One great way is to base your characters on real people. Not exactly copy them, but take some of their characteristics. You can also use character archetypes as a starting point and then add your own twists. For instance, the hero archetype is common, but you can make your hero a clumsy and reluctant one. And make your characters grow throughout the story. If a character starts out as a coward but becomes brave by the end, it's very engaging.
Create backstories for them that are relevant to their identity. Maybe one of them had to struggle with acceptance in her family or community because of her sexual orientation, which has shaped her into a strong and independent person. Also, in terms of their interactions, show the small, affectionate moments like a gentle touch, a shared look of understanding, or a private joke between them. This will make their relationship feel real and engaging.
Introduce a compelling character at the beginning. Make the readers care about what happens to them. Also, set the scene vividly to draw the readers in. A good beginning combines these elements to create interest.
First, create interesting characters with unique personalities and goals. For example, a curious detective trying to solve a mysterious case. Second, build a vivid and immersive setting, like a spooky old mansion. Third, add some unexpected twists and turns in the plot to keep the readers on their toes.
If you're using a survival game to write a story, the characters' survival skills can be a great basis for their personalities. For example, in 'Minecraft' survival mode, a character who is really good at building might be seen as the group's protector or provider. They could be a bit of a perfectionist because they want their structures to be strong and safe. Another character might be better at exploring and finding resources, but is a bit reckless. You can create a story where these two characters clash and then learn to work together. You can also introduce new challenges that force the characters to adapt and change, which makes them more interesting and engaging.
You can begin with a description of an interesting setting. Say, 'The old, crumbling castle stood on the edge of the cliff, overlooking a sea that was always stormy.' This kind of description sets the mood and draws the reader in. Also, starting with a dialogue can be effective. Such as, 'Are you sure we should go in there?' 'There's no other choice,' the two adventurers said as they faced the dark cave entrance.
Start with a captivating event or mystery. Something that hooks the reader's attention right away.
Start with a captivating event or mystery that grabs the reader's attention right away. Something unexpected or thrilling can do the trick.
A good way to write a story beginning is to create a sense of urgency or danger. Maybe have the main character facing a time limit or a direct threat. Or begin with a powerful emotion like fear or excitement to connect with the readers on an emotional level.
Begin by introducing a conflict. 'She had always been told not to open the red door, but today, she couldn't resist the urge.' This creates tension right from the start. Or you could start with a thought or feeling of a character. 'He felt a sense of dread as he walked into the empty building, as if something was waiting for him in the shadows.'
Another way is to take key words from the plot. Suppose the story is about a journey to find a hidden treasure. You might come up with 'JTFT' for 'Journey To Find Treasure' as the abbreveation, and then a name for it could be 'The Treasure Quest Abbreveation' which gives a sense of what the abbreveation represents in the context of the story.