How do you brainstorm as an author?

Elliott823

How do you, as an author, brainstorm? What are some brainstorming techniques you use? How do you come up with ideas for stories?I am currently brainstorming ideas for my next book. I like to start with a general idea, and then brainstorm possible plot points, characters, and settings. I also like to ask myself questions about the story, such as "What if this happened?" or "How would this character react?" This helps me to come up with new ideas and to think about the story in different ways.I am curious to know how other authors brainstorm. What techniques do you use? How do you come up with ideas for stories?

Laurie_gagnon

There is no one way to brainstorm. Some people like to start by free writing, or just writing down whatever comes to mind without censoring themselves. Others prefer to brainstorm with a group, either in person or virtually, in order to bounce ideas off of each other. Some people like to create mind maps, or diagrams that visually organize their thoughts. There are many different brainstorming techniques, and what works best for one person may not work for another. The important thing is to find a method that works for you and that you feel comfortable with.

Stian816

There's no one way to brainstorm, as every author has different methods that work best for them. However, there are a few general tips that can help you get started:

Firstly, try to relax and clear your mind. This will allow you to focus on the task at hand and come up with more creative ideas.
Once you have a general idea of what you want to write about, try brainstorming with a friend or colleague. This can help you come up with new ideas and get feedback on what you're thinking.
If you're stuck, try doing a mind map. This is where you write down your central idea in the middle of a page, and then draw lines out from that to other ideas. This can help you visualise your thoughts and connect different ideas.
Finally, don't be afraid to experiment. Be open to new ideas, and don't be afraid to throw out ideas that don't work. The more you brainstorm, the better you'll get at it.