Developing story is the process of taking an idea and expanding it into a story with character and conflict that engages readers. It includes the steps of planning, brainstorming set pieces, and distilling notes into cogent loglines and pitches. While many writers are trained in writing and directing, there are just as many jobs in the industry that require a good understanding of developing story, including execs and producers.
Getting an idea is often a matter of inspiration, but cracking it into a compelling story requires both inspiration and perspiration. Whether you’re a plotter, who prefers to pre-write their stories in intricate detail before drafting, or a pantser, who is content to discover the world of their characters and story as they write, it’s essential for all writers to understand the process of developing story so they can effectively communicate their ideas to others.
Characters are the heart of any story, and it’s important to develop a deep understanding of your protagonist and antagonist before you begin drafting. To do this, you’ll need to identify their flaws and strengths, define their goals, and explore their emotional states in a way that allows the reader to empathize with them.
Setting is also an essential part of developing story, and you’ll want to define the geography, cultures, and religions of your fictional world. You’ll also need to consider the time period in which your story takes place; a bright summer morning in a city park has a very different feel than a foggy forest in medieval Europe.