So you’ve decided to start writing fiction—welcome to the wild, wonderful world of storytelling! Whether you're dreaming of novels, short stories, or just dipping your toes into creative writing, one of the best ways to begin is with prompts. They help take the pressure off and give your imagination a direction.
These seven beginner-friendly prompts are designed to ease you into writing while helping you build characters, settings, and conflict—without needing to plot out an entire book first. Let’s dive in!
📬 1. The Forgotten Letter
While cleaning out an old desk, your character finds a letter addressed to them—but it’s dated 20 years in the future.
What does it say? Who sent it? And what happens next?
This prompt is a great way to explore mystery, time, and character motivation.
🐾 2. The Unusual Pet
Your main character buys a pet from a mysterious shop that wasn’t there the day before. The pet isn’t quite… normal.
What strange abilities or habits does it have? How does this affect your character’s life?
Perfect for writers curious about magical realism or fantasy.
☔ 3. Rain and a Stranger
It’s pouring rain. Your character ducks into a tiny bookstore to get dry. Inside, a stranger greets them like an old friend.
But your character has never seen them before—or so they think.
This one’s ideal for a twist of suspense or a soft, eerie tone.
🚪 4. The One Rule
Your protagonist moves into a new apartment. The landlord gives only one rule:
“Never open the window after midnight.”
Of course, your character does.
Use this to practice tension, horror, or building a mysterious atmosphere.
🌠 5. The Wish
A child makes a wish on a shooting star and wakes up the next morning to find it came true—but not quite the way they expected.
Is it funny, heartwarming, or scary? You decide.
Try this one if you’re drawn to whimsical or emotional stories.
🕵️♀️ 6. Two Truths and a Lie
Your character meets someone new who tells them three things about their life. Two are true. One is a dangerous lie.
Can your character figure out which is which—before it’s too late?
Great for practicing dialogue and character-driven tension.
🧱 7. Time Capsule
A group of friends digs up a time capsule they buried ten years ago.
Inside is one item none of them remember putting in—but it clearly belongs to one of them.
This prompt is ideal for exploring friendship, memory, and uncovering secrets.
✍️ How to Use These Prompts
- Pick one and set a timer for 15–30 minutes. Just write!
- Don’t worry about grammar, perfection, or making it “good.”
- Let your characters surprise you.
- If one prompt doesn’t click, try another. The goal is momentum.
Writing fiction doesn’t require years of experience—it just starts with curiosity and a willingness to explore. You’ve got this!