Beyond the Basics: Fanfiction Plot Development and Characterization

1. Beyond the Basics: Fanfiction Plot Development and Characterization Presented by: Ashcat & Gryvon Otakon – July 2009

2. Introductions Ashcat – Photoash Gryvon

3. What about you? • What fandoms do you write for primarily?

4. Overview • Basic points to consider for improving your fan fiction • Building plot • Writing realistic characters • Creating original characters • Continuing the story

5. Basics to DO • Have a Beta Reader • Practice good writing mechanics (Show don't tell, Grammar, etc) • Research topics you are unsure about

6. Basics to DO cont. • Have a plan, whether you write it down or not • Finish your stories

7. Basic DON’TS! • Write bad sex • Let criticism get to you • Think that you have nothing left to learn

8. What do you find the most challenging in your writing?

9. Building Plot • Where to start? • Where to end?

10. Building Plot cont. • Climactic moments • Finding more plot • Drawing plot from character goals • Story archetypes

11. Writing Realistic Characters • Avoiding OOC – keeping them in character • Fanon verses Canon • Where’s the emotion? – avoiding flat portrayals

12. Writing Realistic Characters cont. • Getting to know your characters • Personality traits • Likes • Dislikes • Shaping experiences • Flaws • Any believable details you can work in will help make your characterization!

13. Writing Realistic Characters cont. •  Why should the reader care about this character? • What is the purpose and goal for this character?

14. In your fandom what are some common characterization issues?

15. Original Characters • Original characters shouldn't detract from the main characters • Is there any way to use an existing canon character to fill the role you have envisioned for your original character? • Are you creating a world for your original characters that had outgrown the fanfiction-based world and are instead writing original fiction?

16. Original Characters cont. • So you want to have an original character... • Back story • Used to help move the story along • Are a part of the canon universe you are writing in

17. Original Characters cont. • Creating unique characters who feel real to your reader... • Avoid Mary Sue/Gary Stu • Character flaws • Why should the reader care about this character?

18. Sequels • Plot hooks and cliffhangers • Chapter plot hooks • Start and end of each story should draw the reader in • Leave the reader wanting more

19. Questions?

20. Final Thought You are a unique person who has a wealth of ideas, viewpoints, and personal experiences to share – it’s fantastic that you want to write and share it with others. Keep writing – it’s the only way to improve!

21. Thank you &enjoy the Con!