How To Draft A Strong Novel Concept
Not sure where to start your novel?
Begin with the concept.
Your novel's concept is a simple framework, a one-paragraph summary, that captures the heart of your story. Think of it as your story’s foundation — your compass, your North Star.
There’s a simple formula for it!
Here’s the formula:
This story follows ........ (brief character bio).
Their life changes when ........ (inciting incident).
This causes ......... (problem).
They wish to ......... (goal), but are held back by ....... (antagonistic forces).
✔️ It’s short.
✔️ It’s powerful.
✔️ It keeps you focused as you write.
Now let’s break it down...
Brief Character Bio
Who is your protagonist at the start?
Include a defining detail: their role, personality, or situation.
Example:
A shy teenage girl who dreams of becoming a pilot.
Inciting Incident
What moment disrupts your character’s life and starts the story?
This is the spark that kicks everything off.
Example:
She discovers her missing father was a legendary pilot accused of treason.
Problem
What complications arise from the inciting incident?
This is what makes the story interesting — the pressure point.
Example:
She’s caught between proving his innocence and protecting her future.
Goal
What does your protagonist want more than anything now?
This gives your story direction.
Example:
To clear her father’s name and reclaim her identity.
Antagonistic Forces
What stands in their way?
Think: villains, systems, people, beliefs, or even their own fears.
Example:
A corrupt government, a skeptical public, and her fear of flying.
Why write your novel concept out?
✔️ It helps you clarify your story idea.
✔️ It makes brainstorming easier.
✔️ It gives your writing direction and purpose.
✔️ It saves time during plotting and drafting.
✔️ It helps when pitching your story, too!
This has been my go-to formula whenever I’m starting a new novel, feeling stuck mid-draft, or drifting away from the heart of my story. It always brings me back to the core.
What does your version of a story concept look like? Do you write a summary, a paragraph, or something totally different?
Don't forget to save this post for your next brainstorm session
