If you’re a writer or storyteller, you know that creating a compelling narrative requires more than just putting words on paper. It requires careful planning and organization to ensure that your story flows smoothly and keeps your audience engaged. One way to achieve this is by using a story map worksheet, which is a tool used to help writers organize their thoughts and ideas, and you can create it with Storyboardthat.
It’s a visual representation of the main elements of a story, including the plot, characters, setting, and conflict. Creating a map worksheet can help you stay focused and keep track of important details as you write your story.
In this article, we’ll discuss how to create a map worksheet step-by-step.
Step 1: Define Elements
Before you can create a map worksheet, you need to define the elements of your story. These include:
- Plot: The sequence of events that make up your story.
- Characters: The people or creatures that populate your story.
- Setting: The time and place where your story takes place.
- Conflict: The main problem or challenge that your characters face.
As you define these elements, be as specific as possible. For example, if your story takes place in a particular city, name the city. If your main character has a specific occupation, include it in your notes.
Step 2: Choose a Story Map Template
There are many different map templates available, each with its own unique design and layout. Choose one that fits your needs and preferences. Some popular templates include:
- The Hero’s Journey: This template is based on Joseph Campbell’s concept of the hero’s journey and includes elements such as the call to adventure, the mentor, and the ultimate boon.
- The Three-Act Structure: This template divides your story into three acts: the setup, the confrontation, and the resolution.
- The Seven-Point Structure: This template includes seven key elements of storytelling, including the hook, the first plot point, and the climax.
When choosing a map template, consider the genre and tone of your fiction. A horror story might benefit from a different structure than a romance novel, for example.
Step 3: Fill in Your Story Elements
Once you have your map template, it’s time to start filling in your elements. Begin by adding your main plot points to the appropriate section of the template. For example, if your story includes a major conflict, add it to the “conflict” section of the template.
As you fill in your elements, be sure to include as much detail as possible. This will help you stay on track as you write your fiction and ensure that you don’t forget important details later on.
Step 4: Add Supporting Details
In addition to your main elements, it’s important to include supporting details in your map worksheet. These might include:
- Subplots: Secondary storylines that run parallel to the main plot.
- Themes: The underlying messages or ideas that your story conveys.
- Foreshadowing: Hints or clues that suggest what might happen later in the story.
- Character arcs: The transformation or growth that your characters undergo throughout the fiction.
Including these supporting details in your map worksheet can help you create a more dynamic and layered story.
Step 5: Revise and Refine
Once you’ve filled in all the elements of your map worksheet, take some time to revise and refine it. Look for areas where you can add more detail or clarify your ideas. Make sure that your story flows smoothly and that all the elements work together to create a cohesive narrative.
Step 6: Use Your Story Map Worksheet to Guide Your Writing
Now that you have a completed map worksheet, it’s time to use it to guide your writing. Refer back to your worksheet as you write to help keep you on track and ensure that you’re staying true to your elements.
As you write, be open to making changes to your map if necessary. Sometimes, new ideas or plot points emerge naturally as you write, and it’s important to be flexible enough to adjust your map accordingly.
Using your map worksheet as a guide can help you write more efficiently and with greater confidence. Trust in the planning process and let your story unfold naturally, knowing that you have a solid foundation to guide you along the way.
Tips for Creating a Successful Story Map Worksheet
- Be flexible: Remember that your map worksheet is a tool, not a rigid formula. Don’t be afraid to make changes as you go along.
- Stay focused: Keep your map worksheet close by as you write your story. This will help you stay on track and avoid getting sidetracked.
- Use color: Adding color to your map worksheet can help you visually organize different elements and make it easier to follow.
- Be patient: Creating a map worksheet takes time and effort, but the end result will be worth it.
Conclusion
Creating a map worksheet is an essential step in the writing process. It can help you stay organized, focused, and on track as you develop your story. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a compelling and engaging story that will captivate your audience. Happy writing!