Although we often have our story already fully crafted in our head, it is always still difficult writing the first chapter. Writers, emerging and veteran writers inclusive experience troubleshooting when it comes to creating a compelling first page capable of hooking the readers. Though hook sentences play a major role, they are however not enough to grip the reader throughout the first chapter. Readers need to be engaged with stakes that would make them commit and get equally immersed with the book. If you’re finding it difficult to write the first chapter of your manuscript, here are some tips to get you started.
Open your first chapter in media res:
Readers do not want to get bored when they pick your book for reading. You also don’t want this after all. In Media Res is loosely translated as …in the middle of events. So, rather than start your chapter with a “Once upon a time…”. Starting your book’s first chapter with an unexpected action will stimulate immediate interest in your book.
Start your first chapter with a hook sentence:
When writing the first chapter of your manuscript, you should ensure the first sentence grabs the attention of the readers. Hook sentences generally serve the purpose of arousing the interest of readers, so you should take due advantage of it. Additionally, a hook sentence works even better when you start your chapter in media res. Doing this will spur your reader to keep on reading.
Don’t lump back story in your first chapter:
Don’t introduce many characters in your first chapter:
When writing the first chapter of your manuscript, avoid introducing too many characters. Doing this may prevent you from creating a good reading effect for your readers, who tend to struggle with remembering the characters. Limiting the number of characters you introduce in your first chapter will avail you of the opportunity to create compelling and easy-to-remember moments and actions. The trick to this is introducing the main characters of your book in the first chapter. That is, the protagonist and the antagonist will surely suffice for the effect you wanted to create.
Introduce a new challenge:
Ending the first chapter on this note will make your readers eager to find out if the protagonist survives or not. The desire to find out how he or she sorts things out will force your readers to keep reading.
Religiously adopting the above tips on writing the first chapter of your manuscript will give you a great head start when writing.
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