So, you’ve decided to dive into the world of series writing—whether it’s a saga of interconnected stories, a sequence of blog posts, or a binge-worthy podcast. Crafting a series can be incredibly rewarding, but let’s be honest—it’s also a bit like herding cats. It requires strategic thought, careful planning, and plenty of coffee. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back! Let’s break it down and make this journey as smooth (and enjoyable) as possible.
Why Write a Series?
Because content is king, and a series is the crown that keeps readers coming back. Whether spinning a fantasy epic or crafting insightful blog posts, a well-planned series adds real value to your portfolio. There’s something truly special about creating a world—or a narrative—that stretches across multiple instalments. Readers often get attached to those secondary characters; before you know it, they ask for more stories. It’s a bit like building a community—once readers are invested, they don’t want to leave. And that can be a powerful tool for building your readership and keeping those read-throughs flowing.
Step 1: Find Your Why
Before you start plotting, let’s talk about the “why.” Why are you writing this series? What do you hope to achieve? Getting clear on your purpose will help you nail down the tone and direction of your series. Maybe you want to educate, entertain, or inspire—or maybe you need to get that story out of your head and onto the page. Whatever your reason, knowing your “why” is the first step to series success.
Step 2: Know Your Audience
Now that you’ve got your purpose, it’s time to figure out who you’re speaking to. Who are your readers, listeners, or viewers? What do they care about? What keeps them coming back for more? By understanding your audience’s needs, interests, and quirks, you can tailor your series to keep them engaged. Think of it like planning an event—you want everyone to have a great time and keep coming back.
Step 3: Pick Your Topic
With your “why” and your audience in mind, it’s time to choose a topic that excites you and has enough depth to explore over several instalments. It’s like choosing a destination for a road trip. You want an interesting place with plenty of hidden gems, and somewhere you wouldn’t mind getting lost for a while.
Step 4: Map It Out (and Create a Series Bible)
You wouldn’t head out on that road trip without a map, right? The same goes for your series. Take time to brainstorm and outline your series structure. What’s the big picture? What are the key milestones along the way? Whether you’re writing a trilogy, planning a blog series, or scripting a podcast, having a roadmap will keep you on track and ensure your story (or content) flows smoothly from start to finish.
And here’s a pro tip: consider creating a series bible. Think of it as your go-to reference guide—like a scrapbook, but for all the juicy details of your story world. A series bible can include character lists, timelines, world-building notes, and more. It’s an invaluable tool for keeping everything consistent, especially when you’re dealing with multiple characters and plotlines over several installments.
Some writers prefer the old-school approach with notebooks and sketches, while others might use Google Sheets. But if you’re looking for a more structured yet flexible solution, I highly recommend Plottr. It’s been a game-changer for me, letting me build timelines, manage character arcs, and create detailed series bibles all in one place. With Plottr, you can keep everything organized without worrying about losing track of who did what, when, and where. Plus, it’s perfect for those who like a little structure but don’t want to sacrifice creativity.
Curious about how to create your own series bible? Stay tuned for a detailed guide, where I’ll share my tips and tricks for building a series bible that keeps you organized from start to finish!
Step 5: Create Characters or Themes That Stick
Compelling characters or strong themes are the glue that holds your series together. Think of them as the people you’re travelling with on this journey—they need to be interesting, dynamic, and maybe even a little unpredictable. Plan how they’ll grow and change throughout the series, and don’t be afraid to throw in a few surprises along the way.
Step 6: Write, Revise, Repeat
Now comes the real work—writing! Stick to your plan, but be flexible. Characters might take on lives of their own, and plot twists might sneak up on you. That’s all part of the process. Go with the flow, but always keep the overall tone and style consistent. And remember, revising is where the magic happens, so don’t shy away from tweaking and polishing until it shines.
Step 7: Keep Your Readers Engaged
You’ve put in the work—now it’s time to keep your audience hooked. Engage with your readers, ask for feedback, and use their insights to shape future instalments. Think of it like being a good host—you want to ensure everyone enjoys the ride and can’t wait for what comes next.
Conclusion: Enjoy the Journey
Writing a series is like setting off on an epic road trip—it’s full of twists, turns, and maybe a few detours, but the journey is half the fun. With careful planning, a clear purpose, and a little creativity, you can craft a series that captivates your audience and brings you immense satisfaction as a writer. So, pack your bags (or your writing tools), plot your course, and enjoy the ride. Whether you’re mapping out every detail or letting the road take you where it will, every twist and turn is a chance to learn, grow, and create something truly special.
Happy writing, and may your series take you—and your readers—on the adventure of a lifetime!
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