Things You'll Need:
- Computer
- Internet access
- Word processing software
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Step 1
Create Conflict and Challenge
A story plot stands on conflict or challenge. The main character must face and act upon a central conflict. Resolution of this conflict depends on the age of your readers. Small children snuggled up in a parent’s lap prefer happy endings. For older readers, the story conclusion may bring a sense of completion but may leave open doors. -
Step 2
Decide on Length
Determining the story length gives the writer control over the plot. For example, a standard picture book runs about 750 words with 32 pages. Text and illustrations fill approximately 26 to 30 pages. The remaining pages are reserved for copyright and publishing information. The full
completed manuscript will be three pages of 250 words each. This gives the author a frame work within which to plan. -
Step 3
Outline for Control
Outlining your children’s story will assist you to exercise control over story development and length. For the picture book described in Step 2, the story will leap to a fast start. The main character and conflict must appear quickly. The middle of the story will require only one or two separate scenes. The ending will wrap up in a dramatic close of fifty words or so. -
Step 4
Tailor for Trust
Children delight to read about characters their own age or a few years older. Pick your subject and plot conflict for specific age groups. Then encourage young readers to identify closely with the main character. The emotional goal is for children to feel that they have a stake in seeing the conflict happily resolved. -
Step 5
Plot for Variety
Create a balance of high-drama peaks and intense actions, contrasting with building block, slower paced events. The pacing episodes function like stairs leading to the climax.
