to the reader and get in the way of what you’re trying to communicate.

Solicit feedback.

Your answers should reflect your own ideas and be written by you alone, but others — family, teachers and friends can offer valuable suggestions. Ask advice of whomever you like, but do not plagiarize from sources in print or online and do not use anyone's words, published or unpublished, but your own.

Copy and paste.

Once you are satisfied with your answers, save them in plain text (ASCII) and paste them into the space provided in the application. Proofread once more to make sure no odd characters or line breaks have appeared.

This is one of many pieces of information we consider in reviewing your application. Your responses can only add value to the application. An admission decision will not be based on this section alone.

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How to To Make Money Online: 35 Reliable Ways (2024)

From online surveys to envelope stuffing, there are lots of popular get-rich-quick money-making ideas. But do these methods really work? Usually, they don’t. You might earn a little bit, but the real issue with these gigs is their lack of stability and potential for long-term success.

Fortunately, there are legitimate ways to make money online. Unlike quick-fix schemes that promise much but deliver little, these reliable methods can lead to sustainable earnings and even career growth. And the best part? You only need a laptop and a stable internet connection to pursue them.

How to make money online: 35 real ways

1. start a dropshipping business.

Dropshipping is a business model where you sell a product to a customer, but the supplier handles the storage, packaging, and shipping on your behalf. You can dropship through your own ecommerce store —just install a dropshipping app and you’ll gain access to dozens of suppliers across various product categories.

Ready to start a dropshipping business? Shopify is the platform most online entrepreneurs use to sell products without inventory. With Shopify dropshipping apps, you can source a variety of products and have them shipped to your customers.

2. Try print on demand

Print on demand (POD) is another popular way to earn money online. Many entrepreneurs are drawn to it because it allows for low initial investment and easy setup. You create designs for products such as t-shirts, mugs, and tote bags, and then a POD service prints and ships the items directly to your customers.

How does it differ from dropshipping? First, you can make your own custom products, which is great for brand recognition. Second, you can choose from specific items rather than a vast range of categories. Most print-on-demand companies offer products that are easy to print on, like t-shirts, mugs, and tote bags.

3. Affiliate marketing

Affiliate marketing is one of the most popular ways to make money online. Throughout the years, its popularity has gone up and down, but it continues to be an effective way to earn passive income. The best part about affiliate marketing is that you choose from a vast range of companies to partner with, including Shopify , Amazon , and Uber.

This business model allows you to earn a living by promoting other brands. Once you’ve signed up for an affiliate marketing program, you’ll start earning commissions from sales of retail products, software, apps, and more. While the commission may seem small, keep in mind that you can be an affiliate for several brands and promote a variety of products across different platforms.

4. Start a YouTube channel

If others are profiting from YouTube , you can too. Your YouTube channel should focus on a single niche so you can build a strong, loyal audience. For example, you can create makeup tutorials, stream video games, review products, teach skills, create prank videos, or do anything else you think there’s an audience for.

The key to earning money on YouTube is creating content people want to watch. Enticing headlines and keyword-optimized descriptions can draw viewers to your videos. Once you hit the 1,000-subscriber mark, you become eligible to earn advertising revenue through running ads on your content.

5. Become an influencer

Building a personal brand can also help you make money online. Soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo charges more than $2 million for a sponsored Instagram post, for example. While it may seem like reality stars, singers, and athletes are the biggest influencers, keep in mind that even smaller-scale influencers can make more money today than they did a few years back.

To become an influencer, you need to build a healthy following. The best platforms to get started on? Instagram and TikTok. Some of the biggest non-celebrity influencers often gained their first taste of exposure on these platforms. You might want to check out how to get more Instagram followers if you want to build a big audience on the platform.

6. Create an online course

Selling courses ranks as one of the top strategies for earning money online. If you’re an expert in a particular subject, you can capitalize on your knowledge by creating online courses. You can sell these courses on online platforms like Udemy or through your own website if you have a dedicated audience. Some entrepreneurs earn as much as $5,000 per month from their online courses .

The platform you choose to sell your course on will shape your online money-making strategy. Selling on Udemy means you won’t have to focus much on promotion—it practically takes care of itself. You may want to enhance its visibility through blogs or social media networks. On the other hand, if your course is on your own website, consider using ads for promotion.

7. Publish an ebook

With Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing , it’s never been easier to publish an ebook. All you need to do is write the ebook, format it, create an ebook cover, publish it, and promote it. You can choose to hire a writer for your ebook, a graphic designer to design the cover, and a manuscript editor to eliminate errors from the content.

When researching the topic, focus on keywords based on popular searches on Amazon. The Keyword Tool is a great choice for finding the words people use while searching, so you can craft your title around them.

8. Start a blog

Blogging is one of the oldest methods for making money online. People who love writing tend to start blogs with a niche focus. For example, a blog about procrastination, cars, dropshipping, toys, etc., is often a narrow enough focus to build a loyal following and big enough that you can cover a lot of ground. For those looking to make money online fast, this method can be a rewarding venture.

You can start a blog on various platforms, such as Shopify (remove the checkout feature so you don’t have to pay a subscription as you build it out) or WordPress. When you start your blog, focus on very specific keywords with a tight focus and continue to expand into additional but still relevant categories as you grow and dominate new spaces.

9. Consider freelancing

The easiest way to make money online is to take your current 9-to-5 job and do it online instead. For example, if you’re a writer, data entry specialist, graphic designer, teacher, or developer, you can market these skills and find clients online who are willing to pay you to apply them.

There’s a never-ending list of job platforms for each type of freelancer too. For example, freelance writers can apply for jobs on specific online writing job boards, but also on general freelance websites like Fiverr , Freelancer , Upwork , and all the others. Remember, freelancing is a numbers game: the more applications you fill out and submit, the more likely you’ll be to get a response back.

10. Create an app

If you’re not a developer, you’re probably looking at this money-making idea and feeling a bit stuck. Fortunately, you can hire someone with programming skills to build an app for you. Sites like Toptal will connect you with plenty of app developers who are open to working with entrepreneurs to turn their vision into reality.

All you have to do is come up with a unique app idea, identify the audience you want to target, and create a brand image for your product. The programmer you hire will take care of things on the development front.

11. Become a writer

With a growing interest in content marketing , more and more companies are looking for writers who can fill their web properties with great content. The secret to succeeding as a writer is to focus on a specific niche. Many writers try to be generalists, covering everything from food to tech. However, a niche focus sets you apart.

What about AI replacing human writers? While AI can generate content, it lacks the human touch. As a writer, your experience in a niche adds value. You can offer thoughts, experiences, and insider perspectives. That’s what brands want. That’s what they pay for.

Sites for finding freelance writing jobs include:

BloggingPro
Be a Freelance Blogger

12. Do side gigs

Side gigs can help you make money online while you keep your full-time job. If you’re looking to make an extra couple of hundred dollars per month, this is a great idea. The work doesn’t always last long term, but it can.

Use platforms like Fiverr to find part-time gigs you can do online. As a new entrant in the gig economy, you’ll want to focus on offering a low price so you can get your first review. Ask a friend to buy your gig and leave your first review so you can get started faster. Treat the friend like a client and actually deliver a finished product that you can feature in your portfolio.

13. Do translation work

Translation is a fairly underserved niche, meaning there’s less competition in this field than in other niche markets. To capitalize on the opportunity, you need to be fluent in at least two languages. If you’re bilingual or majored in a popular language in school, this may be a great money-making idea for you to try out.

You will need to show proof of your ability to translate without using machine translation tools. If you have a language degree or experience translating text, make sure to highlight that in your portfolio or résumé. Most companies will require a translation test, and you can’t use translation tools at any time to help you pass the test.

Sites where you can find translation jobs to make money online include:

People Per Hour
Protranslating

14. Sell your stuff

Do you have a closet full of items you no longer use? Consider turning that clutter into cash by selling your unwanted goods online. You can list your items on online marketplaces like eBay or Etsy, or even set up your own online store for direct selling.

To maximize your sales, focus on high-demand items such as electronics, furniture, toys, and handcrafted goods. Plus, take clear, bright photos of your products—strong visuals help to attract customers and speed up sales.

15. Become an online tutor

If you’re looking to earn money on your own schedule, consider becoming an online tutor. Companies that hire tutors often provide the flexibility to set your own hours, allowing you to work when it’s convenient for you.

You’ll need a strong understanding of the subject you plan to tutor, as well as effective communication skills to explain concepts clearly to students. Additionally, having a teaching degree or relevant experience in the field can increase your chances of landing a tutoring position.

You can find online tutoring jobs on platforms such as:

16. Drive your car

If you own a car, you can make some spare cash as an Uber driver or delivery person. Even without a car, you can deliver food and other essentials using a bicycle or moped. Uber drivers looking to make even more money can turn their vehicle into a moving billboard with Free Car Media , which wraps your car in a removable vinyl advert.

Interested in making money fast with Uber? If you legally run a side business, you could showcase your products to passengers—though not all will be interested. With prior consent, passengers may sift through products you have for sale under the driver’s seat. If they wish to buy but don’t have cash, you can utilize Uber’s tip function for payment. Always ensure that this approach complies with local laws and regulations.

17. Become a virtual assistant

As entrepreneurs build more businesses, the demand for virtual assistants grows. A virtual assistant is a self-employed individual providing various services remotely, such as writing, bookkeeping, social media management, and customer support.

Find virtual assistant gigs on sites like Virtual Assistant Jobs , Indeed , or Upwork . Many have also succeeded by directly reaching out to brands and entrepreneurs. Combining job postings and proactive outreach could land your first client sooner than expected.

18. Become a Twitch streamer

While Twitch started as a gaming platform, it’s quickly evolving to include other types of content. Nowadays, Twitch streaming is an increasingly popular way to make money online.

You’ll need to find a popular game or channel that isn’t overly competitive so people can easily find your content. In order to get people to notice your streams, you’ll need to have a consistent style for your channel: Is it going to be funny, educational, or entertaining? Choose your path and stick to it.

There are five ways to monetize your Twitch channel:

Sell products
Offer brand sponsorships
Accept fan donations
Offer subscriptions
Run Twitch ads

19. Invest in stocks

Investing in stocks can be a way to make money quickly, but it’s not without risk, especially if you’re inexperienced. While the rewards can be high, you might also face losses.

If you have a 9-to-5 job, consider exploring your company’s financial programs. Does it allow investment in company stocks? If so, this could be an option. With company stock programs, your role as an employee may influence the organization’s success. Additionally, if your company offers an RRSP matching program, consider this as a way to save for retirement or a down payment on a home.

20. Sell photography

Whether you’re a professional photographer or just love snapping great pictures, you can make money online by selling your images. Sites like Shutterstock and Alamy are great places to showcase your work. These websites pay royalties to photographers when someone downloads a copy of their image.

If you’re looking to monetize your photography quickly, you can create a listing on Foap , a smartphone app that lets you upload your works and earn cash. When an agency, brand, or anyone else buys a photo or video from your digital Foap portfolio, the app creator shares the profit with you 50-50.

21. Sell clothes online

Have clothes you don’t wear anymore? Rather than letting them sit in your closet, sell them online. There are quite a few websites that let you sell apparel for cash, such as Poshmark , Refashioner , and ThredUp .

You can also explore Facebook buy and sell groups in your community to find people online and sell the items in person. Just be careful of scams and follow the recommended safety precautions.

22. Become an extreme couponer

If you’re looking to save and make a bit of money, couponing can be a viable option. Coupon Chief’s Pays-2-Share program , for example, lets you share coupons and earn a 2% to 3% commission on sales. The key is to share coupons that haven’t been used before.

This method resembles affiliate marketing, where you earn commissions through referral links. Many coupon companies pay their affiliates consistently, making this a legitimate way to earn online. For instance, Coupon Chief has paid more than $1.3 million in commissions to date.

23. Buy and sell domain names

If you regularly buy domain names but fail to use them, you can always try to sell them for a profit. Selling domains is ultra-competitive, though. If you own a one-word .com domain, you’ll have a better chance of selling. Words that have a high search volume sell well too. You can search for domain names and buy a custom domain through the Shopify domain registration platform.

Once you purchase a domain, list it for sale on GoDaddy’s Domain Auction . You can look through the domains with the highest bids to see what type of domains sell well. This research will help you evaluate the potential sale value of your domains and estimate how much profit you could make by selling them.

24. Sell your designs online

Graphic design is an amazing skill that you can monetize in several ways. You can go the print-on-demand route and sell your designs on your own custom products. Alternatively, you can pitch your designs on a crowdsource platform like 99designs .

There’s also the option to create your own graphics and templates to sell on marketplaces like Envato or Creative Market . Or how about picking up some clients and working as a freelance graphic designer? According to PayScale , this role will net you $29.90 per hour, on average.

25. Test websites

If you’re passionate about user experience, UserTesting pays reviewers $10 to give other entrepreneurs feedback on their websites and apps. You’ll be given a set of questions to answer as you browse through a site. That’s one fast way to make money online.

You’ll communicate your ideas and feedback to the entrepreneur through a video while navigating their website or app. Your video is only 20 minutes long, so if you do three videos per hour, you’ll make $30. Other reviewers can take projects quickly, so you have to act fast when a new website or app needs to be reviewed.

26. Create and publish newsletters

Creating and publishing email newsletters is one of the most profitable online business ideas. Here’s why: People crave personalized content they can read at their leisure, and newsletters hit the spot.

Starting is simpler than you think. First, identify your niche—what you’re passionate about and what can benefit your readers. Then, choose a reliable email hosting service that offers customizable templates, robust security, and tools for building a strong subscriber relationship.

27. Get a part-time job

When you’ve done whatever it takes to make money fast but struggle to make an impact, sometimes you’re left with no choice but to get a part-time job. You can browse part-time jobs on Indeed or a niche job board that caters to your field.

Some job websites require an upfront fee to register, so read the fine print carefully. Most sites let you filter for part-time and contract-based jobs, so you should have no problem finding relevant positions to apply for. With many companies hiring part time, it’s easier than ever to make extra money without working a full week.

28. Become a TikTok consultant

One of the trendiest ways to make money online is to become a TikTok consultant. Brands will contact you for brainstorming video ideas, developing engaging bios, and more. It’s the perfect money-making opportunity for digital nomads —you can run the entire business from your smartphone.

However, you need to have a few talents before you begin offering TikTok consultancy to businesses. The most important is knowing how to create viral videos that get people to engage with brands. If you don’t have the expertise to drive sales through this platform, you can still learn how to attract customers by taking this TikTok course .

29. Sell greeting cards online

If you have a knack for picking out the perfect greeting card for different occasions, this might be an easy way to make money online. However, it’s not recommended that you market your services to everyone and anyone—it’s not a smart way to do business. Instead, design or source greeting cards that appeal to a certain segment of the population.

For example, you can make greeting cards that cater to C-level executives wanting to thank their senior vice presidents for making profitable decisions last year. Or you can target health care professionals who want to thank their patients for choosing their clinic. For designing the cards, you can use an online graphic tool like Photoshop or Canva .

30. Offer virtual local tours

Do you know your town or city well? Share it with people by offering virtual tours. This can be a way for tourists and others to explore new places without leaving home.

You can use video calls to show historical sites, cultural spots, and local favorites. Share local stories and facts. Allow people to ask questions and see things up close. Offer different tours, like ones for food lovers or history buffs. Work with local shops so tour guests can buy local products.

31. Become a reseller

Reselling products is a way to make money without creating items. You can buy vintage or collectible items and then sell them. If you want to focus on specific products, you can become a certified distributor of a brand in your area.

Start by finding brands to resell on wholesale directories and platforms like AliExpress. Then, set up an online platform to sell your chosen products. Remember, you will need to manage inventory. This takes effort, but it doesn’t require making products.

32. Sell advertising space

If you own a website, you can make money by selling ad space on it. The more people click or look at these ads, the more cash you make. Make sure your website is a place where advertisers want to be. This means good content that shows up in search results. Also, check where ads work best on your site to keep your readers happy.

You could start with a network like Google’s to get ads up and running fast. If you’re using a site builder like WordPress, there are easy guides to follow. Or, explore other ad networks that offer different kinds of ads and special features to boost your earnings and reach more people worldwide.

33. Narrate audiobooks

Do you have a great speaking voice? Consider using it to make money online by narrating audiobooks. Being organized, professional, and punctual are key to building a reputable profile in the industry. You can find opportunities on platforms such as Bunny Studio , Voices , or ACX .

Enhance your visibility by creating a personal website where you can upload samples of your narration. You can also network by joining audiobook narration groups on social media and attending industry events. This will help you connect with authors and publishers looking for narrators.

34. Become an Airbnb host

If you’ve got a spare bedroom or a quaint guest house sitting empty, consider turning it into a source of income by hosting on Airbnb. It’s an effective way to use your property to cover your mortgage or save for future goals. You can even increase your earnings by selling items directly to guests, such as handmade décor or local products.

To get started, sign up for a free Airbnb account and set up your listing with attractive descriptions and photos. To add a personal touch, use QR codes in your space that guests can scan to purchase featured items

35. Do micro jobs

Looking to earn extra money? Consider micro jobs—small online tasks like transcribing audio or organizing data. Websites like TaskRabbit for various odd jobs, Upwork for freelance work, and PeoplePerHour for creative and technical tasks offer plenty of opportunities.

Just ensure you have a stable internet connection and a functional computer. For design or tech roles, showcasing your previous work could help you secure the job.

Start your online earning journey today

Making money online can help you stay afloat during these troubled times, but it can also help you escape your 9-to-5 job so you can become a full-time entrepreneur. By brainstorming online business ideas and choosing to start an online business, you gain more financial freedom , improve your financial security, and inch closer to living life on your terms .

It really is possible to earn a living online if you work hard and stick with it. So, which money-making idea will you pursue first?

Make money online FAQ

How can i make money online fast.

Build a Shopify store and dropship products online.
Sell used stuff on eBay, Amazon, or Facebook Marketplace.
Find and share coupons on websites like Coupon Chief.
Buy and sell domain names.
Rent your spare room on Airbnb.
Provide TikTok consultancy to startups and businesses.
Sell information products.
Tutor people online in high-demand subjects.
Create online courses.
Review apps and websites.

How can I make $100 a day on the web?

Complete surveys.
Sell products on Amazon.
Teach English online.
Watch videos for money.
Get cash back on your shopping.
Proofread for websites.
Review music online.

How can I make money online in 2024?

Launch a print-on-demand store.
Sell your clothes online.
Create handmade goods.
Offer freelance services.
Curate subscription boxes.
Build online courses.
Launch a podcast.
Create digital products.
Become an influencer.
Start a blog.

Want to learn more?

How to Work from Home: 11 Tips to Stay Productive and Focused
The 33 Best To Do List apps For Every Entrepreneur
16 Reasons to Start a Business
How to Work Remotely : 9 Tips & Tools to Master Remote Life

AI Image Generator

Type in a detailed description and get a selection of AI-generated images to choose from.

Experiment with AI-generated images to find the right vision

Speed up your creative brainstorms and generate AI images that represent your ideas accurately. Explore 100+ video and photo editing tools to start leveling up your creative process.

Break through creative blocks with text to image AI

With a detailed description, Kapwing’s AI Image Generator creates a wide variety of images for you to find the right idea. Generate AI images specially created for you with text to image AI.

Easily create AI images powered by OpenAI's Dall-E

Describe the image you want to create—the more detailed you are, the better your AI-generated images will be.

Experiment with AI-generated images to find the right vision Screenshot

How to make AI-generated images

Start a new project in Kapwing, and click on the lightbulb in the upper left-hand corner to open Kapwing AI. Select "Create image."

Enter a prompt for the type of image you would like to generate. The more specific you are with your prompt, the better the results will be. Try any of the examples, if needed.

Choose from the selection of AI images and use the full creative suite in Kapwing to make any additional edits. Click “Export project” when you’re done, and download a file.

Your journey of finding the right AI Image Generator ends here

Full of creative editing tools, Kapwing offers everything from an image generator to a photo editor. Kapwing leverages Open AI's DALL·E 2 to power our image generator, embedded in the Image Search side-bar. Creators can type in a text prompt to generate four images and choose their favorite to add to the canvas and export. Tweak the prompt to create images that are closer to your vision.

When you're creating social media graphics and videos, AI generated pictures can be the ideal overlay, background, or subject. If you can't find the perfect picture online or take the perfect photograph, why not generate it from scratch?

Add original art to your designs

Because AI-generated images are original, a creator has full commercial license over its use. It's an ideal tool for making gradient backgrounds, visualizing abstract ideas, bringing to life a fantastical scene, crafting a unique profile picture, designing a collage, and getting tattoo design ideas . When generating images, be mindful of our Terms of Service and respect copyright of other artists when emulating a particular artistic style or aesthetic.

Try Magic Fill to resize photos without stretching

Never worry about distorting photos when you need to resize them. Use Magic Fill, Kapwing's Generative Fill that extends images with relevant generated art using artificial intelligence. Magic Fill uses generative fill AI to extend the background of your images to fit a specific aspect ratio while keeping its context.

Fine tune AI art with AI Photo Enhancer

Streamline your editing process and use artificial intelligence (AI) to automatically improve image quality—this AI tool is a one-click wonder for photos. You can also enhance videos with the inline adjustment tools.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are AI-generated images copyrighted?

Yes and no. According to the U.S. Copyright Office, people can copyright the image result they generated using AI, but they cannot copyright the images used by the computer to create the final image. In other words, you can only copyright artwork that is solely made by a human being, not a computer generator — AI-generated images and the final products of AI tools, although uses existing content and artworks made by other artists, are not protected by copyright.

What are AI-generated images?

In short, AI generated images are images crafted, or put together, by a computer. There are different types of AI approaches like generative AI and machine learning AI, so the way AI tools generate content can be different across the board. Typically, AI generates images by taking the prompt you give it, finding patterns and similarities between past-collected prompts and existing content, then combines multiple pieces of content to produce a unified piece of art.

What is the best AI image generator?

It all depends on how detailed your text description is and the image generator’s specialty. For example, Kapwing’s AI image generator is the best for easily entering a topic and getting generated images back in mere seconds. Whereas, Midjourney does the best with realistic images and Dall-E2 does best with cartoon and illustrated text prompts.

What are the best prompts for image generation?

Try these example prompts to get the most accurate images:

"A realistic portrait of a family under soft, natural lighting."
"Concept art for a tiny magical forest city."
"An oil painting of Whitney Houston."

After a couple of examples, try this image generator with your own words and explore the creative possibilities.

What's the easiest text to image website to use?

Among the top AI image generators, we recommend Kapwing's website for text to image AI. From their homepage, dive straight into the Kapwing AI suite and get access to a text to image generator, video generator, image enhancer, and much more. Never wait for downloads and software installations again—Kapwing is consistently improving each tool.

Visit Kapwing's YouTube Channel for weekly tutorials, product launches, and feature showcases.

What's different about Kapwing?

Kapwing is free to use for teams of any size. We also offer paid plans with additional features, storage, and support.

15 LinkedIn Summary Examples You Need to Read in 2024

Customers Interviewed by:

You might not realize it, but your LinkedIn summary section is one of the most important parts of your profile.

Why? Because after the headline, the summary is the first thing visitors read when they check out your profile on LinkedIn.

Think of your summary as an elevator pitch – you only have a few seconds to present yourself, so you need to make it count!

In this article, we will unpack everything you need to know about the LinkedIn summary section.

We’ll also provide you with tips, strategies, and examples to help you create a powerful summary that will land you more job interviews.

1. Tell your story

Before you start writing your summary, remember that you want it to read more like a story than a resume.

This means you should try to avoid excessive bullet points and detailed work history and instead try to craft an engaging narrative that grabs the reader’s attention.

People sitting around a campfire telling stories.

2. Be conversational

Your writing style in your summary should be conversational. A conversational writing style is one that mimics the way people speak to each other in everyday life.

Conversational writing is meant to be easy to read and understand, as well as interesting and entertaining.

3. Hook the reader right away

Visitors to your profile page will only see the first 3 lines of your summary. Then they have to click “read more” to see the rest.

This means the first 3 lines are the most important part of your summary!

If you can hook readers with your first three lines, it’s much more likely they’ll want to read the rest of your summary and profile.

“ Hook readers with the first 3 lines of your summary and they’ll want to read more .”

How do you hook your reader? Generally speaking, your opening should convey the number one thing you want your readers to know about you.

What sets you apart from everyone else? What combinations of skills help you achieve results? Why do you love your work? What outstanding accomplishments do you have?

Answering these questions can help you uncover a compelling opening statement.

94% of recruiters use LinkedIn to vet job candidates. Optimize your LinkedIn profile and show that you’re a recruiter’s perfect candidate.

Click here to start optimizing your LinkedIn profile

4. Be concise

Hiring managers and recruiters are busy people; they don’t have time to read a long, rambling essay.

Keep your summary short and to the point. Try to focus on the most important information and leave out any fluff.

5. Write in the first person

When you write in the first person, you use pronouns such as “I,” “me,” and “my.” This gives your writing a more personal, authentic feel.

For example, instead of saying “John Smith is a marketing professional with 10 years of experience,” you would say, “I am a marketing professional with 10 years of experience.”

Writing in the first person allows you to share your story in your own words.

This can be especially powerful if you have a unique or inspiring story to share about your career journey.

6. Use the right keywords

When recruiters search for candidates on LinkedIn, they type in certain job-related keywords. These keywords can be skills, job titles, or industry jargon.

Try to include as many of these keywords in your summary as possible!

Why? Because using the right keywords will ensure that your profile shows up more often when recruiters type those keywords into the LinkedIn search bar.

How do you find the right keywords to use? Simply scan the descriptions of the jobs you’re applying to and see what words appear most frequently.

The quickest and easiest way to find relevant keywords is to use Jobscan’s LinkedIn Optimization Tool .

This tool uses intelligent technology to analyze your LinkedIn profile against jobs you’re interested in.

It will show you exactly which keywords you should include in your LinkedIn summary and profile, and where to use them.

7. Focus on your strengths

When writing your summary, focus on your strengths and accomplishments.

What are the initiatives that you’ve taken charge of? What have you done that you’re proud of? What accomplishments can you share that will impress others?

As you talk about your accomplishments, weave in how your strengths helped you achieve them. This will show employers how you can help them and why they should choose you.

If you’re not sure what your strengths are, try asking other people what they think your strengths are. This can be done informally by asking friends, family, and colleagues for their input.

You can also take a free personality test to find your true strengths.

Learn more about how to discover your strengths and accomplishments:

39 Accomplishment Examples
Simple Formula for Identifying Key Achievements

8. Discuss your background

While the LinkedIn summary is not the place to publish your autobiography, you do want to include enough information to give readers a good sense of your professional background.

If you have an extensive work history, you may want to focus on your most recent positions and highlight your key responsibilities in each role.

If you’re just starting out in your career, you can use your summary to discuss your educational background and any relevant internships or work experience you have.

9. Describe your current position

The simplest way to describe your current position in your LinkedIn summary is to just state your title and company. For example: “I am currently a software engineer at Google.”

If you want to elaborate further, you can include a brief description of your role or responsibilities. For example…

“My current position is as a Communications Strategist at an ad agency. I help develop and execute communications plans for our clients that help them achieve their business goals. I also manage a team of communication specialists who work on various accounts.

In my role, I often collaborate with account managers, creatives, and media teams to ensure that our client’s messages are effectively communicated to their target audiences.”

10. Detail your accomplishments

Don’t just list your accomplishments in the summary. There’s a separate section in LinkedIn for doing that.

Remember, your LinkedIn summary should be an engaging narrative that tells the story of your professional life. So do your best to make it interesting and exciting to read!

When writing about your accomplishments, highlight those that are most relevant to the type of job or industry you are targeting.

If you have a long and impressive list of accomplishments, mention only those that demonstrate your skills and abilities in the most positive light.

11. Include numbers and data

Whenever possible, try to include numbers and data in your summary.

Numbers not only attract attention, but they can give your readers a more concrete understanding of your skills and experience.

You might tell readers how many years you’ve been working in your field, or highlight specific projects you’ve worked on that were particularly successful.

For example, you could say “Managed a team of 12 people” or “Increased sales by 20%”.

Whatever numbers and data you choose to include, make sure they’re relevant and interesting – otherwise, you risk boring your reader!

Data and numbers for a LinkedIn summary.

12. Highlight relevant skills and talents

Try to add as many relevant skills and talents to your summary as possible, while still keeping it interesting and readable.

This is important because skills and talents serve as the primary source of keywords that recruiters are searching for.

You can incorporate these keywords into your summary with examples of how you utilized your skills and talents to excel in your current role, as well as in previous roles.

However, try to avoid skills that are too basic for your current professional level. For example, if you’re an IT specialist, mentioning MS Office would be strange.

One way to find the most relevant keywords for your summary is to use Jobscan’s LinkedIn Optimization Tool.

It works by analyzing your LinkedIn profile against jobs you’re interested in. This tool is super easy to use and will help you land more job interviews!

13. Show some personality

As mentioned earlier, your LinkedIn summary is one of the most important aspects of your profile because it’s an opportunity for you to show off your personality.

To do this, make sure you write conversationally, which means using language that sounds natural and human.

In addition, try to feature some personal details and interests so that people can get to know you better and decide whether you’d fit within a company’s culture.

Most importantly, be yourself! Don’t try to copy someone else’s style or tone.

“ Be yourself! Don’t try to copy someone else .”

However, it’s important to strike the right balance. You want to come across as genuine and likable, but you also don’t want to overshare or seem unprofessional.

A little bit of personality goes a long way on LinkedIn!

14. State your future ambitions

Sharing your professional ambitions on your LinkedIn summary can help recruiters decide whether you’d be a good fit for their organization.

You can do this by:

Being clear and concise about what you want to achieve.
Making sure your goals are realistic and achievable.
Connecting your ambitions to your overall career strategy.

Stating your future ambitions like this will help you to stand out from the competition and increase your chances of being hired for the role.

15. Include a call to action

The final lines of your summary should include a call to action (CTA). The purpose of the CTA is to urge readers to connect with you in some way.

Here’s an example of a CTA:

“If you’re interested in learning more about my professional journey, connect with me on LinkedIn!”

Pretty simple, isn’t it? Your CTA can also prompt readers to visit your website or contact you for more information.

Including a call to action in your LinkedIn summary is a great way to encourage readers to take a specific, desired action that will help you achieve your objectives.

16. Make use of whitespace

Your LinkedIn summary should NOT be one big block of text. That’s visually unappealing and hard to read.

Instead, use whitespace to break up your text.

You can do this by using short paragraphs . Breaking your text up into small chunks like this makes it easier for readers to digest.

“ Break up your text into small chunks to make it easier to digest .”

Another way to use whitespace effectively is by including relevant images and videos. This can help break up your text and add visual interest.

Just make sure that any images or videos you include are high-quality and relevant to your content.

Overall, using whitespace effectively can help make your LinkedIn summary more engaging and easier to read. So don’t be afraid to use it!

17. Add relevant attachments

Adding attachments to your LinkedIn summary can help you stand out and showcase your work in a more professional light.

By including links to PDFs, slideshows, or even video clips, you can give potential employers or clients a more well-rounded view of your skills and experience.

Plus, it can help demonstrate your ability to use technology to your advantage, which is helpful for most jobs these days.

Infographic showing top 10 tips for writing a LinkedIn summary.

We just went over some important tips and strategies that can help you create a powerful LinkedIn summary.

Now let’s look at some actual real-life LinkedIn bio examples !

NOTE : Take inspiration from these sample LinkedIn summaries but DO NOT copy them.

LinkedIn summary examples for students

Linkedin summary examples for recent graduates, linkedin summary examples for career changers, linkedin summary examples for entrepreneurs, linkedin summary examples for professionals and job seekers.

A good LinkedIn summary is not only important for experienced professionals, it’s also important for students who are not yet in the workforce, still working on a college degree, or applying for internships.

Here are three examples of how to “work with what you’ve got” and make a great first impression on LinkedIn.

Daniel R., Public Policy Analysis Student

Why this works : This summary is clear and concise , easy to read, and outlines both the skills gained from classwork and an internship.

Sarah T., Arts and Culture Management Student

Why this works: This is an excellent example of leaning on your personal character qualities and providing clear examples of how they will enhance your ability to do the job well.

At the internship level, you don’t have to provide a ton of experience to be well-suited for the roles. Sharing about your personality and values can be equally important.

Kelly L., Digital Arts & Sciences Student

Why this works: Another clever strategy is to expound on the unique learning opportunities you’ve experienced in college.

Study abroad experiences, volunteer work, and personal passion projects can all be useful ways to express the value you have to offer.

As a recent graduate, you should focus on your academic achievements, internships or other relevant experience, and extracurricular activities that demonstrate your skills and interests.

Keep your summary concise and clear, and try to convey your personality. The goal is to present yourself as someone people would want to connect with.

Tiffinni S., International Finance and International Economics

LlinkedIn summary example for recent graduates

Why this works: This is a very concise, yet detailed, summary. Tiffinni starts off by injecting some personality, then quickly outlines her academic career, her skills and talents, and her work experience.

Megan M., Criminal Justice

Why this works: While this summary could have used whitespace more effectively, Megan does a great job conveying her passion and focusing on the strengths that will make her an excellent asset for any organization.

Anthony F, Accounting and Finance

Why this works: Anthony does a great job of expressing his personality in the first couple of lines. He then discusses his academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and his ambitions for the future.

He not only tells his story , but he makes it appealing to read by breaking up the text and keeping things concise.

If you’re changing your career, your LinkedIn profile summary should highlight any transferable skills , relevant coursework, or volunteer experiences that show you have what it takes to succeed in your new chosen profession.

You can also include a sentence or two about your professional goals to give your profile some direction.

Jacob H., Airline Pilot to Aviation Technical Writer

LinkedIn summary example for career changers

Why this works: The first 3 lines of this summary tell the reader exactly who Jacob is and what his career change involves. It’s a perfect elevator pitch!

He also provides specific examples of how his previous experience is relevant to his new dream job, and the efforts he’s making to close any gaps in his education or training.

Michael R., Staffing/Recruiting Account Manager to Software Sales Account Executive

Why this works: This is a good LinkedIn summary outline to follow for a career change , particularly if you’re looking to stay in the same general line of work but shifting industries or niches.

Michael also does a great job of highlighting his experience and skills that are relevant to his new career direction.

Every entrepreneur is unique, but there are a couple of things that all great LinkedIn summaries for entrepreneurs have in common.

The summary should show off the entrepreneur’s personality and give readers a sense of what it would be like to work with them.
The summary should demonstrate why the entrepreneur is an expert in their field and why someone should consider doing business with them.

Here are some examples:

Cassandra C., Online Business & Marketing Mentor

LinkdedIn summary example for entrepreneurs

Why this works: Cassandra’s summary clearly conveys two things – her passion for helping people grow their business and her many years of experience .

Her summary brims with energy and confidence, and clearly demonstrates why she is an expert in her field.

Gillian H., Content And Copywriting Strategist

Why this works: Entrepreneurs can also craft a summary that reads more like a sales pitch .

This type of summary should clearly explain what you do and how you can help people. Make sure you’re not being overly sales-y!

Michelle G., Photographer And Graphic Designer

Why this works: It’s especially important for entrepreneurs to stand out from the crowd, and a good way to do this is to write a summary with a unique voice .

In this summary, Michelle showcases her playful personality while still providing evidence of her expertise.

If you decide to create a summary like this, make sure that you don’t forget to include important keywords and that your style aligns with your audience’s sensibilities.

If you’re a professional, the LinkedIn summary is a great opportunity to showcase your unique value proposition , which shows prospective employers what you can bring to the table and what sets you apart from everyone else.

Daniel C., Customer Experience Specialist

LinkedIn summary example for professionals and job seekers

Why this works: Daniel’s personality shines through his summary, but most importantly he demonstrates his process , which allows prospective employers to see exactly how he would approach the work.

Jessica L., Software Engineer

Why this works: Not everyone is a writer and not every job will care if you can craft a narrative in your summary.

If you’re not sure what else to do, use the summary to clearly lay out your skills, tech proficiencies, and certifications .

Alaina C., Social Media Director

Why this works: Short, easy-to-read sentences keep this summary moving while still providing important information about who the writer is beyond just a description of their job.

This is an excellent example of providing a holistic viewpoint of an individual, beyond just the hard skills.

Alison H., SEO Content Writer

Why this works: Alison’s summary uses numbers in the opening line, which is a great way to grab the reader’s attention and entice them to learn more.

Presenting the results of her personality test provides a different perspective to not only her skills, but how she might approach different situations in the workplace.

LinkedIn is one of the first places recruiters and hiring managers go to learn about and find prospective employees.

In fact, studies show that 6 people are hired on LinkedIn every minute !

That’s why it’s so important to create a strong, compelling LinkedIn summary that highlights your professional accomplishments and skills.

“ Six people are hired on LinkedIn every minute, so try to create a strong, compelling summary. “

But your LinkedIn summary is important for another reason – it’s a great way to set yourself apart from everyone else.

LinkedIn has over 800 million users. That’s a lot of competition! A compelling summary can help you stand out from the crowd.

The summary section is also important because it allows you to inject a little personality into your profile. It’s where you can truly express yourself and tell your story.

What motivates you? What kind of experiences have you had? What are you passionate about?

Adding some non-professional details about yourself can breathe life into your summary, making you more attractive to prospective employers.

Finally, your LinkedIn summary is important because you can include keywords that recruiters are searching for.

These keywords are usually related to:

Hard skills
Soft skills
Industry keywords

Having these keywords in your summary strengthens the searchability of your profile, giving you a leg up on the competition.

Even if you’ve uploaded a great profile photo , customized your LinkedIn headline , created a cover story video , and listed all your work and education history , leaving the summary section blank or just typing a short tagline that’s better suited for a headline is a huge missed opportunity .

If you need help fully optimizing your LinkedIn summary and profile for searchability, try Jobscan’s LinkedIn Optimization Tool .

This tool will analyze your LinkedIn profile against jobs you’re interested in to show you exactly which keywords you should be including in your profile.

Many job seekers make the mistake of writing their LinkedIn summary the same way they write their resume summary.

A resume summary is a short, clear statement at the top of your resume that highlights your most relevant qualifications and experiences.

Resume summaries should be formal and AVOID using casual and overly personal language.

LinkedIn summaries , on the other hand, should be informal and INCLUDE casual and personal language (while still remaining professional).

LinkedIn summaries give you a chance to tell your story in a personal way .

Your story is what makes you unique and interesting , so don’t be afraid to share it!

How long should a LinkedIn summary be?

Most recruiters and hiring managers agree that a LinkedIn summary should be around three paragraphs , or approximately 300 words.

This length allows you to provide enough information to give readers a good sense of who you are and what you do, without overwhelming them or causing them to lose interest.

Can your LinkedIn summary be the same as your resume summary?

No, your LinkedIn summary should NOT be the same as your resume summary.

Both summaries should feature your skills, qualifications, and experience, but your LinkedIn summary should be more informal in tone and style than your resume summary.

Remember, your LinkedIn summary should offer a taste of your personality while telling your story. It should also show businesses how you can help them achieve their goals.

How do I write a LinkedIn summary if I have no experience?

If you have no experience, your best bet is to focus on what skills and qualities you DO possess that could make you a valuable asset to a potential employer.

In your summary, highlight any relevant coursework, volunteer work, internships, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your ability to perform well in a professional setting.

Be sure to include any skills that could be transferable to a new job, such as excellent communication or writing abilities.

Also mention anything else that makes you stand out, such as foreign language fluency or computer proficiency.

What should I write in my LinkedIn summary if I am unemployed?

If you’re unemployed, your LinkedIn summary should focus on what kind of job you’re looking for and what kinds of skills and experience you have that make you a good fit for that type of job.

You don’t need to include the fact that you’re unemployed on your LinkedIn summary. You could just say you’re currently looking for new opportunities .

You can also use your summary to highlight any volunteer work or other activities you’ve been involved in that show you’re still active and engaged, even if you’re not currently employed.

What do most people put in their LinkedIn summary?

Most people include their current and previous job titles, as well as a brief overview of their work experience and skills. Some also choose to include their education, volunteer work, or other relevant information.

In general, your LinkedIn summary should give potential employers or business connections a snapshot of who you are professionally and what you have to offer.

The summary is also called the “LinkedIn Bio” or “About Me” section.
It’s a concise, yet compelling, snapshot of your professional identity.
Open with the number one thing you want your readers to know about you.
Your summary should read more like a story than a resume.
Try to inject a little of your personality into your summary.
Include keywords that recruiters are searching for.
Be concise and write in the first person.
Focus on your strengths – if you’re not sure, ask people you know.
Highlight relevant accomplishments and experience.
Whenever possible, try to include numbers and data .
Include a simple call to action at the end of your summary.
Use whitespace to make your summary more inviting and easier to read.

Finally, try to use a little creativity and have fun when creating your LinkedIn summary!

Not only will your summary help you network and connect with potential employers, but it will also give you a chance to show off your personality and highlight your unique skills and experience.

For more information about writing a strong LinkedIn profile check out our LinkedIn Profile Writing Guide .

And if you really want to take your LinkedIn profile to the next level, try Jobscan’s LinkedIn Optimization Tool .

This tool is easy to use and will increase the searchability of your profile so that recruiters and hiring managers are more likely to find it – resulting in more job opportunities!

28 LinkedIn Profile Tips to Supercharge Your Job Opportunities

27+ Free Certifications to Add to Your Resume in 2024

What Is An ATS? 8 Things You Need to Know About Applicant Tracking Systems

Robert Henderson, CPRW, is a career advice writer and a resume expert at Jobscan.

May 23, 2024

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How to Write a Resume Summary Statement: Resume Summary Examples

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99 Best Small Business Ideas for 2024

I deeply appreciate a great business idea .

Not just any idea, but one that ignites a spark – the kind that fuels innovation, solves problems, and, most importantly, changes lives.

An idea, small as it may seem at the beginning, has the potential to ripple into something extraordinary and impactful.

Over the past 30 years, I’ve started multiple businesses, evaluated thousands of business ideas, and had the extraordinary privilege to connect, collaborate, and learn from many unique, ambitious small businesses and startups from all corners of the globe.

Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur looking for your next venture or starting your first business, I invite you to dive into these ideas with an open mind. The next spark that lights up the business world could be here, waiting for you.

What makes a business idea great?

When brainstorming your next entrepreneurial venture, these factors can turn a good business idea into a great one:

Passion matters. Pick something you love. If flowers are your thing, consider opening a florist shop. Or, if breaking a sweat gets you pumped, being a personal trainer could be your calling.
Fill a gap. Solve a problem or cater to a need. For instance, an eco-friendly cleaning service might be what your green-conscious community craves. Or perhaps a gluten-free bakery could satisfy those with diet restrictions in your area.
Grow, baby, grow. Can your business grow over time? A home tutoring service could begin with you, then expand to include more tutors and subjects. Or, start a local food truck that could grow into a whole fleet or a brick-and-mortar restaurant.
Show me the money. Being a personal chef for busy professionals or starting a digital marketing agency can be serious money-makers. Profitable ideas bring in cash.
Be unique. Stand out from the crowd! A mobile pet grooming service or a farm-to-table app can offer unique solutions to grab people’s attention.
Leverage your skills. Use what you already know. A software engineer might freelance, while a home baker might kick off a custom cake biz.
Keep it real. Make sure you can actually pull it off. Consider a bed and breakfast if you have a spacious home and love guests. If you have gardening skills, a landscaping business could be your green ticket.
Consistent demand. Find a need that won’t go away. A home health care service for older adults or a grocery delivery service offers convenience that will always be in demand.
Stay flexible. Adapt to changing trends. A clothing store that keeps up with fashion or a fitness instructor who offers diverse classes can stay relevant and exciting.
Location, Location, Location. Sometimes, where you make all the difference. A café in a bustling area or a tour guide business in a tourist hotspot can thrive thanks to their prime locations.
Easy peasy. It’s a bonus if your business idea requires little to no training. Like being a dog walker if you love animals or a house cleaner if you’re meticulous and organized.
Low startup costs. The less you have to spend to get going, the better. Think of businesses like freelance writing, graphic design, or being a virtual assistant, where you just need a computer to start.
Less is more. Ideas manageable by a small team (or even just you) can be a big plus. Running a blog, a small Etsy store, or a home-based beauty salon can all be handled by one or two people.

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There’s no magical formula to finding the perfect small business idea. It’s all about spotting the right opportunity that aligns with your skills, passions, and community needs.

Small Business Ideas:

Best small business ideas Small business ideas on a small budget Home-based business ideas Most profitable online business ideas Easy businesses to start Best businesses to start with little money Niche businesses Business ideas for women Business ideas for students How to start a small business Small Business FAQs: Your questions answered

We’ve packed this guide with many cool business ideas to get you started on your venture. But as we all know, it’s not just about the idea. You also have to overcome those tricky hurdles.

So, we’re tackling the top three challenges for each idea and giving you actionable tips to overcome them. Plus, we’ve gathered helpful resources to help you hit the ground running.

Are you ready to turn your business dreams into reality?

Best small business ideas: start a profitable business today

1. Personal Trainer

Personal training is a booming industry fueled by increasing global fitness and health awareness.

Market demand: With rising health consciousness, there’s an increasing need for fitness professionals who can guide individuals toward their health goals.

Competition: While gyms often offer personal training services, independent trainers with a niche focus or specialized skills can differentiate themselves.

Initial investment: Starting out might require certifications, gym equipment (if not using a public gym), and marketing materials.

Revenue model: Earnings can be on a session-by-session basis, monthly retainers, or even packages that include diet and exercise plans.

Scalability: Expanding to online training sessions, creating fitness courses, or opening a fitness studio can be the next steps.

Regulations: Certain certifications or health and safety measures might be required, especially if operating a private gym.

However, this idea is not without its challenges.

Challenge 1: Building credibility. Your credibility as a personal trainer is paramount. This challenge is especially pronounced if you’re new to the industry and lack experience and a client base. To overcome this challenge, get certified by a reputable organization. This is a testament to your knowledge and expertise, improving clients’ trust. For example, certification from The American Council on Exercise or the National Academy of Sports Medicine could be a good starting point.

Challenge 2: Differentiating your services. The fitness industry is crowded, making it difficult to stand out. To overcome this challenge, find your niche. Maybe you could specialize in yoga for pregnant women or strength training for senior citizens. Alternatively, consider combining fitness with nutrition consulting.

Challenge 3: Finding clients. Acquiring clients can be demanding when you’re just starting. To overcome this challenge, leverage the power of social media to showcase your skills. For instance, Instagram is an excellent platform for sharing workout videos and health tips. Facebook, on the other hand, allows you to create a business page and collect reviews.

Biggest risks:

Injury concerns: Clients might suffer injuries during training. Mitigation: Acquire insurance, set clear guidelines, and ensure proper training.
Retention: Keeping clients motivated and loyal. Mitigation: Offer varied training regimens, continuous engagement, and occasional discounts.

Success strategies:

Branding: Establish a recognizable brand with success stories and testimonials.
Diversification: Offer online courses, group classes, and workshops.
Continuous Learning: Stay updated with fitness trends and techniques.

Exit strategy:

Licensing Programs: Develop and sell licensed fitness programs or courses.
Partnership : Merge or partner with a larger fitness institute or gym.
Consultation Role: Transition into a fitness consultancy role, advising gyms or health institutions.

Ideal for: Individuals passionate about fitness, have a knack for motivating others, and are willing to keep up with evolving fitness trends.

We recommend the following personal trainer resources:

NASM-CPT Certification
ACSM Certified Personal Trainer

2. Home organizer

A home organizing business caters to those needing neat, orderly spaces but lacking the time or skill to create them.

Market demand: With the minimalist trend and the desire for efficient living spaces, professional home organizers are in demand.

Competition: Local competition can vary, but a unique selling proposition like eco-friendly organizing or specialized room focus can be advantageous.

Initial investment: Minimal, mostly around marketing, transportation, and initial organizing supplies.

Revenue model: Typically charge by the hour or project, with potential for add-on services like product sourcing or maintenance visits.

Scalability: Potential to grow into a full-fledged consultancy or launch a line of organizing products.

Regulations: Generally light, but local business regulations and permits will apply.

Challenge 1: Demonstrating the value of your services. Convincing potential clients of the benefits of a professional home organizer can be a challenge. For example, I’ve never understood why people could not easily organize their spaces. However, many friends relied on a home organizer for help, which tells me that a great organizer can provide lots of value. To overcome this challenge, create a portfolio showcasing your work – before and after photos can prove your skills. This could range from organizing kitchens to decluttering garages or streamlining home offices.

Challenge 2: Differentiating your services. Again, differentiation is key in a market with various service providers. To overcome this challenge, consider specializing in a particular organization, such as home offices for remote workers or organizing spaces for families with young children. This will make your services more specific and appealing to your target audience .

Challenge 3: Establishing trust. Clients must trust you enough to let you into their homes and personal spaces. To overcome this challenge, cultivate a professional online presence, showcasing positive customer testimonials and your methodology. Ensure your business name and logo echo the trust and professionalism you want to project.

Client dissatisfaction: Not meeting the client’s organizational vision. Mitigation: Clear communication, mock-ups, and iterative feedback.
Damage: Accidentally damaging client’s property. Mitigation: Careful handling and insurance.
Niche focus: Specialize in certain areas like kids’ rooms, garages, or home offices.
Workshops: Conduct organizing workshops or online webinars.
Collaborations: Partner with interior designers or home sellers for mutual referrals.
Franchising: Offer franchising opportunities for your organizing brand.
Online courses: Develop and sell home organizing courses or tutorials.
Product line: Design and sell organizing products or tools.

Ideal for: Detail-oriented individuals with a passion for space management and aesthetics.

We recommend the following home organizer resources:

National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals

3. Meal prep business

A meal prep business offers a convenient solution for health-conscious individuals and busy families in a fast-paced world.

Market demand: Busy lifestyles and the need for healthy eating create demand for convenient, pre-prepared meals.

Competition: Though many meal kit services exist, focusing on niche diets (Keto, Vegan) or local specialties can set you apart.

Initial investment: Costs involve kitchen equipment, ingredients, packaging, and delivery mechanisms.

Revenue model: Earnings can come from weekly meal subscriptions, individual meal orders, or specialty diet packages.

Scalability: Expanding into new cuisines, collaborating with dieticians, or even opening a storefront are growth options.

Regulations: Health and safety regulations, food handling certificates, and local business permits are vital.

Challenge 1: Adhering to food safety and regulations. Meeting local health department regulations and maintaining impeccable food safety can be challenging. Stay updated with the latest food safety practices and guidelines to overcome this challenge, such as safe food temperatures and proper storage methods. Ensure your kitchen meets all local health codes. You could consider taking a food handling course or getting certified in food safety.

Challenge 2: Differentiating your services. The food industry is highly competitive, making it critical to offer something unique. To overcome this challenge, c arve out a niche by catering to specific dietary requirements like gluten-free, paleo, or vegan meal plans. For instance, you could specialize in gourmet keto meals or vegetarian meals for athletes.

Challenge 3: Building a customer base. Attracting and retaining customers in a market with diverse tastes and preferences can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, develop a solid online presence to reach your potential clients. Share tantalizing photos of your meals, client testimonials, and nutritional facts on social media platforms. At crowdspring, we’ve seen how a well-designed website or a visually appealing Instagram feed can significantly boost customer engagement and sales for businesses in this niche and all other small businesses.

Food safety: Concerns over food spoilage or contamination. Mitigation: Strict adherence to safety guidelines and regular quality checks.
Fluctuating demand: Changing customer preferences or seasonal fluctuations. Mitigation: Diverse menu offerings and regular feedback loops.
Market Research: Continuously research and adapt to dietary trends.
Collaborations: Partner with fitness professionals or nutritionists.
Sustainability: Offer eco-friendly packaging or locally sourced ingredients.
Brand sale: Once well-established, sell your brand to a larger food company.
Franchising: Offer franchising opportunities to expand geographically.
Consulting: Provide consultation to budding food entrepreneurs or restaurants.

Ideal for: Those passionate about cooking, staying updated on dietary trends, and understanding the local palate.

We recommend the following meal prep business resources:

Department of Health and Human Services Cold Food Safety Chart
U.S. Department of Agriculture Resource Hub for Meal Planning

Business ideas on a small budget: start a business with little money

1. freelance writing.

With the need for quality content on the rise, freelance writing is a viable business that requires little more than a laptop to get started.

Market demand: With an ever-growing digital landscape, quality content is crucial. From blogs to eBooks, businesses need engaging written material.

Competition: The freelance writing space is vast, but niche specialization or a distinct voice can set you apart.

Initial investment: Minimal. Costs primarily include marketing, writing software, and professional development.

Revenue model: Writers can charge per word, per article, or establish monthly retainers with regular clients.

Scalability: Expand by starting a content agency, venturing into publishing, or offering writing workshops.

Regulations: Generally light, but it’s essential to understand copyright laws and client contracts.

Challenge 1: Building a portfolio. Clients typically want to see examples of your work before hiring you, which can be challenging when you’re just starting. To overcome this challenge, start a blog or write guest posts for online platforms to showcase your writing style and versatility. You could write about topics you’re passionate about, from tech and travel to finance and fitness.

Challenge 2: Finding paying clients. Finding clients willing to pay for your writing services can be daunting initially. To overcome this challenge, join platforms like Upwork, where you can find freelance writing gigs. Online and offline networking can also help you connect with potential clients.

Challenge 3: Standing out in a crowded market. Differentiating yourself as a writer in a content-filled market can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, specialize in a niche or develop a unique writing style that sets you apart. Even with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), great writers will continue to be in high demand. And, importantly, great writers who can also smartly leverage AI to improve their writing will stand out. For example, if you have a medical background, consider medical writing.

Inconsistent workflow: Freelancing can be feast or famine. Mitigation: Establish long-term contracts or diversify the client base.
Plagiarism concerns: Potential content theft. Mitigation: Use plagiarism checkers and maintain copyright agreements.
Continuous learning: Stay updated with the latest writing trends and SEO techniques.
Networking: Engage with fellow writers, attend conferences, and join writer forums.
Diversification: Explore different forms of writing, from technical to creative.
Authorship: Transition into book publishing or eBook creation.
Consultancy: Offer content strategy consultation for businesses.
Agency model: Develop a full-fledged content agency, outsourcing to other writers.

Ideal for: Individuals with a flair for words, adaptability to various writing styles, and a deadline commitment.

We recommend the following freelancer writing resources:

American Writers & Artists Institute

2. Virtual assistant services

As businesses strive to streamline operations, the demand for virtual assistants (VAs) who can handle administrative tasks is rising.

Market demand: Business owners increasingly outsource administrative tasks, leading to a surge in virtual assistant demand.

Competition: Many individuals and agencies offer VA services; however, expertise in specific industries or software can provide an edge.

Initial investment: Relatively low, typically requiring a computer, relevant software, and communication tools.

Revenue model: Charge hourly, or offer bundled packages for specific tasks or monthly assistance.

Scalability: Build a team of VAs, offer specialized services, or even start a VA training program.

Regulations: General business regulations apply, but data protection and privacy laws are especially pertinent.

Challenge 1: Building credibility. Establishing your reliability and competence as a VA can be challenging, particularly when starting. To overcome this challenge, gain relevant skills and experience in administrative tasks. This could include data entry, calendar management, email handling, etc. You could also consider getting certified as a VA.

Challenge 2: Finding clients. Finding businesses willing to delegate tasks to a VA can be tough. To overcome this challenge, join VA platforms like Zirtual, where you can connect with potential clients. It’s also important to network within business circles and offer your services.

Challenge 3: Standing out in a crowded market. With many individuals offering VA services, it’s crucial to differentiate yourself. To overcome this challenge, consider specializing in an industry or a specific type of task. For example, you could be a VA specializing in content creation for health and wellness businesses.

Data breaches: Handling sensitive client information. Mitigation: Use secure communication channels and invest in cybersecurity.
Task overload: Taking on too many clients or tasks. Mitigation: Use project management tools and set clear client boundaries.
Skill upgrade: Regularly update skills, especially in high-demand areas like social media.
Niche services: Offer specialized services, e.g., real estate VA, legal VA.
Client relations: Foster long-term relationships through impeccable service and clear communication.
Agency model: Grow into a larger firm, hiring other VAs.
Training programs: Offer VA training or coaching for newcomers.
Consultancy: Advise businesses on operations and optimization.

Ideal for: Organized individuals adept at multitasking, with a keen eye for detail and strong communication skills.

3. Freelance graphic design

A freelance graphic design business allows you to utilize your creativity while working from home.

Market demand: With the emphasis on visuals in today’s digital world, graphic designers are crucial for branding, advertisements, and more.

Competition: The design field is vast. A distinct style or expertise in specific software/tools can be beneficial.

Initial investment: Costs include design software subscriptions, high-quality computer hardware, and marketing.

Revenue model: Charge per project, hourly rates, or retainers for long-term clients.

Scalability: Consider starting a design studio, offering design workshops, or expanding into related fields like animation.

Regulations: Be aware of copyright and trademark laws, especially when using or creating distinct images.

Challenge 1: Building a portfolio. Clients want to see your work before they hire you. To overcome this challenge, work on projects on a platform like crowdspring to showcase your design skills. For example, you could create a new logo for a well-known company or redesign a popular website.

Challenge 2: Finding paying clients. Finding clients willing to pay for your services can be challenging. I founded crowdspring to give designers worldwide opportunities to compete for clients based on their talent, not their resumes. A platform like crowdspring solves this problem by giving you access to clients from 100 countries.

Challenge 3: Standing out in a crowded market. Graphic design is a competitive field, and standing out can be difficult. To overcome this challenge, specialize in a niche, like logo design, UI/UX design, or book cover design . Having a unique style can also help you stand out.

Design rejections: Clients may not always align with your vision. Mitigation: Clear communication, mood boards, and iterative feedback.
Software obsolescence: Rapid tech advancements. Mitigation: Stay updated with the latest design tools and software.

Success Strategies:

Portfolio building: Regularly update a personal portfolio showcasing diverse work.
Continuous learning: Engage in courses to master new design techniques.
Networking: Attend design conferences, join forums, and collaborate with peers.

Exit Strategy:

Design school: Start a training institution for upcoming designers.
Licensing: License your designs or artwork for commercial use.
Consultancy: Offer brand consultancy or visual strategy services to companies.

Ideal for: Creatives with an eye for aesthetics, a passion for visual storytelling, and tech-savviness.

entrepreneur sitting in front of a computer

4. Resume writer

Resume writers help clients craft compelling resumes that stand out to potential employers. This business is especially in demand in today’s competitive job market.

Market demand: A standout resume is paramount in a competitive job market, leading to a demand for expert resume writers.

Competition: While numerous online templates exist, personalized touch, industry knowledge, and ATS optimization can differentiate your service.

Initial investment: Minimal, mostly around marketing and potentially some premium resume design software.

Revenue model: Charge per resume or offer packages that include cover letters, LinkedIn optimization, etc.

Scalability: Extend services to career coaching, interview prep, or even corporate outplacement support.

Regulations: Understanding data protection is crucial since you’ll handle personal information.

Challenge 1: Staying updated with industry trends. Resume trends and employer expectations can vary by industry and change over time. To overcome this challenge, regularly follow industry blogs and career advice sources to stay updated on what employers seek.

Challenge 2: Balancing detail and brevity. A good resume is detailed yet concise, which can be a challenging balance to strike. To overcome this challenge, develop expertise in writing concise descriptions and using industry-specific keywords.

Challenge 3: Differentiating your services. There are many online resume services, so standing out can be difficult. To overcome this challenge, offer personalized service, quick turnaround times, and extra services like cover letters and LinkedIn profile writing.

Client dissatisfaction: Not capturing a client’s essence or missing crucial details. Mitigation: Detailed client interviews and multiple revisions.
Evolving trends: Resume preferences change over time. Mitigation: Stay updated with HR trends and attend relevant workshops.
Niche focus: Specialize in resumes for specific industries or job levels.
Continuous feedback: Engage with HR professionals to understand their preferences.
Portfolio building: Showcase success stories and testimonials (while maintaining client privacy).
Online courses: Offer courses on resume building and job searching.
Agency model: Expand to a full-service career consultancy.
Partnership: Collaborate with job boards or recruitment agencies for referrals.

Ideal for: Those with a knack for understanding career trajectories, excellent writing skills, and an understanding of HR processes.

Best home business ideas: start a business from home

1. home-based bakery or food business.

If you love baking or cooking, starting a home-based food or bakery business can be fulfilling and profitable.

Market demand: People consistently seek unique culinary experiences and homemade specialties, providing ample opportunities for local food artisans.

Competition: While many pursue home-based food businesses, a signature dish or unique packaging can help differentiate you.

Initial investment: Costs include kitchen upgrades, ingredients, packaging, and marketing. Health and hygiene certifications might also be necessary.

Revenue model: Charge per item, offer catering services, or create subscription-based meal plans.

Scalability: Venture into a full-fledged café, offer cooking classes, or distribute to local stores.

Regulations: Understanding health and safety standards is crucial. Local licenses for food businesses might be required.

Challenge 1: Meeting health and safety regulations. Complying with food safety regulations and securing permits can be daunting. To overcome this challenge, learn about your local health department’s requirements for a home food business. Obtain necessary permits and ensure your kitchen complies with all regulations. Consider a ServSafe certification to enhance your credibility.

Challenge 2: Building a customer base. Making people aware of your products and persuading them to choose you over commercial options can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, u se social media platforms to showcase your products, share customer testimonials, and engage with potential customers. For instance, you could start a YouTube channel sharing your baking or cooking process or an Instagram page showcasing mouth-watering photos of your creations.

Challenge 3: Standing out in a crowded market. The food industry is highly competitive, and can be tough to stand out. To overcome this challenge, specialize in a niche, like gluten-free baked goods, vegan pastries, or ethnic cuisine.

Quality inconsistencies: Maintaining a consistent taste and quality. Mitigation: Regular quality checks and vendor evaluations.
Storage issues: Perishable items require effective storage. Mitigation: Investment in good quality storage solutions and inventory management.
Branding: Effective branding, from logo to packaging.
Community engagement: Attend local food fairs, collaborate with local businesses, or offer samples.
Continuous innovation: Regularly introduce new flavors or dishes.
Franchising: License your brand and recipes to others.
Cookbook creation: Share your culinary secrets in a published cookbook.
Teaching: Offer cooking workshops or online courses.

Ideal for: Culinary enthusiasts passionate about food, hygiene consciousness, and attention to detail.

2. Dropshipping

Dropshipping is a retail fulfillment method where a store doesn’t keep the products it sells in stock. Instead, when a store sells a product, it purchases the item from a third party and has it shipped directly to the customer.

Market demand: E-commerce is booming. Dropshipping offers an inventory-free way to participate in this digital marketplace.

Competition: It’s crowded, but targeting a niche market or offering unique products can set your store apart.

Initial investment: Mostly platform fees, marketing, and website setup. No inventory costs are involved.

Revenue model: Earn the difference between wholesale and retail prices.

Scalability: Expand product range, explore different suppliers, or start your product line.

Regulations: Understanding regulations and import/export duties is crucial, depending on what you sell.

Challenge 1: Supplier reliability. Working with reliable suppliers is a significant concern. To overcome this challenge, thoroughly vet potential suppliers and consider their reviews and reputation.

Challenge 2: Competitive differentiation. Standing out in a crowded market can be tough. To overcome this challenge, specialize in a specific niche, offer excellent customer service, and invest in professional branding .

Challenge 3: Profit margins. Profit margins can be low because of competition and the cost of goods. To overcome this challenge, focus on selling higher-margin goods, upselling, and cross-selling .

Supplier issues: Supplier inconsistencies or stock issues. Mitigation: Maintain relationships with multiple suppliers for backup.
Thin margins: Dropshipping often has slim profit margins. Mitigation: Effective marketing and upselling techniques to increase order value.
Market research: Regularly scout for trending products.
Customer service: Efficient customer support for queries and returns.
Branding: Effective branding to make your store memorable.
E-commerce platform sale: Selling the entire online store with a good customer base.
Transition to wholesale: Switch from dropshipping to bulk buying and storing inventory.
Affiliate marketing: Shift towards promoting products rather than selling them directly.

Ideal for: Aspiring entrepreneurs with strong market research skills, minimal startup capital, and digital marketing acumen.

3. Etsy shop owner

If you have a talent for creating handmade goods, consider starting an Etsy shop .

Market demand: Handcrafted, vintage, and unique items are highly sought after, with platforms like Etsy making them accessible globally.

Competition: While Etsy has many sellers, a unique craft, consistent quality, and excellent branding can help you stand out.

Initial investment: Material costs, shop setup fees, and marketing expenses.

Revenue model: Profit from the sale of crafted items or digital downloads.

Scalability: Expand product range, offer workshops, or explore wholesale opportunities.

Regulations: Adherence to platform rules and understanding shipping and customs if selling internationally.

Challenge 1: Standing out among thousands of shops. Etsy is a bustling marketplace with many talented creators, so standing out can be tough. To overcome this challenge, consider specializing in a specific niche to make your shop more memorable. It could be anything from vintage jewelry to hand-painted ceramics.

Challenge 2: Driving traffic to your shop. With so many shops on Etsy, driving traffic to your shop can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, promote your shop on social media, and consider Etsy’s built-in advertising options. Use SEO techniques to make your shop and products more discoverable.

Challenge 3: Managing inventory and fulfillment. Keeping up with product demand and ensuring prompt delivery can be demanding. Set realistic expectations for your customers regarding shipping times to overcome this challenge. Keep a steady supply of raw materials on hand, and consider hiring help during busy times.

Copycats: Other sellers replicating your unique designs. Mitigation: Regularly introduce new products and potentially trademark unique designs.
Platform dependency: Being overly reliant on Etsy for sales. Mitigation: Diversify with your website or other platforms.
Customer engagement: Personalized notes, custom orders, and excellent communication.
Quality imagery: High-quality photos showcasing products.
SEO: Understand Etsy SEO to ensure your products are easily discoverable.
Brand expansion: Start a standalone e-commerce website.
Teaching: Offer craft workshops or online courses.
Licensing: License your designs or patterns to larger manufacturers.

Ideal for: Craft enthusiasts, artists, and makers with a keen sense of aesthetics and attention to detail.

4. Event planning

Event planning could be a great business opportunity if you’re organized and enjoy working with people. You could plan corporate events, weddings, parties, and more.

Market demand: From corporate events to weddings, individuals consistently need to turn visions into reality.

Competition: The industry is vast. Specializing in specific events or themes can carve out a niche.

Initial investment: Marketing expenses, potential venue booking advances, and event planning software.

Revenue model: Charge per event, hourly rates, or a percentage of the event budget.

Scalability: Expand into a full-fledged event management company or branch into specialized areas like concert management.

Regulations: Understanding local event permits, health and safety regulations, and contracts is essential.

Challenge 1: Building a portfolio. Without a portfolio, it can be hard to secure clients. To overcome this challenge, offer to plan events for friends and family to build your portfolio. Take high-quality photos of these events to showcase your skills.

Challenge 2: Managing multiple vendors. Coordinating with various vendors can be a logistical challenge. To overcome this challenge, build a network of reliable vendors. Keep communication lines open and maintain good relationships with them.

Challenge 3: Handling high-stress situations. Events often come with last-minute changes and issues. To overcome this challenge, develop strong problem-solving skills. Be adaptable and always have a backup plan.

Client dissatisfaction: Not meeting client expectations. Mitigation: Detailed initial consultations, mood boards, and regular check-ins.
Unforeseen mishaps: Events can face unplanned disruptions. Mitigation: Always have a backup plan and thorough contracts covering potential issues.
Networking: Build relationships with vendors, venues, and caterers.
Portfolio building: Document each event with high-quality imagery.
Continuous learning: Attend workshops and stay updated with industry trends.
Consultancy: Offer event strategy and consultation services.
Training: Provide event planning courses or workshops.
Agency model: Grow into an event management agency, hiring other planners.

Ideal for: People-persons with strong organizational skills, creative vision, and crisis management capabilities.

5. Life and career coach

A life and career coach helps clients set professional and personal goals and create a plan to achieve them. This could be an excellent business idea if you enjoy helping others achieve their potential.

Market demand: With the complexities of modern life, many seek guidance in personal or professional spheres.

Competition: There are many coaches, but a genuine success record, expertise, and specialization can make one stand out.

Initial investment: Costs for certification (if pursued), marketing, and coaching tools or software.

Revenue model: Charge per session, offer package deals, or run group workshops.

Scalability: Expand into a coaching firm, offer online courses, or write self-help books.

Regulations: While formal regulations are limited, having recognized certifications can boost credibility.

Challenge 1: Gaining credibility. In a field where trust is paramount, establishing credibility can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, acquire coaching certifications from recognized institutions and collect client testimonials.

Challenge 2: Client acquisition. Attracting clients in a competitive market can be tough. To overcome this challenge, offer free introductory sessions, create a strong online presence, and use referral programs to attract new clients.

Challenge 3: Adapting to client needs. Each client’s needs are unique, requiring different strategies and techniques. To overcome this challenge, develop various coaching techniques and stay up-to-date with the latest personal and professional development research.

Client dissatisfaction: Not achieving client goals or improvements.= Mitigation: Set clear expectations, continuous feedback loops, and personal development.
Dependency on personal brand: Most coaches rely heavily on personal reputation. Mitigation: Diversify services and create evergreen content/products.
Continuous learning: Stay updated with the latest techniques and psychological insights.
Networking: Attend seminars, join coaching networks, and engage in collaborative ventures.
Personal branding: Regularly publish content, testimonials, and success stories.
Book publishing: Share insights in a widely distributed format.
Online courses: Develop courses offering structured self-help or development pathways.
Consultancy: Work with organizations on employee development or holistic strategies.

Ideal for: Empathetic individuals with strong communication skills, a genuine desire to help others, and an understanding of human behavior.

We recommend the following life and career coach resources:

Life Coach School’s Certification

6. Sewing and alteration specialist

If you have a knack for sewing, starting a sewing and alteration business could be a great fit. You can offer various services, from mending clothes to creating custom garments.

Challenge 1: Keeping up with fashion trends. Fashion trends change rapidly, and staying current can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, regularly follow fashion blogs, magazines, and influencers to stay updated.

Challenge 2: Meeting client expectations. Every client has unique needs and expectations for their garments. Communicate clearly and set realistic expectations for turnaround times and final results to overcome this challenge.

Challenge 3: Marketing your services. Standing out in a competitive market can be tricky. To overcome this challenge, build an online portfolio showcasing your work and ask satisfied customers for reviews.

We recommend the following sewing and alteration specialist resources:

International Open Academy’s Tailoring Course for Beginners
American Bespoke Tailoring Academy’s Programs

Most profitable online business ideas

1. social media consultant.

With businesses striving to maintain a strong social media presence, social media consulting is a business you can start with minimal investment.

Challenge 1: Keeping up with social media trends. Social media platforms and trends are ever-changing. Staying up-to-date can be a challenge. Regularly educate yourself on the latest social media trends, algorithms, and practical strategies to overcome this challenge. Following industry leaders and participating in relevant forums can be beneficial.

Challenge 2: Proving your expertise. Without a proven track record, convincing potential clients of your expertise can be demanding. To overcome this challenge, start by offering your services to small businesses in your network. Use the results you achieve for them to showcase your skills. Additionally, consider acquiring a certification in social media marketing.

Challenge 3: Attracting and retaining clients. With numerous social media consultants, attracting and retaining clients can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, specialize in managing social media platforms or catering to a particular industry. Offering a comprehensive package that includes strategy, content creation, and analytics could also give you an edge.

2. Virtual tutoring

With the increasing demand for online education, virtual tutoring is a great business idea that requires minimal investment.

Challenge 1: Building credibility. Without teaching credentials or a proven track record, it can be hard to gain trust. To overcome this challenge, gain a teaching certification or tutor qualification to enhance your credibility. Join platforms like Chegg Tutors or Tutor.com to gain experience and testimonials.

Challenge 2: Finding students. Attracting students willing to pay for your tutoring services can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, use social media to reach potential students in your subject area. You could also connect with local schools and colleges to offer your services.

Challenge 3: Standing out in a crowded market. With numerous online tutors, standing out can be difficult. To overcome this challenge, specialize in a particular subject or cater to a specific age group. For instance, you could offer advanced calculus tutoring for college students or reading tutoring for elementary students.

3. Online course creator

With the growth of online learning, creating and selling online courses can be a profitable business idea.

Challenge 1: Identifying a course topic. Choosing a topic that is both popular and within your expertise can be tricky. To overcome this challenge, look at existing courses on platforms like Udemy or Coursera. Identify gaps where your unique knowledge could fill a need.

Challenge 2: Creating engaging content. Online learners have many options, so your content needs to stand out. To overcome this challenge, invest time in creating interesting content. Use videos, interactive quizzes, and real-world examples to make your course more appealing.

Challenge 3: Promoting your course. Attracting students to your course, among many choices, can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, To overcome this challenge, leverage social media platforms, your personal network, and email marketing campaigns to promote your course. Consider offering a discount for the initial enrollees.

4. Online dating consultant

In the age of digital dating, an online dating consultant can help clients optimize their online profiles, choose the right dating platforms, and navigate online interactions.

Challenge 1: Establishing trust. Building credibility in a field often seen as subjective can be tricky. To overcome this challenge, use testimonials and case studies to highlight successful matches you’ve facilitated.

Challenge 2: Staying current. Online dating trends and platforms change rapidly. Regularly research and stay updated with the latest dating apps and trends to overcome this challenge.

Challenge 3: Managing sensitive client information. Handling sensitive client information requires careful handling. To overcome this challenge, implement robust data privacy measures and be transparent about your privacy policies.

We recommend the following online dating consultant resources:

IAP College’s relationship coach certification

5. E-commerce reseller

E-commerce reselling involves purchasing products and reselling them online at a profit. Platforms like eBay, Amazon, and Etsy make it easy to start.

Challenge 1: Finding profitable products. Identifying products that will sell well at a higher price point can be difficult. Research trends and best-selling items on various e-commerce platforms to overcome this challenge. Attend auctions, estate, and clearance sales to find potentially profitable items.

Challenge 2: Managing inventory. Storing and organizing your inventory can be challenging as your business grows. To overcome this challenge, implement an inventory management system early on. This could be as simple as a spreadsheet tracking what you have in stock.

Challenge 3: Standing out from the competition. Many resellers might be selling similar products, so differentiation is critical. To overcome this challenge, provide excellent customer service and fast shipping. Write detailed product descriptions and take high-quality photos.

6. Mobile app developer

As smartphones become more integral to our daily lives, the demand for innovative mobile apps continues to grow. A mobile app development business could suit you if you have coding skills.

Challenge 1: Staying updated with changing technologies. Mobile app technologies are continually evolving, and keeping up can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, dedicate time for ongoing learning. Follow industry blogs, participate in relevant forums, and attend developer conferences to stay current.

Challenge 2: Differentiating your apps. There are millions of apps in the app stores, so standing out is tough. Identify underserved niches where your app could significantly impact overcoming this challenge. Focus on providing an exceptional user experience to set your app apart.

Challenge 3: Attracting clients. Finding clients willing to pay for your app development services can be hard. To overcome this challenge, build a portfolio showcasing your best work. Leverage your network and use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with potential clients.

We recommend the following developer resources:

Fullstack Academy
Georgia Institute of Technology Coding Boot Camp

7. Affiliate marketing

Affiliate marketing involves earning a commission for marketing another person’s or company’s products.

Challenge 1: Choosing the right products. Picking the right products to market can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, look for products that align with your target audience’s interests and needs.

Challenge 2: Building an audience. An affiliate marketer needs a large, engaged audience to be successful. To overcome this challenge, use content marketing , social media, and SEO to grow and engage your audience.

Challenge 3: Trust and reputation. Maintaining trust while promoting products can be tricky. To overcome this challenge, always disclose your affiliate relationships. Promote products you believe in.

8. Content creator or influencer

A content creator or influencer generates engaging content for a specific niche or audience, often brand-sponsored.

Challenge 1: Building an audience. Growing a dedicated audience can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, consistently create high-quality, engaging content that resonates with your target audience.

Challenge 2: Securing sponsorships. Finding brands willing to sponsor your content can be tough. To overcome this challenge, develop a unique brand voice and style to attract potential sponsors.

Challenge 3: Maintaining authenticity. Maintaining authenticity while promoting brands can be challenging. Only promote products and brands you believe in and use to overcome this challenge.

9. Independent author

As an independent author, you publish your own books, typically selling them online.

Challenge 1: Writing the book. The process of writing a book is long and challenging. To overcome this challenge, break down your writing into daily or weekly goals to make the task more manageable.

Challenge 2: Self-publishing. Self-publishing is a complex process involving many steps, from editing to cover design. To overcome this challenge, hire professionals, like those on crowdspring, for editing, book cover design , and formatting. A good book cover is essential in attracting readers.

Challenge 3: Marketing and distribution. As an independent author, you’re responsible for marketing and distribution. To overcome this challenge, create a marketing plan that includes social media promotion, email marketing , and partnerships with relevant influencers or blogs.

10. Subscription newsletter

A subscription newsletter is a regularly delivered email with valuable content that subscribers pay to receive.

Challenge 1: Creating valuable content. Continually creating content that people are willing to pay for is a challenge. To overcome this challenge, conduct regular audience research to keep abreast of their changing needs and interests.

Challenge 2: Building a subscriber base. Growing a subscriber base from scratch is difficult. To overcome this challenge, offer a free version of your newsletter, then upsell to a premium subscription with additional benefits.

Challenge 3: Retaining subscribers. Keeping subscribers engaged and preventing them from canceling their subscriptions is tough. To overcome this challenge, regularly seek feedback from your subscribers to understand what they like and don’t like about your newsletter.

11. Translator

Starting a translation service can be a flexible and rewarding business if you’re multilingual. Translators work across various industries, translating everything from legal documents to novels.

Challenge 1: Gaining client trust. As a translator, you’re handling sensitive and potentially confidential information. To overcome this challenge, provide testimonials, get certified if possible, and consider getting insured.

Challenge 2: Staying up to date with languages. Language is constantly evolving, and staying current is essential. To overcome this challenge, regularly interact with native speakers, continue learning, and stay updated with popular culture in the countries of your languages.

Challenge 3: Facing heavy competition. The translation field is quite competitive, and setting yourself apart can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, specialize in a specific industry, like medical or legal translation or a less common language pairing.

We recommend the following translator resources:

A certification from the American Translators Association will legitimize your business and help you get clients.
University of Massachusetts Amherst’s Online Translation Certificate
The University of Arizona’s Online Translation Certificate
The University of Georgia Online Translation Certificate

Essential Branding Toolkit for Entrepreneurs

Build a stronger brand with our free guides. Get actionable insights to define your brand’s unique voice, understand your market, and stand out to customers. The guides are concise, actionable, practical, and tailored for the busy entrepreneur.

The Ultimate Branding Checklist
Crafting Your Unique Value Proposition
Build Your Brand Pillars Worksheet
Market Research Kit

Easy businesses to start

1. personal shopper.

If you have a good eye for style and enjoy shopping, consider starting a personal shopping business.

Challenge 1: Building a client base. Finding individuals willing to pay for your shopping services can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, start by offering your services to your personal network and ask them for referrals. A professional website showcasing your services, pricing , and testimonials can attract potential clients.

Challenge 2: Staying updated on fashion trends. The fashion world is always changing, and staying updated can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, subscribe to fashion magazines, follow fashion influencers, and attend fashion shows. Also, networking with local designers and boutique owners can keep you updated with the latest trends.

Challenge 3: Differentiating your services. With various personal shoppers and stylists available, standing out is crucial. To overcome this challenge, cater to a specific market, like plus-size or sustainable fashion. Offering related services, such as wardrobe organization or image consulting, can differentiate you.

2. Language tutoring service

Consider starting a language tutoring service if you’re fluent in a second language. You can offer personalized lessons to students or adults seeking to learn a new language.

Challenge 1: Attracting students. Many language learning resources are available, so attracting students to your service can be difficult. To overcome this challenge, focus on providing customized, one-on-one tutoring sessions that online platforms can’t offer. Market your services at local schools, community centers, and online platforms.

Challenge 2: Adapting to different learning styles. Each student will have a different learning style, and adapting your teaching method to each can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, familiarize yourself with other teaching methods. Be flexible and patient, and tailor your lessons to each student’s learning style and progress.

Challenge 3: Staying motivated over long periods. Language learning is a long process, and it can be hard to keep students motivated. To overcome this challenge, break down the learning process into achievable goals. Celebrate your students’ progress to keep them motivated.

As a blogger, you create and publish articles on your blog, typically monetizing through ads, affiliate marketing, or selling products.

Challenge 1: Creating quality content. Creating high-quality, engaging content regularly can be a daunting task. To overcome this challenge, start with topics you’re passionate about and knowledgeable about. Your enthusiasm will resonate with your audience.

Challenge 2: Attracting readers. Building a steady readership base is challenging. To overcome this challenge, implement good SEO practices, promote your blog through social media, and collaborate with other bloggers to boost your visibility.

Challenge 3: Monetizing your blog. Making a consistent income from your blog can be tricky. To overcome this challenge, diversify your income streams. Combine display ads, sponsored posts, affiliate marketing, and selling your own products or services.

Best businesses to start with little money

1. online course creator.

If you’re an expert in a specific field, consider monetizing that knowledge through an online course.

Challenge 1: Building a credible presence. Before people will pay for your expertise, they need to trust in your knowledge and abilities. One way to establish credibility is by creating a personal website that outlines your qualifications, professional experiences, and client testimonials. Prominently link your online course from a dedicated landing page to make it easy for potential students to find and enroll.

Challenge 2: Choosing the right course platform. Numerous platforms can help you create and host your online course. The challenge is finding one that fits your budget while providing the necessary support services, like automatic student payment processing and class reminders.

Challenge 3: Creating engaging content. You must create compelling, well-structured content to keep students engaged and ensure they find value in your course. You might find online course creation templates or platforms with inbuilt course structure guides helpful.

We recommend the following resources for online course creators:

2. Self-publishing author

If you have a way with words and a story to tell, consider self-publishing your own book.

Challenge 1: Attracting attention. A professionally designed book cover is essential for capturing readers’ interest, whether you’re launching an ebook or a print version. Invest in a quality cover design that entices potential readers and accurately represents your book’s content.

Challenge 2: Choosing the right publishing platform. You’ll need to find a self-publishing platform that suits your needs, whether that’s wide distribution, high royalty rates, or excellent customer service. Take the time to research different options and consider the pros and cons of each.

Challenge 3: Marketing and promotion. Book fairs, bookstore readings, and social media promotion are all excellent ways to get the word out about your book. Remember, the more people know about your book, the better your chances of selling copies.

We recommend the following resources for self-publishing authors:

Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)

3. Podcast host

If you’re a charismatic speaker or storyteller, consider starting a podcast.

Challenge 1: Creating quality audio content. You’ll need a decent microphone and a quiet, echo-free recording environment. Learn how to edit audio files to ensure your podcast sounds professional.

Challenge 2: Choosing a podcast hosting service . Many podcast hosting services are available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Research and choose one that suits your needs and budget.

Challenge 3: Growing your audience. Marketing your podcast and growing your audience can be a significant challenge. Develop a clear, appealing logo and build a dedicated podcast website where listeners can learn more about your show, access episode lists, and find subscription links.

4. Tour guide

If you know your local area and enjoy public speaking, consider starting a tour guide business.

Challenge 1: Public speaking and customer engagement. As a tour guide, you’ll need to be able to speak confidently, engage with a diverse range of people, and stay focused despite distractions or interruptions.

Challenge 2: Marketing and promotion. Start with a website and promotional materials like flyers and business cards. Consider investing in online advertising or partnerships with local hotels or travel agencies as your business grows.

Challenge 3: Differentiation. Consider choosing a specific niche, like historical tours or food-tasting tours, to make your services unique and attractive to potential customers.

We recommend the following resources for tour guides:

World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations
American Tour Guide Association

5. Build a handyman service

A handyman service is a profitable venture for those who are good at fixing things around the house and already own tools.

Challenge 1: Proving your expertise. Unlike white-collar professions, trade skills are often overlooked and undervalued. To overcome this, establish your credibility with potential clients by highlighting your experience, licenses, or certifications in the field on your website and promotional materials.

Challenge 2: Expanding your reach. You must connect with potential customers in your area to get more jobs. This can be done by distributing business cards and displaying professional signage.

Challenge 3: Protecting yourself from liability. When working in someone else’s home, there’s always a risk of accidental damage. To mitigate this, invest in general liability insurance and clearly state your terms of service on your website.

We recommend the following resources for aspiring handymen:

The Association of Certified Handyman Professionals (ACHP)

6. Selling handmade goods/crafts

Crafters who enjoy making unique items with their own two hands can turn their passion into a business by selling handmade goods on platforms like Etsy .

Challenge 1: Showcasing your products. You must visually capture the essence of your work to entice potential buyers. To overcome this, invest time and resources into high-quality product photography.

Challenge 2: Standing out from the competition. The online marketplace is filled with a plethora of handmade products. To overcome this, consider carving out a niche for yourself, making unique items that cater to a specific audience.

Challenge 3: Finding the right selling platform. There are many e-commerce platforms out there, but finding one that fits your needs and budget is crucial. Research your options before settling on a platform.

We recommend the following resources for crafters:

Handmade Magazine

7. Start a monetized blog

For those with unique thoughts, insights, or experiences to share, starting a blog can be a profitable venture.

Challenge 1: Becoming a subject matter expert. It’s important to pick a specific niche to blog about to gain credibility and high rankings on search engines. Research and continuously expand your knowledge about your chosen subject.

Challenge 2: Building a loyal readership. To monetize your blog, you’ll need a steady stream of readers. This can be achieved through regular content updates, reader engagement, and effective SEO strategies.

Challenge 3: Monetizing your blog. Consider paid advertisements, sponsored content, or affiliate marketing to generate income from your blog. Choose the method that aligns best with your blog’s content and audience.

8. Join an affiliate marketing program

Joining an affiliate marketing program can be profitable for those with a robust online presence.

Challenge 1: Building audience trust. Promoting affiliate products requires your audience to trust your opinions and recommendations. To overcome this, ensure your affiliations align with your brand and promote products you genuinely believe in.

Challenge 2: Attracting a large audience. The success of affiliate marketing heavily depends on the size of your audience. To overcome this, utilize your website, email newsletters, and social media to grow your audience.

Challenge 3: Choosing the right affiliate programs. Not all affiliate programs offer the same benefits. Research various programs to find the ones that fit best with your brand and have good commission rates.

We recommend the following resources for those interested in affiliate marketing:

The Affiliate Marketing Association

9. Become a makeup artist

Running a makeup artist business can be rewarding if you have a knack for makeup and enjoy working with people.

Challenge 1: Meeting licensing requirements. Some states require special licensing to practice as a makeup artist. Check with local government agencies to learn about necessary licenses or certifications to overcome this.

Challenge 2: Promoting your services. As a makeup artist, you must showcase your work to attract clients. Develop a portfolio of your work and regularly update your website with your latest creations.

Challenge 3: Networking within the industry. Success as a makeup artist often relies on referrals and industry connections. Attend industry events and build relationships with photographers, event planners, and others who could refer clients to you.

We recommend the following resources for makeup artists:

The Professional Beauty Association

10. Launch a house-sitting business

A house-sitting business caters to those who yearn for security and peace of mind while they’re away from home. Whether your clients are globetrotting or jetting off for work, you are their domestic guardian.

Challenge 1: Building trust with clients. Personal branding is vital since you’re asking clients to entrust you with their homes and valued possessions. Overcome this by creating professional business cards and a logo that communicates reliability.

Challenge 2: Expanding your client base. Initially, you could house-sit for people you know and garner testimonials. Word-of-mouth is powerful advertising. Encourage happy clients to share your business cards, effectively expanding your reach.

Challenge 3: Enhancing your skills and services. Clients may expect you to handle minor home maintenance issues. Improve your competitive edge by learning basic home repair skills. This way, you can deal with emergencies, increasing your service value.

We recommend the following resources for house sitters:

The International House Sitting Academy

11. Ignite your creativity with a t-shirt company

A t-shirt company is an excellent platform to express your creativity, with a low barrier to entry, making it an enticing business prospect.

Challenge 1: Designing your t-shirts. Not a designer? No worries! Platforms like Crowdspring can assist you with custom t-shirt designs .

Challenge 2: Setting up your online storefront. You’ll need an e-commerce website and a logo that aligns with your brand to sell your products.

Challenge 3: Ensuring quick product delivery. Partner with a rapid fulfillment service that guarantees two-day deliveries to impress customers.

12. Empower others as a life/career/health coach

If you’re passionate about helping others achieve their potential, consider becoming a life, career, or health coach.

Challenge 1: Establishing your credibility. Since your expertise is your selling point, showcasing your skills is vital. A professional website reflecting your niche and the benefits clients can expect is a perfect start.

Challenge 2: Building a client base. Referrals are key, so make a lasting impression with a memorable logo and business cards to help clients spread the word.

Challenge 3: Upskilling. While certifications are not required in this unregulated industry, consider pursuing a reputable certification once revenue starts coming in. This will enable you to charge higher fees and elevate your service.

We recommend the following resources for life/career/health coaches:

International Coach Federation (ICF)

13. Help job seekers with a resume writing service

Job hunting can be stressful. With your knowledge of the hiring process and concise, impactful writing, you can ease the stress and help job seekers snag that coveted position.

Challenge 1: Staying updated with resume-writing best practices. As hiring practices evolve, it’s essential to stay informed. Regularly attending workshops and webinars can help keep your skills fresh.

Challenge 2: Reaching your audience. You’ll need a professional website that outlines your services, skills, and pricing. Also, consistent email or social media communication can help build client relationships.

Challenge 3: Working remotely. Your laptop and a stable internet connection are your office. With these, you can manage your website, interact with clients, create resumés, and market your business – all from your comfort zone.

We recommend the following resources for those helping with resume writing services:

The National Resume Writers’ Association (NRWA)

14. Simplify travel with a planning business

With the many travel platforms available today, planning a trip can become overwhelming. If you’re organized and knowledgeable about the travel industry, consider starting a travel planning company.

Challenge 1: Establishing a reliable contact point. You’ll need a professional website featuring your logo, contact details, services, and pricing. An engaging bio can also create a human connection with potential clients.

Challenge 2: Meeting clients. While a physical office is unnecessary, meeting clients in person can help build trust. Coffee shops are a perfect informal meeting place, and online platforms like Zoom can widen your client reach.

We recommend the following resources for travel planners:

American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA)

15. Beautify homes with a staging business

If you have an eye for design and understand what home buyers look for, a home staging business could be your calling.

Challenge 1: Showcasing your work. On your website, include high-quality photos of spaces you’ve staged. If you’re new, stage your home or a friend’s and photograph your work.

Challenge 2: Investing in essential equipment. Good photography is key to demonstrating your skills. If your smartphone’s camera isn’t up to par, consider investing in a good digital camera and basic lighting equipment.

Challenge 3: Networking with real estate agents. A successful home staging business often relies on referrals from real estate agents. Business cards can help leave a lasting impression and potentially lead to future referrals.

We recommend the following resources for home stagers:

International Association of Home Staging Professionals (IAHSP)

Niche business ideas: unique startup ideas

1. virtual reality (vr) arcade.

Starting a VR arcade can be profitable as VR technology becomes more affordable.

Challenge 1: Investing in VR equipment. VR equipment can be costly, which can be a hurdle when starting. To overcome this challenge, research different VR systems to find the best balance of cost and quality. Leasing equipment may be a viable option to reduce initial costs.

Challenge 2: Attracting customers. Drawing customers to your VR arcade can be challenging. Host themed gaming events, tournaments, or parties to overcome this challenge to attract a diverse customer base. Offering a unique selection of VR games can also help you stand out. And you can bring your arcade directly to your customers’ homes and offices.

Challenge 3: Keeping up with technological advances. VR technology is rapidly advancing, and staying updated can be a challenge. To overcome this challenge, attend industry trade shows, follow VR news, and connect with VR equipment manufacturers to keep abreast of new developments.

2. Drone photography business

With the advent of more affordable and high-quality drones, starting a drone photography business can be a profitable venture.

Challenge 1: Acquiring necessary licenses and permits. Flying a drone for commercial purposes requires compliance with aviation regulations. To overcome this challenge, understand the local regulations in your area. You may need to pass a test to receive a license for commercial drone operations.

Challenge 2: Developing photography skills. A drone isn’t enough; capturing high-quality and appealing images is necessary. To overcome this challenge, practice your photography skills often. Experiment with different drone settings and shooting angles to create unique images.

Challenge 3: Finding clients. Finding clients who need your services can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, showcase your work on social media and photography platforms. Attend networking events and connect with businesses needing your services, such as real estate agencies or event planners.

3. Subscription box service

Subscription boxes are a popular trend providing customers with regular deliveries of products they love.

Challenge 1: Identifying a unique niche. The market is crowded, and finding a unique niche is critical. To overcome this challenge, look for trends and underserved markets. Your box could focus on anything from artisanal cheeses to eco-friendly products.

Challenge 2: Sourcing products. Finding suppliers that offer quality products at a reasonable price can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, attend trade shows, browse online marketplaces, or contact manufacturers directly. Negotiate bulk pricing to keep your costs down.

Challenge 3: Retaining customers. Keeping customers subscribed month after month is essential for your business’s success. To overcome this challenge, regularly change your box content to keep it fresh and exciting. Provide excellent customer service and consider a loyalty program to retain customers.

4. Indoor plant business

Indoor plants have become a popular home decor trend. If you have a green thumb, consider starting an indoor plant business.

Challenge 1: Maintaining plant health. Keeping a large inventory of plants healthy can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, learn about the specific needs of the different types of plants you sell. Regularly monitor them for signs of pests or diseases.

Challenge 2: Attracting customers. Differentiating your plant business from others can be tough. To overcome this challenge, offer unique plant varieties that aren’t commonly available. Provide exceptional customer service, including advice on plant care.

Challenge 3: Managing inventory. Balancing the demand with the supply of healthy, attractive plants can be tricky. To overcome this challenge, keep track of your sales to understand which plants are most popular. Adjust your inventory based on consumer demand.

5. Personal chef service

If you love cooking and have culinary training, a personal chef service might be your recipe for success. You’ll create customized meals for clients, perfect for busy professionals or individuals with dietary restrictions.

Challenge 1: Building a client base. Finding clients willing to pay for a personal chef can be tricky. To overcome this challenge, leverage your personal network to find your first clients. Consider offering free or discounted services to friends or family in exchange for referrals.

Challenge 2: Meeting varied dietary preferences and requirements. Clients may have specific dietary needs or restrictions. To overcome this challenge, learn about different dietary requirements such as gluten-free, keto, vegan, etc. Ensure you’re comfortable preparing meals within these constraints.

Challenge 3: Managing your time effectively. Juggling multiple clients and their individual meal plans can be a challenge. To overcome this challenge, create a clear schedule and stick to it. Use meal planning and prep techniques to streamline your cooking process.

6. Voiceover services

Voiceover work is in demand for commercials, animation, video games, and more. This could be a great business idea if you have a unique voice and good speaking skills.

Challenge 1: Building a portfolio. Without a portfolio, it can be challenging to attract clients. To overcome this challenge, consider initially offering your services for free or at a low cost to build up your portfolio. Make sure to get high-quality recordings of your work.

Challenge 2: Staying healthy. Voiceover work requires a healthy voice. To overcome this challenge, regularly practice vocal exercises, stay hydrated, and avoid behaviors that could harm your vocal cords, like excessive shouting or prolonged periods of speaking.

Challenge 3: Finding consistent work. Voiceover work can often be project-based, which may lead to inconsistent income. To overcome this challenge, network within the industry and maintain good client relationships to secure repeat work. Register on platforms that match voiceover artists with clients.

7. Home staging business

If you have an eye for interior design and a knack for making spaces look their best, a home staging business could be your calling. This involves preparing homes for sale, making them attractive to potential buyers.

Challenge 1: Building a network. Establishing relationships with real estate agents and property developers can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, attend real estate events and join local business networks. Offer incentives for referrals from real estate agents and past clients.

Challenge 2: Managing inventory. Handling furniture and decor items for multiple homes can be tricky. To overcome this challenge, use a reliable inventory management system. Consider renting furniture and decor instead of buying them outright to save on storage space and costs.

Challenge 3: Dealing with diverse tastes. Different clients and potential buyers may have vastly different tastes. To overcome this challenge, focus on creating a universally appealing aesthetic. Keep up-to-date with home decor trends and customer preferences in your local real estate market.

8. Mobile spa service

Bringing the spa experience to clients’ homes is a great business idea. It offers convenience and a personal touch, providing services like massages, facials, and manicures.

Challenge 1: Building trust. Gaining clients’ trust when entering their homes can be a challenge. Use client testimonials and professional certifications to prove your credibility to overcome this challenge. Always maintain a professional demeanor and respect clients’ privacy.

Challenge 2: Travel logistics. Managing travel time and costs between appointments is crucial. To overcome this challenge, plan your appointments carefully to minimize travel time. Factor travel costs into your pricing or set a specific service area.

Challenge 3: Maintaining hygiene standards. Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene while working in different environments is critical. Invest in portable cleaning tools to overcome this challenge and follow a strict hygiene protocol for each client visit.

9. Children’s party service

If you love planning and have a knack for creating fun, themed events, consider starting a children’s party service. This involves organizing and hosting birthday parties, holiday events, or other celebrations for kids.

Challenge 1: Managing expectations. Parents and children may have different expectations for the party. To overcome this challenge, conduct a detailed consultation with parents and the child (if appropriate) before the party to ensure everyone is on the same page about the theme, activities, and other special requests.

Challenge 2: Safety and liability . Children’s safety is paramount, and managing potential risks is essential. To overcome this challenge, always have safety protocols, and consider getting insurance to cover potential liabilities.

Challenge 3: Keeping up with popular themes. Kids often want parties that reflect their interests, which can change quickly. To overcome this challenge, stay up-to-date with popular kids’ shows, movies, and toys to ensure your party themes are current.

10. Food truck business

Operating a food truck allows you to share your culinary skills with a broad audience without the overhead costs of a traditional restaurant.

Challenge 1: Navigating regulations. Different areas have different rules for food trucks. To overcome this challenge, thoroughly research local laws regarding sanitation, permits, and where you can park and sell.

Challenge 2: Differentiating yourself. The food truck industry is highly competitive, with many unique offerings. To overcome this challenge, find a unique culinary niche or specialty that sets you apart.

Challenge 3: Dealing with logistical challenges. Operating a mobile food business comes with unique logistical challenges, like vehicle maintenance and varying locations. To overcome this challenge, regularly maintain your truck and maintain a consistent schedule and location to build a regular customer base.

11. Handyman

Starting a handyman business could be the perfect fit if you’re skilled in-home repairs and enjoy variety in your work. Handymen provide many services, from repairing a leaky faucet to assembling furniture.

Challenge 1: Building a client base. Winning customers’ trust to let you into their homes can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, build your reputation by offering excellent service and encouraging satisfied clients to leave positive reviews.

Challenge 2: Keeping skills up-to-date. The field of home repair is constantly evolving with new materials and techniques. Regularly upskill by attending workshops and staying informed about industry trends to overcome this challenge.

Challenge 3: Liability. There can be liability concerns when performing home repairs. Protect your business by obtaining appropriate insurance and always following safety procedures to overcome this challenge.

We recommend the following handyman resources:

Handyman License Requirements by State
Association of Certified Handyman Professionals

12. Woodworker

Crafting unique wooden items, from furniture to decorative pieces, can be a rewarding and profitable business if you have woodworking skills and an eye for design.

Challenge 1: Sourcing quality wood. Finding a reliable source of quality wood can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, establish relationships with local lumber yards or mills. Consider using reclaimed or recycled wood for an eco-friendly angle.

Challenge 2: Staying competitive. Standing out in a market full of mass-produced goods can be tough. To overcome this challenge, showcase your unique, handmade pieces and emphasize their quality and craftsmanship.

Challenge 3: Safe workshop practices. Woodworking can be dangerous if safety practices aren’t followed. To overcome this challenge, invest in safety equipment and training, and maintain a clean and organized workspace.

We recommend the following woodworker resources:

The Woodwork Institute
The School of Fine Woodworking

13. Videographer

With the rise of video content online, there’s a growing demand for skilled videographers. Videographers capture important moments and create compelling visual stories from weddings to corporate events.

Challenge 1: Staying updated with technology. The technology and techniques used in videography are constantly evolving. To overcome this challenge, regularly participate in industry workshops and webinars to keep your skills current.

Challenge 2: Standing out in a competitive market. With many people offering videography services, differentiation can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, specialize in specific video content, like drone footage or documentary-style videos, to stand out.

Challenge 3: High upfront costs. The cost of professional-grade video equipment can be high. To overcome this challenge, start with essential equipment and gradually upgrade as your business grows. Renting equipment is also an option.

14. Photographer

Photography is a diverse field with a multitude of niches. From event and wedding photography to portrait, nature, and product photography, this could be a great business venture if you have a keen eye and technical skills.

Challenge 1: Competition and market saturation. With the rise of high-quality smartphone cameras and photo editing apps, competition in the photography business is intense. To overcome this challenge, specialize in a specific type of photography and build a strong portfolio showcasing your unique style and expertise.

Challenge 2: Staying current with technology. The world of photography is ever-evolving, with new equipment and software emerging regularly. To overcome this challenge, regularly attend industry workshops, webinars, and trade shows to stay updated on the latest trends and technology.

Challenge 3: Building a consistent client base. Finding regular clients can be a challenge, especially when starting. To overcome this challenge, networking is vital. Attend local events, collaborate with other businesses, and use social media to expand your reach.

We recommend the following photographer resources:

Cornell’s Digital Photography Certificate Program
New York Institute of Photography’s Course

15. Bed and breakfast owner

Owning a bed and breakfast can be a rewarding business for those who enjoy meeting new people and providing hospitality. This business requires managing bookings, maintaining the property, and providing guests with an unforgettable experience.

Challenge 1: Regulations and licensing. Complying with local zoning laws, obtaining necessary licenses and permits, and meeting health and safety standards can be complex. To overcome this challenge, research local regulations thoroughly and consider hiring a business attorney to ensure you meet all legal requirements.

Challenge 2: Attracting guests. Attracting guests in a crowded market with many lodging options can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, create a unique guest experience, build a strong online presence, and use online booking platforms to reach a wider audience.

Challenge 3: Managing operational tasks. Running a B&B involves various tasks, from housekeeping and maintenance to guest relations and marketing. To overcome this challenge, implement efficient operating systems and consider hiring staff as your business grows.

16. Clothing boutique owner

Owning a clothing boutique can be a stylish and rewarding business opportunity. As an owner, you’ll curate a unique selection of clothing and accessories, provide a personalized shopping experience for customers, and build relationships with designers and distributors.

Challenge 1: Sourcing quality inventory. Finding unique, high-quality items that resonate with your target market can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, attend trade shows, build relationships with independent designers, and watch fashion trends.

Challenge 2: Standing out in a competitive industry. The retail clothing industry is highly competitive, with many established brands and stores. To overcome this challenge, create a unique shopping experience, offer exceptional customer service, and curate a distinctive collection that appeals to a specific demographic.

Challenge 3: Managing inventory. Keeping track of inventory and predicting what items will sell can be complex. To overcome this challenge, invest in a reliable inventory management system and analyze sales data to guide purchasing decisions.

17. Specialty food store owner

From artisanal cheeses to locally sourced produce and gourmet chocolates, owning a specialty food store is a fantastic opportunity for food enthusiasts. As an owner, you’ll source and sell unique food items and provide customers with various flavors they can’t find in standard grocery stores.

Challenge 1: Sourcing unique products. Finding and maintaining a supply of unique, high-quality food can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, build relationships with local farmers, attend food trade shows, and always be on the lookout for new and exciting products.

Challenge 2: Navigating health and safety regulations. Food businesses must adhere to a variety of health and safety regulations. To overcome this challenge, hire a business attorney or consultant specializing in food businesses to ensure you meet all regulatory requirements.

Challenge 3: Standing out in a competitive market. Making your stand out with many different food stores can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, specialize in a specific type of food, provide exceptional customer service, and host in-store events like tastings or cooking classes.

18. Trucking business

Starting a trucking business can be lucrative, especially with the continuous demand for transportation services. As a truck driver, you’ll deliver goods over various distances, manage your schedule, and maintain your vehicle.

Challenge 1: High startup and operational costs. Purchasing trucks and maintaining them, in addition to fuel costs, can be expensive. To overcome this challenge, consider leasing your trucks or look for used options in good condition to reduce upfront costs.

Challenge 2: Regulation compliance. The trucking industry is heavily regulated, and compliance can be complex. To overcome this challenge, stay updated with industry regulations, ensure proper licensing and permits, and keep detailed records.

Challenge 3: Long and irregular hours. Truck driving often involves long hours on the road and erratic schedules. To overcome this challenge, create a balanced work schedule, prioritizing rest and self-care to maintain health and safety.

19. Car detailing specialist

A car detailing business can be profitable for individuals with an eye for detail and a passion for cars. As a car detailing specialist, you’ll restore vehicles to their original condition or, even better, provide various cleaning services.

Challenge 1: Attracting regular customers. Cars only need occasional detailing, so attracting regular customers can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, provide outstanding service, offer loyalty programs, and consider branching into related services like oil changes or tire rotations.

Challenge 2: Staying current with the latest technologies. Detailing techniques and technologies continually evolve, requiring you to stay updated. To overcome this challenge, attend trade shows, sign up for professional training, and subscribe to industry publications.

Challenge 3: Overhead costs. High-quality cleaning supplies can be expensive, which can add up over time. To overcome this challenge, buy cleaning products in bulk and consider using eco-friendly products, which can be a unique selling point.

20. Garden designer

A garden design business might be the perfect fit if you have a green thumb and an eye for design. Garden designers plan and design gardens for residential and commercial clients, transforming ordinary spaces into lush, green havens.

Challenge 1: Seasonal demand. Garden design tends to be seasonal, with demand spiking in the spring and summer. To overcome this challenge, diversify your services to include winter tasks like garden preparation or interior plant design.

Challenge 2: Keeping up with trends and technology. Like any design industry, garden design trends change, and new technologies (like 3D design software) emerge. To overcome this challenge, attend industry events, follow influential garden designers, and learn to use design software to present your ideas professionally.

Challenge 3: High competition. The landscape design field is competitive, with many individuals and companies offering similar services. To overcome this challenge, find a niche in your specialized market, such as native plant gardens or small-space solutions.

We recommend the following garden designer resources:

American Academy of Garden Design
New Skills Academy’s Garden Design Certification

21. Travel planner

As a travel planner, you’ll plan and organize travel itineraries for individuals, families, and businesses. This business can be very rewarding for those who love travel and are excellent at logistics and planning.

Challenge 1: Building supplier relationships. Strong relationships with accommodation, transport, and activity providers are vital to providing quality experiences for your clients. To overcome this challenge, attend travel industry networking events, join professional organizations, and always provide feedback to suppliers to strengthen relationships.

Challenge 2: Staying updated with travel trends. Travel trends change rapidly, and staying updated can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, subscribe to travel publications, attend travel expos, and connect with other travel professionals to keep abreast of the latest trends and destinations.

Challenge 3: Attracting clients in a competitive market. The travel planning market is highly competitive, with many online and offline services available. To overcome this challenge, differentiate your services by specializing in a specific type of travel (like sustainable travel or adventure tourism) or a particular region.

We recommend the following travel planner resources:

The Travel Institute Training & Certification Program
Penn Foster Travel and Tourism Specialist Career Diploma

22. Home inspector

A home inspection is an essential step in the home-buying process, and as a home inspector, you will provide potential home buyers with detailed reports about a property’s condition.

Challenge 1: Acquiring necessary certifications. You must be certified or licensed in most states to perform home inspections. To overcome this challenge, research what qualifications are needed in your area, and consider investing in courses or training programs that can help you get certified.

Challenge 2: Building a client base. As a home inspector, you must build a network of real estate agents and potential home buyers who can refer or use your services. To overcome this challenge, start building relationships with local real estate professionals, and consider advertising your services in local homebuying resources or online platforms.

Challenge 3: Staying up-to-date with building codes and standards. Building codes and standards can be complex and vary by location, and keeping up-to-date with these can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, join professional organizations and subscribe to industry newsletters to stay informed about regulations and industry standards changes.

We recommend the following home inspector resources:

International Association of Certified Home Inspectors
ATI Home Inspector Academy

23. Consultant

Consultants are experts who provide professional advice in business, education, law, regulatory compliance, human resources, marketing, finance, health care, and many other specialized fields.

Challenge 1: Establishing credibility. Clients want to know they can trust your advice. Consider certifications or advanced degrees related to your expertise to overcome this challenge. Regularly attend industry conferences and publish articles to establish thought leadership.

Challenge 2: Finding clients. Attracting your first clients can be difficult when starting. To overcome this challenge, leverage your network. Reach out to former colleagues or friends who may need your services or know someone who does.

Challenge 3: Setting fees. It can be challenging to determine what to charge for your services. To overcome this challenge, research what others in your field charge and consider your experience level, the project’s complexity, and the potential value to the client when setting your rates.

24. Property manager

A property manager handles all the day-to-day tasks related to managing a rental property for property owners. This could include finding tenants, handling maintenance and repairs, and dealing with tenant issues.

Challenge 1: Acquiring the necessary knowledge and skills. Property management requires diverse skills, including knowledge of real estate laws, maintenance skills, and people skills. To overcome this challenge, consider taking courses or earning a certification in property management to gain the necessary knowledge and skills.

Challenge 2: Building a client base. Building a client base can be challenging when you’re just starting. To overcome this challenge, network with local real estate professionals, attend real estate events and advertise your services to property owners.

Challenge 3: Handling multiple tasks efficiently. Property management involves numerous tasks, from dealing with tenant complaints to overseeing property maintenance. To overcome this challenge, invest in property management software to help you keep track of all your tasks and streamline your workflow.

25. Massage therapist

A massage therapist helps clients reduce stress, relieve pain, and promote overall wellness through various massage techniques.

Challenge 1: Getting proper certification. Massage therapists must be certified, and the requirements can vary by location. To overcome this challenge, investigate the specific requirements in your area and enroll in a reputable massage therapy program to gain the necessary skills and certification.

Challenge 2: Building a clientele. When you start, finding clients can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, offer discounted or introductory rates to attract initial customers. Also, leverage social media and local networking events to promote your services.

Challenge 3: Physical demands of the job. Massage therapy can be physically demanding, which can lead to burnout. To overcome this challenge, be mindful of your physical well-being, take time for self-care, and consider adding other wellness services to your offerings to diversify your workload.

26. Interior designer

Interior designers use their creative and technical skills to design and enhance indoor spaces to make them functional, safe, and attractive.

Challenge 1: Acquiring necessary credentials. In many areas, interior designers must be certified or licensed. To overcome this challenge, look into the requirements in your area, and consider obtaining a degree in interior design or a related field.

Challenge 2: Building a portfolio. Prospective clients will want to see examples of your work. To overcome this challenge, consider offering your services to friends or family to build your portfolio or use design software to create mock-ups of your design ideas.

Challenge 3: Keeping up with design trends. Design trends change quickly, and it can be hard to keep up. To overcome this challenge, follow design blogs, attend industry trade shows, and network with other designers to stay up-to-date on the latest trends.

We recommend the following interior designer resources:

The New York Institute of Art and Design

27. Consignment shop owner

Consignment shops sell items for individuals and take a percentage of the sale price. This model allows you to offer various items without purchasing inventory upfront.

Challenge 1: Sourcing items. Finding a steady supply of items to sell can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, build relationships with local communities. Advertise your service and explain the benefits to potential consignors.

Challenge 2: Pricing items. It can be difficult to determine how to price things. To overcome this challenge, research what similar items are selling for and consider the item’s condition, brand, and demand when setting prices.

Challenge 3: Building trust. People need to trust you with their items. To overcome this challenge, be transparent about your pricing and terms. Regularly communicate with consignors about their things and any sales.

28. Gym owner

Owning a gym can be a rewarding business for fitness enthusiasts.

Challenge 1: High startup costs. Equipping a gym can be expensive. To overcome this challenge, start small with essential equipment and add more as your membership grows. Consider leasing equipment to lower startup costs.

Challenge 2: Attracting members. Competition in the fitness industry is fierce. To overcome this challenge, offer unique classes or amenities that set your gym apart. A strong social media presence can also attract members.

Challenge 3: Retaining members. The fitness industry often sees high churn rates. To overcome this challenge, foster a sense of community in your gym. Regularly check in with members to ensure they are satisfied and encourage them to meet their fitness goals.

29. Boutique agency owner

A small creative boutique agency offers specialized work for a limited client list.

Challenge 1: Building a client base. Attracting clients to a newly established boutique agency can be tough. To overcome this challenge, offer a unique selling proposition that distinguishes you from the competition. Leverage your network and engage in strategic partnerships.

Challenge 2: Managing limited resources. With a small team, managing resources effectively can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, prioritize client work that aligns with your agency’s strengths. Hire freelancers for specialized tasks, if necessary.

Challenge 3: Maintaining consistent revenue. Revenue flow can be inconsistent due to the project-based nature of the work. To overcome this challenge, seek long-term contracts with clients. Offer retainers for regular work.

30. Coffee shop owner

Coffee shops are popular for people to relax, work, and socialize.

Challenge 1: High startup costs. Initial investment costs for a coffee shop can be high due to equipment, supplies, and location. To overcome this challenge, consider starting as a coffee cart or kiosk before moving into a larger space. Leasing equipment can also help reduce upfront costs.

Challenge 2: Attracting customers. Competition in the coffee industry is stiff. To overcome this challenge, offer unique coffee blends or special promotions. Engage with your community through events and local partnerships.

Challenge 3: Maintaining quality. Consistency and quality of coffee, and customer service are vital. To overcome this challenge, train staff properly and invest in quality ingredients.

31. Moving company

A moving company assists people and businesses in relocating their goods from one place to another.

Challenge 1: Regulatory compliance. Complying with state and federal regulations can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, ensure you have the correct licenses and insurance and adhere to all regulations in your region.

Challenge 2: Managing logistics. Coordinating the scheduling, truck maintenance, and employee availability can be complex. To overcome this challenge, invest in good management and planning software to streamline operations.

Challenge 3: Building trust. People entrust movers with their possessions, so building trust is crucial. To overcome this challenge, offer excellent customer service. Collect and share customer testimonials.

33. Daycare owner

Running a daycare means you provide care and supervision for children while their parents are at work or otherwise occupied.

Challenge 1: Licensing and regulations. Daycare businesses are heavily regulated and require licensing. To overcome this challenge, meet all local and state requirements and maintain your license.

Challenge 2: Safety. Ensuring safety is a significant challenge when caring for children. Regularly review your safety procedures to overcome this challenge and invest in safe, high-quality equipment.

Challenge 3: Staffing. Hiring qualified, trustworthy staff is critical. Conduct thorough background checks on potential hires to overcome this challenge and invest in training.

33. House cleaner

A house cleaner offers cleaning services to homeowners who are too busy or unable to clean their homes.

Challenge 1: Building a client base. Finding a steady stream of clients can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, start with word-of-mouth referrals from friends and family. As your cleaning business grows, consider online advertising.

Challenge 2: Setting competitive rates. Determining a fair but profitable rate for your services can be difficult. To overcome this challenge, research your competitors’ pricing and consider your time, effort, and expenses.

Challenge 3: Managing your time. Balancing multiple clients and their various needs can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, develop a scheduling system and leave time for travel, rest, and administrative tasks.

34. Tour guide

As a tour guide, you lead individuals or groups around places of interest, providing expert knowledge about the locations.

Challenge 1: Gaining in-depth knowledge. Having a comprehensive understanding of your chosen tour area is essential and challenging. To overcome this challenge, research extensively, visit often, and keep updated on any changes or developments.

Challenge 2: Attracting tourists. It may not be easy to attract enough tourists to make your tours profitable. Collaborate with local businesses, hotels, and travel agencies to overcome this challenge to recommend your tours. Also, have an online presence to reach more potential clients.

Challenge 3: Managing different personalities. Handling a group with different personalities and expectations can be tough. To overcome this challenge, develop strong people skills. Be patient, empathetic, and flexible to cater to different needs and ensure everyone enjoys the tour.

35. T-Shirt printing business

T-shirt printing businesses design and sell custom-made shirts. They typically create t-shirt designs and then use a third-party printing company to produce the t-shirts. This makes it an excellent option for artistically inclined entrepreneurs who don’t want to deal with the hassle of production and inventory.

Challenge 1: Finding a unique niche. The t-shirt market is saturated, and finding a unique niche can be difficult. To overcome this challenge, research your market, find out what designs or messages resonate with a particular group, and specialize in that niche.

Challenge 2: Quality control. Ensuring consistent, high-quality prints can be challenging when outsourcing production. To overcome this challenge, thoroughly research and select a reputable print-on-demand service—order samples to check the quality before selling to customers.

Challenge 3: Attracting customers. Attracting and retaining customers in a crowded online marketplace can be tough. To overcome this challenge, invest time in creating a strong brand, utilizing social media marketing, and providing outstanding customer service.

Best small business ideas for women

1. personal stylist.

A personal stylist business caters to individuals who need assistance with their wardrobe choices. Stylists help clients make the best clothing and accessory decisions for their lifestyle, profession, and personal style.

Challenge 1: Convincing potential clients. Convincing people that they can benefit from your stylist services might be tough, as people are used to picking out their own clothes. However, you can make a compelling case with solid marketing showcasing your past work and highlighting the transformation and confidence your clients gain.

Challenge 2: Staying up-to-date with fashion trends. The fashion industry changes rapidly, and your advice will only be as good as your knowledge. To overcome this, keep up with the latest trends, attend fashion events, and continuously educate yourself about the industry.

Challenge 3: Sourcing clothing items. Finding high-quality, stylish items within your client’s budget can be challenging. Develop good relationships with local boutiques and retailers. You can often negotiate discounts for your clients, which adds value to your service.

We recommend the following Personal stylist resources:

The Association of Image Consultants International

2. Fitness Coach

As a fitness coach, you would help clients achieve their health and fitness goals. This business is perfect for women passionate about health, fitness, and inspiring others.

Challenge 1: Establishing credibility. Establishing your credibility can be challenging in a market full of fitness gurus. Get certified through a recognized fitness institution, adding to your credibility and helping you stand out.

Challenge 2: Client retention . Keeping clients motivated and committed to their fitness goals can be tough. Developing a personal relationship with your clients and regularly tracking and celebrating their progress can help them stay motivated.

Challenge 3: Staying current with fitness trends. Like fashion, fitness trends change constantly. Staying up-to-date with the latest techniques, diets, and workouts is crucial. Regularly attending fitness workshops and seminars can help you stay current.

We recommend the following Fitness coach resources:

National Strength and Conditioning Association

3. Personal Chef

Personal chefs prepare meals for individuals or families, typically in the clients’ homes. This business suits women who love cooking and are great at creating varied, healthy, and delicious meals.

Challenge 1: Dietary Restrictions. Handling clients with specific dietary needs or restrictions can be a challenge. To overcome this, get educated on various dietary needs (vegan, gluten-free, low-carb, etc.) and tailor your menu accordingly.

Challenge 2: Managing multiple clients. Managing multiple clients and their unique preferences can get overwhelming. Good organization and planning skills are essential. Develop a system for tracking clients’ likes, dislikes, and dietary needs.

Challenge 3: Sourcing ingredients. Finding high-quality ingredients that are also cost-effective can be a challenge. Build relationships with local farmers or wholesalers for fresh, affordable produce.

We recommend the following personal chef resources:

American Personal & Private Chef Association

4. Childcare services

Starting a childcare service can be a great small business idea for women who love children and have a knack for caring for them. This service caters to parents needing a safe and engaging environment for their children at work or otherwise occupied.

Challenge 1: Licensing and regulations. Meeting the licensing requirements and abiding by the rules and regulations set by your state can be challenging. Do thorough research on what’s needed to be in compliance and stay updated on regulation changes.

Challenge 2: Trust building. Parents need to have absolute trust in you before they can leave their children with you. To build this trust, create a transparent operation where parents feel involved and secure about their child’s safety and well-being.

Challenge 3: Adequate space. Having enough space that is also child-friendly can be a challenge. Ensure you have a safe, clean, and engaging space for children. This might require some investment in toys, books, and child safety measures.

We recommend the following childcare resources:

National Association for Family Child Care

5. Elder care services

Providing elder care services is another rewarding business that caters to families with elderly loved ones who need assistance with day-to-day activities.

Challenge 1: Emotional and physical demands. Working with the elderly can be emotionally and physically demanding. Ensuring you are equipped to handle these demands is important. Consider obtaining a certification in elder care to learn more about this population’s unique needs and challenges.

Challenge 2: Trust building. As with child care services, families must trust you before entrusting their loved ones. Highlight your qualifications, experience, and passion for caring for the elderly to build this trust.

Challenge 3: Regulations and compliance. Meeting the necessary regulations and compliance measures can be challenging. Understand these for your state or region and ensure you are always compliant.

We recommend the following elder care resources:

National Association for Home Care & Hospice

6. Social media consultant

For those adept at navigating the world of social media, offering consultancy services to businesses can be a fruitful venture. Businesses, big and small, need to maintain a strong social media presence and often require expert help to manage this aspect of their branding .

Challenge 1: Staying current. The world of social media is ever-changing, and staying up-to-date with the latest trends, algorithms, and best practices can be challenging. Regularly educating yourself, attending webinars, and following industry experts can help you stay in the loop.

Challenge 2: Proving ROI. Clients will want to see tangible results from their investment in your services. You should be adept at tracking and presenting key metrics that demonstrate the value of your work.

Challenge 3: Building a client base. Finding and retaining clients is a challenge many new businesses face. Networking, both online and offline, and offering excellent service to your existing clients (who can then refer you to others) can help build your client base.

We recommend the following social media consultant resources:

Social Media Examiner for the latest industry news and tips.

7. Virtual assistant services

Virtual Assistant (VA) services are in high demand as businesses and entrepreneurs seek ways to outsource tasks and increase productivity. You might manage calendars, answer emails, or coordinate projects as a VA.

Challenge 1: Diverse skillset. As a VA, you may be expected to handle various tasks. Building up a diverse skill set can be challenging, but plenty of online resources are available to learn new skills.

Challenge 2: Building a client base. Finding clients when you’re starting can be tricky. You might consider joining a platform connecting VAs with clients or networking in online business communities to build relationships.

Challenge 3: Managing multiple clients. As your client base grows, staying organized can become a challenge. Investing in good project management software can help you stay on top of tasks and deadlines.

We recommend the following virtual assistant resources:

Association of Virtual Assistants

8. Herbal farm stand

Running a herbal farm stand can be an excellent small business idea if you love nature and have a green thumb. You can grow various herbs and educate your customers about their benefits.

Challenge 1: Knowledge of herbs. Knowing the properties of different herbs is vital. The key is continuously learning and staying updated about different herbs and their uses.

Challenge 2: Seasonal variations. Herbs are seasonal, and you must adapt your offerings based on the time of year. Planning and preparation for each season is crucial.

Challenge 3: Attracting customers. Creating awareness and attracting customers to your stand can be a challenge. Consider marketing strategies such as community workshops or herb-related events.

9. Children’s book author

If you have a knack for storytelling, consider becoming a children’s book author. You can inspire young minds and address various important topics through your stories.

Challenge 1: Content creation. Creating engaging and age-appropriate content can be challenging. Learning about child development and studying successful children’s books can help craft your stories.

Challenge 2: Illustrations. Illustrations are a crucial part of children’s books. You may need to collaborate with an illustrator if you’re not artistically inclined.

Challenge 3: Getting published. Navigating the publishing world can be daunting. Consider working with a literary agent or explore self-publishing options.

10. Food product creator

If you love cooking and have a unique recipe, you can turn it into a business by becoming a food product creator. You could sell your products in local stores or online.

Challenge 1: Food safety regulations. Understanding food safety regulations and acquiring the necessary licenses is crucial. Research your local laws thoroughly.

Challenge 2: Scaling production. Scaling production from a home kitchen to larger quantities can be challenging. You might need to collaborate with a commercial kitchen.

Challenge 3: Distribution. Getting your product onto store shelves or selling it online requires a clear distribution strategy. Research various distribution channels and decide which works best for your product.

11. Career coach

A career coach helps clients navigate their career paths and strategically decide their professional futures.

Challenge 1: Establishing credibility. As a career coach, your expertise and insights are your product. Establishing credibility through certifications, testimonials, and a strong online presence can help gain clients’ trust.

Challenge 2: Client acquisition. Getting your first clients can be difficult. Network at professional events, offer free sessions to get started and ask for referrals.

Challenge 3: Keeping up with industry trends. The job market is dynamic, and staying updated about trends can be challenging. Regularly reading industry-specific news and attending workshops and seminars can help stay current.

12. Art curator

Starting your own art curation business can be great if you have an eye for art. You could curate art for businesses and homes or create your own online gallery.

Challenge 1: Building relationships with artists. Having access to high-quality art requires good relationships with artists. Regularly attending art shows, galleries, and other networking events can help.

Challenge 2: Understanding the client’s taste. Each client will have a unique taste and style. Spending time understanding their preferences before suggesting art can improve client satisfaction.

Challenge 3: Keeping up with art trends. The art world is continually changing. Regularly researching, attending shows, and studying can help you keep up with current trends.

13. Pet sitting

A pet-sitting business involves looking after pets while their owners are away.

Challenge 1: Handling different animals. Different pets require different care. Understanding the needs of various animals will be important.

Challenge 2: Trust issues with clients. People love their pets; handing them over to strangers can be tough. Building a good reputation, obtaining positive reviews, and having a professional website can help gain trust.

Challenge 3: Handling emergencies. Being prepared to handle emergencies is important. First aid training for pets can be extremely helpful.

We recommend the following pet-sitting resources:

Pet Sitters International
National Association of Professional Pet Sitters

A doula provides emotional, physical, and educational support to mothers before, during, and after childbirth.

Challenge 1: Getting the necessary training . Before practicing as a doula, you’ll need to complete training and certification. Many organizations offer these, such as DONA International.

Challenge 2: Building a client base. Word-of-mouth is especially important in this field. You’ll want to network with healthcare providers, join local parenting groups, and build a strong online presence.

Challenge 3: Emotional challenges. Being a doula can be emotionally demanding. Practicing self-care and finding support amongst other doulas can help.

We recommend the following doula resources:

DONA International
Birth Arts International
The International Doula Institute

15. Skincare product maker

You can create your skincare products to sell online or at local markets.

Challenge 1: Developing unique and effective formulas. To stand out, your products must be unique and effective. This might require a deep understanding of various ingredients and their effects on the skin.

Challenge 2: Regulations and compliance. Skincare products must comply with specific regulations. Understanding these and ensuring your products meet them is crucial.

Challenge 3: Branding and marketing: many skincare products are out there. You need strong branding and marketing to set your products apart to succeed.

We recommend the following skincare product-maker resources:

The Handcrafted Soap & Cosmetic Guild
The Skin Deep Database by EWG

16. Voice-over artist

As a voice-over artist, you provide the voice for characters in animations, provide a voice for commercials, narrate audiobooks, and more.

Challenge 1: Developing your skills. Voice acting is more than just reading lines. Training and practice are essential to develop a range of voices and styles.

Challenge 2: Building a portfolio. Potential clients will want to hear samples of your work. Creating a diverse portfolio to showcase your talent is crucial.

Challenge 3: Finding work. Like many creative fields, finding consistent work can be a challenge. Networking and marketing yourself are key.

We recommend the following voice-over artist resources:

VoiceOverXtra

17. Food tour guide

Starting a food tour guide business can be great if you love food and local cuisine. You can share your passion for food with locals and tourists while supporting local businesses.

Challenge 1: Building relationships with local businesses. It’s essential to build positive relationships with local eateries for the success of your food tours.

Challenge 2: Marketing your tours. It’s crucial to market your tours effectively to both locals and tourists. This can involve online marketing strategies, working with local hotels and tourism boards, and using social media platforms.

Challenge 3: Health and safety. Awareness of and addressing the health and safety aspects of running food tours is important. This can include ensuring food safety standards are met and addressing potential allergies.

We recommend the following food tour guide resources:

Global Food Tourism Association

17. Online nutrition coach

As an online nutrition coach, you can help people reach their health and fitness goals by providing personalized diet plans and support.

Challenge 1: Gaining credibility. You’ll need to gain a credible certification in nutrition or dietetics. Consider institutions such as the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics or Precision Nutrition.

Challenge 2: Building a client base. Like many online businesses, building a client base can take time. You can use online marketing strategies and client testimonials to attract more clients.

Challenge 3: Keeping up with research. Nutrition science is a field that continually evolves. Staying up-to-date with the latest research is key to providing the best advice to your clients.

We recommend the following online nutrition coach resources:

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Best small business ideas for students

1. pet-sitting service.

If you love animals, consider starting a pet-sitting service. This business can be started with minimal upfront investment and has a high earning potential.

Challenge 1: Building trust with pet owners. Pet owners need to trust you before they’ll leave their beloved pets in your care. To overcome this challenge, get certified in pet first aid and CPR. Consider getting bonded and insured to provide peace of mind to your clients.

Challenge 2: Attracting clients. Getting the word out about your service can be tough when starting. To overcome this challenge, leverage social media to reach local pet owners. You can also offer your services to friends, family, or neighbors to gain initial clients and testimonials.

Challenge 3: Managing multiple pets at once. If you have multiple clients, managing all their pets can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, use a scheduling tool to keep track of your pet-sitting assignments. Don’t take on more than you can handle – providing quality care for each pet is essential.

2. Personal stylist

If you love fashion and enjoy working with people, starting a personal stylist business could be the right choice. You can help clients revamp their wardrobes, prepare for special events, or develop a new unique look.

Challenge 1: Building a client base. Securing consistent clients can be challenging in this industry. To overcome this challenge, start with people in your network and offer your services to them. Use social media platforms like Instagram to showcase your work and attract clients.

Challenge 2: Keeping up with fashion trends. Fashion trends are always changing, and staying current is vital. To overcome this challenge, follow fashion blogs, attend fashion shows, and watch fashion influencers on social media to keep up-to-date.

Challenge 3: Meeting individual client needs. Each client has different tastes, body types, and comfort levels. To overcome this challenge, understand what works for different body types and personal styles. Always listen to your clients and tailor your suggestions to their preferences.

3. Craft class business

Consider teaching others through a craft class business if you’re skilled in a particular craft, such as knitting, pottery, or painting.

Challenge 1: Attracting students. Competing with online tutorials and large craft workshops can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, offer a unique value proposition like small class sizes for personalized instruction. Promote your classes locally at craft stores, community centers, and on social media.

Challenge 2: Sourcing materials. Obtaining the necessary materials for each class can be costly and time-consuming. To overcome this challenge, look for bulk discounts from craft supply stores or online retailers. Alternatively, consider asking students to bring some of their own materials.

Challenge 3: Catering to different skill levels. Your students may have varying levels of skill and experience. To overcome this challenge, consider offering different classes for beginners, intermediates, and advanced students. Be patient and encouraging with students who are just starting.

4. Landscaper

Starting a landscaping business could be rewarding if you have a green thumb and an eye for design. Landscapers help homeowners and businesses design and maintain their outdoor spaces.

Challenge 1: Seasonal nature of the business. Landscaping is often a seasonal business, with demand fluctuating throughout the year. To overcome this challenge, diversify your services to include winter maintenance tasks or indoor plant care.

Challenge 2: Standing out in a competitive market. The landscaping industry is highly competitive, with many established companies. Differentiate your business by specializing in a specific landscaping style or a unique service offering to overcome this challenge.

Challenge 3: Physical demands. Landscaping is physically demanding work that can lead to injury if not performed safely. To overcome this challenge, invest in proper safety training and equipment to protect yourself and your team.

We recommend the following landscaper resources:

Association of Professional Landscape Designers

As a tutor, you can help students excel in a subject where they may struggle or want to advance.

Challenge 1: Demonstrating expertise. Tutors must show they have the knowledge and skills to help students improve. To overcome this challenge, obtain certifications or degrees in your chosen subject. For languages, consider proficiency certificates like the TOEFL or IELTS.

Challenge 2: Finding clients. Marketing yourself to parents and students is a common challenge. To overcome this challenge, advertise locally in schools and online on tutoring websites. Word-of-mouth recommendations are powerful, so offer an incentive for referrals.

Challenge 3: Creating a lesson plan. Developing an effective lesson plan that caters to each student’s learning style can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, develop flexible lesson plans and be prepared to adjust your teaching style according to the student’s needs.

Feeling inspired by a wealth of small business ideas? It’s time to channel that creativity into action. Here’s how to transform your vision into a thriving small business.

How to start a small business at home

1. Turning your idea into a business 2. Crafting a comprehensive business plan 3. Choosing the right business structure 4. Crafting a compelling brand identity 5. Accounting, insurance, and location 6. Funding your business 7. Launching and growing your business

Our comprehensive guide on how to start a business provides an in-depth exploration of each step involved in the process, and we highly recommend taking the time to read that guide for a thorough understanding. For a quick start guide, here’s what you need to know.

1. Turning your idea into a business

Every business starts with a simple idea. Think about what you’re passionate about or a problem you’ve noticed you could solve. Your idea doesn’t have to be brand new; it could be an improvement on something that already exists.

Starbucks didn’t invent coffee shops, but it did reinvent the coffee shop experience, turning it into a third place between work and home.

Testing your idea

Once you have an idea, you must see if others think it’s good too. This is called market validation. Talk to potential customers, ask them what they think, and see if they’d be willing to pay for your product or service. When Dropbox started, they made a simple video explaining their idea and shared it online. The huge number of people who signed up for the waiting list was a sign that people wanted their product.

Understanding your customers

Know who you’re selling to. Create a picture of your ideal customer. How old are they? What do they like? What problems do they need to solve? Netflix knew people didn’t like late fees and waiting for DVDs in the mail, so they created a streaming service that allowed customers to watch shows and movies anytime.

Study your competitors

Look at businesses that are similar to yours. What are they doing well? What could they improve? This can give you ideas and help you find ways to stand out. When creating the first iPhone, Apple saw that most phones had tiny buttons and small screens. They made a phone with just one button and a big touchscreen, which made it different from everything else on the market.

Validating your idea with real data

Remember, it’s not enough to have a great idea—you need to validate it with comprehensive market research . Use surveys, interviews, and maybe even a small version of your product (a prototype) to gather feedback. Adjust your idea based on what you learn. Before opening their first store, the founders of Warby Parker, an eyeglass retailer, tested their idea of selling glasses online by shipping samples to people’s homes. The positive feedback they received helped them shape their business.

2. Crafting a comprehensive business plan

Think of your business plan as a GPS for your business journey. It outlines where you want to go and the best way to get there. It’s not just a formality; it’s a living document that guides your decision-making and helps convince others, like investors, to join you on your venture.

Key components of a business plan

Your business plan should be a detailed guide covering all the vital aspects of your business. Here are the key sections you should include:

Executive summary. This is like the trailer for your business plan. It should be exciting and summarize the most compelling parts of your plan.
Company description. Introduce your business. What does it do? Who does it serve? Why is it unique?
Market analysis. Prove that you know your industry. Who are your competitors, and what are the trends? Show you’ve done your homework.
Organization and management. Who’s running the show? Include bios and relevant experience that make your team sound like the Avengers of your industry.
Service or product line. What are you selling or offering? Explain why customers will be queuing up for your product or service.
Marketing and sales. How will you attract and keep customers? Detail your strategy for making sales and building relationships.
Funding request. If you’re looking for funding, be specific. How much do you need, and what will you use it for?
Financial projections. Impress with numbers. Include projections like profit and loss statements, cash flow, and a balance sheet.
Appendix. Add any documents supporting your plan, like resumes, legal documents, or product pictures.

Airbnb’s original business plan wasn’t overly complicated. They identified a problem (expensive hotel rooms and unused apartments) and offered a solution (a platform for renting out spare rooms). They showed they understood their market, outlined how to attract hosts and guests, and were transparent about their financial needs. The clarity and simplicity of their plan helped them secure early investments and set them on the path to success.

3. Choosing the right business structure

Your business structure affects everything from your day-to-day operations to taxes and how much of your personal assets are at risk. Choose wisely!

Sole Proprietorship. This is the simplest form of business, but it means your personal assets are on the line. It’s like a solo performance—no backup band.
Partnership. Got a business buddy? This might be for you. But remember, it’s a bit like a marriage; choose your partner carefully.
Limited Liability Company (LLC). This structure keeps your personal assets safe if your business faces legal troubles. It’s like a safety net for your savings.
Corporation (C Corp). This is for the big players. It’s a separate entity from its owners, which means more paperwork but more protection and funding options too.
S Corporation. It’s like a C Corp but with tax benefits. Profits and losses can pass through to your personal tax return, potentially saving you money.
B Corporation. The “B” stands for beneficial. This is for companies that want to make a profit and positively impact society.

Once you’ve chosen your structure, it’s time to tackle the red tape: Register your business. This process varies by location, but it typically involves registering your business name and obtaining a business license. We have detailed guides for starting an LLC , forming a corporation , or registering a DBA (doing business as).

You’ll also need your EIN (Employer Identification Number), like your business’s Social Security number. You’ll need it for tax purposes.

For example, many Etsy sellers start as sole proprietors, but as they grow, some become LLCs to protect their personal assets. Understanding and adapting to legal requirements as your business evolves is crucial.

Hire an expert to form your company and save time. Our trusted partners can help: Northwest ($39 + state fee) or Bizee ($199 + state fee) . We recommend Northwest. After evaluating the leading registration companies, Northwest stands out as our top choice due to its competitive pricing, exceptional customer support, and commitment to privacy. Pay just $39 + state fees and you'll get a free year of registered agent service, articles of organization, privacy, and client support from local experts.

4. Crafting a compelling brand identity

Your brand is the personality of your business; it’s how customers recognize and remember you. It’s more than just a logo—it’s your business’s promise to your customers.

Elements of brand identity :

Brand name. Choose a company name that’s memorable, easy to spell, and gives an idea of what your business does. Avoid names that are too generic or hard to pronounce.
Logo. Your company logo should be simple, scalable, and effective without color. It should work on a business card and a billboard.
Color scheme. Colors evoke emotions. Choose colors that reflect the personality of your brand and appeal to your target audience.
Typography. The fonts you use say a lot about your brand. Whether it’s professional, quirky, or luxurious, make sure your typography aligns with your brand’s tone.
Brand voice. How does your brand communicate? Is it professional, friendly, or authoritative? This brand voice should be consistent in all your messaging.

Warby Parker disrupted the eyewear industry with a strong brand identity that promised affordable, stylish glasses. Their friendly, approachable voice and clean, modern design helped them stand out in a crowded market.

Developing your brand

Understand your audience . Who are they? What do they value? Your brand should speak directly to their desires and needs.
Analyze competitors . What are they doing well? Where do they fall short? Use this information to differentiate your brand.
Create a brand story . People love stories. What’s yours? How did your business come to be? What’s your mission ? This can form an emotional connection with your audience.
Be consistent . Ensure your brand identity is consistent across all channels, from your website to your packaging and marketing materials.

For example, Airbnb’s brand revolves around the idea of ‘belonging anywhere’. Their consistent messaging and community-focused brand story have helped them build a global presence.

5. Accounting, insurance, and location

Setting up a robust financial foundation is critical for the survival and growth of your business. It involves understanding and organizing your finances, protecting your business, and choosing the right location.

Accounting systems

Bookkeeping. Accurate bookkeeping is the backbone of your business’s financial health. Tools like QuickBooks or Xero can help you keep track of expenses, income, and tax obligations.
Budgeting. Forecast your revenues and expenses to avoid cash flow problems. It’s crucial to know when you can afford to invest in growth or need to tighten your belt.

For example, many Etsy sellers start as hobbyists but soon realize the importance of proper accounting once their shops grow. Utilizing simple accounting software helps them manage their finances effectively.

Liability insurance. Protects against claims that your business caused injury or property damage. It’s essential for both product and service-based businesses.
Property insurance. If you have a physical location or significant business property, this insurance can protect you from loss due to fire, theft, or other disasters.
Workers’ compensation. If you have employees, most states require workers’ compensation insurance, which covers injuries or illnesses that occur as a result of work.

For example, food truck owners must navigate various risks, from kitchen fires to road accidents. Comprehensive insurance coverage is crucial to protect against such unforeseen events.

Choosing a location

Online businesses. Your “location” may be a domain name. Choose one that’s easy to remember and reflects your brand. Ensure your website is user-friendly and secure.
Offline businesses. For physical locations, consider foot traffic, accessibility, competition, and costs. The right location can significantly impact your visibility and sales.

For example, local coffee shops often choose locations with high foot traffic to attract customers. They also focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere, encouraging people to linger and return.

Services like Netflix or Spotify invest heavily in user interface and server infrastructure rather than physical locations, ensuring seamless access for users worldwide.

6. Funding your business

One of the most crucial steps in starting a business is securing the necessary capital . There are several avenues to explore, and the best choice depends on your business type, stage, and personal preferences.

Bootstrapping

You can use personal savings or assets to fund your business. This is common for smaller startups or sole proprietors who want full control without outside interference. Many tech startups begin with bootstrapping. Founders might use their savings or continue working part-time jobs to fund the initial phase of the business.

Friends and family

Reaching out to your personal network can be a great way to raise initial funds. Outline the terms clearly to avoid misunderstandings. A local boutique might start with funds from friends and family, allowing them to stock their first inventory and rent a small storefront.

Angel investors and venture capitalists provide funding in exchange for equity or a share in the profits. This route is more common for businesses with high growth potential. Many now-famous tech companies started with angel investments or venture capital, which allowed them to scale rapidly and disrupt industries.

You can apply for a small business loan, but you’ll need a solid business plan and often some collateral. For example, individuals looking to open a franchise often secure loans to cover the franchise fee and initial operating costs.

Crowdfunding

Websites like Kickstarter or Indiegogo allow you to raise funds from many people, typically in exchange for early access to products or other perks. Many innovative consumer products find their footing through crowdfunding, harnessing the power of community support and interest.

7. Launching and growing your business

With the groundwork laid, it’s time to open your doors, virtual or otherwise, to the world. Launching your business is a significant milestone, but it’s just the beginning. Sustaining and growing your enterprise requires constant effort and adaptability.

Ensure your operational processes are as efficient as possible to save time and money. Online stores like Amazon have revolutionized their operations with advanced warehousing and logistics, ensuring speedy delivery to customers.

Implement marketing strategies that effectively reach and resonate with your target audience. Beauty brands like Glossier have leveraged social media marketing to build a loyal customer base through relatable content and influencer partnerships.

Keep an eye on your business’s performance and be ready to adapt your strategies based on customer feedback and market trends. For example, food truck owners often adjust their menu and locations based on customer preferences and local events, staying relevant and in demand.

As your business stabilizes, look for opportunities to expand, whether through new products, services, or entering new markets. For example, a local café might start offering baking classes or selling their signature coffee blend online to reach a wider audience and create additional revenue streams.

Remember that each step involves more detailed tasks you’ll need to handle, and you’ll often need to juggle multiple steps simultaneously. But that’s all part of the thrill of starting your own business!

Small business FAQs: Your questions answered

Jumping into the small business world can seem a bit daunting at first. What type of business should you start? How do you brainstorm business ideas? Which businesses stand the best chance of success?

We’ve got you covered with this quick FAQ rundown.

What kinds of small businesses are there?

There are many small business structures , including sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), and corporations. Each has unique features and benefits.

Which is the best type of business structure for most small business owners?

Most people choose an LLC (limited liability company).

Why? Because, as an LLC, your personal assets are protected if your business goes belly up. But keep in mind being an LLC means paying small annual fees to the state.

A sole proprietorship might be a good and inexpensive option if you want something more straightforward and cost-effective. But remember, in this scenario, you and your business are the same, and you risk losing personal assets if your business is sued.

How do I whip up a business idea?

Brainstorming a business idea involves a few key things: your skills, preferred working style, budget, and resources.

If you’re a wizard with words, freelance writing could be your gig. But if you’re all about that face-to-face client interaction, ghostwriting might be more up your alley. Start by focusing on what you’re good at and see how that translates into a business niche.

Then, look hard at your financials and resources to see what business setup you can manage. Maybe renting a physical office is out of the question for now, making an online business a perfect fit.

Which small businesses are super successful?

Success in the small business world isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends heavily on finding a product or service that fits the market like a glove and backing it up with a rock-solid business plan.

Tailoring your business to your specific market is the secret sauce for lasting success.

Which small businesses are on the rise?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , sectors like healthcare support, technology, personal care, food preparation, and community and social service are growing like crazy. So, dipping your toes into these industries could potentially yield impressive returns. But remember, it’s all about understanding and catering to your specific market!

Bureau of Labor Statistics Business Stats

How do I finance my small business?

You’ve got several business financing options to explore here. You can boot-strap using your savings. Or, if you’re comfortable with the idea, ask friends or family for help. Small business loans, crowdfunding, and finding an investor or business partner are viable paths. Remember, each option has pros and cons, so consider carefully before committing.

Do I need a business plan?

Think of a business plan as your business’s roadmap. It will outline what your business is about, your goals, how you plan on making money, who your customers are, and many other essential things. It’s not just a document for potential investors – it’s a handy guide to help keep you on track.

How do I find my target market?

Finding your target market is all about research. Start with a broad idea of who might need or want your product, then narrow it down.

Surveys , interviews, or even something as simple as social media can give you insights into your potential customers. Once you have a clear picture, you can tailor your business to meet their needs.

How do I handle the competition?

Competition can be challenging, but also a chance to learn and grow. Keep tabs on what your competitors are doing – what’s working for them and what’s not. Use this knowledge to your advantage to improve your products and services. Remember, the goal isn’t to copy them but to find ways to differentiate yourself and highlight your strengths.

What’s the best way to market my small business?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here, as the best marketing strategies depend on your business and target market. However, some common effective strategies include social media marketing, email marketing, content marketing, and search engine optimization (SEO). Don’t be afraid to try different strategies to see what works best for you.

Starting your own business can be an exciting and rewarding experience. There are countless business ideas, whether you’re looking for a home-based business or an easy one. Understanding the challenges associated with each idea and having strategies to overcome them is essential.

Remember that a strong and unique brand can set you apart in any field. At crowdspring, we’re dedicated to helping businesses create a compelling brand through custom design and business naming services. Whether it’s an eye-catching logo, a professional website design, or a memorable business name, we support your entrepreneurial journey. The possibilities are endless, so go ahead and take the leap. Your dream business awaits!

More About Small Business:

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4 Steps to Start Creative Writing. Creative writing can seem daunting to beginners, but with the right approach, anyone can start their journey into this creative field. Here are some steps to help you start creative writing. 1. Finding Inspiration. The first step in creative writing is finding inspiration. Inspiration can come from anywhere ...
15 Awesome Ideas To Get Your Story Started (With Examples)
Idea #11: Disorient the Reader. Another great way to start a story is to disorient your readers. Throw them off-balance and make them re-read the opening lines more than once. A great example is from George Orwell's Nineteen Eighty-Four: "It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen.".
Creative Writing 101
Creative Writing is prose that tells a story featuring someone who wants something. That person runs into trouble and begins an adventure, a journey, or a quest, faces obstacles, and is ultimately transformed—for the good or for the bad. While Creative Writing can also educate and/or entertain, but it does its best work when it emotionally ...
How to Start a Story: 10 Top Tips From Literary Editors
8. Do something new with your writing. 9. Create tension that has room to grow. 10. Capture your readers' attention. 1. Craft an unexpected story opening. Some of the most memorable opening lines are ones that hook readers with something out of the ordinary.
How to Start a Story: 10 Ways to Get Your Story Off to a Great Start
The beginning lines of a story should establish a character, in a setting, with a problem. Tweet this. Tweet. Beyond that, there are so many ways to go. Here are ten ways to start a story you might consider: 1. Strong Voice.
How to Get Started With Creative Writing
Complement lots of reading with lots of writing. You'll make progress much quicker. Write a short story every two weeks, for instance. Force yourself to sit down and find an idea worth less than ...
Creative Writing: Start Your Creative Writing Journey
Creative writing is one of those skills you can eternally get better at, but often suck at when you start… I've been there. I've so been there. Now, we're not saying your creative writing is bad necessarily, but just that if you want to continue to push yourself in this industry, you'll need some work since literature is more competitive now than it ever has been.
How to Start a Story: 6 Creative Ways to Get Up and Writing
1. Dialogue. Nothing draws readers in like introducing them to your characters in the middle of an ongoing conversation. If you want to use dialogue to open up your story, you can choose to start with a heated conversation that leads to action, or even casual talk that introduces to the characters and their relationships.
Creative Writing
Want to try Creative Writing? Whether your ambition is to become a novelist, or just to get started and get some short stories out there, get inspiration and...
How to Start Creative Writing
This video explores two mediums of writing; stream of consciousness and creative non-fiction to get some beginner's ideas on how to start creatively writing....
Welcome to the Purdue Online Writing Lab
The Purdue On-Campus Writing Lab and Purdue Online Writing Lab assist clients in their development as writers—no matter what their skill level—with on-campus consultations, online participation, and community engagement. The Purdue Writing Lab serves the Purdue, West Lafayette, campus and coordinates with local literacy initiatives. The ...
How to Boost Creativity and Improve Your Creative Writing
A creative writer strives to tell unique stories in a distinctive voice. Yet with all the fiction writing already out there in the world, it can be hard to feel that your work is legitimately creative compared to the competition. You could be a first-time writer completing in a high school creative writing course, a hobbyist working on your first novel, or a seasoned pro with an MFA who's ...
How do I start creative writing? : r/writing
Alright, the best way to start writing is to grab a pen and paper and write down the first thing that comes to mind. If you don't get very far with that idea, that's okay. Some don't work out. Just write down all the ideas. If you find two or more of the ideas may be connectable, try doing that.
56 Dystopian Writing Prompts & Story Ideas
Dystopian writing prompts. To help you create a powerful story about a society in crisis, here are our 56 dystopian writing prompts: In the year 2,121, sea levels have risen at an extreme rate. 98% of the Earth is now underwater. The remaining 2% is made of small islands scattered across the Earth. With resources at a scarcity, the islands must ...
Personal insight questions
Start early. Give yourself plenty of time for preparation, careful composition and revisions. Write persuasively. Making a list of accomplishments, activities, awards or work will lessen the impact of your words. Expand on a topic by using specific, concrete examples to support the points you want to make. Use "I" statements.
How to To Make Money Online: 35 Reliable Ways (2024)
8. Start a blog. Blogging is one of the oldest methods for making money online. People who love writing tend to start blogs with a niche focus. For example, a blog about procrastination, cars, dropshipping, toys, etc., is often a narrow enough focus to build a loyal following and big enough that you can cover a lot of ground.
AI Image Generator: Text to Image (Online)
Open Kapwing AI. Start a new project in Kapwing, and click on the lightbulb in the upper left-hand corner to open Kapwing AI. Select "Create image." Describe and generate image. Enter a prompt for the type of image you would like to generate. The more specific you are with your prompt, the better the results will be.
15 LinkedIn Summary Examples You Need to Read in 2024
Your writing style in your summary should be conversational. A conversational writing style is one that mimics the way people speak to each other in everyday life. Conversational writing is meant to be easy to read and understand, as well as interesting and entertaining. 3. Hook the reader right away.
99 Best Small Business Ideas for 2024
2. Home organizer. A home organizing business caters to those needing neat, orderly spaces but lacking the time or skill to create them. Market demand: With the minimalist trend and the desire for efficient living spaces, professional home organizers are in demand. Competition: Local competition can vary, but a unique selling proposition like eco-friendly organizing or specialized room focus ...

Creative Writing 101

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Introduction to Fiction Writing: The Six Elements of Fiction

1. Fiction Writing Tip: Developing Fictional Plots

2. Fiction Writing Tip: Creating Characters

3. Fiction Writing Tip: Give Life to Living Worlds

4. Fiction Writing Tip: Play With Narrative Point of View

5. Fiction Writing Tip: Use the Story to Investigate Themes

6. Fiction Writing Tip: Experiment With Words

Primer on the Elements of Fiction Writing

The Elements of Fiction Writing

Writing Fiction: Your Protagonist

Writing Fiction: Point of View as Lens

Writing Fiction: Point of View and Person

Writing Fiction: Protagonist and Plot and Structure

Writing Fiction: Setting

Writing Fiction: Theme and Idea

Writing Fiction: Handling Scenes

Writing Fiction: Writing Solid Prose

Writing Fiction: Research

How to Start Writing Fiction: Take a Writing Class!

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Creative Writing Tips for Beginners: 10 Top Tips

Hannah Yang

How to Write Creatively

Tip 1: Read Widely

Tip 2: Experiment With Different Formats and Points of View

Tip 3: Take Inspiration From Many Sources

Tip 4: Show, Don’t Tell

Tip 5: Write With Intention

Tip 6: Learn How to Edit

Tip 7: Practice Overcoming Writer’s Block

Tip 8: Study Writing Craft

Tip 9: Invent Your Own Process

Tip 10: Don’t Aim for Perfection

Be confident about grammar

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Fundamentals of Fiction & Story

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Creative Writing Ultimate Guide

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What is creative writing?

2. Short Stories

6. Memoirs & Personal Essays

7. Journaling

1. Try stuff on until something fits

2. Practice, practice, practice

3. Join some kind of writerly group

Undergraduate writing programs

Graduate writing programs (a.k.a., the MFA)

What is a Biography? Definition, Elements, and More

25 Personification Examples for Writers: What It Is & How to Use It

5 Tips For Mastering Your Rough Draft

What is Creative Writing? A Key Piece of the Writer’s Toolbox

What is Creative Writing?

5 Key Characteristics of Creative Writing

Styles of Creative Writing

Short Stories

Screenplays

Importance of Creative Writing

Developing Creativity and Imagination

Enhancing Communication Skills

Exploring Emotions and Ideas

4 Steps to Start Creative Writing

1. Finding Inspiration

2. Planning Your Piece

3. Writing Your First Draft

4. Editing and Revising Your Work

Tips to Improve Creative Writing Skills

Read Widely