unique creative writing prompts

Get Inspired: 101 Creative Writing Prompts You Can’t Ignore

By: Author Paul Jenkins

Posted on September 3, 2023

Categories Writing , Creative Writing

You’re staring at a blank page, ideas just out of reach. Don’t fret! Creative writing prompts are your golden ticket to inspiration. They’ll ignite your imagination, help you conquer writer’s block and even refine your writing style.

Whether it’s poetry or prose, there’s a prompt for you. So let’s dive into the world of creative writing prompts; who knows what stories you’ll uncover?

Key Takeaways

• Writing prompts ignite imagination and help overcome writer’s block.
• Prompts can lead to undiscovered terrains or provide a fresh perspective on familiar grounds.
• Using prompts helps overcome writer’s block and boosts motivation.
• Unconventional prompts stimulate innovative thinking.

101 Creative Writing Prompts

Here are 101 creative writing prompts to get your imaginative juices flowing:

• Write about your earliest memory.
• Imagine you woke up one day with a superpower. What would it be and how would you use it?
• You’re home alone and hear a noise coming from upstairs. What happens next?
• Describe a typical day in your life 20 years from now. What does your future look like?
• Pick two random objects and write a story involving them.
• You find a mysterious box on your doorstep. What’s inside and how does it change your life?
• Rewrite a fairy tale from the antagonist’s perspective.
• A giant sinkhole suddenly appears in your backyard. Where does it lead?
• You’re an astronaut on the first mission to Mars. Describe your experience.
• Write a poem about your favorite season.
• You find an old lamp and give it a rub. A genie appears and grants you three wishes. What do you wish for?
• You wake up one day and can understand what animals are saying. What conversations do you overhear?
• Describe a memorable experience you had with one of your grandparents or other older relative.
• Write a story featuring a character who discovers something extraordinary in an ordinary setting.
• Pick an object close by and write a story about its origins.
• You find a wallet on the sidewalk containing $1000 and the ID of its owner. What do you do?
• Write a poem from the perspective of an insect.
• Describe your perfect weekend. Where are you, who are you with, and what are you doing?
• Write a letter to your future self offering advice about life.
• Imagine you switched places with your pet for a day. What would happen?
• Pick two celebrities and write a story about them meeting for the first time.
• Write a scene featuring a character who panics in a humorous way.
• Describe a pleasant early morning in the city from the point of view of a pigeon.
• Pick a color and describe how it makes you feel.
• Rewrite a scene from a book or movie from a minor character’s perspective.
• You find an old faded photograph with a mysterious figure in the background. Write a story about who it is.
• Describe a memorable experience you had involving music.
• Write a poem using nature imagery to describe a strong emotion.
• Imagine you could live in any fictional world. Which would you choose and why?
• You’re house-sitting for relatives and think you hear an intruder late at night. What happens?
• Pick two famous people from different time periods and write about them meeting.
• Describe a memorable teacher who had an impact on your life.
• Imagine you could teleport anywhere in the universe. Where would you go? What would you do there?
• You find a door to an alternate universe in your attic. What’s on the other side?
• Write a poem about someone or something that inspires you.
• Describe a moment when you felt completely at peace.
• Imagine you could talk to animals. Write a conversation between you and your pet.
• Describe a vibrant outdoor market using all five senses.
• Pick an occupation and describe a “day in the life” from that perspective.
• You accidentally travel 100 years into the future. How is life different?
• Tell the story of your first kiss.
• Write a scene featuring a character who loses something important.
• Pick two mythical creatures and imagine them meeting for the first time.
• Describe a memorable experience you had with a grandparent or older friend.
• Imagine you’re the first person selected to live on Mars. What is your experience like?
• Describe your perfect summer day.
• Rewrite a scene from a well-known story from the perspective of a side character.
• Write about a risk that paid off for you.
• Imagine you can spend the day with any person from history. Who would you choose and why?
• Write a story that begins with this line: “It was the day that changed everything.”
• Describe your neighborhood on a lively summer evening using all five senses.
• You find a magic wand that allows you to change one thing about yourself. What do you change and why?
• Write about a teacher who had a meaningful impact on you.
• Imagine you wake up one morning with the ability to fly. What do you do?
• Someone close to you is keeping an important secret. Write the reveal scene.
• Describe a place from your childhood that was very special to you. What made it so memorable?
• Pick two of your favorite fictional characters from different stories and imagine them meeting for the first time.
• You’re house-sitting in a remote cabin and strange things start happening late at night. What happens next?
• Rewrite a classic fairy tale in a modern setting.
• Write a story featuring a character who uncovers a family secret. What’s the secret and how is it revealed?
• Describe the view out your window right now using poetic imagery.
• Pick a common object and write a short horror story about it.
• Imagine you could travel back in time. What year would you visit and why? What would you do there?
• Write a scene featuring two characters meeting for the first time and getting off on the wrong foot.
• Describe a memorable experience you had involving the ocean.
• Rewrite a pivotal scene from a book or movie from the perspective of a background character.
• Pick two exotic locations and describe someone traveling from one to the other.
• Write a story featuring a character who discovers something they shouldn’t have.
• Write about a risk that didn’t pay off for you. What lesson did you learn?
• Imagine you switch places with someone close to you for a day. What do you learn from the experience?
• Describe a memorable act of kindness you performed or received.
• Pick an animal and imagine you can spend the day seeing through its eyes. What do you experience?
• Write a scene featuring a character who loses their temper in a spectacular fashion.
• Describe your perfect day ten years from now. Where are you, what are you doing, and who is with you?
• Write a poem describing a vivid childhood memory.
• Imagine you dig up a time capsule from your childhood. What’s inside and what memories does it spark?
• Write about a place you visited that made you exceptionally happy. What was special about it?
• Describe the best and worst parts of your morning routine.
• Pick two musicians from different eras and imagine them collaborating on a song. How does their style mesh?
• Write a story that begins: “I never would have discovered the secret if it weren’t for…”
• Describe a misadventure you had while traveling. What happened and what did you learn?
• Imagine you can inhabit the body of someone else for a day. Whose body and life do you experience?
• Write a poem inspired by a piece of art or music.
• Imagine you find an abandoned campsite deep in the woods. What do you discover there?
• Pick two characters from different children’s books and imagine them meeting for an adventure.
• Describe the scariest place you have ever visited. What made it so frightening?
• Write about a time you felt caught in the middle of two sides of an argument. How did you handle it?
• Imagine you discover a hidden room in your home. What’s inside and how does it get there?
• Describe how it feels to come in first place in a competition.
• Pick two favorite TV or movie characters from when you were a child and imagine them meeting.
• Write a story about someone who wakes up to find the world is deserted.
• Imagine you could become invisible for a day. What would you do?
• Describe your zaniest friend. Include what makes them fun to be around.
• Pick two movies, books or TV shows in different genres and imagine a character from each meeting for the first time.
• Rewrite a scene from your favorite book from a minor character’s perspective.
• Describe a holiday celebration from your childhood and what made it memorable.
• Imagine you discover objects from another dimension popping up around your home. Describe them.
• Write a story featuring a character who gets lost in the woods.
• Imagine you can switch two movie characters. How would the plot change?
• Describe an ordinary object in an extraordinary way.
• Free write for 15 minutes without stopping. Afterward, review what you wrote and mine it for story ideas.

Exploring the Concept of Creative Writing Prompts

You’re about to delve into the concept of creative writing prompts.

Picture this. You’re standing at a gateway to countless worlds, each shaped by your imagination. The key to this gateway? Writing prompts.

Prompt selection criteria is vital here. It’s not just about picking any random prompt; it’s about selecting one that resonates with you, sparks your creativity and propels your story forward.

Some might steer you towards undiscovered terrains while others could guide you back to familiar grounds with a fresh perspective.

Now comes the art of prompt adaptation methods – twisting, turning and tweaking these prompts until they fit snugly into your narrative. They’re not rigid commands but flexible suggestions waiting for you to mold them into your unique masterpiece.

The Importance of Using Writing Prompts

Imagine you’re standing on the edge of a vast ocean of words, ready to dive in but not sure where to start. That’s where writing prompts come in – they’re your diving board, pushing you into the depths of creativity and helping boost your writing skills.

With their aid, you’ll unlock new levels of imaginative thinking and overcome that pesky writer’s block that’s been holding you back.

Enhancing Writing Skills

Don’t underestimate the importance of enhancing your writing skills; it’s a crucial aspect of effective communication. Dive into the sea of grammar enhancement, let every wave refine your punctuation and syntax.

Feel the transformation as you evolve from choppy sentences to flowing prose, replacing dull words with vibrant ones through vocabulary expansion.

Imagine yourself in a bustling marketplace of words, picking up exotic verbs and adjectives like rare spices.

You’re not merely expanding your vocabulary; you’re creating a palette for painting images with language that will captivate readers’ minds.

Prompting Creative Thinking

Let’s delve into strategies that stimulate innovative thinking, offering a fresh perspective to approach tasks and problem-solving. Unconventional prompts can be your secret weapon here.

Imagine you’re asked to write a story about an alien invasion but the aliens are invisible. Suddenly, the familiar trope is flipped on its head, pushing you beyond prompt limitations and sparking creativity.

Think of it as navigating through an exciting labyrinth of endless possibilities where each twist and turn unlocks new ideas.

Prompt limitations aren’t shackles; they’re stepping stones guiding you towards uncharted territories of imagination.

With unconventional prompts, you’re not just writing – you’re pioneering through a jungle of creativity, hacking through overgrown cliches with the machete of originality. Give it a shot – let unpredictability fuel your creative fires.

Overcoming Writer’s Block

How about if you hit a wall with your story?

The once vibrant world in your mind’s eye now feels as barren as a desert. But don’t sweat it. Overcoming writer’s block is not some arcane art. It just needs the right mix of motivational techniques and mental exercises.

Try visualizing your plot like an intricate puzzle; each word, sentence, and paragraph fitting together to form a grand design.

See yourself standing victorious on top of that daunting wall, manuscript in hand! This visualization exercise can fuel your motivation.

How about playing word games or free writing for ten minutes? These mental exercises stimulate creativity and can reignite the spark in you.

Remember, every great author has faced this challenge. You’re not alone in this battle against the blank page.

Techniques to Generate Creative Writing Ideas

Dive headfirst into the whirlwind of creative possibilities with effective brainstorming session techniques. Unlock a treasure trove of ideas that might’ve remained hidden.

You’re about to harness the power of visual stimuli, transforming ordinary images into extraordinary stories that leap off the page.

And remember – your personal experiences aren’t just memories, they’re fuel for your imagination’s fire. Ready to be leveraged into captivating tales only you can tell.

Brainstorming Session Techniques

There’s a variety of techniques that can make your brainstorming sessions more effective and productive.

Imagine yourself at the helm of innovation, navigating prompt limitations while embracing prompt flexibility. This dance between constraint and freedom fuels creativity.

Limitations shape the challenge, providing a frame within which your ideas bounce around like lively pinballs, lighting up possibilities with every hit.

Flexibility, on the other hand, is an open window inviting fresh perspectives; it’s the permission to explore beyond borders.

Pair these concepts in your brainstorming session – let the prompts’ limitations guide you but don’t be afraid to flex those creative muscles! Embrace this dynamic interplay for it holds the key to unlock endless streams of ideas, turning your session into an exciting expedition of discovery.

Utilizing Visual Stimuli

Incorporating visual stimuli into your brainstorming process can spark new ideas and expand your thinking outside the box. Visual inspiration isn’t just about looking at art or beautiful landscapes; it’s about seeing things differently, allowing image interpretation to fuel your creativity.

Here’s how you can utilize visual stimuli:

• Explore different forms of art – paintings, sculptures, graphic designs.
• Take a walk in nature and absorb its beauty.
• Flip through magazines or books with vibrant images.
• Watch stimulating videos or movies.
• Try visualizing abstract concepts in physical form.

Remember, it’s not about what you see but rather how you interpret what you see.

It’s time to push the boundaries of your imagination and let visuals trigger innovative thoughts.

Leveraging Personal Experiences

Leveraging personal experiences can significantly enhance your brainstorming process, as they’re a rich source of unique and original ideas. Imagine each memory as a colorful thread in the tapestry of your life; these threads don’t merely exist to decorate but also inspire.

Your personal narratives become vibrant brushes that paint strokes onto an empty canvas, bringing it to life with hues only you possess.

These experiential reflections are more than just recollections; they’re catalysts that trigger cascades of creativity. They form bridges connecting the real world to the realm of imagination, allowing you to explore uncharted territories within your own mind.

Diverse Types of Creative Writing Prompts

You’ll find a wide variety of creative writing prompts, each designed to spark different ideas and encourage unique storytelling.

These ‘Prompt Varieties’ are key in ‘Evolving Creativity’. They are the secret sauce that boosts your imagination, enhancing your ability to weave tales out of thin air.

• Picture Prompts: A single image can inspire a thousand words.
• Word Play Prompts: Challenge yourself with homophones or synonyms.
• Dialogue Prompts: A snippet of conversation that ignites a narrative.
• Music-Inspired Prompts: Let rhythm and lyrics move your creativity.
• Thematic Prompts: Get lost in specific genres or settings.

How to Use Prompts for Poetry Writing

Dive headfirst into the realm of poetry, where your task is choosing an ideal prompt to ignite your imagination.

You’re on a quest, not just for any prompt but one that resonates with you, one that tickles your creative instincts and sets them aflame.

Let’s unravel together how this careful selection can be a beacon, guiding your poetic journey towards fresh inspiration, new perspectives, and uncharted emotional depths.

Choosing Appropriate Prompts

It’s important to consider your audience when picking a suitable creative writing prompt. Your Prompt Selection process should involve understanding what resonates with them, ensuring the Prompt Suitability for their taste and level of understanding.

Take into account these elements:

• Their age: Young readers might prefer adventurous tales, while an older audience may appreciate complex narratives.
• Cultural background: Stories that reflect or respect their traditions could engage them more effectively.
• Personal interests: Tailor your prompts around hobbies or passions they have.
• Reading levels: Ensure the complexity aligns with their comprehension abilities.
• Emotional connection: Themes they can emotionally connect with may spark better responses.

Inspiration Through Prompts

Drawing inspiration from cues can often spark an exceptional storyline, stirring a reader’s imagination and emotional connection. In the world of creative writing, this is where ‘Prompt Selection’ steps in.

Picture yourself scouring through a myriad of prompts, each one whispering its own unique challenge to your creativity.

The journey doesn’t end at selection; it merely evolves into ‘Prompt Evolution’. You’re not just choosing a prompt; you’re nurturing it, letting it grow within your mind until it blossoms into an intricate web of thoughts and ideas.

As you explore various interpretations, the initial prompt transcends its original form, morphing into something utterly personal and distinctive.

The ultimate goal? Crafting a narrative so engaging that every word captivates your readers, leaving them yearning for more.

Enhancing Fiction Writing With Creative Prompts

You’ll find that using creative prompts can significantly enhance your fiction writing skills. These tools are perfect for sharpening your mind, sparking new ideas, and injecting life into your narratives. Creative prompts help stimulate ‘Prompted Imagery’ allowing you to paint vivid pictures in the minds of your readers.

They also aid in ‘Fictional Worldbuilding’, helping you craft immersive universes with depth and detail.

Consider these benefits:

• Prompts ignite the spark of inspiration.
• They foster creativity and originality.
• Prompts assist in developing dynamic characters.
• They guide robust plot development.
• Prompts catalyze innovative world building.

Understanding Prompts for Non-fiction Writing

Imagine yourself standing at the edge of a vast landscape of reality, armed only with your words.

You’re about to dive into the world of non-fiction prompts, where you’ll learn not only how to define these nuggets of inspiration but also how to wield them effectively in your writing.

It’s more than just jotting down facts; it’s painting a vivid picture of life as we know it, using prompts as your guideposts along this journey.

Defining Non-fiction Prompts

Non-fiction prompts can be a great tool for you, particularly when you’re struggling to come up with ideas for your next writing project. They lend themselves perfectly to real-life narratives and autobiographical prompts, helping you dig into your experiences and viewpoints.

For instance, a prompt like ‘Describe a time when you faced a significant challenge’ could kickstart an engaging tale of adversity. Or ‘Write about someone who’s influenced your life’ might ignite the spark for an inspiring tribute.

The command to depict ‘Your most memorable journey’ may evoke vivid travel memories, while an invitation to explore ‘The best decision you’ve ever made’ provides room for introspection. Finally, crafting an answer to ‘What does home mean to you?’ can create an intensely personal piece.

Such prompts stimulate thought-provoking narratives that are rooted in reality yet utterly unique – just like your life story!

Utilizing Prompts Effectively

To make the most out of these thought-starters, it’s vital that you’re not just answering them superficially but really delving deep into your experiences and emotions.

The dance of prompt selection is like sifting through a treasure chest, each gem sparking a different story in your mind. Yet, it’s how you adapt to these prompts that truly defines their worth.

Think of prompt adaptation as painting with words; each stroke adds depth to your canvas. The slight change in perspective, the twist in interpretation, allows for a creative explosion. Don’t shy away from pushing boundaries or coloring outside the lines.

You’re an artist wielding language as your brush – let it flow freely and watch as the mundane turns magical.

Using Prompts for Character Development

You’ll find that prompts can be a powerful tool for developing your characters in a story. They help you delve deep into the Character Backgrounds and Motivational Aspects of your personas, thus making them more relatable and real to your readers.

Consider these innovative ways to use prompts:

• Use them as interview questions, asking your characters about their past, dreams, fears.
• Incorporate them in scenarios to explore how they would react under different circumstances.
• Apply them to reveal secrets or hidden aspects of their personalities.
• Utilize them as tools to create conflict or tension between characters.
• Engage with them as means to develop a character’s moral compass.

The Role of Prompts in Plot Creation

When it comes to plot creation, using these tools can help you construct a compelling narrative with gripping twists and turns. The role of prompts here is paramount. However, be mindful of prompt limitations that might stifle your creative juices; you must learn to navigate them skillfully.

Your imagination could take flight when met with unconventional prompts. They’re not your typical ‘write about a summer day’; no, they push you into uncharted territories, sparking innovative ideas.

Picture this: ‘Write from the perspective of a wilting flower.’ Unusual? Yes. But doesn’t it stir intrigue? It’s through such provocation that you weave intricate plots, ones that captivate and engage readers in unexpected ways.

Boosting Descriptive Skills Through Writing Prompts

Expanding your vocabulary and exploring new ways to describe scenes can greatly enhance your storytelling abilities. Writing prompts not only push you out of comfort zones, but also allow you to experiment with the power of metaphors and sensory descriptions.

With every penned word, feel the sentences come alive as the sun doesn’t just set, it melts into the horizon like a dollop of fiery orange sorbet. Rain isn’t simply falling; it’s a symphony on rooftops creating an orchestra of droplets. A meadow isn’t green; it’s brushed with strokes of emerald splendor.

Imagine tasting colors or hearing fragrances. Let these prompts unlock your mind’s eye. Your readers aren’t just reading; they’re stepping into another world – yours!

Using Prompts for Writing Dialogue

Dialogue isn’t just about conveying information; it’s a tool for character development and plot progression. When you’re using prompts for writing dialogue, focus on ‘dialogue realism’ and the ‘character’s voice’.

Imagine yourself in their shoes. Would they use big words or stick to simple slang? Do they have an accent that you can hint at through spelling and sentence structure?

Remember, every spoken word builds your character’s identity. It’s not just what they say, but how they say it that reveals their personality. The goal is to create engaging conversations that feel real to your readers as if they are eavesdropping on a private chat.

The Impact of Prompts on Writing Style

Stepping away from the chatter of dialogue prompts, let’s dive into the deep waters of how prompts can shape your writing style. Yes, you’ve got it—we’re exploring ‘Prompt Dependencies and Evolving Styles’.

Prompts aren’t just creative sparks; they could subtly influence how you spin a tale. Here’s why:

• You adapt to different Prompt Dependencies , sharpening diverse aspects of your craft.
• Prompts challenge you to write outside your comfort zone, evolving your style.
• They help highlight strengths and expose weaknesses in your technique.
• The constraints imposed by prompts often fuel creativity, enhancing storytelling abilities.
• Experimenting with various prompts refines versatility, embracing an eclectic mix of styles.

The Connection Between Prompts and Emotional Engagement

You might not realize it, but those intriguing cues you engage with can significantly heighten the emotional engagement in your narratives. They’re not just prompts, they’re sparks that ignite a bonfire of emotion within your storytelling.

Emotional resonance isn’t about crafting a plot; it’s about creating an atmosphere so palpable, your readers can taste the tension or joy in every word.

The magic lies in imbuing each character and scene with emotional authenticity. That’s where prompts come into play. You see, they challenge you to explore uncharted emotional territories and weave them seamlessly into your narrative fabric. They nudge you towards nuances that’d otherwise remain hidden, making for richer storytelling.

Overcoming Writer’s Block With Creative Prompts

When it’s like pulling teeth to get the words flowing, turning to imaginative cues can be your salvation from the dreaded writer’s block. Prompt selection and prompt evolution become your saviors in this bleak landscape of stalled creativity.

Consider these strategies:

• Use prompt selection to choose a theme or situation that sparks your interest.
• Allow for prompt evolution , letting one idea lead naturally to another.
• Delve into character development prompts; they can reveal surprising paths for your story.
• Don’t discount non-fiction prompts. Real-life situations often inspire compelling narratives.
• Experiment with genre-specific prompts. They may open up new storytelling territories you’ve never explored before.

Tips to Create Your Own Writing Prompts

Let’s dive into some handy tips for crafting your own engaging cues to inspire your storytelling.

Begin with prompt personalization; it’s about making the prompt uniquely yours. Think of experiences, thoughts, or ideas that only you can explore and weave them into your prompts.

Next, consider prompt categorization. This involves grouping prompts based on themes or genres. It’s not just a way to organize but also stimulates creative thinking by setting boundaries within which to play and innovate.

Lastly, ensure versatility in your prompts. They should be capable of inspiring different types of writing – from poetry to prose, fiction to memoirs.

Creating prompts isn’t just about overcoming writer’s block; it’s an exercise in creativity itself. So go ahead, make it fun!

So, you’ve dived deep into the world of creative writing prompts. Now you’re armed with techniques to generate ideas and strategies to conquer writer’s block.

Remember, these prompts are meant to spur your creativity and evoke emotion. Don’t shy away from crafting your own! They can drastically refine your style and keep your pen moving.

Embrace this exciting tool in your writing journey – let’s see where it takes you!

25 Creative Writing Prompts to Ignite Your Creativity

Creative writing is a vast and dynamic field that offers a platform for individuals to express their ideas, emotions, and stories in an imaginative and original way.

It plays a crucial role in enhancing communication skills, fostering empathy, and also promoting a deep understanding of the human experience. If you’re not sure how to get started, consider these helpful writing prompts – let’s get creative!

The Importance of Creative Writing

In the realm of literature and beyond, creative writing holds a pivotal role. It not only allows for personal expression but also:

• fosters critical thinking
• enhances vocabulary
• improves writing skills
• conveys complex ideas and emotions
• serves as a therapeutic medium
• enhances empathy

From short stories and poetry to novels and screenplays, creative writing spans a wide array of genres and styles, and offers endless opportunities for exploration and expression.

In the professional realm, creative writing skills are highly valued. They can lead to various creative writing jobs in fields like publishing, advertising, journalism, and content creation. For those interested in pursuing higher education in this field, you might want to explore whether a degree in creative writing is worth it .

Understanding Creative Writing Prompts

When it comes to igniting creativity and fostering unique ideas, creative writing prompts play an invaluable role. They provide a starting point, a spark that can lead to a flame of inspiration for writers.

How Prompts Can Ignite Creativity

While creative writing is an exciting field, it can sometimes be challenging to kickstart the creative process. This is where creative writing prompts come into play. These prompts are designed to ignite the imagination and inspire writers to create original and compelling pieces.

They help to overcome writer’s block , encourage experimentation with different styles and genres. So, whether you’re a seasoned writer or a beginner, creative writing prompts can be an invaluable tool to spark creativity and enhance your writing skills.

What are Creative Writing Prompts?

Creative writing prompts are essentially ideas, questions, or topics that are designed to inspire and stimulate the creative writing process. They serve as a catalyst, helping to ignite the writer’s imagination and encourage them to explore new themes, concepts, or perspectives.

These prompts can take a myriad of forms. They might be a single word, a phrase, a sentence, or even an image. Remember, regardless of the format, the goal of a creative writing prompt is to trigger thought and also encourage writers to delve deeper into their creative psyche, producing unique and compelling pieces of writing.

For more understanding of what creative writing entails, read our article on what is creative writing .

Types of Creative Writing Prompts

There are various types of creative writing prompts, each tailored to stimulate different forms of writing, cater to various genres, or inspire certain ideas. For example, you might encounter:

• Fiction Writing Prompts : These prompts are designed to inspire stories. They might provide a setting, a character, a conflict, or a plot point to kick-start the writer’s imagination.
• Non-Fiction Writing Prompts : These prompts are geared towards non-fiction writing, such as essays, memoirs, or journalistic pieces. They might pose a question, present a topic, or propose a perspective for the writer to explore.
• Poetry Writing Prompts : These prompts are tailored for writing poetry. They could suggest a theme, a form, a line, or a poetic device to be used in the poem.
• Dialogue Writing Prompts : These prompts focus on conversations and are designed to inspire dialogue-driven pieces. They generally provide a line or a snippet of conversation to act as a starting point.
• Story Starter Writing Prompts : These prompts serve as the opening line or the first paragraph of a story. The writer’s task is to continue the narrative from there.

Understanding the different types of creative writing prompts is essential to making the most of them. For example, when you choose the right type of prompt, you target specific writing skills , push boundaries of creativity, and provide the necessary spark to bring your ideas to life.

25 Creative Writing Prompts

Using creative writing prompts is a great way to jumpstart your creativity and get the ideas flowing. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or a beginner, these prompts can help inspire your next piece. Here, we’ve broken down 25 prompts into five categories: fiction, non-fiction, poetry, dialogue, and story starters.

Fiction Writing Prompts

Fiction allows writers to flex their imaginative muscles. The following prompts can help to stir up new ideas for a unique storyline:

• Write a story where the main character finds an old, mysterious letter in the attic.
• Imagine a world where animals can talk.
• Create a tale where a character discovers they have a superpower.
• Write about a character who wakes up in a different era.
• Write a story set in a world where money doesn’t exist.

Non-Fiction Writing Prompts

Non-fiction writing can help you explore real-life experiences and lessons. Here are some prompts to get you started:

• Write about a time when you faced a significant challenge and how you overcame it.
• Describe the most influential person in your life.
• Share a moment when you learned a valuable lesson.
• Write about an unforgettable trip.
• Discuss a current event that has impacted you personally.

Poetry Writing Prompts

Poetry allows for artistic expression through words. These prompts can inspire new verses:

• Write a poem about a dream you can’t forget.
• Create a sonnet about the changing seasons.
• Write about an emotion without naming it directly.
• Craft a poem inspired by a piece of art.
• Pen a haiku about nature’s power.

Dialogue Writing Prompts

Dialogue writing can help you improve your dialogue creation skills. Try these prompts:

• Write a conversation between two people stuck in an elevator.
• Describe a heated argument between a character and their best friend.
• Create a dialogue where a character reveals a deep secret.
• Write an exchange between a detective and a suspect.
• Craft a conversation between two people who speak different languages.

Story Starter Writing Prompts

Story starters are great for sparking an idea for a story. Here are some to try:

• “When she opened the door, she couldn’t believe her eyes…”
• “He’d waited his whole life for this moment, and now…”
• “It was a town like no other, because…”
• “She was the last person on earth, or so she thought…”
• “The letter arrived, marked with a seal she didn’t recognize…”

These creative writing prompts are designed to challenge you and spark your creativity. Remember, the goal is not to create a perfect piece of writing but to ignite your imagination and hone your writing skills. Also, don’t forget, you can always revise and refine your work later .

For more on the art of writing, check out our article on what is creative writing .

Making the Most of Your Creative Writing Prompts

Now that you have a list of creative writing prompts at your disposal, it’s important to understand how to utilize them effectively. The value of a prompt lies not just in the initial idea it provides, but also in how it can be expanded and developed into a full-blown piece of writing.

How to Use Creative Writing Prompts Effectively

Using creative writing prompts effectively requires an open mind and a willingness to explore. Here are some strategies to make the most of your prompts:

• Brainstorming: Allow yourself to brainstorm ideas after reading the prompt. Jot down whatever comes to mind without self-judgment or censorship.
• Freedom: Give yourself the freedom to interpret the prompt in your own way. Remember, prompts are starting points, not rigid guidelines.
• Experimentation: Experiment with different genres, perspectives, and writing styles. A prompt can be turned into a poem, a short story, or even a script for a play.
• Consistency: Try to write regularly. Whether you choose to do this daily, weekly, or bi-weekly, consistency can help develop your writing skills.
• Reflection: Finally, reflect on the prompt and your writing. Consider what worked, what didn’t, and also what you would like to improve in your next piece.

In addition to this, check out our article on what is creative writing .

Tips to Expand on a Prompt

Expanding on a prompt involves transforming a simple idea into a fully developed narrative. Here are a few tips:

• Character Development: Flesh out your characters. Give them backgrounds, motivations, and flaws to make them more relatable and interesting.
• Plot Building: Develop a coherent plot. Consider the key events, conflicts, and resolutions that will drive your story forward.
• Show, Don’t Tell: Show the reader what’s happening through vivid descriptions and actions rather than simply telling them.
• Dialogue: Use dialogue to reveal character traits and advance the plot. Make sure it’s natural and adds value to your story.
• Editing: Finally review and revise your work. Look for areas where you can improve clarity, tighten your prose, and also eliminate any inconsistencies or errors.

Editor’s Note : Don’t get rid of old ideas or unfinished works – you never know when looking back over these might spark inspiration or two ideas might mesh to form something cohesive and new!

The Right Prompts Grow Your Skills

By using these strategies, you can take full advantage of creative writing prompts and improve your writing skills. So, whether you’re pursuing a career in creative writing or just looking for a new hobby, these tips can help you unlock your full creative potential.

For more insights on creative writing, check out our articles on creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree and how to teach creative writing .

Also, don’t miss our master list of more than 250 journal prompts .

Brooks Manley

Creative Primer  is a resource on all things journaling, creativity, and productivity. We’ll help you produce better ideas, get more done, and live a more effective life.

My name is Brooks. I do a ton of journaling, like to think I’m a creative (jury’s out), and spend a lot of time thinking about productivity. I hope these resources and product recommendations serve you well. Reach out if you ever want to chat or let me know about a journal I need to check out!

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59+ Creative Writing Prompts to Fuel Your Inspiration

As a creative individual, you may occasionally find yourself facing the infamous writer's block, searching for that spark of inspiration to ignite your storytelling. I've gathered an extensive selection of writing prompts that aim to fuel your creativity and offer new perspectives on your characters, settings, or plot lines.

Since launching these prompts on YouTube in October 2022, I have compiled over 140 short videos, each presenting a unique prompt that taps into a variety of genres. These range from the magical realms of fantasy to the intimate nuances of romance, the boundless possibilities of science fiction and thrillers, and even the familiar territory of everyday life.

The prompts have resonated with audiences in different ways, and while some have gained more traction than others, each one presents a unique challenge and opportunity for storytelling.

To showcase the diversity and potential of these prompts, I'd like to share some of my personal favorites with you.

These top picks journey through various scenarios—imagine an undiscovered animal species, engage with woodland spirits, explore the powers of a water god, or dive into the complexities of futuristic love affairs.

The intention is to provide you with a versatile toolkit, enhancing both your writing skills and your imaginative capacity.

Key Takeaways

• Writing prompts serve as a tool to overcome writer's blocks and enhance storytelling elements.
• A wide range of genres are covered, offering diverse opportunities for creative exploration.
• The prompts propose intriguing scenarios that challenge and inspire writers to craft compelling narratives.

Writing Stimulus Overview

Creative blocks are common, and one effective strategy to trigger inspiration is the use of writing stimuli . They not only help break through blocks but can also enrich elements such as characters, settings, or storylines.

A variety of these stimuli have been synthesized and shared as YouTube short videos since mid-October 2022, with a library now exceeding 140 shorts. These prompts span various genres, from high fantasy and science fiction to slice-of-life scenarios.

Favorites for Fantasy Enthusiasts:

• Invent a new animal species, an extraterrestrial being, or an entirely fictional creature.
• Craft a tale about an individual who can converse with forest critters.
• Narrate the story of a deity or spirit associated with water.
• Explore the life of someone whose fate was predicted at birth, yet skepticism lingers.

Intriguing Plot Twists:

• Your protagonist makes a living through counterfeit psychic abilities, but one day, genuine powers manifest.
• Discover a mystical passageway in an unexpected place—the comfort of your own home.

Romantic Fiction Ideas:

• Stories of culinary expressions of affection ending in a romantically timed embrace.
• Chance encounters between solitary globetrotters in the most unforeseen locations.
• Narrate an impossible love between a mermaid and a prince, or between a witch and her liberator from a curse.

Science Fiction for the Curious Mind:

• Amidst a variety of universes, there still persists the constant presence of Adam Sandler.
• A dystopian setting where literacy has vanished, but a machine reignites these lost abilities.

Everyday Oddities and Thrills:

• A casual mention of a store aisle that doesn't exist brings about a puzzled reaction.

Mystery and Suspense Elements:

• Coin an account involving internet friends who are clueless about their real-life acquaintance.

Historical and Alternative World Settings:

• A narrative taking place in a realm where conventional currency is obsolete.
• Write from the perspective of an inadvertent time-traveler due to an erroneous clock adjustment.

Creative Challenges:

• Describe a chance meeting in a graveyard involving peculiar characters and a menacing revelation.
• Envision a summer camp that becomes a backdrop for uncovering grim secrets.

Creative Sparks for Your Imagination

Engaging fantasy scenarios.

• Concoct a tale regarding a species of animal that does not exist.
• Craft a fairy tale focused on a person who can converse with forest wildlife.
• Imagine a water deity and build a story revolving around them.
• Challenge the concept of destiny by creating a character who knows their future but doubts its veracity.
• Mix reality with fantasy as your character pretends to be a psychic, only to truly become one.

Romantic Escapades with a Twist

• Explore magnetism in love and write about a world where electromagnetic bracelets lead to soulmates.
• Whip up a romantic meal as a character who expresses affection through cooking, culminating in a midnight kiss.
• Destined encounters unfold as solo travelers meet repeatedly in the most surprising places.
• Turn the tale of Cupid's arrow on its head, examining lost affections when preexisting love meets myth.

Sci-fi Encounters and Anomalies

• Tackle interdimensional consistency with the peculiar notion that Adam Sandler exists uniformly across multiverses.
• Picture a future where reading and writing are lost arts, revived through an unlikely mentor.
• Voice a robot rebellion as NASA's Curiosity Rover suddenly deviates from its mission, sparking intrigue with a cryptic message.

Mysterious and Macabre Twists

• Devise a murder mystery with an unusual weapon – a pumpkin-carving knife.
• Envision a self-aware zombie and explore the apocalypse from its unique perspective.
• Unveil sinister secrets as friends discover more than they bargained for in a hidden room within an old mansion.

Collection of Creative Writing Ideas

Top Fantasy Concepts :

• Invent a non-existent animal species or a fantasy being.
• Write a fairy tale about a character who converses with woodland creatures.
• Create a narrative featuring a deity or spirit tied to water.
• Describe a protagonist whose future has been predicted since birth and their skepticism.
• Your character, initially a charlatan psychic, wakes up with genuine abilities.
• Formulate a tale about discovering a magical portal at home.
• Design a story based around a character experiencing former or future lives.
• Detail the antics of a mischievous fairy or deity.
• Pen a scene where a chat with the ghost of a friend over tea is a routine affair.
• Craft a scenario where, upon alerting to a mess in a nonexistent supermarket aisle, a mystery unfolds.

Romantic Sparks and Twists :

• Magnetic bracelets are designed to draw one to their soulmate; narrate the activation day.
• Feature a character expressing love through culinary masterpieces, culminating in a kiss at the stroke of midnight.
• Weave tales of two wanderlust individuals repeatedly crossing paths.
• Introduce Cupid and the consequences of his arrow to a tale of unrequited love.
• A mermaid and a prince defy the ban on their affection; spin their narrative.
• Conjure a witch whose curse can only be broken by one man; chart their tale.

Sci-Fi and Dystopia :

• Depict Adam Sandler's surprising presence across various universes.
• In a world reliant on vocal commands, a machine reteaches a girl to read and write.
• Imagine someone hearing disobedient thoughts from an unkown voice during an illness.
• The Curiosity Rover curiously alters course; what comes next?
• In a longevity-driven society with a dark catch, you receive a life-or-death letter.

Mystery and Thriller :

• Craft a murder mystery with an unusual pumpkin-carving weapon.
• Unearth a dark secret guarded by an enigmatic mansion from its sinister rooms.
• A serene summer camp becomes the stage for harrowing revelations.

Unique Story Elements :

• Narrate from a zombie's perspective during an apocalypse.
• Investigate a neighbor's façade, leading to a terrifying discovery.
• Engage readers with a tale of internet anonymity and real-life acquaintance.

Suggestions for Love-Inspired Narratives

Top Romantic Plot Ideas:

• Imagine your daily visit to the grocery store leads to a mysterious discovery when the cashier informs you there's no such place as aisle 24.
• Picture a world where bracelets with electromagnetic properties draw people to their destined partners—yours just activated.
• Craft a tale where a character expresses affection through homemade meals, culminating in a significant kiss as a new day begins.
• Envision two solitary globetrotters whose paths keep intersecting in the most unanticipated areas.

Forbidden and Enchanted Loves:

• Think of a mermaid and a prince, their liaison deemed illicit, yet their attraction is inescapable.
• Contemplate a powerful enchantress whose only salvation from a haunting curse is a most unexpected individual.

Sci-Fi Romance Twists:

• Develop a narrative around a human-shaped automaton, created for perfection, learning about the beauty in flaws from an unanticipated teacher.
• Inhabit a universe of many dimensions where one humorous and consistent figure makes an appearance: a familiar comedian named Adam Sandler.

Unexpected Encounters:

• Bring to life a story about a machine in a dystopian future that imparts to a girl the forgotten arts of reading and writing.
• Explore the chilling reality of a voice that commands you while you're unwell, proclaiming the game you're living is defective.

Bullet Points:

• Concoct a romantic scenario where food is the language of love, ending with a pivotal moment at the stroke of midnight.
• Dream up an encounter with Cupid, where his arrow has the power to erase pre-existing affections.
• Write about the unexpected and humorous omnipresence of a celebrity in every conceivable universe or timeline.
• Frame a love story within a technologically advanced world where a simple machine revives the lost art of literacy.
• Envision a species that enters your narrative, one that's yet to be seen in the natural world.
• Whether extraterrestrial beings or imaginary entities, the horizon for creation is boundless.
• Imagine a universe where Adam Sandler exists in every possible reality, providing a constant thread of humor regardless of the circumstances.
• Think about creating a murder mystery revolving around an unconventional murder weapon, like a pumpkin-carving knife, weaving a tale of intrigue and unpredicted twists.
• Consider a plot set against a post-apocalyptic backdrop, where a protagonist awakens to find that voice-command technology has caused humanity to lose its ability to read and write, until one machine sparks a change.
• While settling the bill at the grocery store, casually mention a spill in aisle 24. The cashier's baffled response—they have no aisle 24—sparks a curious tale.
• You take a sick day and stay in, only to hear an internal voice questioning your actions as if you were a character in a game with a glitch.
• Narrate the tale of two solo wanderers who serendipitously cross paths across the globe.
• Cupid offers a love-struck trade: an arrow for your love, with the condition that their current feelings might vanish upon impact.
• Mankind has foregone the art of reading and writing in a dystopian future where machines communicate through voice, but one machine's choice to teach a girl these lost skills can change everything.
• In a world where Adam Sandler is the universal constant across multiverses, describe an encounter with this timeless figure.
• Invent a story around the meeting with a woodland spirit or a trickster deity.
• Compose a narrative where a character wakes as a reincarnation of themselves, facing the joys and trials of a new life cycle.
• Delve into a murder mystery where a seemingly innocuous pumpkin carving knife becomes the central clue.
• Create tension as a group of friends uncovers a chilling secret in an abandoned room of an old mansion.
• Enthralling Beasts : Imagine an entirely new species; an unearthly creature, perhaps a vividly unique animal, or even an extraterrestrial organism. Let the bounds of reality be stretched by your creation.
• Woodland Whispers : Craft a narrative about a character who can exchange thoughts with creatures of the forest. Detail their interactions in the hidden enclaves of nature.
• Mystical Waters : Conjure up a tale about a deity or spirit presiding over water. Narrative waves should ebb and flow with their ancient, fluid power.
• Prophecy Pondering : A future is written at birth for a character. Doubt clouds their belief. What will they choose when fate beckons?
• Sudden Sight : What happens when someone who fakes psychic abilities wakes to find they possess real ones? Describe their initial shock and ensuing choices.
• Dimensional Doorways : A character uncovers a magical portal within the confines of their residence—adventure into what lies beyond.
• Historical Echoes : Your protagonist awakes within a past life or as a future incarnation. Weave the story of their metaphysical journey.
• Pixie Mischief : Tell the tale of a playful pixie or a cunning trickster deity. What chaos and laughter will they bring?
• Ghostly Reunions : Visualize a character engaging in periodic tea encounters with a spectral old friend.
• Nonexistent Aisles : While paying for groceries, your character mentions a spill in aisle 24, only to be told it doesn't exist—what mystery unfolds?
• Attraction Amplified : In a world where electromagnetic bracelets draw your soulmate to you, narrate the anticipation of the moment they turn on.
• Culinary Affection : A protagonist expresses their love through cooking. Finish their story with a midnight kiss.
• Unexpected Encounters : Two travelers intent on solitude repeatedly meet. Detail their growing relationship spun by serendipitous events.
• Cupid's Caveat : Cupid can shoot the love arrow, but pre-existing affection could vanish upon impact. Decide whether the risk is worth the reward.
• Forbidden Merfolk Love : Amidst a strict divide between land and sea, a prince and a mermaid resist the rules that keep them apart.
• Hex and Heartbreak : An empowered witch is tormented by a curse—paint a picture of the only one capable of releasing her from this spell.
• Multiversal Constant : Adam Sandler exists in every reality of the Multiverse. Chronicle the absurdities in both utopian and dystopian worlds.
• Forgotten Literacy : Humanity has lost the skills to read and write, until one machine reveals these lost arts to a young girl.
• Glitch in the System : A sick day leads to a voice stating disobedience from a character's head. What's the source of this ominous game glitch?
• Curiosity's Choice : NASA's rover on Mars takes an unplanned route and sends a cryptic message. What are the implications?
• Mortal Lottery : Eternal life is feasible but at a deadly cost. Your chosen protagonist receives notice—they are to die. How will they face this?
• Uncharted Economies : Set a story within a world where the currency is unconventional. Explore the nature of value and exchange.
• Daylight Shift : After adjusting the clock for daylight savings, a character finds they've leaped through time. Elaborate on their temporal misadventure.
• Lab Lilliputian : A lab accident leaves a scientist minuscule. Chronicling a bug-sized adventure to revert the mishap is your task.
• Creation Catastrophe : A scientist's new life form leads to dire outcomes. Spell out the repercussions of such an invention.
• Graveyard Stories : Incorporate a mysterious blue-veined hand, a graveyard setting, and the phrase "all that spit and sweat" in a chilling narrative.
• Unseen Dangers : A character discerns their neighbor's menacing nature. What darkness lies hidden next door?
• Imagine a non-existent animal species—an extraterrestrial find or mystical entity—and create its story.
• Craft a fairy tale centered around a character who communicates with forest animals.
• Envision a tale about a deity associated with water.
• Explore the life of someone whose future was predicted from birth, questioning their belief in that destiny.
• Create a scenario where your character, a sham psychic, gains genuine psychic abilities one day.
• Invent a story involving the discovery of an enchanted portal within one's abode.
• Consider a protagonist who experiences life in a past or future reincarnation.
• Develop a narrative featuring a playful pixie or a cunning deity.
• Write about an encounter with the spirit of a past acquaintance over tea.
• Depict a world where electromagnetic bracelets draw people to their soulmates, and examine the experience.
• Conceive a character expressing love through culinary creations, culminating in a kiss as a new day begins.
• Describe the serendipitous meetings of two single travelers in unexpected locales.
• Delve into the choice presented by Cupid to risk a current affection for guaranteed love.
• Illustrate a forbidden love between a mermaid and a prince, transcending boundaries.
• Narrate the tale of a witch whose curse can only be broken by a particular individual's love.
• Narrate a universe where Adam Sandler exists as a constant across a multiverse, maintaining his distinctive persona.
• Picture a dystopian future where humans no longer read or write until one individual relearns these lost arts.
• Imagine a day at home interrupted by a voice in your head, suggesting a reality beyond your understanding.
• Conjure a scenario where the Curiosity Rover acts against command, leading to an unthinkable revelation.
• Envision a society with eternal youth, but at a steep and ethical cost.
• Weave a narrative where the story unfolds in an undefined world, featuring alternative currencies to money.
• Tell a tale of unintended time travel due to a simple act of changing a clock for daylight saving.
• Design a murder mystery revolving around an unexpected murder weapon, like a pumpkin-carving knife.
• Imagine a world where you are 'Big Brother,' overseeing all.
• Picture an undead apocalypse from the perspective of a frightened zombie.
• Fabricate a story about internet friends who are unaware of their real-life acquaintance.
• Initiate a story with the discovery of a secret leading to significant ramifications.
• Portray a character resolving a mystery with the help of a local library or librarian.
• Depict someone orchestrating a cookie exchange masking a deeper purpose for the gathering.
• Start a narrative with the finding of a peculiar inscription on the back of a painting, leading to small-town secrets.
• Craft a dialogue recalling an event that seems impossible, considering the person involved vanished years ago.
• Write about an individual who magnifies minor events, turning them into dire conundrums.
• Describe an extensive road trip filled with self-discovery, starting from a decisive "I quit."
• Imagined Worlds of Tomorrow In a universe where fantastical beings roam, you might invent a myth about an unrecorded species—an extraterrestrial marvel, perhaps. Imagine a world where you can interact with forest animals, or a realm dominated by a deity of water. Picture a life where your destiny has been predicted since birth, yet skepticism lingers. You could lead a deceptive life, pretending to have psychic abilities—until one morning, you awaken with genuine powers. Consider discovering a passageway to other realms within your abode, or picture yourself as your own ancestor or successor reincarnated. Envision tales of mischievous sprites or capricious divinities, or encountering a spectral old friend for regular teatime. You're at the store, and as you alert the clerk to a spill in aisle 24, they respond with confusion—there is no aisle 24. Sci-Fi Encounters and Cosmic Oddities In realms beyond, romantic allure becomes tangible. Imagine bracelets that magnetically draw soulmates together, igniting on a day of eager anticipation. Think of savoring culinary creations as a love language, ending with a kiss as the clock strikes midnight. Envision paths repeatedly crossing with another lone traveler in serendipity's embrace. Cupid offers a perilous choice: shoot your love with an arrow, but risk extinguishing any affection they may hold for you. Mystical love stories unfold between mermaids and princes, witches and mortals. A novice author might fall for a mysterious writer, unraveling past secrets to understand their bond. You could risk all for a fervid quest, or learn that imperfection holds its own beauty in a romance with a cyborg. Parallel Realities and Existential Musings Imagine a Multiverse with one constant: Adam Sandler. Humorous or grim, his presence remains in every reality. In a bleak future, voice-operated machines lead humanity to discard the written word, leaving generations illiterate until a single machine revives forgotten skills. Perhaps, one day at home, unwell, you hear an inner voice—as if you're a glitch in a game, not adhering to unseen controls. Deep space exploration takes a turn as the Curiosity Rover veers off-script and, shockingly, communicates. What if science uncovers the secret to cease aging, but for each life extended, another must end, maintaining a balance albeit with a cruel twist? Dystopian Visions and Chilling Discoveries In a nameless, dystopian society, currency evolves beyond mere money. Time leaps forward due to a single twist on your clock—and not by a mere hour. A scientist shrinks to an insect's scale following an experiment gone awry and must brave a now colossal laboratory. Murder mysteries can hinge on the flip of a coin, or occur in an environment where Big Brother truly watches. A zombie experiencing fear sheds light on an apocalypse, while friends in the digital realm unknowingly intertwine their fates in the physical world. Imagine yourself as a harbinger of truth or deception, beguiling with knowledge or leading astray. The simple act of removing a painting could reveal chilling engravings, hinting at a small town's hidden turpitudes. Tales of Survival and Suspense A hot air balloon operator battles prehistoric predators to provide thrills for passengers. A tale of betrayal might begin with the revelation of an affair, leading to trust tested by gunfire. Lives transform over a single meal, while a misidentified delivery driver races against time, encumbered by pizzas and dodging criminal entanglements. Potential Endings and Narrative Inspirations Imagine a life devoted to achieving culinary greatness, hindered only by absent taste. Or perhaps, you'll choose to navigate the poignant musings of an overthinker, spiraling over the minuscule. Whether through embracing a final round in a familiar fight or revealing your grandmother as an unlikely cult figurehead, stories await your crafting. The end of one journey or the change wrought in the time it takes to share a meal harbors the potency to reshape a character's world—in your hands, these moments are yours to mold. Enigmas and Homicide Motifs
• If you've ever fantasized about unearthly entities , consider penning a tale about an imagined beast —complete freedom to define its form and nature.
• Weave a narrative centered on someone who holds conversations with forest-dwelling creatures , akin to the classic structure of fairy tales.
• What about crafting an epic about a deity of the waters ? Place this spirit within your fantasy universe and explore its interactions.
• Imagine you're the prime subject of an ancient prophecy since birth, yet skepticism clouds your belief in this set fate.
• Your life's work has revolved around fabricating psychic talents—until the day arrives when you awaken to genuine supernatural capabilities.
• A hidden mystical gateway within your abode serves as an invitation to otherworldly adventure. What lies beyond it?
• Reflect on waking up intertwined with a prior life or perhaps as a future self reborn, incorporating elements of reincarnation into your plot.
• Conjure up tales of mischief, brought about either by a pixie with a penchant for chaos or a deity known for their trickery .
• Old companionship and the supernatural merge when you write about periodic meetings with a spectral friend over tea.
• Envision informing a store clerk about a mess in a non-existent Aisle 24, and the narrative possibilities spiral from there.
• Engage with these top literary ventures that I've personally enjoyed crafting:
• Envision a fantastical race of beings that have no parallel in nature or mythology. Their existence is yours to define.
• Write a fable centered on a character who possesses the rare ability to converse with forest animals.
• Conceive a tale about a deity of the waters and the mysteries they guard.
• What if your fate was written at birth? Create a character grappling with their predestined future.
• Imagine what would happen if a phony clairvoyant awoke to genuine psychic gifts.
• Spin a yarn about discovering an enchanting gateway within the confines of one's dwelling.
• Explore the life of someone who navigates through their former or forthcoming incarnations.
• Conjure a story about a playful sprite or deity known for their antics.
• What intrigue unfolds when an old ghostly acquaintance is routinely met over tea?
• You've just alerted the cashier to a mess in nonexistent aisle 24. Where does the story lead from there?
• In an age where magnetic bracelets theoretically lead you to your soulmate, what transpires on the day they are activated?
• Create a character whose greatest expression of love is through culinary creations, culminating in a kiss as the clock strikes midnight.
• Narrate the serendipitous encounters of two independent wanderers in the most unlikely locales.
• What if Cupid warned that his arrow could erase existing affections? Would you still take the risk?
• Dive into a forbidden romance between a mermaid and a prince.
• A witch bound by a curse finds solace in the one man who can break it.
• An aspiring novelist unravels the mysteries of a reclusive author's past to grasp the nature of their bond.
• Portray a character who hazards everything in the pursuit of what their heart desires.
• A narrative where a cyborg, designed for flawlessness, learns the beauty of imperfection from an unexpected source.
• In every universe of a vast Multiverse, one constant remains: Adam Sandler.
• Imagine a dystopian future where reading and writing are relics of the past—until one machine revives these lost arts.
• You've called in sick only to hear a voice in your mind demanding you obey—suggesting your life may be a video game glitch.
• When Mars' Curiosity rover deviates from its course and communicates, "We'll save Opie," unravel the mystery.
• Conceive a world where halting the aging process has a lethal catch: for every person who gains this benefit, another must perish.
• Invent a story where the currency is something other than money—something we wouldn't recognize as currency today.
• What happens when a time change for daylight savings unwittingly propels you far beyond an hour?
• Craft a tale around the chaos unleashed by a scientist who accidentally miniaturizes herself.
• Or a scientist whose creation of new life yields catastrophic results.
• Picture a murder mystery where a pumpkin-carving knife is the unexpected weapon.
• Fantasy beings : You might write about the interaction between creatures of your own design and the human world.
• Woodland communicators : Characters may have abilities to converse with forest animals, presenting unique relational challenges.
• Aqua deities : Stories could involve water gods or spirits, highlighting the difficulties of relationships crossing the natural and supernatural realms.
• Fortune's weight : Explore a character's skepticism about their destiny as foretold at birth.
• Supernatural shifts : Imagine making a living faking supernatural abilities, only to awaken with genuine ones.
• Temporal dissonance : Characters face personal strife waking up as past or future incarnations of themselves.
• Ethereal bonds : Perhaps a tale where a human communes with the spirit of an old friend.
• Magnetic attraction : Delve into a world where love is quantified and brought to life through technology, complicating the notion of soulmates.
• Gastronomic affection : A character expresses love through preparing food , culminating in a storybook kiss at midnight.
• Serendipitous encounters : Two solo travelers repeatedly meet, raising questions of fate and choice in their connection.
• Mythical love : A mermaid and a prince find love despite societal barriers, or a witch finds redemption through an unlikely relationship.
• Technological dependence : In a dystopia where speech has supplanted literacy, one young girl learns to read and write, transforming her relationships.
• Multiverse constant : Humorous narratives where a familiar personality, like a famous actor, appears in every imaginable universe.
• Mandatory sacrifice : Imagine a world where immortality is achievable, but at a grim cost to another, affecting personal morals and societal values.
• Envision a species unfamiliar to our world: might be alien, mystical, or undefined.
• Craft a fable of a person conversing with forest animals.
• Create a narrative centered around a deity tied to water.
• Tell the tale of a protagonist, whose destiny was predicted at birth; yet, they are skeptical.
• Your main character, known for simulating psychic abilities, awakens to genuine ones.
• Literal Attraction : An electromagnetic bracelet designed to lead you to your soulmate.
• Culinary Affection : A story ending with a shared kiss—a testament to love expressed through cooking.
• Intertwined Paths : Two travelers coincidentally meet across unusual locations.
• Multiversal Constant : Across various universes, there's one invariant—Adam Sandler.
• Dystopian Dynamic : In a world where humans converse with machines and have forgotten to read and write, one machine teaches a girl these lost skills.
• Unexpected Dialogue : Your usual workday is upended by a mysterious voice in your head.
• Martian Mystery : When the Curiosity Rover deviates unexpectedly, a cryptic message is received.
• In a world that has mastered the prolongation of youth and life, the balance of population demands a high price.
• A World Nameless and Currency Strange : A realm where what is valued isn't money as we perceive it.
• Twist of Time : An hour adjustment for daylight savings thrusts you far beyond the intended time span.
• Pumpkin Carving Peril : A murder mystery pivoting around an autumn festive tool.
• Graveyard Tales : Craft a narrative steeped in a cemetery, weaving in specific eerie elements.
• Airborne Antics : Navigate a hot air balloon amidst prehistoric predators.
• Culinary Cover-Up : Organize a quaint cookie exchange with ulterior motives.
• Hidden Messages : Discovering enigmatic inscriptions behind mundane items reveals hidden truths.
• An unexpected visitor in a downpour bears uncanny resemblance to a long-lost child, yet something is amiss.
• Fantasy Beginnings : Craft stories on unconventional animal species, that aren't bound by the constraints of reality.
• Woodland Dialogues : Spin a yarn where someone holds conversations with forest denizens.
• Watery Deities’ Tales : Weave a story centered around a deity or spirit of the aquatic realm.
• Portents from Birth : Explore the life of someone whose future has been predicted since their infancy.
• Accidental Mystic : Create a narrative where a fraudulent psychic unexpectedly acquires genuine abilities.
• Portals at Home : Describe the discovery of a mystical gateway in a domestic setting.
• Lives Reexamined : Delve into the conscious experience of a character linked with past or future existences.
• Sprite and Deity Mischief : Spin tales about crafty pixies or mischievous deities.
• Phantom Companions : Write of a protagonist who enjoys periodic, spectral tea sessions with a departed companion.
• Mysterious Store Layouts : Picture a grocery store scenario where a non-existent aisle becomes the subject of conversation.
• Magnetically Drawn Together : Visualize a future where electromagnetic bracelets hypothetically draw you to your soulmate.
• Cuisine of Affection : Craft a narrative that culminates with an intimate gesture, using acts of culinary love as its language.
• Travelers' Serendipity : Write about nomadic souls crossing paths in the most serendipitous encounters.
• Cupid's Consequence : Contemplate the repercussions of Cupid's intervention on existing affections.
• Meta-human Romance : Explore a forbidden love story between a mermaid and a prince or a witch seeking redemption through relationship.
• Writerly Affections : Develop a story where passion and the unraveling of a mysterious past intertwine.
• Quest for Love : Concoct a tale of a character's arduous journey towards their heart's true yearning.
• Beauty in Imperfection : Ponder the romantic connection between a cyborg and an individual who shows them the beauty in flaws.
• Multiverse Constant : Imagine a universe, no matter how diverse or absurd, where a familiar comedian’s presence is the only certainty.
• Lost Skills in the Future : Envision a dystopia where digital interfaces usurp traditional reading and writing until a significant re-education.
• Misbehaving Simulation : Fathom a reality where virtual commands and responses take new, unexpected tangents.
• Rover’s Rebellion : Picture NASA's Curiosity Rover inexplicably deviating from its path, leading to an unprecedented communication.
• Curious Longevity : Conceive of a future where eternal youth is attainable but at a consequential price.

Final Thoughts and Steps Forward Harness the power of imagination to break free from creative stagnation. The inception of over 140 unique shorts on YouTube has led to a mosaic of genres awaiting your pen. Venture into the uncharted with early fantasy prompts; craft tales of unearthly beasts, or spin yarns of enchanted dialogues with forest inhabitants. Imagine the whispers of a water deity or the weight of a predestined future gently nudging at your protagonist's skepticism. Embrace the peculiar with scenarios that fuse the mundane with the magical, like finding accidental doorways to other worlds within your abode, or tackling the unnerving reality of an accurate prophecy. Envision the thrill, or perhaps the terror, of awakening latent psychic abilities under the guise of deceit. Revel in the peculiarities of romance that defy worldly norms, where destinies entwine through the magnetic pull of technology or the culinary gestures that symbolize deep affection. Imagine chance encounters spiraling into once-in-a-lifetime adventures, or the perils of love through Cupid's precarious assistance. In the realms of science fiction and dystopian futures, contemplate the constant of one celebrity's presence across all universes or the sacrifices required for eternal youth. Consider the conundrums of tech-fueled oblivion or the chaos when sentient machines challenge the status quo. Your creative journey may lead to fantastical murders with peculiar weapons, sympathizing with the fears of an undead creature, or unearthing grim secrets in unsuspecting places. The choice to explore is yours, and the prompts are plentiful, totaling 60 with even more to discover. This collection is designed to not only challenge your creative boundaries but also to ignite a narrative spark. Engage with these prompts and weave your stories. Share your creations and inspirations, and remember, an expanse of at least 80 additional prompts awaits your exploration.

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300 Creative Writing Prompts to Spur Your Creativity

Every good story begins with a spark—an idea that engages, intrigues, and inspires. But what happens when you're facing the dreaded blank page without a flicker of inspiration? The solution lies in writing prompts—effective tools that ignite your creativity and kickstart your storytelling journey. Here are 300 writing prompts that can steer you toward fresh narratives and unexplored themes.

These prompts focus on the personal. They lead you to introspect and narrate your experiences. Prompts like "The most challenging decision I've ever made...", or "The time I faced my worst fear…" encourage self-reflection.

This batch involves prompts that revolve around hypothetical situations. For example - "If I were the last person on Earth...", or "The day I woke up as a millionaire...". These prompts provoke your imagination, pulling your story into unexpected territories.

101 to 150:

Geared toward exploring new perspectives, these prompts offer characters, settings, or situations for you to develop. Imagine prompts like "A day in the life of a time-traveler..." or "Persuade someone to move to Mars...". They challenge you to step into other people's shoes and invent new worlds.

151 to 200:

These prompts dip into genres. Whether it's "Write a ghost story set in an ice cream shop..." or "Your protagonist can read minds, but...". Here, you can explore and experiment with different storytelling styles and themes.

201 to 250:

Taking a poetic turn, these prompts suggest themes for verses. Prompts like "A sonnet about a sunset..." or "a haiku about the four seasons..." provide an opportunity to practice and perfect your rhythm and rhyme.

251 to 300:

Lastly, these prompts focus on the macro, inviting big-picture ideas like "The future of humanity in a technology-dominated world...". They can be deeply thought-provoking, encouraging you to develop intricate plots and complex characters.

So, next time you're stuck or need a writing warm-up, delve into these prompts. You'll find that they not only inspire fresh ideas but also encourage you to write outside your comfort zone. Each prompt is a new adventure in your writing journey, pushing you to explore different characters, situations, and styles, ultimately helping you grow as a writer.

Remember, these are only starting points—the magic happens when you let your creativity take over. Let the prompts guide you, but don't be afraid to deviate and follow where your creativity leads you. And don't forget to make use of Chapterly's AI-assisted content creation to enhance your creative process. Discover new words, narrative styles, and storytelling elements with the help of our intuitive authoring platform.

Personal Introspection Prompts:

1. "The moment I felt most alive..." 2. "The time I had to stand up for what I believed in..." 3. "My greatest achievement and how it changed me..." 4. "A lesson I've learned the hard way..." 5. "How my biggest failure shaped me..." 6. "A chance encounter that affected me deeply..." 7. "A choice I made that defined my life..." 8. "The person who has had the most influence over me..." 9. "A dream that had a profound impact on my waking life..." 10. "What I missed the most during quarantine..." These exciting prompts invite you to harness your emotions, recall your memories, and reflect on life's pivotal moments. This in-depth self-exploration can lead to profound insights and beautiful stories that genuinely resonate with readers. Remember, the magic lies not only in the exercise of writing but also in the journey of self-discovery it sparks. Enjoy this special kind of magic and watch how your writing transforms as you evolve.

11. "The most unique place I've ever visited..." 12. "How the pandemic changed my lifestyle..." 13. "An act of kindness that changed my perspective..." 14. "My perspective on body positivity..." 15. "The most daring thing I've ever done..." 16. "How a hobby can transform into a passion..." 17. "An event that shaped my cultural perspective..." 18. "My journey to self-love and acceptance..." 19. "An unexpected friendship that changed my life..." 20. "What I wish I knew as a teenager..."

These personal introspection prompts can lead to self-discovery while also enabling you to craft relatable narratives that strike a chord with your readers. Remember, writing prompts not only draw out stories, but they allow us to explore parts of ourselves and gain clarity about who we are. So, take these prompts as an invitation to look within, and simultaneously, to step out of your comfort zone and into uncharted territories in your writing process.

21. "A defining cultural experience from my travels..." 22. "How a particular book or film significantly influenced my perspective..." 23. "The role of nature in my personal wellbeing..." 24. "An experience in my childhood that defines who I am today..." 25. "A moment when I felt completely helpless..." 26. "The role spirituality plays in my life..." 27. "The hardest lesson I’ve learned from a past relationship..." 28. "An episode in my life when I had to take a leap of faith..." 29. "A special tradition in my family..." 30. "Recovering from a personal trauma..."

These prompts act as mirrors, providing you opportunity to reflect on your life experiences and weave them into captivating tales. Writing from personal experience not only enhances relatability but also authenticity in your narrative. Ultimately, the journey with these prompts can deepen your understanding of yourself and your craft, enriching the stories you tell and how you tell them. 31. "When I challenged a belief that I grew up with..." 32. "A moment when I truly appreciated solitude..." 33. "How I overcame the greatest obstacle in my life..." 34. "A relationship that taught me tolerance and understanding..." 35. "A time when I stood against the majority..." 36. "When I realized the value of a simple life..." 37. "A situation when I chose to be a leader rather than a follower..." 38. "When I chose family over a life ambition..." 39. "My encounter with a stranger that left a lasting impression..." 40. "The role of failure in sculpting my current success..."

These prompts help you illuminate the corners of your own life experiences, allowing you to tap into the reservoir of your personal growth. Writing about these instances not only provides therapeutic value but also creates an emotional connection with your readers. So, don't shy away from baring your soul, for it's these raw and authentic narratives that truly touch people's hearts.

41. "A hobby that impacted my professional career..." 42. "A moment when I had to confront my own bias..." 43. "When I chose to forgive someone who deeply hurt me..." 44. "The impact of a major public event on my personal life..." 45. "How I rebuilt my life after a major setback..." 46. "A moment of genuine bonding with a person from a different culture..." 47. "The time I had to give up something I loved for greater good..." 48. "An encounter with a mentor that altered my life course..." 49. "The time when I chose silence over reaction..." 50. "A surprising coincidence that changed my life..."

These prompts invite you to explore your past, reflect on your experiences, and articulate them into evocative narratives. Real-life episodes resonate with readers as they often find common ground or learn lessons from your experiences. So, take a deep dive into these prompts and use them as a compass to navigate the contours of your life and creativity.

The Hypothetical "What If" Prompts:

51. "If I could switch lives with anyone for a day..." 52. "If I were to write a letter to my future self..." 53. "If I could master any skill instantly..." 54. "The day I found a door to a parallel universe..." 55. "If I were granted three wishes..." 56. "If I could change one historical event..." 57. "The day I realized everyone can hear my thoughts..." 58. "If I could go back in time and meet any historical figure..." 59. "If I woke up one day and discovered I was famous..." 60. "The day I realized the world I was living in was just a simulation..."

These hypothetical prompts propel you beyond the parameters of reality, setting your imagination free to wander and invent new narratives. They challenge you, stretching your thinking and creativity—an excellent opportunity to flex your writing muscles and build unique and engaging stories.

61. "If I could choose any era to live in..." 62. "The day I woke up ten years into the future..." 63. "If I could communicate with animals..." 64. "If I found a magic lamp in my attic..." 65. "The day I first discovered my superpower..." 66. "If I could revisit any moment in my past..." 67. "The day the world lost the concept of time..." 68. "If I were stranded on an island..." 69. "If I were to wake up as my favorite book's character..." 70. "The day I discovered the secret to eternal youth..."

These 'What If' prompts push your creative boundaries, inviting your imagination to roam across limitless possibilities. Harness these prompts to construct uniquely compelling narratives that breathe life into your ideas. Remember, stretching your creativity injects depth and dynamism into your writing, making your stories mesmerizing and distinct.

71. "If I were to become an overnight billionaire..." 72. "The day my favorite fictional world became real..." 73. "If I could turn any dream or nightmare into reality..." 74. "The day I got the ability to time travel..." 75. "If I could eradicate any one vice from the world..." 76. "The day the Internet disappeared..." 77. "If I had the power to make people read my mind..." 78. "If I were given the chance to colonize a new planet..." 79. "The day I got a front-row seat to an alien encounter..." 80. "If my life was a movie, which actor would play me..."

These hypothetical scenarios can be a fun way to stretch your creative muscles and imagine life from vastly different perspectives. So, prepare to let your imagination run wild and pen down narratives that are nothing short of fantastic. Trust the process and let the scenarios you conjure invoke emotions, provoke thoughts, and inspire your storytelling prowess.

81. "If I became the leader of a new country..." 82. "The day machines gained consciousness..." 83. "If I suddenly got the ability to teleport to any place in an instant..." 84. "The day I realized I could speak every language..." 85. "The day I woke up in my favorite video game..." 86. "If I could instantly solve one world problem..." 87. "The day everyone in the world went mute..." 88. "If I got the chance to script my life's ending..." 89. "The day humans acquired the ability to fly..." 90. "If I were to wake up in a world without color..."

These prompts challenge you to imagine wildly different realities and scenarios. Use them as a launchpad to push your creativity and shape extraordinary narratives that defy the conventional bounds of reality. Remember, it's in these unexplored realms that you can truly unleash the full potential of your imagination, leading to stories that captivate and thrill in equal measure.

91. "If I were to wake up as a character in a painting..." 92. "The day humanity discovered it was not alone in the universe..." 93. "If I suddenly became invisible for a day..." 94. "The day gravity ceased to exist..." 95. "If I could bring a fictional character to life..." 96. "The day everyone's dreams began to come true..." 97. "If I could erase any species of animal from existence..." 98. "The day humans gained the ability to breathe underwater..." 99. "If I could see the outcome of every choice I make..." 100. "The day science found a way to reverse aging..."

These hypothetical prompts invite you to brainstorm innovative scenarios, testing your abilities to craft enticing narratives that stretch the reader's imagination. So dive into these prompts and let them propel you into other worldly scenarios and far-flung possibilities. Remember, your writing journey relies not only on realistic stories but also on your ability to imagine the unimaginable, creating narratives that thrill, inspire, and captivate.

Exploring New Perspectives:

101. "My first day as a Martian settler..." 102. "Life through the eyes of a butterfly..." 103. "A day in the life of a World War II soldier..." 104. "Experiencing the world as a person of the opposite gender..." 105. "My life as a nomadic traveller in the Sahara Desert..." 106. "Perspective of a discarded toy in a thrift store..." 107. "A conversation between the sun and the moon..." 108. "Life as a lone tree in an urban cityscape..." 109. "Imagine being the only human left in a world of AI..." 110. "The mindset of an astronaut embarking on a one-way mission to Pluto..."

These prompts open the door to new worlds and unique viewpoints. They allow you to perceive life from different angles, encouraging empathy and fostering creativity. By adopting unusual perspectives and diving into uncharted territories, you can generate compelling narratives full of depth and insight.

111. "The world as seen from the eyes of a bee..." 112. "Struggles of a child prodigy..." 113. "Walking a mile in the shoes of a homeless individual..." 114. "A day in the shoes of an elderly person experiencing life in a new era..." 115. "Seeing the world through the eyes of a rescue dog..." 116. "The contemplations of a lone lighthouse keeper..." 117. "Chronicles of a soldier returning home after years of service..." 118. "The exhilarating first flight of a baby bird..." 119. "The world from the perspective of an AI robot..." 120. "The daily life of a centuries-old vampire coping with the modern world..."

These prompts invite you to step outside your typical frame of reference and explore diverse perspectives. This endeavours not only enrich the depth and scope of your stories, but also nurture empathy and open-mindedness in your writing. By challenging yourself to depict varying viewpoints, you also enhance your creative versatility - an invaluable asset in the world of storytelling.

121. "A day in the life of the President..." 122. "The struggles of being invisible, from an invisible person's point of view..." 123. "Guiding the lost as a self-aware GPS system..." 124. "Survival insights from a polar bear in a melting Arctic..." 125. "Witnessing a volcanic eruption as a local bird..." 126. "Turmoil of a book as it sees its own pages being torn out..." 127. "Adventures from the perspective of an ancient explorer's map..." 128. "Observations of a guardian angel assigned to a reckless teenager..." 129. "First impressions of Earth, as detailed by a curious alien visitor..." 130. "Self-reflections of a mirror in a busy hat shop..."

These prompts should encourage you to delve deep into perspectives you typically wouldn't imagine. There's an astounding amount of narrative potential in telling a story from a fresh viewpoint. Embrace the challenge to write from an unfamiliar standpoint—it's a fabulous way to stretch your creativity and produce truly original content.

131. "Experiencing the ocean depths as a deep-sea diver..." 132. "Profiling a city from the perspective of a local street artist..." 133. "Living life at a snail's pace, as a snail..." 134. "Journaling the journey of a package from an online store..." 135. "The thoughts and experiences of a cloud on a windy day..." 136. "A year in life of a football from a Premier League club..." 137. "Roman Colosseum: Revisiting historical spectacles from the view of a stone seat..." 138. "Experiencing a volcanic eruption as a native plant..." 139. "A day in life in an alien civilization from the point of view of an Earth visitor..." 140. "Environmental abuse from the perspective of mother nature..."

By exploring perspectives outside your own, not only do you broaden your narrative horizons, but also gain a richer understanding of the world. So the next time you're in search of fresh material, try out these role-reversal prompts and see where your creativity takes you. This paradigm shift might just lead to your most exciting story yet.

141. "The secrets held by a forgotten diary in an attic..." 142. "The journey of a coin from mint to being lost in a sofa..." 143. "The perceptive shift of a caterpillar becoming a butterfly..." 144. "Witnessing human evolution as a timeless ancient tree..." 145. "The shifting world of a chameleon..." 146. "The evolution of music as seen by a Stradivarius Violin..." 147. "Experiencing history from the perspective of a museum artifact..." 148. "Experiencing a snowfall for the first time as an African elephant in a zoo..." 149. "The journey of a mail carrier in a rural mountain town..." 150. "A day in the life of your favourite fictional character if they lived in our world..."

These prompts push your creativity and empathy to the limits as they require you to think and feel from perspectives that drastically differ from your own. Remember, every new perspective is a chance to create an unexpected narrative. So go ahead, step into someone else's shoes (or paws, or roots, or wings), and discover an entirely new story waiting to unfold.

Diving into Different Genres:

151. "Write a spine-chilling horror story set in an abandoned amusement park..." 152. "Craft a romantic plot that starts with people stuck in an elevator..." 153. "A gripping mystery about a death in a family reunion..." 154. "Narrate a thrilling chase between a master thief and a determined detective..." 155. "Write a Sci-Fi story about an AI taking the Presidential office..." 156. "Create an epic fantasy tale about a magical kingdom underneath the ocean..." 157. "Conjure a time-travel mishap filled with hilarious consequences..." 158. "A dystopian world, where reading has been outlawed..." 159. "Portrait a compelling romance between two superheroes..." 160. "Weave a chilling ghost story set within an old, desolate library..."

These genre-based prompts introduce you to different styles of narrative storytelling. By experimenting with various genres, you’ll not only diversify your writing capabilities but will also discover what style resonates with you the most. Remember, trying different genres is not about fitting into a particular box, but about expanding your toolbox as a writer.

161. "Construct an adventure tale of a treasure hunt in a haunted jungle..." 162. "Narrate a powerful human drama set in the backdrop of a civil war..." 163. "Spin a humour-filled tale about a day when pets switched roles with their owners..." 164. "Craft a suspense-thriller about a journalist uncovering corporate wrongdoings..." 165. "Pen a Sci-Fi narrative about humans existing as digital entities..." 166. "Write a historical fiction piece based around the first moon landing..." 167. "Unravel a tale of romance blooming in an old-age home..." 168. "Create a hilarious story set in an office where every day is opposite day..." 169. "Weave a tale of supernatural events occurring in a quiet suburban neighbourhood..." 170. "Write an engaging fantasy tale about a knight who is afraid of the dark..."

Whether it's sparking intrigue with a suspense thriller, captivating hearts with a romance narrative, or tickling funny bones with a humor-filled tale, genre-specific prompts can elevate your storytelling skills. Exploring a variety of genres can also offer a refreshing break, fuelling your creativity further. Remember, these prompts are to not only help diversify your writing but also to explore which genre best complements your storytelling style!

171. "Envision a futuristic world where emotions can be bought and sold..." 172. "Develop an engaging Western about a lawman who can't use a gun..." 173. "A humorous misadventure of a clumsy time-traveller..." 174. "Write a heartbreaking tale of a World War II separated love affair rekindling in the 21st century..." 175. "Spin a paranormal story of a psychic detective solving a murder..." 176. "Write a cyberpunk tale set in a post-apocalyptic city..." 177. "A romance blossoming between two rival chefs in a cooking reality show..." 178. "Craft an adventure story of a pirate with a phobia of water..." 179. "A Gothic horror narrative set in a centuries-old castle..." 180. "Weave a dramatic tale about a rockstar's downfall and eventual redemption..."

Experimenting with different genres not only challenges your writing skills but broadens your understanding of diverse narrative styles. Genre-based prompts help you explore a wide range of themes and settings —from suspenseful mysteries to heartwarming romance— while encouraging creativity within these contexts. So, embrace the challenge, step out from your comfort zone, and see where your writing prowess leads you!

181. "Pen a suspenseful whodunit set in an underwater research facility..." 182. "Write a post-apocalyptic narrative about a group of children trying to rebuild society..." 183. "Craft a magical realism story of a small town where everyone has the same dream every night..." 184. "Weave a romantic comedy set amidst the ruins of an alien invasion..." 185. "A war drama from the perspective of a war correspondent..." 186. "Craft a noir tale set in a city where every person has a clone..." 187. "Narrate an epic fantasy about a reluctant prince saving a cursed kingdom..." 188. "A steamy romance that sparks in the cold corridors of a space station..." 189. "Spin a historical fiction about a secret society in Victorian England..." 190. "A Sci-Fi murder mystery on a ship traveling beyond the solar system..."

Engaging with different genres allows you to explore distinct narrative styles, settings, and tropes, enhancing your storytelling arsenal. From the grim streets of noir tales to the spectral spookiness of ghost stories, each genre lends its unique flavor to your narratives. Remember, as a writer, versatility is a strength, and exploring different genres helps in expanding your narrative range.

191. "Write an espionage thriller set in Cold War era Berlin..." 192. "Craft a romantic tragedy between a human and an alien being..." 193. "Create a dystopian tale about a world where asking questions is forbidden..." 194. "Weave a psychological thriller about a man who sees people's darkness..." 195. "Write a Gothic horror story centered around an antique mirror with a sinister past..." 196. "Narrate a soulful romance blooming amidst the competitive world of ballet dancers..." 197. "Pen an action-packed adventure about a historian tracking down a lost civilization..." 198. "Develop a chilling horror narrative about a haunted toy factory..." 199. "Write a gripping detective story about a series of art heists..." 200. "Weave a stirring drama about a family living in a lighthouse on a deserted island..."

Venturing into different genres of storytelling is a fantastic way to challenge your creative boundaries and expand your narrative prowess. From suspense and horror to romance and fantasy, each genre introduces unique elements that help in crafting engaging narratives and developing diverse storytelling skills. Remember, creative growth lies in exploring new territories and pushing your comfort zone. Happy genre-hopping!

Getting Poetic:

201. "A sonnet expressing love for the simple pleasures of life..." 202. "Write an ode to a moment that changed your life forever..." 203. "A free verse detailing a poignant encounter with a stranger..." 204. "Craft a quatrain exploring the whims of the weather..." 205. "A haiku to capture the serenity of a silent snowfall..." 206. "Pen a concrete poem in the shape of a key, narrating the unlocking of a secret..." 207. "Compose a ballad telling the story of an unsung hero..." 208. "Write a limerick about an unusual journey..." 209. "A poem capturing the essence of a city that never sleeps..." 210. "A triolet exploring the cyclical nature of life..."

Poetry prompts open the floodgates of expression. Poems can distill powerful emotions and vivid imagery into just a few lines, crafting narratives that hook readers at a visceral level. Whether you're already an experienced poet or you're just getting your feet wet, these prompts can lead to a deeper understanding of this profound art form.

211. "Free verse inspired by a whirlwind romance..." 212. "Compose a sonnet about a spectacular sunrise..." 213. "A haiku about the loneliness of the moon..." 214. "Craft an elegy for a crumbling historical monument..." 215. "Skinny poem interpreting the flight of a bird..." 216. "Tanka about the anticipation of a long-awaited reunion..." 217. "A triolet celebrating the beauty of a summer's day..." 218. "Write a ghazal about an unrequited love..." 219. "A concrete poem in the shape of a mountain depicting a daunting challenge..." 220. "Compose a cinquain describing the fleeting beauty of autumn..."

Poetry lets you experiment with rhythm, rhyme, and form, allowing you to beautifully articulate emotions, ideas, and narratives. Whether you're a novice poet or an experienced lyricist, these prompts are designed to inspire and facilitate your poetical efforts. Remember to relax, enjoy, and let your pen dance to the rhythm of your thoughts.

221. "A dazzling ode to the night sky..." 222. "Write an acrostic poem using the word "serenity"..." 223. "Compose a ballad recounting a myth from ancient Greece..." 224. "A sonnet that captures the wonder of a rainbow after a storm..." 225. "A limerick inspired by the antics of a house cat..." 226. "Create a haiku that captures the spirit of a bustling marketplace..." 227. "A blank verse about the quiet beauty of an underwater kingdom..." 228. "A rhymed quatrain exploring the mystery of dreams..." 229. "Compose a pantoum about the changing of seasons..." 230. "Write a lyric poem about falling in love at first sight..."

While poetry often concisely conveys stories, it has a unique ability to emotionally resonate with readers. These poetic prompts encourage you to showcase your creativity, using a rich array of language and an exploration of intricate emotions and nuanced subtleties. Regardless of your familiarity with verse, delving into poetry can enhance your narrative skills and evoke a deep sense of personal reflection.

231. "Craft an English sonnet about a battle between good and evil..." 232. "A free verse on the duality of human nature..." 233. "Explore the serenity of a forest at dawn through a haiku..." 234. "Create a sestina about the complexities of a writer's mind..." 235. "Write a pantoum centered on the theme of reincarnation..." 236. "A villanelle about the beauty and pain of growing old..." 237. "An epigram summarizing the essence of childhood innocence..." 238. "A sonnet expressing one's turmoil amidst societal expectations..." 239. "Craft a ghazal that encapsulates the magic of falling in love..." 240. "A narrative poem telling the tale of an orphan who becomes a hero..."

These poetry prompts allow you to tap into a wide array of emotions, observations, and experiences- turning them into a rhythmic medley of words. Poetry writing can be a deeply rewarding practice, enabling you to play with language and form while conveying profound sentiments. Remember, writing poetry is a beautiful expression of the soul; the more you pour into it, the more rewarding it becomes.

241. "A ghazal that paints the paradox of love and loss..." 242. "Write a concrete poem in the shape of a heart, describing an intense love affair..." 243. "A limerick about a playful encounter with the wind..." 244. "Compose a haiku that captures the essence of a quiet winter morning..." 245. "An ode celebrating the free spirit of a bird in flight..." 246. "Craft an Italian sonnet about the struggle and triumph of a musician..." 247. "A pantoum poem mirroring the relentless ebb and flow of the sea..." 248. "A dramatic monologue poem voiced by a lighthouse keeper witnessing a shipwreck..." 249. "Write a ballad about a ghost haunting an old castle..." 250. "Create a lyric poem inspired by the melody of a lullaby..."

For many writers, poetry is an exercise in vulnerability, authenticity, and striking language use. These prompts encourage you to take a deep dive into a myriad of feelings and situations, spinning them into verses that resonate with readers. Whether you're looking to bare your soul or simply paint a vivid picture with eloquent words, embrace the beauty and catharsis that poetry writing brings.

Exploring Big Picture Ideas: 251. "The future of humanity in a technology-dominated world..." 252. "A world where money doesn’t exist – how would that change society?" 253. "The impact of climate change on future generations..." 254. "Imagine if humans could instantly teleport anywhere - what would be the implications?" 255. "The prospect of humans living forever: is it a utopia or dystopia?" 256. "The consequences of a world where everyone has superpowers..." 257. "If animals could talk, how would society change?" 258. "The ramifications of making contact with an alien civilization..." 259. "How would society evolve if memories could be traded like commodities?" 260. "An essay on education in a world where everyone has access to all of human knowledge..."

These macro-themes compel you to consider bigger picture issues and reflect on their implications. Such prompts help you to think critically and philosophically. Remember, exploring these large-scale themes is not only about surfacing problems but also about imagining solutions—or even questioning whether solutions we take for granted are comprehensive or effective.

261. "The evolution of language in an increasingly digital world..." 262. "A world without the concept of countries, what would that entail..." 263. "The moral implications of genetically modifying human DNA..." 264. "Gender roles in a world where gender doesn't exist..." 265. "How different would society be if there was no concept of race?" 266. "The impacts and influences of artificial intelligence on human relationships..." 267. "Predictions for religion in a world where definitive proof of extraterrestrial life exists..." 268. "The consequences of immortality on human relations and societal structure..." 269. "How would society change if animals held equal rights with humans?" 270. "An exploration of the future of work in a post-automation society..."

These prompts tackle larger narratives about society, technology, and human nature. The goal here is less about predicting the future, and more about thinking from an alternative perspective. Developing your thoughts on such wide-ranging topics helps not only to improve your writing skills but also to refine your critical thinking abilities. It's an opportunity to contemplate, hypothesize, reason, and imagine. So, let your thoughts flow and see where they take you.

271. "How would a world function if everything was shared equally?" 272. "Imagination into a future where every lifestyle choice is environmentally sustainable..." 273. "Ambitions for humanity in a world where no one ages..." 274. "The impact on society if all diseases were cured..." 275. "Prospects of crime in a world where mind reading is achievable..." 276. "The foreseeable effects of time travel on world history..." 277. "The societal implications of a world without scarcity..." 278. "Emotions in a world where humans can control their feelings at will..." 279. "Phenomenal love in a world devoid of physical appearances..." 280. "Gender dynamics in a world where everyone can change their gender at will..."

These prompts open broader perspectives on some of society's most pressing issues or open the gateway into the world beyond our imagination. Interrogating significant, macro-level themes pushes your boundaries of thought and creativity, compelling you to scrutinize intricate, layered aspects of human existence. Use this exercise to mold and refine your perspective and elevate the quality of your writing.

281. "Privacy in an age where every thought gets uploaded on the internet..." 282. "Leisure in a future where robots have taken all the jobs..." 283. "What would a world look like where physical money is redundant?" 284. "The role of governments in a world where population size can be controlled..." 285. "Music in a future where we can taste sounds..." 286. "The prospect of justice in a world where crimes can be predicted before they happen..." 287. "Rethinking reproduction in a world where humans are immortal..." 288. "Exploring human behavior and society in a world without the concept of lying..." 289. "The future of food in a world with no animals..." 290. "The impact on communication if telepathy was possible..."

These high-concept prompts invite you to stretch your creativity, challenge your assumptions and think deeply about various aspects of human life. Such speculation offers an exciting opportunity to dream, to question, and to envision radically different possibilities for the future. Each topic can generate countless exciting narratives, giving you a vast playground to explore theories, possibilities and their implications.

291. "The future of space exploration and the possibility of colonizing other planets..." 292. "The prospect of peace in a world without borders and nations..." 293. "The future of humanity in a world where physical human form is replaced by digital avatars..." 294. "Potential of human adaptability in a world under constant ecological shifts..." 295. "The possibility of equality in a world where social hierarchies are determined by knowledge instead of wealth..." 296. "Creativity in a futuristic world dominated by artificial intelligence..." 297. "Tackling depression in a world where everyone's life is perfect..." 298. "The interplay of truth and propaganda in a world where everyone can read minds..." 299. "The future of sports in a world where humans have gained superhuman abilities..." 300. "The evolution of human relationships in a technically advanced alien society..."

The beauty of macro-based prompts is that they enable you to think beyond the immediate. They challenge you to widen your vision, explore different contexts, and delve into the heart of complex themes. In exploring these big picture ideas, you not only refine your analytical abilities but also expand your narrative horizons. The exercise could lead to interesting revelations about your worldview, enabling you to craft narratives that resonate on a deeper level.

So, next time you find yourself struggling for inspiration, dig into these prompts. Let them be the springboard that catapults you into new dimensions of creativity. From personal introspection to exploring other perspectives, dipping into genres, getting poetic, or wrestling with big-picture ideas, there's a world of imagination waiting to be discovered.

Remember, these writing prompts are only the starting point. They're intended to ignite the spark of your creativity. Use them as they are, twist them, or simply let them inspire your unique ideas. And remember, the most crucial part of storytelling is not merely coming up with an idea. It's what you do with that idea that counts!

Enjoy the creative process and see the magic that happens when you let your creativity run wild. Use this as an opportunity to grow and evolve, both as a writer and as an individual. Let the process inspire you, motivate you, and ultimately, lead you to find your unique storytelling voice.

50 Love Poems that Inspire

Love, in all its blissful, soul-stirring, and heart-wrenching intricacy has always been a cornerstone of human existence. It is a sentiment that has been etched into the confines of our hearts. Enjoy these 50 Love Poems that inspire.

Harry Potter Books in Order

The universe of Harry Potter, conjured by J.K. Rowling, beginning with "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone" and culminating in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows"

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100 Creative Writing Prompts to Inspire Your Writing

With this list, you’ll never run out of story ideas again!

By Natasha Khullar Relph

Starting a new project feels like stepping into a world of endless possibilities, yet it can also be like staring into the abyss of the unknown. While the battle between a writer and their blank page is well documented, you don’t have to go to war with your creative self just to get some words on a page.

Creative writing prompts can be the answer to a blocked writer’s prayers, offering story starters and writing ideas to jumpstart your creative thinking. To aid in your efforts, we’ve put together a curated collection of 100 creative writing prompts. From thought-provoking scenarios to whimsical adventures, these prompts are guaranteed to jumpstart your writing, transport you to new worlds, and breathe life into your stories.

What is a writing prompt?

A writing prompt is a specific, often short, phrase, question, or statement designed to stimulate and inspire creative writing. Writing prompts can help you overcome writer’s block , generate new ideas, or simply get your creative juices flowing. You can use them in various forms of writing, including fiction, poetry, journaling, and essay writing, and they vary widely in their content and purpose. Some prompts are open-ended, encouraging writers to explore their thoughts and emotions freely, while others may be more specific, asking you to write about a particular topic or scenario.

Writing prompts serve as creative triggers, helping you to explore new story ideas , develop characters, or practice different writing styles. They can be a valuable tool for both beginners who need writing inspiration and more experienced writers looking to build a writing habit or become better writers through a regular writing practice .

100 creative writing prompts for writers

Fiction writing prompts.

Whether you’re writing adult novels or children’s books, these fiction and short story writing prompts will inspire new worlds and scenarios for your characters to play in as you write your first draft .

• Write a modern-day fairy tale set in a bustling metropolis . Your story should feature a main character who stumbles upon a hidden, magical world within the city. Explore how this discovery changes their life and the challenges they face as they navigate between the ordinary and the extraordinary in the heart of the urban jungle.
• Write a story in which the main character discovers a superpower , but it comes with a mysterious and unexpected side effect. Explore the challenges they face in harnessing their newfound ability while dealing with the consequences of the side effect. How do they adapt and ultimately use their power for good or ill?
• Imagine you stumble upon an ancient, dusty time traveler’s journal in an antique shop. As you flip through its pages, you realize it contains detailed accounts of the past, present, and future. Write a story about the discoveries you make within the journal and how they shape your life and decisions.
• In a post-apocalyptic society, a group of survivors discover a hidden library containing books from every era. Describe their journey to preserve knowledge, as they grapple not only with the challenge of safeguarding these precious texts but also with the moral dilemmas and conflicts that arise when they must decide who has access to this invaluable resource in a world defined by scarcity.
• In a world where people’s dreams become real, a person with chronic nightmares suddenly possesses unimaginable power , forcing them to confront the fine line between their inner demons and the extraordinary possibilities that now lie at their fingertips.
• Write a story set in a future where civilians can take vacations to outer space . Describe the adventures, challenges, and experiences of a family or group of friends as they embark on a journey beyond the earth’s atmosphere for the first time.
• Craft a science fiction tale set in a world where technology has reached unimaginable heights , but human emotions and relationships remain unchanged. Explore how advanced AI, virtual reality, and futuristic inventions impact the characters’ lives, love, and the essence of what it means to be human.
• Write a story that begins with a group of childhood friends building a secret treehouse in the woods. Years later, they reunite as adults to discover that their beloved hideaway holds a mysterious and enchanting secret that will change their lives forever.
• Write a story set in a small American town during the 1950s, capturing the essence of post-war America and the lives of its diverse residents as they navigate love, ambition, and the pursuit of the American Dream.
• Imagine a future where Earth faces an impending catastrophic event, and humanity has initiated a mission to colonize a distant planet . Write a story from the perspective of one astronaut on this interstellar journey, capturing the emotions, challenges, and sense of hope as they leave behind their home planet and embark on a journey into the unknown.
• Your favorite book has always been a cherished escape, but one day, as you open its pages, you find yourself transported into the world within . Write a story about your adventures in the world of your favorite book, exploring the characters, places, and challenges you encounter along the way.
• Imagine a world where everyone knows the exact date of their last day on Earth . Write a story about a person living through their last day, exploring how they choose to spend it and the emotions, reflections, and last moments they experience as they prepare to say their farewells.
• Set your story in a future where a society of advanced learners, equipped with a unique ability to acquire new skills and knowledge rapidly , faces a mysterious threat. Write about their quest to unravel the enigma, the extraordinary challenges they encounter, and how their insatiable thirst for learning becomes their greatest asset in this high-stakes adventure.
• Write a story in which each chapter shifts between the first-person point of view of two characters who have drastically different perspectives on the same events. Explore how their contrasting viewpoints shape the narrative and challenge the reader’s understanding of the story’s central conflict.
• Imagine a world where gods exist but are not all-powerful . Write a story about a god who, despite their divine status, faces a unique and formidable challenge that forces them to confront their limitations and question the very nature of godhood.
• Write a story set in a world where time travel is possible but limited to a single day . Describe the adventures and dilemmas of a character who can only revisit or change events in their life within the confines of that single day. What choices do they make, and how does it impact their future and the world around them?
• In a near-future world, video games have evolved to become the primary form of communication and competition . Write a story where a skilled gamer is recruited for a high-stakes mission within a virtual reality game, blurring the lines between the digital and physical worlds. Explore the challenges, alliances, and ethical dilemmas they face as they navigate this immersive and unpredictable gaming landscape.
• Imagine a writer who discovers an ancient, enchanted book that can bring its characters to life and grant them free will. Write a new story in which the writer and the characters they create must work together to navigate the challenges and consequences of their shared existence, blurring the lines between creator and creation.
• Imagine a character whose favorite things are slowly disappearing from their life one by one . Write a story about their journey to hold on to the essence of what they love most, the challenges they face in preserving their cherished favorites, and the unexpected discoveries they make along the way.
• Two strangers find themselves washed ashore on a deserted island after a shipwreck . They have no memory of their past lives and must work together to survive. Write a story about their journey of discovery, resilience, and the bond that forms as they navigate the challenges of the deserted island.
• Your favorite holiday has always been a time of joy and celebration, but this year, it’s under threat of cancellation. Write a story about the determined efforts of a group of individuals who come together to save and rekindle the spirit of their favorite holiday , facing unexpected challenges and finding new meaning in the process.
• Write a story set in a quaint English village, where an eccentric resident claims to have discovered a hidden portal to another dimension in their garden shed . As rumors spread and curiosity grows, explore the adventures and mysteries that unfold when the villagers decide to investigate this bizarre claim and step into the unknown.
• Your favorite Tumblr blog suddenly starts posting cryptic messages that seem to predict events in your life . Write a story about the growing intrigue and obsession as you try to uncover the identity of the blog’s enigmatic author and the source of their uncanny knowledge.
• Your favorite season has always been winter, but this year, it never ends . Write a story about the challenges, wonders, and unexpected consequences that arise as your world becomes perpetually blanketed in snow and ice, and you must navigate the eternal winter that now defines your life.
• Write a story about a high school student who stumbles upon a mysterious diary hidden in the school library . The diary seems to contain entries from a former student who experienced extraordinary and supernatural events during their time at the school. As the current student reads the diary, they begin to notice strange occurrences happening around them, blurring the line between reality and the paranormal.

Nonfiction writing prompts

Here’s a selection of nonfiction writing prompts to help you delve into your own experiences , share your expertise, and craft powerful narratives rooted in the world around us.

• Explore the concept of “utopia” and “dystopia.” Write an analytical essay comparing and contrasting two fictional utopian or dystopian worlds from literature, film, or popular culture, and discuss their societal ideals, flaws, and relevance to contemporary society.
• Consider a unique or unusual skill or hobby you possess , such as extreme knitting or competitive tree climbing. Write a how-to guide or tutorial that explains the fundamentals and intricacies of this skill, offering practical advice and personal anecdotes to inspire others to explore it.
• Take a nature walk or visit a local park, and choose a specific tree as your subject . Write a detailed and poetic nature essay that describes the tree’s appearance, its role in the ecosystem, and the stories it could tell if it could speak.
• Choose an everyday object that holds special significance to you , such as a childhood toy or a family heirloom. Write a detailed essay exploring the memories, emotions, and stories connected to this object, and how it has shaped your identity.
• Imagine you have the opportunity to interview your future self 10 years from now . Draft a list of thought-provoking questions you would ask to gain insights into your future experiences, decisions, and reflections.
• Select a word from a language other than your own that encapsulates a feeling or concept you find intriguing but that has no direct translation in your language. Write an essay exploring the word’s meaning, cultural context, and the emotions it evokes, reflecting on the beauty of language and its ability to convey complex ideas.
• Imagine you are given the chance to host a dinner party with five historical figures , living or deceased, from any time period. Create a detailed guest list, describe the menu, and write an essay outlining the topics of conversation you would explore with your eclectic group of guests.
• Write a personal essay about a specific sound or noise that holds deep meaning to you . Explain why this sound resonates with you, its significance in your life, and the emotions or memories it triggers.
• Consider a peculiar or unusual museum exhibit you’ve encountered or would like to visit . Write an engaging review or critique of the exhibit, examining its historical, artistic, or cultural value, and sharing your insights and reactions as a visitor.
• Think about an unsolved mystery, conspiracy theory, or urban legend that has always intrigued you . Write an investigative essay delving into the facts, theories, and speculations surrounding this enigma, presenting your own analysis and conclusions.
• Explore the concept of “lost cities” or “hidden civilizations.” Write an investigative essay about a real or legendary lost city, such as Atlantis, discussing the historical evidence, theories, and mysteries surrounding its existence and disappearance.
• Imagine you have the ability to witness and document a day in the life of a famous historical figure or celebrity of your choice. Write a detailed and immersive diary entry that captures their experiences, thoughts, and emotions on this hypothetical day.
• Reflect on the idea of “space tourism” becoming a reality in the near future . Write an opinion piece discussing the ethical, environmental, and cultural implications of commercial space travel and colonization.
• Select an everyday object or phenomenon, such as rain, a traffic light, or a pencil , and write an in-depth exploration of its history, evolution, and societal impact. Share surprising facts and anecdotes that shed new light on this seemingly ordinary subject.
• Write an i n-depth profile of a local unsung hero or community leader who has made a significant impact on your town or neighborhood. Share their story, accomplishments, and the lasting effects of their work.
• Explore the concept of “found family.” Write a personal essay reflecting on the importance of the friendships and relationships you’ve built with individuals who may not be biologically related but have become like family to you.
• Consider the phenomenon of life hacks and practical tips shared on the internet. Write a guide or compilation of your favorite life hacks, along with personal anecdotes of how they’ve improved your daily life.
• Reflect on the concept of digital nostalgia. Write an essay about the emotional connections people form with digital content, such as video games, social media, or online communities, and how it shapes their sense of identity and belonging.
• Explore the world of extreme sports or unconventional hobbies. Write a feature article about individuals who engage in activities like base jumping, extreme ironing, or underwater pumpkin carving, and delve into their motivations and experiences.
• Imagine you have the opportunity to curate an art exhibition featuring the work of artists from different time periods and backgrounds . Describe the themes, connections, and narratives that tie these diverse artworks together.
• Write a reflective essay about your personal journey with mental health , highlighting a specific turning point or moment of insight that led to a deeper understanding of your own well-being. Discuss the strategies, resources, or support systems that have helped you on this path and how your experience might offer inspiration or guidance to others facing similar challenges.
• Explore the cultural and personal significance of your favorite food . Write an essay that delves into the history, traditions, and memories associated with this dish, and how it has become a symbol of comfort, celebration, or connection in your life.
• Create a comprehensive FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) document for your own life , highlighting the questions people often ask you about your experiences, beliefs, or expertise. Write detailed and thoughtful responses to these questions, providing insights into your unique perspective and experiences. Reflect on how compiling this FAQ helps you understand the common themes and curiosities that surround your life and the impact they have on your relationships and identity.
• Explore the concept of “first days” in human history . Write a historical analysis that delves into the pivotal first days of significant events, discoveries, or eras, such as the first day humans walked on the moon, the first day of the Industrial Revolution, or the first day a groundbreaking scientific theory was proposed.
• Imagine you have the ability to observe and document the everyday life of an individual from a completely different culture or time period. Write a descriptive essay that vividly portrays the daily rituals, customs, and experiences of this person, highlighting the contrasts and similarities between their everyday life and your own.

Journal prompts

These prompts are designed to encourage self-discovery, mindfulness, and the art of capturing the essence of your life’s moments on paper. Use them for directed journaling or as part of your Morning Pages practice .

• Choose an object in your immediate environment, such as a book, a plant, or a piece of artwork. Write a journal entry from the perspective of that object , describing its history, observations, and the emotions it might feel as it silently witnesses your life.
• Create a gratitude journal entry in the form of a letter to your past self, expressing appreciation for the experiences, challenges, and lessons that have shaped you into the person you are today. Reflect on how these past moments have contributed to your growth.
• Imagine you’re given the opportunity to have a conversation with your future self 20 years from now . Write a journal entry in which you ask your future self three questions about your life, dreams, and accomplishments, and then respond as you believe your future self would.
• Imagine you have a “time capsule” journal in which you can write messages to your future descendants . Write a journal entry addressing your great-great-grandchildren, sharing personal stories, values, and advice you would want them to know about your life and the world you lived in.
• Write a journal entry as if you were a detective or investigator documenting your own life’s mysteries and unsolved questions . Explore the enigmas, unanswered questions, or unresolved situations you’ve encountered, and brainstorm potential solutions or paths for exploration.
• Create a reverse bucket list in your journal —a list of experiences, achievements, and moments from your life that you’re proud of and grateful for. Reflect on each item and the significance it holds for you.
• Write a journal entry as if you were a traveler from the future, visiting the present day . Describe your observations of contemporary life, technology, culture, and the changes that have occurred since your time.
• Imagine you possess a magic journal that can answer any question you pose to it . Write a series of questions about life, the universe, or personal dilemmas, and then provide detailed answers as if the journal responded.
• Select a word from a foreign language that has no direct translation in your native language. Write a journal entry exploring the word’s meaning, cultural context, and the emotions or concepts it represents. Reflect on how this word might enrich your understanding of life.
• Create a journal entry capturing your ideal day from start to finish . Describe the perfect morning routine, activities, interactions, and moments of joy you would like to experience. Reflect on what elements of this ideal day you can incorporate into your current life.
• Imagine you have a “memory map” in your mind that marks the locations of significant moments from your life . Write a journal entry where you choose a location on this map and describe the memories associated with it, delving into the emotions, people, and events that make it special.
• Write a journal entry from the perspective of your favorite fictional character . Imagine their thoughts, experiences, and feelings in a specific moment from their story, and explore how their perspective might differ from your own.
• Create a “ soundtrack of your life” journal entry . List songs or pieces of music that have been significant at different stages of your life, and describe the memories and emotions each song evokes.
• Imagine you have the ability to visit parallel universes and experience different versions of your life . Write a journal entry about a day in the life of an alternate “you” in a parallel universe, describing the choices and outcomes that diverged from your current reality.
• Reflect on the idea of “unfinished stories” in your life —those moments or relationships that you wish you could revisit or complete. Write a journal entry exploring these unfinished stories and consider what closure or resolution might mean to you.
• Reflect on a cherished memory with your best friend that you haven’t shared before . Write a journal entry describing the moment—the sights, sounds, and emotions that made it special. Consider how this memory has shaped your friendship and what it reveals about the unique bond you share.
• Choose a family member whose life story or experiences you find intriguing . Write a journal entry where you explore their perspective, challenges, and defining moments from their point of view. Consider how understanding their journey can deepen your connection and appreciation for the complexities of family dynamics.
• Imagine your favorite place, whether it’s a bustling city square, a tranquil beach, or a cozy corner of your home . Write a journal entry that transports yourself and your readers to this cherished spot. Describe the sights, sounds, and sensations that make it your favorite place, and reflect on why it holds such a special space in your heart.
• Select a random word from a dictionary and let it guide your journal entry today. Write about the first memories, emotions, or thoughts that come to mind when you encounter this word. Explore its connections to your life, experiences, or the world around you, and see where this unexpected word takes your reflections.
• Recall your earliest memory, no matter how faint or fragmentary it may be. Write a journal entry that delves into the details of this memory—what you saw, felt, or experienced. Reflect on how this seemingly distant moment may have shaped your perceptions, fears, or interests as you grew older, and consider what hidden treasures might lie within your earliest recollections.
• Think about your favorite story from childhood , whether it’s a fairy tale, a classic novel, or a bedtime fable. Write a journal entry that explores why this particular story resonated with you so deeply and how its themes, characters, or lessons continue to influence your life and perspective.
• Imagine planning the ultimate road trip of a lifetime with no constraints or limitations. Write a journal entry detailing the destinations you would visit, the people you’d travel with (or not), and the experiences you’d seek along the way.
• Describe a recent dream or vivid daydream in detail. Dive into the symbolism, emotions, and hidden meanings behind the dream’s elements. Consider how this dream might relate to your current thoughts, fears, or aspirations.
• Reflect on a memorable encounter with a stranger that left a lasting impression on you . Write a journal entry describing the details of this encounter, the emotions it stirred, and any insights or lessons you gained from the brief connection.
• Create a life garden in your journal, where each flower or plant represents a person, experience, or aspect of your life . Write a journal entry about the state of your life garden—which plants are thriving, which need nurturing, and the symbolic meaning behind each one.

Fun writing prompts

Here are some fun writing prompts that will take you on whimsical journeys, tickle your funny bone, and remind you that writing can be as joyful as it is expressive.

• Write a story where the characters have the ability to swap bodies with one another, but they can only do it for one day. Explore the humorous and chaotic situations that arise as they navigate each other’s lives and personalities.
• Imagine a world where all forms of transportation, from bicycles to rocket ships, are powered by something unexpected , like laughter, music, or compliments. Write a whimsical tale set in this world, where the power of positive emotions fuels extraordinary journeys.
• Write a dialogue between a superhero and their arch-nemesis as they meet for coffee on their day off. Explore the dynamics of their relationship when they’re not in the midst of battling each other and consider the unexpected topics they might discuss.
• Create a story set in a magical library where the books come to life at night . Write about the adventures of the librarian and their bookish companions as they go on quests within the pages of the books, encountering characters and worlds from classic literature.
• Imagine a future where humans can communicate with animals through a universal translator . Write a humorous narrative from the perspective of a pet who has overheard some surprising conversations and secrets among their human family members.
• Write a story set in a world where time moves backward for one hour each day . Explore the consequences and comedic situations that arise as people try to navigate a daily rewind hour.
• Imagine a future where robots have taken over mundane household tasks, but they’ve also developed quirky personalities . Write a series of humorous vignettes about the misadventures of a family and their eccentric robot helpers.
• Create a story where the characters discover a magical paintbrush that brings anything they draw to life . Explore the imaginative creations and unexpected challenges that arise as they wield this extraordinary tool.
• Write a dialogue between a famous historical figure and a modern-day teenager who accidentally time-traveled to the past. Explore the clash of perspectives, cultural differences, and humorous misunderstandings that occur during their conversation.
• Imagine a world where dreams are physical objects that can be collected, traded, and even stolen. Write a thrilling heist story where a group of dream thieves plans to steal the most valuable dream ever recorded.
• Write a story in which the main character has a time-traveling pet —a dog or cat that can transport them to different time periods by touching specific objects. Explore the adventures and challenges they face together as they navigate history.
• Imagine a world where everyone’s dreams become real, but only for 24 hours. Write about the chaos and hilarity that ensue as people try to make the most of their dream days. What unusual dreams and desires come to life?
• Create a story set in a town where every resident has a superpower, but each power comes with an unusual and often comical drawback . Explore the everyday challenges and humorous situations that arise in this extraordinary community.
• Write a tale about a character who discovers a magic book that allows them to rewrite one event from their past. Explore the consequences, both intended and unintended, of altering a pivotal moment in their life.
• Imagine a reality where technology allows people to swap personalities for a day. Write a story about two individuals who decide to exchange lives, exploring the comedic and thought-provoking results of their temporary personality swap.
• Write a story set in a world where every time someone tells a lie, a colorful tattoo appears on their skin, revealing the nature of the falsehood. Explore the adventures and misadventures of a charismatic con artist in this truth-telling society.
• Imagine a reality where people can communicate with objects, from talking to their toaster to negotiating with their car. Write a humorous tale about the challenges and comedic situations that arise when inanimate objects have opinions and demands.
• Create a story about a group of time-traveling tourists who accidentally land in a pivotal historical event. How do they handle being unexpected witnesses to history, and what comical twists and turns result from their presence?
• Write a narrative in which a group of misfit superheroes forms a support group to discuss their quirky and seemingly useless powers. Explore their camaraderie and how they come together to solve a surprisingly mundane problem.
• Imagine a town where each day is themed differently , from “Pirate Day” to “Outer Space Day.” Write a day-in-the-life story of a resident navigating the zany challenges and adventures that come with living in a town of perpetual themed days.
• Write a story in which a middle school’s annual talent show becomes a time-traveling extravaganza . Students’ talents inadvertently transport them to different historical eras. Describe the hilarious and surprising adventures as they try to make their way back to the present, using their unique talents to navigate history.
• Imagine attending a summer camp where everything is topsy-turvy! Campers become the counselors, and counselors become campers. Write a story about the humorous and unexpected challenges, pranks, and adventures that unfold when kids are in charge of running the camp, from organizing activities to dealing with the chaos that ensues.
• Create a story about an unusual camping trip where the characters discover their campsite is a portal to a fantasy realm . Write about the magical creatures, enchanted forests, and unexpected challenges they encounter while trying to enjoy a traditional camping experience with a fantastical twist.
• Write a story about a quirky character who believes they have the power to predict when things will happen for the last time . Explore the humorous and imaginative ways in which they navigate everyday life, from savoring last time moments like the last scoop of ice cream in the tub to the last raindrop before a storm.
• Imagine a world where the word “finish” holds the power to complete any task or goal instantly. Write a story about a protagonist who stumbles upon this word’s magical ability and the humorous and unexpected situations that unfold as they navigate life with the ultimate shortcut at their disposal.

(You can also download this prompts list as a printable pdf sheet and sign up to the Wordling’s weekly newsletter for more writing and publishing tips.)

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Natasha Khullar Relph is an award-winning journalist and author with bylines in  The New York Times, TIME CNN, BBC, ABC News, Ms. Marie Claire, Vogue,  and more. She is the founder of  The Wordling , a weekly business newsletter for journalists, authors, and content creators. Natasha has  mentored over 1,000 writers , helping them break into dream publications and build six-figure careers. She is the author of  Shut Up and Write: The No-Nonsense, No B.S. Guide to Getting Words on the Page  and  several other books .

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365 Creative Writing Prompts

Here are 365 Creative Writing Prompts to help inspire you to write every single day! Use them for journaling, story starters, poetry, and more!

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If you want to become a better writer, the best thing you can do is practice writing every single day. Writing prompts are useful because we know sometimes it can be hard to think of what to write about!

To help you brainstorm, we put together this list of 365 creative writing prompts to give you something to write about daily.

Want to Download these prompts?  I am super excited to announce due to popular demand we now have an ad-free printable version of this list of writing prompts available for just $5. The  printable version  includes a PDF as a list AND print-ready prompt cards. {And all the design source files you could ever need to customize any way you would like!}

Here are 365 Creative Writing Prompts to Inspire:

Whether you write short stories, poems, or like to keep a journal – these will stretch your imagination and give you some ideas for topics to write about!

1. Outside the Window : What’s the weather outside your window doing right now? If that’s not inspiring, what’s the weather like somewhere you wish you could be?

2. The Unrequited love poem: How do you feel when you love someone who does not love you back?

3. The Vessel: Write about a ship or other vehicle that can take you somewhere different from where you are now.

4. Dancing: Who’s dancing and why are they tapping those toes?

5. Food: What’s for breakfast? Dinner? Lunch? Or maybe you could write a poem about that time you met a friend at a cafe.

6. Eye Contact: Write about two people seeing each other for the first time.

7. The Rocket-ship: Write about a rocket-ship on its way to the moon or a distant galaxy far, far, away.

8. Dream-catcher : Write something inspired by a recent dream you had.

9. Animals: Choose an animal. Write about it!

10. Friendship: Write about being friends with someone.

11. Dragon : Envision a dragon. Do you battle him? Or is the dragon friendly? Use descriptive language.

12. Greeting : Write a story or poem that starts with the word “hello” or another greeting.

13. The Letter: Write a poem or story using words from a famous letter or inspired by a letter someone sent you.

14. The Found Poem : Read a book and circle some words on a page. Use those words to craft a poem. Alternatively, you can cut out words and phrases from magazines.

15. Eavesdropper : Create a poem, short story, or journal entry about a conversation you’ve overheard.

16. Addict: Everyone’s addicted to something in some shape or form. What are things you can’t go without?

17. Dictionary Definition : Open up a dictionary to a random word. Define what that word means to you.

18. Cleaning: Hey, even writers and creative artists have to do housework sometimes. Write about doing laundry, dishes, and other cleaning activities.

19. Great Minds: Write  about someone you admire and you thought to have had a beautiful mind.

20. Missed Connections: If you go to Craigslist, there is a “Missed Connections” section where you can find some interesting storylines to inspire your writing.

21. Foreclosure : Write a poem or short story about someone who has lost or is about to lose their home.

22. Smoke, Fog, and Haze: Write about not being able to see ahead of you.

23. Sugar: Write something so sweet, it makes your teeth hurt.

24. Numbers:  Write a poem or journal entry about numbers that have special meaning to you.

25. Dread: Write about doing something you don’t want to do.

26. Fear: What scares you a little? What do you feel when scared? How do you react?

27. Closed Doors: What’s behind the door? Why is it closed?

28. Shadow: Imagine you are someone’s shadow for a day.

29. Good Vibes: What makes you smile? What makes you happy?

30. Shopping:  Write about your shopping wishlist and how you like to spend money.

31. The Professor: Write about a teacher that has influenced you.

32. Rewrite : Take any poem or short story you enjoy. Rewrite it in your own words.

33. Jewelry: Write about a piece of jewelry. Who does it belong to?

34. Sounds : Sit outside for about an hour. Write down the sounds you hear.

35. War and Peace: Write about a recent conflict that you dealt with in your life.

36. Frame It: Write a poem or some phrases that would make for good wall art in your home.

37. Puzzle: Write about putting together the pieces of puzzles.

38. Fire-starters: Write about building a fire.

39. Coffee & Tea: Surely you drink one or the other or know someone who does- write about it!

40. Car Keys: Write about someone getting their driver’s license for the first time.

41. What You Don’t Know: Write about a secret you’ve kept from someone else or how you feel when you know someone is keeping a secret from you.

42. Warehouse : Write about being inside an old abandoned warehouse.

43. The Sound of Silence: Write about staying quiet when you feel like shouting.

44. Insult: Write about being insulted. How do you feel? Why do you think the other person insulted you?

45. Mirror, Mirror: What if you mirror started talking to you? What might the mirror say?

46. Dirty: Write a poem about getting covered in mud.

47. Light Switch : Write about coming out of the dark and seeing the light.

48. The Stars : Take inspiration from a night sky. Or, write about a time when “the stars aligned” in your horoscope.

49. Joke Poem : What did the wall say to the other wall? Meet you at the corner! Write something inspired by a favorite joke.

50. Just Say No : Write about the power you felt when you told someone no.

51: Sunrise/Sunset : The sun comes up, the sun goes down. It goes round and round. Write something inspiring about the sunrise or sunset.

52. Memory Lane : What does Memory Lane look like? How do you get there?

53. Tear-Jerker : Watch a movie that makes you cry. Write about that scene in the movie.

54. Dear Diary: Write a poem or short story about a diary entry you’ve read or imagined.

55. Holding Hands : The first time you held someone’s hand.

56. Photograph : Write a story or journal entry influenced by a photograph you see online or in a magazine.

57. Alarm Clock: Write about waking up.

58. Darkness: Write a poem or journal entry inspired by what you can’t see.

59. Refreshed: Write a poem about a time you really felt refreshed and renewed. Maybe it was a dip into a pool on a hot summer day, a drink of lemonade, or other situation that helped you relax and start again.

60. Handle With Care : Write about a very fragile or delicate object.

61. Drama: Write about a time when you got stuck in between two parties fighting with each other.

62. Slip Up: Write about making mistakes.

63. Spice: Write about flavors and tastes or a favorite spice of yours.

64. Sing a New Song: Take a popular song off the radio and rewrite it as a poem in your own words.

65. Telephone: Write about a phone call you recently received.

66. Name: Write a poem or short story using your name in some way or form.

67. Dollhouse: Write a poem or short story from the viewpoint of someone living in a doll house.

68. Random Wikipedia Article : Go to Wikipedia and click on Random Article . Write about whatever the page you get.

69. Silly Sports: Write about an extreme or silly sport. If none inspire you, make up the rules for your own game.

70. Recipe : Write about a recipe for something abstract, such as a feeling.

71. Famous Artwork: Choose a famous painting and write about it.

72. Where That Place Used to Be : Think of a place you went to when you were younger but it now no longer there or is something else. Capture your feelings about this in your writing.

73. Last Person You Talked to: Write a quick little poem or story about the last person you spoke with.

74. Caught Red-Handed: Write about being caught doing something embarrassing.

75. Interview: Write a list of questions you have for someone you would like to interview, real or fictional.

76. Missing You: Write about someone you miss dearly.

77. Geography: Pick a state or country you’ve never visited. Write about why you would or would not like to visit that place.

78. Random Song: Turn on the radio, use the shuffle feature on your music collection or your favorite streaming music service. Write something inspired by the first song you hear.

79. Hero: Write a tribute to someone you regard as a hero.

80. Ode to Strangers: Go people watching and write an ode to a stranger you see on the street.

81. Advertisement: Advertisements are everywhere, aren’t they? Write using the slogan or line from an ad.

82. Book Inspired: Think of your favorite book. Now write a poem that sums up the entire story in 10 lines.

83. Magic : Imagine you have a touch of magic, and can make impossible things happen. What would you do?

84. Fanciest Pen: Get out your favorite pen, pencils, or even colored markers and write using them!

85. A Day in the Life: Write about your daily habits and routine.

86. Your Muse: Write about your muse – what do they look like? What does your muse do to inspire you?

87. Convenience Store : Write about an experience you’ve had at a gas station or convenience store.

88. Natural Wonders of the World: Choose one of the natural wonders of the world. Write about it.

89. Status Update: Write a poem using the words from your latest status update or a friend’s status update. If you don’t use sites like Facebook or Twitter, you can often search online for some funny ones to use as inspiration.

90. Green Thumb: Write about growing something.

91. Family Heirloom: Write about an object that’s been passed through the generations in your family.

92. Bug Catcher: Write about insects.

93. Potion: Write about a magic potion. What is it made of? What does it do? What is the antidote?

94. Swinging & Sliding: Write something inspired by a playground or treehouse.

95. Adjectives: Make a list of the first 5 adjectives that pop into your head. Use these 5 words in your story, poem, or journal entry.

96. Fairy Tales: Rewrite a fairy tale. Give it a new ending or make it modern or write as a poem.

97. Whispers: Write about someone who has to whisper a secret to someone else.

98. Smile: Write a poem about the things that make you smile.

99. Seasonal: Write about your favorite season.

100.  Normal: What does normal mean to you? Is it good or bad to be normal?

101. Recycle : Take something you’ve written in the past and rewrite it into a completely different piece.

102. Wardrobe: Write about a fashion model or what’s currently in your closet or drawers.

103. Secret Message : Write something with a secret message hidden in between the words. For example, you could make an acrostic poem using the last letters of the word or use secret code words in the poem.

104. Vacation: Write about a vacation you took.

105. Heat: Write about being overheated and sweltering.

106. Spellbinding: Write a magic spell.

107. Collection : Write about collecting something, such as salt shakers, sea shells, or stamps.

108. Taking Chances: Everyone takes a risk at some point in their life. Write about a time when you took a chance and what the result was.

109. Carnival: Write a poem or story or journal entry inspired by a carnival or street fair.

110. Country Mouse: Write about someone who grew up in the country visiting the city for the first time.

111: Questions: Write about questions you have for the universe. Optional: include an answer key.

112. Rushing: Write about moving quickly and doing things fast.

113. Staircase : Use a photo of a staircase or the stairs in your home or a building you love to inspire you.

114. Neighbors: Make up a story or poem about your next door neighbor.

115. Black and Blue: Write about a time you’ve been physically hurt.

116. All Saints: Choose a saint and create a poem about his or her life.

117. Beach Inspired: What’s not to write about the beach?

118. Shoes: What kind of shoes do you wear? Where do they lead your feet?

119. The Ex: Write a poem to someone who is estranged from you.

120. My Point of View: Write in the first person point of view.

121. Stray Animal: Think of the life of a stray cat or dog and write about that.

122. Stop and Stare : Create a poem or story about something you could watch forever.

123. Your Bed: Describe where you sleep each night.

124. Fireworks : Do they inspire you or do you not like the noise and commotion? Write about it.

125. Frozen: Write about a moment in your life you wish you could freeze and preserve.

126. Alone : Do you like to be alone or do you like having company?

127. Know-it-all: Write about something you are very knowledgeable about, for example a favorite hobby or passion of yours.

128. The Promise: Write about a promise you’ve made to someone. Did you keep that promise?

129. Commotion: Write about being overstimulated by a lot of chaos.

130. Read the News Today : Construct a poem or story using a news headline for your first line.

131. Macro: Write a description of an object close-up.

132. Transportation : Write about taking your favorite (or least-favorite) form of transportation.

133. Gadgets: If you could invent a gadget, what would it do? Are there any gadgets that make your life easier?

134: Bring on the Cheese: Write a tacky love poem that is so cheesy, it belongs on top of a pizza.

135. Ladders: Write a story or poem that uses ladders as a symbol.

136. Bizarre Holiday : There is a bizarre holiday for any date! Look up a holiday for today’s date and create a poem in greeting card fashion or write a short story about the holiday to celebrate.

137. Blog-o-sphere : Visit your favorite blog or your feedreader and craft a story, journal entry, or poem based on the latest blog post you read.

138. Mailbox: Create a poem, short story, or journal entry based on a recent item of mail you’ve received.

139. Sharing : Write about sharing something with someone else.

140. Cactus: Write from the viewpoint of a cactus. What’s it like to live in the desert or have a prickly personality?

141. It’s a Sign : Have you seen any interesting road signs lately?

142. Furniture: Write about a piece of furniture in your home.

143. Failure: Write about a time you failed at something. Did you try again or give up completely?

144. Mystical Creatures: Angels or other mystical creatures – use them as inspiration.

145. Flying: Write about having wings and what you would do.

146. Clear and Transparent: Write a poem about being able to see-through something.

147. Break the Silence : Record yourself speaking, then write down what you spoke and revise into a short story or poem.

148. Beat: Listen to music with a strong rhythm or listen to drum loops. Write something that goes along with the beat you feel and hear.

149. Color Palette: Search online for color palettes and be inspired to write by one you resonate with.

150. Magazine: Randomly flip to a page in a magazine and write using the first few words you see as an opening line.

151. The Grass is Greener : Write about switching the place with someone or going to where it seems the “grass is greener”.

152. Mind & Body: Write something that would motivate others to workout and exercise.

153. Shaping Up : Write something that makes a shape on the page…ie: a circle, a heart, a square, etc.

154. Twenty-One: Write about your 21st birthday.

155. Aromatherapy: Write about scents you just absolutely love.

156. Swish, Buzz, Pop : Create a poem that uses Onomatopoeia .

157. What Time is It? Write about the time of day it is right now. What are people doing? What do you usually do at this time each day?

158. Party Animal: Have you ever gone to a party you didn’t want to leave? Or do you hate parties? Write about it!

159: Miss Manners : Use the words “please” and “thank you” in your writing.

160. Cliche: Choose a common cliche, then write something that says the same thing but without using the catch phrase.

161. Eco-friendly : Write about going green or an environmental concern you have.

162. Missing You: Write about someone you miss.

163. Set it Free: Think of a time when you had to let someone or something go to be free…did they come back?

164: Left Out : Write about a time when you’ve felt left out or you’ve noticed someone else feeling as if they didn’t belong.

165. Suitcase: Write about packing for a trip or unpacking from when you arrive home.

166. Fantasy : Write about fairies, gnomes, elves, or other mythical creatures.

167. Give and Receive : Write about giving and receiving.

168. Baker’s Dozen: Imagine the scents and sights of a bakery and write.

169. Treehouse: Write about your own secret treehouse hideaway.

170.  Risk: Write about taking a gamble on something.

171. Acrostic : Choose a word and write an acrostic poem where every line starts with a letter from the word.

172. Crossword Puzzle: Open up the newspaper or find a crossword puzzle online and choose one of the clues to use as inspiration for your writing.

173. Silver Lining : Write about the good that happens in a bad situation.

174. Gloves: Write about a pair of gloves – what kind of gloves are they? Who wears them and why?

175. All that Glitters: Write about a shiny object.

176. Jealousy: Write with a theme of envy and jealousy.

Want to Download these prompts?  I am super excited to announce due to popular demand we now have an ad-free printable version of this list of writing prompts available for just $5. The  printable version  includes a PDF as a list AND print-ready prompt cards. {And all the design source files you could ever need to customize any way you would like!}

177. How Does Your Garden Grow? Write about a flower that grows in an unusual place.

178. Jury Duty : Write a short story or poem that takes place in a courtroom.

179. Gifts: Write about a gift you have given or received.

180. Running: Write about running away from someone or something.

181. Discovery: Think of something you’ve recently discovered and use it as inspiration.

182. Complain:  Write about your complaints about something.

183. Gratitude: Write a poem or journal entry that is all about things you are thankful for.

184. Chemistry: Choose an element and write a poem or story that uses that word in one of the lines.

185. Applause: Write about giving someone a standing ovation.

186. Old Endings Into New Beginnings:  Take an old poem, story, or journal entry of yours and use the last line and make it the first line of your writing today.

187. Longing: Write  about something you very much want to do.

188. I Am: Write a motivational poem or journal entry about positive traits that make you who you are.

189. Rainbow : What is at the end of a rainbow? Or, take a cue from Kermit the Frog, and ask yourself, why are there so many songs about rainbows?

190. Museum: Take some time to visit a nearby museum with your journal. Write about one of the pieces that speaks to you.

191. Cartoon: Think of your favorite cartoon or comic. Write a poem or story that takes place in that setting.

192. Copycat: Borrow a line from a famous public domain poem to craft your own.

193. From the Roof-tops:  Imagine you could stand on a rooftop and broadcast a message to everyone below – what would you say?

194. Time Travel: If there was a time period you could visit for a day, where would you go? Write about traveling back in time to that day.

195. Changing Places: Imagine living the day as someone else.

196. Neighborhood: Write about your favorite place in your neighborhood to visit and hang out at.

197. Pirates: Write about a pirate ship.

198. Interview : Write based on a recent interview you’ve read or seen on TV or heard on the radio.

199.  Hiding Spaces : Write about places you like to hide things at. What was a favorite hiding spot for you as a child playing hide-and-seek?

200. Extreme Makeover: Imagine how life might be different if you could change your hair color or clothing into something completely opposite from your current style.

201. Empathy: Write about your feelings of empathy or compassion for another person.

202. Opposites: Write a poem or story that ties in together two opposites.

203. Boredom: Write about being bored or make a list of different ways to entertain yourself.

204. Strength : Think of a time when you’ve been physically or emotionally strong and use that as inspiration.

205. Hunger: Write from the perspective of someone with no money to buy food.

206. Greed: Write about someone who always wants more – whether it be money, power, etc. etc.

207. Volcano: Write about an eruption of a volcano.

208. Video Inspiration : Go to Vimeo.com or YouTube.com and watch one of the videos featured on the homepage. Write something based on what you watch.

209. Sneeze: Write about things that make you sneeze.

210. Footsteps on the Moon:  Write about the possibility of life in outer-space.

211: Star-crossed: Write a short modern version of the story of Romeo and Juliet or think of real-life examples of lovers who are not allowed to be together to use as inspiration for your writing.

212. Font-tastic: Choose a unique font and type out a poem, story or journal entry using that font.

213. Schedule: Take a look at your calendar and use the schedule for inspiration in writing.

214. Grandparents: Write about a moment in your grandparent’s life.

215. Collage: Go through a magazine and cut out words that grab your attention. Use these words to construct a poem or as a story starter or inspiration for your journal.

216. Oh so Lonely: Write a poem about what you do when you are alone – do you feel lonely or do you enjoy your own company?

217. Waterfall: Think of a waterfall you’ve seen in person or spend some time browsing photos of waterfalls online. Write about the movement, flow, and energy.

218. First Kiss: Write about your first kiss.

219. So Ironic: Write about an ironic situation you’ve been in throughout your life.

220. Limerick: Write a limerick today.

221. Grocery Shopping: Write about an experience at the grocery store.

222. Fashion : Go through a fashion magazine or browse fashion websites online and write about a style you love.

223. So Close: Write about coming close to reaching a goal.

224. Drinks on Me: Write a poem or short story that takes place at a bar.

225. Online Friends: Write an ode to someone online you’ve met and become friends with.

226. Admiration: Is there someone you admire? Write about those feelings.

227. Trash Day: Write from the perspective of a garbage collector.

228. Mailbox: Open your mailbox and write something inspired by one of the pieces of mail you received.

229. Fresh & Clean: Write about how you feel after you take a shower.

230. Energized: Write about how you feel when you’re either at a high or low energy level for the day.

231. Rhyme & No Reason: Make up a silly rhyming poem using made up words.

232. Tech Support: Use computers or a conversation with tech support you’ve had as inspiration.

233. Hotel: Write from the perspective of someone who works at a hotel or staying at a hotel.

234. Underwater: Write about sea creatures and under water life. What’s under the surface of the ocean? What adventures might be waiting?

235. Breathing: Take a few minutes to do some deep breathing relaxation techniques. Once your mind is clear, just write the first few things that you think of.

236. Liar, Liar: Make up a poem or story of complete lies about yourself or someone else.

237. Obituaries: Look at the recent obituaries online or in the newspaper and imagine the life of someone and write about that person.

238. Pocket: Rummage through your pockets and write about what you keep or find in your pockets.

239. Cinquain: Write a cinquain poem, which consists of 5 lines that do not rhyme.

240. Alphabetical: Write a poem that has every letter of the alphabet in it.

241.  Comedy Club: Write something inspired by a comedian.

242. Cheater: Write about someone who is unfaithful.

243. Sestina: Give a try to writing a sestina poem.

244. Fight: Write about witnessing two people get in an argument with each other.

245. Social Network : Visit your favorite Social Networking website (ie: Facebook, Pinterest, Google, Twitter, etc.) and write a about a post you see there.

246. Peaceful: Write about something peaceful and serene.

247. In the Clouds: Go cloud watching for the day and write about what you imagine in the clouds.

248. At the Park: Take some time to sit on a park bench and write about the sights, scenes, and senses and emotions you experience.

249. Sonnet: Write a sonnet today.

250. Should, Would, And Could: Write a poem or story using the words should, would, and could.

251. How to: Write directions on how to do something.

252. Alliteration: Use alliteration in your poem or in a sentence in a story.

253. Poker Face: Write about playing a card game.

254. Timer: Set a timer for 5 minutes and just write. Don’t worry about it making sense or being perfect.

255. Dance: Write about a dancer or a time you remember dancing.

256. Write for a Cause: Write a poem or essay that raises awareness for a cause you support.

257. Magic : Write about a magician or magic trick.

258. Out of the Box: Imagine finding a box. Write about opening it and what’s inside.

259. Under the Influence: What is something has impacted you positively in your life?

260. Forgotten Toy : Write from the perspective a forgotten or lost toy.

261. Rocks and Gems: Write about a rock or gemstone meaning.

262. Remote Control: Imagine you can fast forward and rewind your life with a remote control.

263. Symbolism: Think of objects, animals, etc. that have symbolic meaning to you. Write about it.

264. Light at the End of the Tunnel: Write about a time when you saw hope when it seemed like a hopeless situation.

265. Smoke and Fire : “Where there’s smoke, there’s fire.” Use this saying as inspiration to write!

266. Railroad: Write about a train and its cargo or passengers.

267. Clipboard: Write about words you imagine on an office clipboard.

268. Shipwrecked: Write about being stranded somewhere – an island, a bus stop, etc.

269. Quotable: Use a popular quote from a speaker and use it as inspiration for your writing.

270. Mind   Map it Out: Create a mind map of words, phrases, and ideas that pop into your head or spend some time browsing the many mind maps online. Write a poem, story, or journal entry inspired by the mind map.

271. Patterns : Write about repeating patterns that occur in life.

272. Scrapbook : Write about finding a scrapbook and the memories it contains.

273. Cure: Write about finding a cure for an illness.

274. Email Subject Lines: Read your email today and look for subject lines that may be good starters for writing inspiration.

275. Wishful Thinking: Write about a wish you have.

276. Doodle : Spend some time today doodling for about 5-10 minutes. Write about the thoughts you had while doodling or create something inspired by your finished doodle.

277. Chalkboard: Imagine you are in a classroom. What does it say on the chalkboard?

278. Sticky: Imagine a situation that’s very sticky, maybe even covered in maple syrup, tape or glue. Write about it!

279. Flashlight : Imagine going somewhere very dark with only a flashlight to guide you.

280. A Far Away Place : Envision yourself traveling to a fictional place, what do you experience in your imaginary journey?

281. On the Farm : Write about being in a country or rural setting.

282. Promise to Yourself: Write about a promise you want to make to yourself and keep.

283. Brick Wall : Write a poem that is about a brick wall – whether literal or figurative.

284. Making a Choice: Write about a time when you had to make a difficult choice.

285.  Repeat: Write about a time when you’ve had to repeat yourself or a time when it felt like no one was listening.

286. Outcast : Write about someone who is not accepted by their peers. (for example, the Ugly Ducking)

287. Scary Monsters: Write about a scary (or not-so-scary) monster in your closet or under the bed.

288. Sacrifice: Write about something you’ve sacrificed doing to do something else or help another person.

289. Imperfection: Create a poem that highlights the beauty in being flawed.

290. Birthday Poem: Write a poem inspired by birthdays.

291. Title First : Make a list of potential poem or story titles and choose one to write from.

292. Job Interview : Write about going on a job interview.

293. Get Well : Write a poem that will help someone who is sick feel better quick!

294. Lost in the Crowd: Write about feeling lost in the crowd.

295. Apple a Day: Write about a health topic that interests you.

296. Cravings: Write about craving something.

297. Phobia: Research some common phobias, choose one, and write about it.

298. In the Moment: Write about living in the present moment.

299. Concrete : Write about walking down a sidewalk and what you see and experience.

300. Battle: Write about an epic battle, whether real, fictional or figurative.

301. This Old House : Write about an old house that is abandoned or being renovated.

302. Clutter: Is there a cluttered spot in your home? Go through some of that clutter today and write about what you find or the process of organizing.

303. Go Fly a Kite: Write about flying a kite.

304. On the TV: Flip to a random TV channel and write about the first thing that comes on – even if it is an infomercial!

305. Fruit: Write an ode to your favorite fruit.

306. Long Distance Love: Write about a couple that is separated by distance.

307. Glasses: Write about a pair of eyeglasses or someone wearing glasses.

308. Robotic : Write about a robot.

309. Cute as a Button: Write about something you think is just adorable.

310. Movie Conversation: Use a memorable conversation from a favorite movie to inspire your writing.

311. Easy-Peasy : Write  about doing something effortlessly.

312. Idiom: Choose from a list of idioms one that speaks to you and create a poem around that saying or phrase. (Ie: It is raining cats and dogs)

313. Playground: Whether it is the swings or the sandbox or the sliding boards, write about your memories of being on a playground.

314. Romance: Write about romantic things partners can do for each other.

315. Rock Star: Imagine you are a famous rock star. Write about the experience.

316. Come to Life: Imagine ordinary objects have come to life. Write about what they do and say.

317. Airplane: Write about meeting someone on an airplane and a conversation you might have.

318. Health & Beauty: Take some time to peruse your medicine cabinet or the health and beauty aisles at a local store. Write a poem, short story, or journal entry inspired by a product label.

319. Determination: Write about not giving up.

320. Instrumental Inspiration: Listen to some instrumental music and write a poem that matches the mood, beat, and style of the music.

321. Wait Your Turn: Write about having to wait in line.

322. Personality Type : Do you know your personality type? (There are many free quizzes online) – write about what type of personality traits you have.

323. Decade: Choose a favorite decade and write about it. (IE: 1980’s or 1950’s for example)

324. I Believe: Write your personal credo of things you believe in.

325. Lost and Found: Write about a lost object.

326. Say it: Write a poem or story that uses dialogue between two people.

327. The Unsent Letter: Write about a letter that never made it to its recipient.

328. The Windows of the Soul: Write a poem about the story that is told through someone’s eyes.

329. Trial and Error: Write about something you learned the hard way.

330. Escape : Write about where you like to go to escape from it all.

331. What’s Cooking: Write something inspired a favorite food or recipe.

332. Records : Go through your file box and pull out old receipts or records…write something inspired by what you find!

333. Banking: Write about visiting the bank.

334. Sweet Talk: Write about trying to convince someone of something.

335. Serendipity: Write about something that happened by chance in a positive way.

336. Distractions: Write about how it feels when you can’t focus.

337. Corporation: Write about big business.

338. Word of the Day: Go to a dictionary website that has a word of the day and use it in a poem, story or journal entry you write.

339. Pick Me Up:  What do you do when you need a pick me up?

340. Unfinished: Write about a project you started but never completed.

341. Forgiveness: Write about a time when someone forgave you or you forgave someone.

342. Weakness: Write about your greatest weakness.

343. Starting: Write about starting a project.

344. Mechanical: Think of gears, moving parts, machines.

345. Random Act of Kindness : Write about a random act of kindness you’ve done for someone or someone has done for you, no matter how small or insignificant it may have seemed.

346. Underground: Imagine living in a home underground and use that as inspiration for writing.

347. Classic Rock: Pick a classic rock love ballad and rewrite it into a story or poem with a similar theme.

348. Night Owl : Write about staying up late at night.

349. Magnetic : Write about attraction to something or someone.

350. Teamwork: Write about working with a team towards a common goal.

351. Roller-coaster : Write about the ups and downs in life.

352. Motivational Poster: Look at some motivational posters online and write a poem or journal entry inspired by your favorite one.

353. Games: Write about the games people play – figuratively or literally.

354. Turning Point: Write about a point in life where things turned for the better or worse.

355. Spellbound: Write about a witch’s spell.

356. Anniversary: Write about the anniversary of a special date.

357. Gamble:  Be inspired by a casino or lottery ticket.

358. Picnic: Write about going on a picnic.

359. Garage: Write about some random item you might find in a garage.

360. Review: Review your week, month, or year in a journal entry or poem format.

361. Detective: Write about a detective searching for clues or solving a mystery.

362. Camera: Take your camera for a walk and write based on one of the photographs you take.

363. Visiting : Write about visiting a family member or friend.

364. Trust: Write about putting trust in someone.

365. Congratulations : Did you write a poem, short story, or journal entry every day for a whole year? Write about what you’ve learned and celebrate your achievement!

We hope you enjoy these creative writing prompts! And of course, if you write anything using these prompts, we’d love to know about it! Tell us how you’ll use these everyday creative writing prompts in the comments section below!

And of course, if you’d like the printable ad-free version of these prompts to reference again and again or to use in your classroom, you can find them at our Etsy shop !

Chelle Stein wrote her first embarrassingly bad novel at the age of 14 and hasn't stopped writing since. As the founder of ThinkWritten, she enjoys encouraging writers and creatives of all types.

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50 Creative Writing Prompts

Creative writing prompts introduction.

Below is a list of original, innovative creative writing prompts to help inspire stories, poems and all other forms of writing. The prompts are written by authors, for authors.

Whether you want to get rid of writers block or just want to find some new inspirational ideas, this list is designed to help.

At the bottom of the page, you will find links to other lists of creative writing prompts, meaning there are actually thousands for you to look through, not just the 50 listed on this page.

Many of the creative writing prompts and ideas on this page have been provided by other authors. Those prompts are credited to them, below the prompt title.

If you would like to suggest a creative writing prompt to be added to the page, please leave a comment at the bottom of this page, or contact me by email . Over time, the idea is to build this into a large resource. I think having a list of creative writing prompts from lots of different writers gives more variety / value to the reader.

I decided to create this resource after a conversation with my friend Pauly who is a teacher at Becket Primary School in the UK. Sorry, I should probably refer to him as Mr Davis for the sake of his teaching reputation, but he will always be Pauly to me 🙂

During the COVID-19 pandemic, he was looking for creative ideas to share with his class as part of their home learning. I shared some writing prompts that I'd originally written for  Daily Prompt  (a writing app) with him, and the  writing challenges  I run on my website.

I thought it would be useful to share the prompts with my website users and invite contributions to make the resource more useful to  Pauly  Mr Davis and everyone else. So that is why this page exists.

A List of Inspirational Creative Writing Prompts

4x4 challenge.

Creative writing prompt by Chris Fielden

Take the 4th book from your bookshelf.

Open it on page 4.

Find the 4th sentence on the page and start a story using its first 4 words.

Optional word limits:

• Flash fiction: 444 words
• Short Story: 4,444 words
• Longer stories (novellas / novels etc.): 44,444 words

The children of Becket Primary School have used the '4x4 challenge' writing prompt as a school competition. You can see the results and  read their stories here .

Creative writing prompt by Dave Langdale

• A – A holiday you went on
• B – An object in your bedroom
• C – An eccentric character in your life

A is the murder location. B is the murder weapon. C is your detective.

Acting On Impulse

Creative writing prompt by J. L. Harland

The estate agent's leaflet said it was 'an ideal first home'. Who is looking for a first home? Why are they likely to act on impulse when buying?

Write the estate agent's blurb and then a true description of the property using all your senses.

You now have your characters, motivation and setting.

Animal Encounter

Creative writing prompt by Sarah Doyle

Write a poem about an encounter that you have had with an animal (or animals), whether mammals, birds, insects, or fish.

Use sensory language to evoke the animal(s) in your poem – such as colour, smell, touch and texture, and sound. Think about small physical details – did the animal have eyelashes, what colour was the bird’s beak, was the insect shiny, was the fox’s fur sleek or rough, etc.?

If you didn’t get close enough to touch or smell the animal(s), imagine what that would have been like. How did the encounter make you feel, either about yourself or about humans in general? How do you think the animal(s) might have felt?

If you prefer, your poem can be about an imaginary encounter with an animal that you might or might not want to meet in real life.

After falling into a coma, you wake 1,000 years in the future. Someone has written a message on your arm in marker pen. It reads:

Find the Augury – she will help you.

Bad Hair Day

Creative writing prompt by Jude Higgins

Write down a memory of your worst haircut / style. And people's reaction to it. 10 mins, fast.

Now write a fiction where you give this haircut / style to a character of the opposite sex to you and twenty years older or younger. Make their life change drastically because of the change to their hair.

Creative writing prompt by Lesley Truchet

You have lived with your domineering mother for years, caring for her in her old age. She recently passed away, leaving you with mixed emotions and more time for yourself.

You have little experience with love, but you are about to go on a blind date.

Creative writing prompt by Mary Fielden

You wake in the night to see a figure standing in front to your bookcase at the foot of your bed.  Alarmed, you shout out and the figure shatters into fragments and transforms into the books on your shelf.

Who or what is the mysterious presence and what happens next?

Cast A Cloud

Creative writing prompt by Chris Deliso

Master character creation techniques by practicing on a random fictional character. Cast a cloud of the descriptors that immediately come to mind when thinking of a known character, then repeat the same method to a fictional character you are creating.

Example: Hercule Poirot

Cloud: precise, perturbed, quizzical; disparagingly, balding, cross.

Deep Sea Adventure

Creative writing prompt by Annette Taylor

A billionaire buys a personal submarine and hires your character/s for a secret mission.

A couple of years ago, you found a baby demon and decided to rear it.

Now it's fully grown, it's started causing you 'problems'.

Desert Island Disaster

Creative writing prompt by Mel Ciavucco

What would happen if you were stuck on a desert island with your family?

Consider making this a group exercise by asking all of your family to contribute ideas.

Did You Sleep Well?

You wake up after an afternoon nap and hear the question, "Did you sleep well?"

You live alone, so spin around quickly and see your pet, looking at you questioningly.

Different Perspectives

Creative writing prompt by Danny Shilling from Daily Prompt

Write a story from three different perspectives:

• An old person
• A family pet

Each new paragraph / stanza should change the perspective.

Creative writing prompt by Mark Rutterford

E is in trouble – you decide what kind of trouble.

The combined efforts of M and C save E. Tell that story on one page.

Every Picture...

Creative writing prompt by K. J. Watson

Look at a favourite painting. Create a story by considering:

• How did the people or things in the painting arrive where they are now?
• What are they going to do next?

If you need a painting to spark your imagination, Google the name of an artist such as Salvador Dali, René Magritte and Leonora Carrington. Their work is often fun, weird and inspirational.

Fantastical Correspondence

Write a letter to a mythical creature:

• Invent your own mythical creature to write to

First Lines

Creative writing prompt by Alex Anderson

Use one of the following lines to start a piece of creative writing and just go with the creative flow:

• I smiled and offered my hand...
• He looked so mean and hungry...
• "I see you," the dragon said...
• I wasn't expecting mail, but there it is...
• "My lord, how may I serve you?"...
• "Why me, I'm just an ordinary Joe..."
• "OK, the hole's dug, now what?"
• "Think. What's really wanted here?"...

Start typing a question into Google and see what suggestions come up. Use one of the suggestions to inspire a story. Here are a few example questions to get you started:

• Why does my...
• When did...
• Where was...
• Who made...

You can also add each letter of the alphabet to the question opening to get more ideas. For example:

• Why does my a...
• Why does my b...

The fact that these are the results most searched for on Google for questions starting 'why does' says a lot about the priorities of the human race and  also explains why we don't have enough scientists... needless to say, this prompt is likely to waste a lot of your time and make you laugh 🙂

He Said, She Said - Dialogue Only

Creative writing prompt by Penelope Hester

Write a short story in no more than 1,000 words using ONLY dialogue.

And NO speech tags, like 'he said menacingly'.  Make the dialogue indicate the characters attitudes. If time has to pass, find a way to do this with the conversation.

If The Cap Fits

Creative writing prompt by John Wheway

Find an unusual hat, or a hat substitute such as a waste paper basket, a pair of trousers, a lamb chop, something of that kind.

Write a 300 word story in the voice of a character who has always wanted to be seen in town wearing this item on his/her/their head.

I’m Not Eating That

You or your character develop a sudden dislike for a certain type of food and join a support group for adult picky eaters.

Your character has been unable to sleep for 2 days, leading them to make a terrible mistake.

Your favourite food isn't manufactured. It's either:

• Mined from the ground
• Flown in by owls
• Squeezed out of the clouds
• Something else...

You're in charge of production. Write about it.

Creative writing prompt by Mike Scott Thomson

Write a short story (as long as it needs to be) where a jigsaw puzzle is solved, but the final picture is not what was on the box. It could be a case of:

• A message from beyond the grave, scrawled across the picture, leading to a mystery which needs untangling
• A strange person (who is it?)
• A strange place (where is it?)
• The picture is almost the same, but featuring a ghostly apparition...
• Or your own idea!

Last Night, A DJ Saved My Writers’ Block

Creative writing prompt by Neil Renton

Take a note of the next three songs that you listen to, then use those songs for inspiration.

You can be inspired by the lyrics, the song titles or a feeling the music gives you. This can trigger ideas for characters, settings or dialogue. Then develop those ideas into scenes or short stories.

Consider using music streaming services and random shuffles to keep you on your writing toes.

Leap Day Penalty

In some parts of the world, a man is expected to pay a penalty if he refuses a marriage proposal from a woman on Leap Day.

Write a story about a man who receives a proposal on Leap Day from a woman he doesn't want to marry.

Creative writing prompt by John Holland

Write about an obsession. It can be anything at all, so long as it's out of control.

If you don't know enough about your chosen subject, research it and note down amusing, scary or inspiring things about it.

Don't just write about how it affects your main character. Also write about how it impacts others.

Olympic Gold

The Olympics includes a new sport. You're about to go for gold in... what?

• Dog walking?
• Synchronised texting?

Will all your training pay off?

One Word: Today

Creative writing prompt by Michael Rumsey

Your story starts with one word: Today.

But what happened today?

• Today at work, I...
• Today, for the first time ever...
• Today, my mother rang to say...
• Today, something unusual...

A crew cleans out the garage of a deceased loner and discover a stash of:

• something else...

Property Purge

Write an advert to sell an unusual property:

• A lair located in an extinct volcano
• A museum, filled with historical artefacts
• A space station

Reach For The Stars

Creative writing prompt by Allen Ashley

Imagine that you are running a futuristic travel agency and are drumming up some business. Where can you take your clients? What delights might you offer?

Here are some examples or starters:

• Ever wanted to surf the rings of Saturn or stare Jupiter right in its red spot? Solar Tours has special offers on all flights right now…
• Aldebaran, Sirius and Proxima Centauri are all much closer than you think. Contact Wormhole Travel for further details…
• Like drawing in the dust? Think you’re the Space Picasso? Join us for the Sea of Tranquillity Lunar Art Festival this May…

Now sell me your own space holiday!

Reverse Chronology

Write a story backwards. Start with the final paragraph and work your way towards the beginning, by going back in time with each paragraph you write.

Script By Six

Below you will find 3 different options of varying difficulty, all regarding the number 6.

• (Easy)  Write a story in 6 short chapters
• (Hard)  Each chapter should contain 6 paragraphs comprising 6 sentences
• (Difficult)  Each sentence should be 6 words long

Secret Santa

Someone has left a large package on your doorstep. You open it and find...

Sense Outside

Creative writing prompt by Mark Fielden

You're told to stay indoors during a pandemic. That means there's no one around; few vehicles to pollute with noise and fumes, so you can see, hear and smell a lot more.

Go into your garden, onto your balcony; stand in your doorway or by an open window.

• What can you hear?
• What can you smell?
• What can you see?

Look up, look down, look from side to side.

Let your senses absorb our quieter world.

• What's that rustling over there?
• What's that creature high in the sky?
• What's that scent on the breeze?
• What is it doing?
• Where is it going?
• Why is it there?

Sounds Like Greek To Me

Your main character recovers from a head injury and is diagnosed with Foreign Accent Syndrome.

Spitting Image

Write about an art lover who visits a museum and becomes fascinated by a portrait of an Italian noble they resemble.

Superpowers

You wake up to find you have a superpower.

At first it seems useless, but as the day progresses, you realise its potential.

Tantalising Tune Titles

Creative writing prompt by Ville Nummenpää

Pick a song title and write a story based on it. Never mind the lyrics, let the title fuel your imagination.

So much to choose from... here are a few ideas to start you off:

• 'Crazy Horses'
• 'Dirty Deeds, Done Dirt Cheap'
• 'Hot Stuff'
• 'I Can't Get No Satisfaction'
• 'Killed By Death'
• 'No Woman, No Cry'
• 'Seek And Destroy'
• 'Smells Like Teen Spirit'
• 'Take Me Home, Country Roads'
• 'Tiger Feet'
• 'Who Let The Dogs Out'

Teashop Trio

Creative writing prompt by Sue Johnson

Choose a character from three different fairytales or nursery rhymes.

Have them meet for afternoon tea:

• What do they order?
• Why are they meeting?
• What happens next?

Think Outside The Box... By Thinking What's In The Box

Creative writing prompt by Lynda Nash

Susie receives a parcel. Write a list of 20 possible things that could be inside it.

Don't be afraid to be absurd. Read through your list and discard all the 'normal' or clichéd suggestions, leaving the more unusual items. Choose one.

Now consider these questions:

• Did Susie expect this parcel or was it a surprise?
• What is her reaction to the item inside?
• What will Suzie do next?
• Susie can be anyone you want her/him to be and any age
• What if two different people got the same parcel... would their reactions be the same?

Unbelievable Statements

Creative writing prompt by A.H. Creed

There is no such thing as colour (as unbelievable as it seems, this is true).

Create your own unbelievable statement. Then create a character who believes it or a world in which it could be true.

What if things were different and not as we expect them to be?

Take something normal from everyday life and apply some 'what if' imagination to it.

For example, what if...

• all the colours of the rainbow changed
• dogs could talk
• Santa Claus over slept
• snow was warm
• the chicken did not cross the road
• time reversed itself
• two plus two did not equal four
• we could see atoms
• we did not have to sleep
• you could make a phone call to your favourite fictional character
• you could visit anywhere in the universe
• you were appointed head teacher of your local school for one day only
• you were gifted with ESP

Where Did It Go?

Write a complaint to your local town council because a local landmark has disappeared.

Wish You Were Here

Creative writing prompt by Steph Minns

Do a search for images of postcards on the internet.

Look for postcards with people on them. Use one of these people to inspire a character who goes on an adventure.

Look for postcards of places. Set a story in this location.

You’ve Always Been Here

You're interviewing for a new job. Walking into the boardroom, you're greeted by the manager.

You mention how nice it is to be there and the manager looks at you with a puzzled expression. 'What do you mean?' they say. 'You've always been here.'

You’ve Been Sentenced to 100

Write a story that comprises 1 sentence that is exactly 100 words in length.

ZY Challenge

Write about a character whose names ends in 'zy'. It could be their real name, or not:

• Izzy could be a nickname
• Stormzy could be a pen name
• Wheezy could be a stage name

How did your character get this name? What is its significance on their life?

Other Lists of Writing Prompts

Below you will find details of other websites that provide lists of inspirational creative writing prompts:

• Daily Prompt is an app that, as you probably guessed from the name, sends you a new creative writing prompt every day - users also have access to every prompt that has been posted in the app since day 1, so hundreds of them
• Reedsy supply a list of thousands of creative writing prompts
• The Self-Publishing School  supply a list of over 400 creative writing prompts
• Think Written supply a list of over 365 creative writing prompts; one for each day of the year

Suggest Creative Writing Prompts

Do you have any creative writing prompts that you think might inspire other writers? If so, please contact me or fill in the comment form below.

Please be sure to include:

• A title for your prompt
• The prompt itself (concise prompts preferred please)

If your prompt is published as part of the list above, you will be credited for thinking it up 🙂

No more than 5 creative writing prompts per author please. This is just to help keep the ideas shared on this page as varied as possible.

More Writing Advice

I hope you found this "Creative Writing Prompts" article helpful. You can find lots of other writing tips and advice in the Advice section of this website.

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BEST ADULTS WRITING PROMPTS

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Locked away, write a story in the form of a list of new year's resolutions., end your story with two characters reconciling., set your story at a large entertainment venue, after the show has ended, amongst the discarded plastic cups and confetti., your main character has a secret superpower; the gossip they spread always comes true., write a story about someone trying to track down the source of a rumor..

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Your character is known as the town gossip. One day, it comes back to bite them.

Write a story about a piece of gossip that becomes more and more distorted as it passes from person to person., write a story that includes the line “my lips are sealed.”, someone’s beloved collection is destroyed. how do they react, set your story in a casino., subscribe to our prompts newsletter.

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The best writing prompts for adults

Are you struggling to find an outlet for your imagination as an adult? There's an easy solution for that: creative writing prompts for adults. Though writing prompts might look like simple questions and topics on the surface, they are powerful tools that can help you put pen to paper and explore such topics as food, technology, family, people, life, and the universe around us through a story. 

Best of all, they work for authors of all stages, whether you're a beginner looking to overcome writer's block or an established writer thinking about exploring different genres. So what are you waiting for? You, too, might find that a writing prompt will inspire and give you ideas for everything from a short story to a full-blown book. 

If you're looking to cut to the chase, here's a top ten list of writing prompts for adults:

• Write a story about a 40th birthday party.
• Set your story at a retirement party.
• It's your wedding day, and as you're saying your vows, a voice from the crowd yells, "I object!"
• Start your story with the line 'Back in my day…'
• Start your story with the line, "That's the thing about this city…"
• Write a cautionary fable about someone who always lies.
• Write a day-in-the-life story about a first-time parent and their newborn child.
• Write a short story about someone doing laundry.
• Write a story about a character obsessed with one of the long-dead "greats" in their profession.
• Write a story about a parent putting their child to bed.

If you'd like to go beyond the world of writing prompts and dip a toe into becoming an author, check out our free resources on the topic:

• Develop a Writing Routine (free course)  —You might hear a lot of advice on how to write a book, but at the end of the day, what it takes is simply the commitment to regularly sit down in front of a computer and put words down on paper. A writing routine is key to that sort of dedication — and our free 10-day course will show you how to develop one that works for you. 
• Learn novel writing basics  (blog post)— Once you’ve got a writing routine now, all that’s left is the hard part: actually writing the book! That's where this blog post comes in handy.
• Character Development 101 (blog post)  — As an author, you become the psychologist of your characters. Learn how to build a great character in this comprehensive blog post and build one up, from their motivations to their goals. Don’t forget to download the free character profile template while you’re in the blog post! 

Ready to start writing? Check out  Reedsy’s weekly short story contest  for the chance of winning $250! You can also check out our list of  writing contests  or our directory of  literary magazines  for more opportunities to submit your story.

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50 Fiction Writing Prompts and Ideas to Inspire You to Write

By Hannah Yang

Table of Contents

How fiction writing prompts can help writers, top 50 fiction writing prompts, how prowritingaid can help with fiction writing, conclusion on fiction writing prompts and ideas.

Have you ever wanted to write a story but had no idea what to write about?

If you’re familiar with that feeling, you’re not alone. At some point in their lives, every writer has sat down in front of a blank page with no idea what to write next.

When you’re in that situation, it might be helpful to look at a list of potential story ideas. A great prompt can help kick-start your creativity and get you in the mood for writing again.

In this article, we’ll give you all our favorite fiction writing prompts to inspire you to write.

There are countless ways fiction writing prompts can benefit you. Here are a few reasons you might want to use a writing prompt:

To start a new short story or novel

To practice writing in a new genre or writing style so you can expand your skill set and try something new

To warm up at the beginning of each writing session

To make sure you’re in a creative state of mind when you tackle your existing writing projects

So, pick up a pen and a notebook, and let’s get started!

Here are 50 fantastic fiction writing prompts that will help you start your next story. To help you choose a prompt that excites you, we’ve split them into several categories: fantasy, sci-fi, mystery, romance, and contemporary.

Fantasy Prompts

You’ve inherited your grandfather’s antique shop, and you’re surprised to find strange objects with magical powers inside.

You set out to break the curse that’s followed your family for generations.

You can see visions of the future, but you learned long ago to keep them to yourself. Now, you have to speak up or risk losing everything you love.

You work for a zoo filled with magical creatures.

You’re a lawyer in a fantasy world, and your job is to negotiate contracts between the humans and the gods.

A company harvests dragon scales, unicorn hair, and other magical items to sell for profit.

You find a portal to a fantasy world in your backyard.

You find a magical item that will make all your wishes come true—but it’s extremely literal in its interpretations.

A supernatural monster kidnaps your best friend. You set out to rescue her.

Your parents gave different aspects of their magical powers to each of their children. Compared to your siblings, you definitely got the short end of the stick.

Sci-fi Prompts

Write an adaptation of your favorite classic tale—in space.

Aliens come to Earth, but they’re here for reasons no one expected.

Scientists have found ways to transfer memories between different people. You're the first person to sell all of yours.

Write about an entire world where people can buy and sell years of their lives.

What would happen if you woke up in someone else’s body and they woke up in yours?

You live in a moon colony surrounded by high walls. One day, someone breaches the walls.

Your parents send you to a summer camp filled with time travelers.

You accidentally stumble through a portal to a parallel universe where everything is the same as our universe, except for one key difference.

In a world where everyone’s DNA is genetically engineered to best suit their roles in the community, you have to hide that your DNA doesn’t match your chosen career.

You land on a new planet and realize the plants there are more intelligent than humans.

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Mystery Prompts

You wake up with no memory of who you are, except for a single name.

Every day, a strange drawing appears in your mailbox, and they get more and more disturbing.

You receive a letter inviting you to a free weekend getaway, and you have no idea who the host is.

Your father is keeping something strange in the attic.

A man throws an elaborate party in an attempt to conceal a crime.

You realize you’ve been sleepwalking every night, and you have no idea what your sleeping self has been up to.

You thought your husband was dead. So why is he still writing you letters?

Your brother was murdered years ago. The police have stopped investigating, but you’re still looking for the killer.

Two friends discover a serial killer's secret hideout.

A young woman discovers a frightening secret while she's on her first hunting trip with her husband's family.

Romance Prompts

Two soldiers on different sides of a war develop feelings for each other.

A member of the royal family falls in love with her bodyguard.

You’ve resigned yourself to a loveless arranged marriage, but fate has other plans.

You’ve had a crush on your best friend your entire life. Now, he’s about to get married to someone else.

You go on a first date and find yourself stuck in a time loop, so you have to keep going on that date over and over.

Two rivals have to pretend to be in a relationship—and end up accidentally falling for each other.

After a bad breakup, you move to a new town—and find yourself attracted to your next-door neighbor.

When two exes are forced to work together, they rekindle old feelings.

You fall in love with someone from a different dimension, so you can only see each other once a year when the portal opens.

After your plane crash-lands on a deserted island, you develop a bond with one of the other survivors.

Contemporary Prompts

Write an adaptation of your favorite classic tale set in the town you grew up in.

Two best friends go on a road trip and encounter a problem they never expected.

An adopted orphan goes on a journey to reconnect with her birth family.

You’re told a family secret that changes everything you think you know about your life.

A group of friends takes a practical joke too far, leading to disaster.

A college student creates an invention for a technology class and accidentally goes viral.

A painter in her early eighties struggles with her slow descent into blindness.

A couple breaks up, but the ramifications of their breakup follow them for decades.

A carefree playboy is forced to adopt a child, which changes his whole life.

You’re framed for a crime you didn’t commit, and nobody believes you’re innocent—except for your estranged sister.

No matter what type of story you’re writing, ProWritingAid is a great tool to help you make your writing shine.

ProWritingAid will suggest ways to improve various weaknesses in your writing, such as grammar mistakes, repetitive words, passive voice, unnecessary dialogue tags, and more.

You can even tell ProWritingAid what type of fiction you’re writing, such as fantasy or historical fiction, to get customized suggestions that match your genre.

There you have it—our complete list of the best fiction writing prompts to inspire you to write.

Try out your favorite one, and see if you can turn it into a unique story. 

Good luck, and happy writing!

Hannah Yang

Hannah is a speculative fiction writer who loves all things strange and surreal. She holds a BA from Yale University and lives in Colorado. When she’s not busy writing, you can find her painting watercolors, playing her ukulele, or hiking in the Rockies. Follow her work on hannahyang.com or on Twitter at @hannahxyang.

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105 Creative Writing Prompts to Try Out

General Education

The most common advice out there for being a writer is, "if you want to write, write." While this is true (and good advice), it's not always that easy, particularly if you're not writing regularly.

Whether you're looking for help getting started on your next project, or just want to spend 20 minutes being creative, writing prompts are great ways to rev up your imagination. Read on for our list of over 100 creative writing prompts!

feature image credit: r. nial bradshaw /Flickr

10 Short Writing Prompts

If you're looking for a quick boost to get yourself going, these 10 short writing prompts will do the trick.

#1 : Write a scene starting with a regular family ritual that goes awry.

#2 : Describe exactly what you see/smell/hear/etc, right now. Include objects, people, and anything else in your immediate environment.

#3 : Suggest eight possible ways to get a ping pong ball out of a vertical pipe.

#4 : A shoe falls out of the sky. Justify why.

#5 : If your brain were a tangible, physical place, what would it be like?

#6 : Begin your writing with the phrase, "The stage was set."

#7 : You have been asked to write a history of "The Summer of [this past year]." Your publisher wants a table of contents. What events will you submit?

#8 : Write a sympathetic story from the point of view of the "bad guy." (Think fractured fairy tales like Wicked or The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs! , although the story doesn't have to be a fairy tale.)

#9 : Look at everyday objects in a new way and write about the stories one of these objects contains.

#10 : One person meets a stranger on a mode of transportation. Write the story that ensues.

11 Writing Prompts for Kids

Any of these prompts can be used by writers of any age, but we chose the following 11 prompts as ones that would be particularly fun for kids to write about. (Most of them I used myself as a young writer, so I can vouch for their working!)

#1 : Include something falling in your writing.

#2 : Write a short poem (or story) with the title, "We don't know when it will be fixed."

#3 : Write from the perspective of someone of a different gender than you.

#4 : Write a dumb internet quiz.

#5 : Finish this thought: "A perfect day in my imagination begins like this:"

#6 : Write a character's inner monologue (what they are thinking as they go about their day).

#7 : Think of a character. Write a paragraph each about:

• An important childhood experience that character had.
• The character's living situation.
• Two hobbies or things the character likes to do.
• The room where the character sleeps.
• An ambition of the character.
• Two physical characteristics of the character.
• What happens when a second person and this character meet.
• Two important defining personal traits of this character.

#8 : Start a story with a quote from a song.

#9 : Begin a story with, "It was the summer of ______ when ______"

#10 : Pretend everyday objects have no names. Think about what you would name them based on what they do, what you can use them for, and what they look like.

#11 : Start a story with the phrases "My grandparents are/were," "My parents are/were," or "My mother/father/parent is/was."

15 Cool Writing Prompts

#1 : List five issues that you're passionate about. Write about them from the opposite point of view (or from the perspective of a character with the opposite point of view).

#2 : Walk around and write down a phrase you hear (or read). Make a story out of it.

#3 : Write using no adjectives or adverbs.

#4 : Write a character's inner dialogue between different aspects of a character's self (rather than an inner monologue).

#5 : Write a true story from your past that involves light or darkness in some way.

#6 : "Saying goodbye awakens us to the true nature of things." Write something in which someone has to say goodbye and has a realization.

#7 : Begin by writing the end of the story.

#8 : Write a recipe for an intangible thing.

#9 : Write a horror story about an ordinary situation (e.g., buying groceries, going to the bank, listening to music).

#10 : Write a story from within a bubble.

#11 : Write down 2-3 short character descriptions and then write the characters in conversation with one another.

#12 : Write a story in second person.

#13 : Write a story that keeps contradicting itself.

#14 : Write about a character with at least three big problems.

#15 : Write something that takes place on a Friday, the 13th (of any month).

15 Funny Writing Prompts

#1 : Write a story which starts with someone eating a pickle and potato sandwich.

#2 : Write a short script where the plot has to do with evil dolls trying to take over something.

#3 : Write about writers' block.

#4 : List five election issues that would be ridiculous to includes as part of your election platform (e.g. outlawing mechanical pencils and clicky pens, mandating every person over the age of 30 must own an emergency last rites kit). Choose one of the ridiculous issues and write a speech in favor of it.

#5 : Write a children's story that is insanely inappropriate but can't use graphic language, curses, or violence.

#6 : List five careers. Write about someone with one of those careers who wants to quit it.

#7 : Write down a list of murder methods. Choose one at random from the list to use in a story.

#8 : Write a romance story in which the hero must have a last name corresponding with a physical characteristic (e.g. Jacques Hairyback or Flora Dimple).

#9 : Come up with 10 different ways to:

• order a pizza
• congratulate someone on a job well done
• return to the store something that's broken

#10 : Search for "random Renaissance painting" (or any other inspirational image search text you can think of) on any online internet image search engine. Picking one image, write half a page each of:

• Statements about this image (e.g. "I meant bring me the BREAD of John the Baptist").
• Questions about this image (e.g. "How many of those cherubs look like their necks are broken?").
• Explanations of this image (e.g. "The painter ran out of blue paint halfway through and had to improvise for the color of the sky").
• Commands said by people in this image or about this image (e.g. "Stop telling me to smile!" or "Bring me some gasoline!").

#11 : Write starting with a word that sounds like "chute" (e.g. "chute," "shoot," "shooed").

#12 : Write about a character named X "The [article of clothing]" Y (e.g. Julie "The Yellow Darted Skirt" Whyte) or simply referred to by their clothing (e.g. "the man in the brown suit" or "the woman in black").

#13 : Write down a paragraph each describing two wildly different settings. Write a story involving both settings.

#14 : Think of a fictional holiday based around some natural event (e.g. the Earth being at its farthest point from the sun, in memory of a volcanic eruption, that time a cloud looked like a rabbit riding a bicycle). Write about how this holiday is celebrated.

#15 : Write a "Just-So" type story about a fictional creature (e.g. "how the dragon got its firebreath" or "how the mudkip got its cheek gills").

54 Other Writing Prompt Ideas

#1 : Borrow a character from some other form of media (or create your own). Write from that character's perspective.

#2 : Write for and against a non-consequential controversy (e.g., salt vs. pepper, Mac vs. PC, best kind of door).

#3 : Choose an ancestor or a person from the past to write about or to.

#4 : Write a pirate story with a twist.

#5 : Have a character talk about another character and their feelings about that other character.

#6 : Pick a season and think about an event in your life that occurred in that season. Write a creative nonfiction piece about that event and that season.

#7 : Think of something very complicated and long. Write a page about it using short sentences.

#8 : Write a story as a dream.

#9 : Describe around a food without ever directly naming it.

#10 : Write a monologue (one character, talking to the audience/reader) (*not* an inner monologue).

#11 : Begin a story with the phrase, "It only took five seconds to..."

#12 : List five strong emotions. Choosing one, write about a character experiencing that emotion, but only use the character's actions to convey how they are feeling (no outright statements).

#13 : Write a chapter of the memoir of your life.

#14 : Look through the (physical) things you're currently carrying with you or wearing. Write about the memories or emotions tied with each of them.

#15 : Go be in nature. Write drawing your story from your surroundings (both physical, social, and mental/emotional).

#16 : Write from the perspective of a bubble (or bubble-like creature).

#17 : A person is jogging along an asphalt road. Write a story.

#18 : Title your story (or poem, or play, etc) "Anti-_____". Fill in the blank and write the story.

#19 : Write something that must include an animal, a mineral, and a vegetable.

#20 : Begin your writing with the phrase, "6 weeks later..."

#21 : List 5-10 office jobs. Pick one of them and describe a person working in that job as if you were a commentator on an Olympic sporting event.

#22 : Practice your poetic imagery: overwrite a description of a character's breakfast routine.

#23 : Write about a character (or group of characters) trying to convince another character to try something they're scared of.

#24 : Keep an eye out in your environment for examples of greengrocer's apostrophes and rogue quotation marks. Pick an example and write about what the misplaced punctuation implies (e.g., we have the "best" meat or we have the best "meat" ).

#25 : Fill in the blank with the first word that comes to mind: "_______ Riot!" Write a newspaper-style article describing the events that that took place.

#26 : Write from the point of view of your most-loved possession. What does it think of you?

#27 : Think of five common sayings (e.g., "An apple a day keeps the doctor away"). Write a horror story whose plot is one of those common sayings.

#28 : Write a scene in which two characters are finally hashing out a long-standing misunderstanding or disagreement.

#29 : You start receiving text messages from an unknown number. Tell the story of what happens next.

#30 : Write one character bragging to another about the story behind their new tattoo.

#31 : Superheroes save the world...but they also leave a lot of destruction in their wake. Write about a normal person in a superhero's world.

#32 : Sometimes, family is who we are related to; sometimes, family is a group of people we gather around ourselves. Write a story about (some of) a character's found family and relatives meeting for the first time.

#33 : Write a story that begins in the middle of the plot's action ( en media res ).

#34 : Everyone says you can never have too much of a good thing. Write a story where that isn't true.

#35 : What do ghosts do when they're not creating mischief? Write about the secret lives of ghosts.

#36 : Every year, you dread the last week of April. Write a story about why.

#37 : Write a story about what it would be like to have an animal sidekick in real life.

#38 : Heists don't just have to be black-clad thieves stealing into vaults to steal rare art or money. Write about a group of people (adults or children) who commit a heist for something of seemingly little monetary value.

#39 : "Life is like a chooseable-path adventure, except you don't get to see what would have happened if you chose differently." Think of a choice you've made and write about a world where you made a different choice.

#40 : Write a story about a secret room.

#41 : You find a message in a bottle with very specific directions. Write a story about the adventure you embark upon.

#42 : "You'll always be okay as long as you know where your _______ is." Fill in the blank and write a story (either fictional or from your life) illustrating this statement.

#43 : Forcing people into prolonged proximity can change and deepen relationships. Write about characters on a road trip together.

#44 : In music, sonata form includes three main parts: exposition, development, and recapitulation. Write a short story that follows this format.

#45 : Begin writing with a character saying, "I'm afraid this simply can't wait."

#46 : Write a story with a happy ending (either happily-ever-after or happy-for-now).

#47 : Write about a character before and after a tragedy in that character's life.

#48 : Choose an object or concept you encounter in everyday life (e.g. tables, the feeling of hot or cold, oxygen) and write an infomercial about it.

#49 : "Life is a series of quests, whether important or mundane." Write about a quest you've gone on (or would like to go on, or will have to go on).

#50 : List 10 different ways to learn. Choose one (or more) and write a story where a character learns something using that one (or more) method.

#51 : You've been called to the principal's office for bad behavior. You know what you did. Explain and justify yourself.

#52 : A character discovers their sibling owns a cursed object. Write about what happens next.

#53 : Write a character description by writing a list of items that would be on a scavenger hunt about them.

#54 : The slogan for a product or service you're advertising is, "Kid-tested, _____." Fill in the blank and write the copy for a radio or podcast advertisement for your product.

How to Use Creative Writing Prompts

There's no wrong way to use a creative writing prompt (unless it's to harass and hurt someone)—the point of them is to get you writing and your imagination flowing.

To help you get the most out of these writing prompts, however, we've come up with the six tips below. Try them out!

#1: DON'T Limit Yourself to Prose

Unless you're writing for a particular assignment, there's no reason everything you write in response to a writing prompt has to be prose fiction . Instead of writing your response to a prompt as a story, try writing a poem, nonfiction essay, play, screenplay, or some other format entirely.

#2: DON'T Edit as You Write

The purposes of writing prompts is to get you writing, typos and weird grammar and all. Editing comes later, once you've finished writing and have some space from it to come back to what you wrote.

It's OK to fix things that will make it difficult to read what you've written (e.g., a weird autocorrect that changes the meaning of a sentence), but don't worry too much about typos or perfect grammar when you're writing; those are easy enough to fix in edits . You also can always insert asterisks or a short note as you're writing to remind yourself to go back to fix something (for instance, if as you're writing it seems like you want to move around the order of your paragraphs or insert something earlier).

#3: DO Interpret the Prompt Broadly

The point of using a writing prompt is not to write something that best exemplifies the prompt, but something that sparks your own creativity. Again, unless you're writing in response to an assignment with specific directions, feel free to interpret writing prompts as broadly or as narrowly as you want.

For instance, if your prompt is to write a story that begins with "The stage was set," you could write about anything from someone preparing to put a plan into motion to a literal theatre stage constructed out of pieces of old sets (or something else entirely).

If you're using a writing prompt, it doesn't have to be the first sentence of your story or poem, either; you can also use the prompt as a goal to work towards in your writing.

#4: DO Try Switching Up Your Writing Methods

If it's a possibility for you, see if you write differently in different media. Do you write the same kind of stories by hand as you would typing at a computer? What about if you dictate a story and then transcribe it? Or text it to a friend? Varying the method you use to write can affect the stories you're able to tell.

For example, you may find that it's easier for you to tell stories about your life to a voice recorder than to try to write out a personal essay. Or maybe you have trouble writing poetry, but can easily text yourself or a friend a poem. You might even find you like a writing method you've not tried before better than what you've been doing!

#5: DO Mix and Match Prompt Ideas

If you need more inspiration, feel free to combine multiple prompts (but don't overwhelm yourself with too much to write about).

You can also try switching genres from what might be suggested in the prompt. For instance, try writing a prompt that seems funny in a serious and sad way, or finding the humor in something that otherwise seems humorless. The categories we've organized the prompts into are by no means limiters on what you're allowed to write about.

#6: DO Try to Write Regularly

The more regularly you write, the easier it will be to write (with or without writing prompts).

For some people, this means writing daily; for others, it means setting aside time to write each weekend or each month. Set yourself an achievable goal (write 2x a week, write 1000 words a month) and stick to it. You can always start small and then ramp your wordcount or frequency up.

If you do better when you have something outside yourself prompting to write, you may also want to try something like morning pages , which encourages you to write at least 750 words every day, in any format (story, diary entry, social media postings, etc).

What's Next?

Thinking about attending college or grad school for creative writing? Our articles on whether or not you should major in creative writing and the best creative writing programs are there for you! Plus, if you're a high schooler, you should check out these top writing contests .

Creative writing doesn't necessarily have to be fiction. Check out these three examples of narrative writing and our tips for how to write your own narrative stories and essays .

Just as writing prompts can help give form to amorphous creative energy, using specific writing structures or devices can be great starting points for your next story. Read through our discussion of the top 20 poetic devices to know and see if you can work at least one new one into your next writing session.

Still looking for more writing ideas? Try repurposing our 100+ easy drawing ideas for characters, settings, or plot points in your writing.

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Laura graduated magna cum laude from Wellesley College with a BA in Music and Psychology, and earned a Master's degree in Composition from the Longy School of Music of Bard College. She scored 99 percentile scores on the SAT and GRE and loves advising students on how to excel in high school.

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420 Freelance Writing Business Name Ideas for Every Writer

Choosing the right name for your freelance writing business can set you apart from the competition. A great name should reflect your brand, attract clients, and be memorable.

Here are 420 freelance writing business name ideas to inspire you.

Creative Freelance Writing Business Name Ideas

Finding a creative name for your freelance writing business can set you apart and attract clients. Here are 30 unique name ideas:

• WordCraft Studio
• InkSpire Writers
• StoryTeller’s Corner
• Pencil & Paper Prose
• Quill and Quirk
• Prose & Pixels
• The Write Haven
• Ink & Imagination
• Page Turner Writers
• The Writer’s Nest
• Fresh Ink Sources
• Vivid Voices
• Bright Ideas Writing
• Epic Wordsmiths
• Inspired Pen
• Clear Canvas Writers
• Story Bridge Writing
• Crafted Words Studio
• Vibrant Verbs
• Word Alchemy
• Imaginary Ink
• Creative Quill
• Write On Point
• Word Wizards
• Dynamic Descriptions
• Artisan Pens
• Words That Work
• Whimsical Writes
• Page Pioneers
• Inkling Ideas
• Witty Words

Cool Freelance Writing Business Names

A cool name can make your freelance writing business more memorable and appealing to clients. Here are 30 cool name ideas:

• The Write Tribe
• Modern Muse
• Chill Writer Collective
• Bold Pen Society
• Creative Chronicles
• The Monthly Writer
• Write Fusion
• Free Spirit Words
• Ink Legends
• WriteCraft Society
• Writers on Fire
• Infinite Stories
• Penned Perspectives
• Rogue Writer
• Witty Words Studio
• Rebel Writers
• Savvy Scribblers
• Unbound Ink
• Skillful Scribes
• Urban Quills
• Next Level Words
• Striking Sentences
• Write Side Up
• The Word Den

Funny Freelance Writing Business Name Ideas

A clever and funny name can grab attention and show off your personality as a writer. Here are 30 humorous name ideas:

• Punny Pages
• Witty Wordplay
• Write on the Funny Side
• Quirky Quills
• Prose Before Bros
• Write & Wrong
• The Draft Dodgers
• Word Nerds Unite
• Comma Chameleon
• Pencil Me In
• The Write Stuff
• Deadlines and Laughs
• Script Happens
• Write Said Fred
• Word Playtime
• Page Turnin’ Puns
• Client Funnies
• Laughing Lines
• Scribble Smiles
• The Comedic Scribe
• Crazy for Copy
• Amusing Ink
• Just Kidding, Write!
• Help, I’m Writing
• Ink Giggles
• Snappy Scribbles
• Writers’ Chucklehouse
• Jokes and Quill
• Verbal Gymnastics
• Write Laugh Now
• Cheeky Chapters

Unique Freelance Writing Business Names

A unique name can highlight your distinct style and approach as a freelance writer. Here are 30 name ideas that stand out:

• Ink & Echoes
• Unwritten Chapters
• The Hidden Wordsmith
• Ink Blot Atelier
• Storysmiths
• The Write Alchemist
• Windy Wordsmith
• Inked Inspirations
• Penned Pathways
• Curated Content
• Fable Fabricators
• Beyond the Page
• Imaginary Inkspot
• The Content Canvas
• Essence of Ink
• Wordspinners
• Lettered Journeys
• Whimsical Words
• The Written Voice
• Luminous Letters
• Ink Horizon
• Verbal Voyage
• Sublime Scribbles
• Inkwell Creatives
• Artistic Narratives
• Stories Untold
• Word Wanderer
• Quirks of the Page
• Fusion of Words

Cute Freelance Writing Business Name Ideas

A cute name can convey warmth and friendliness, making clients feel more at ease. Here are 30 adorable name ideas for your freelance writing business:

• Cuddle Up Words
• Sweet Scribbles
• Happy Pen Pals
• Pinky Promise Writers
• Snug as a Bug Writing
• Little Story Blossoms
• Charming Chapters
• Cozy Quills
• Doodle & Draft
• Whiskers & Words
• Bright Ideas Bungalow
• Giggles & Scribbles
• Charming Inked Tales
• Butterfly Pen
• Rainbow Pages
• Writing Wonderland
• Artful Antics
• Panda Pencils
• Little Ink Spouts
• Starlight Stories
• Cactus Quill
• Darling Drafts
• Sunshine Scribblers
• Fuzzy Ink Tales
• Dreamy Writing Den
• Sprinkle of Ink
• Blossom Words
• Hugs and Quills
• Sweet Pages Boutique
• Pens and Posies

Clever Freelance Writing Business Names

A clever name can show off your wit and creativity, attracting clients who appreciate a sharp sense of humor. Here are 30 clever name ideas for your freelance writing business:

• Who’s Writing This?
• Beyond the Pen
• Punny Prose
• Fine Print Fighters
• Writefully Yours
• Word Playwright
• Scribble Savvy
• Write in Style
• Pencil Me Funny
• Word to the Wise
• Priceless Prose
• Curious Quills
• Writefully Clever
• A Penny for Your Words
• Mindful Ink
• The Readable Dream
• Witty Write-ups
• Word Wise Guys
• The Write Mix
• Creative Concoctions
• Smarter Scribbles
• The Write Solution
• Thoughtful Thesaurus
• Write Between the Lines
• The Write Impression
• Wonders of Words
• Wise Words Atelier
• Wordplay Wizards
• Vocab Ventures
• Clearly Written
• Right on Write

Short Freelance Writing Business Name Ideas

A short and snappy name is easy to remember and makes a strong impression. Here are 30 concise name ideas for your freelance writing business:

Catchy Freelance Writing Business Names

A catchy name can make your freelance writing business memorable and draw in potential clients. Here are 30 catchy name ideas:

• Penned Perfection
• Catchy Quills
• Write and Shine
• Inked Expressions
• Words That Wow
• Creative Sparks
• Write It Right
• Fresh Take Writing
• Crafted Copy
• Story Streak
• Brilliant Brushes
• Swift Scribbles
• Prose to Go
• Artful Words
• Content Crafter
• Word Jamboree
• Write Direction
• Sparkling Sentences
• Swift Scripts
• Penned Charm
• Vivid Visions
• Bright Words
• Content Crafters
• The Write Match
• Pencil Passion

SEO-Focused Freelance Writing Business Name Ideas

An SEO-focused name can help highlight your expertise in search engine optimization and attract clients looking for that skill. Here are 30 name ideas tailored for that focus:

• SEO Scripts
• Content Optimizers
• Search Savvy Writers
• Keyword Creators
• Rank Rise Writers
• Content Climb
• SEO Storytellers
• Targeted Texts
• Web Wordsmiths
• Ranked Reads
• Searchable Scribbles
• SEO Story Studio
• Optimized Ink
• Content Boosters
• Keyword Quills
• Web Worthy Words
• Effective Content
• Smooth SEO Scripts
• Smart SEO Writers
• Content Visibility
• SEO Narrative
• Ranked Writers
• Content Catalyst
• Boosted Blog
• KeyText Writers
• Search Engine Stories
• Content Compass
• Optimized Expressions
• SEO Content Lab

Technical Writing Freelance Business Names

A name that reflects technical writing can attract clients looking for clarity and expertise in complex subjects. Here are 30 name ideas for your technical writing business:

• Clear Cut Content
• Precision Writers
• Technical Texts
• InfoCraft Writers
• Expert Expressive
• Clarity In Writing
• Technical Narratives
• Manual Makers
• Detail Driven
• Structured Writing Solutions
• Code & Copy
• Step-by-Step Scribbles
• Insightful Instructions
• Sleek Solutions Writing
• Tech Talk Writers
• Precise Prose
• Documentation Express
• Technical Wordsmiths
• Content Engineers
• Clear Instructions
• Industry Insights
• Structured Scribblers
• Tech Overview Writers
• Polished Prose
• Technical Touch
• Info Writers
• Systematic Scribbles
• Tech Text Experts
• Concise Copy

Ghostwriting Business Name Ideas

A captivating name can convey the essence of ghostwriting and attract clients in need of discreet writing services. Here are 30 name ideas for your ghostwriting business:

• Phantom Pens
• Ghosted Words
• Whispers of Ink
• Invisible Ink
• Secret Scribes
• Shadowed Stories
• Echoed Expressions
• Silent Narratives
• Veiled Voices
• Hidden Wordsmiths
• Covert Copy
• Hushed Prose
• Discreet Drafts
• Shade of Ink
• Subtle Stories
• Behind the Words
• Ghostly Writers
• Untold Tales
• Incognito Ink
• Secret Scribblers
• Unknown Authors
• Quiet Quills
• Word Wizards of the Night
• Masked Manuscripts
• Phantom Pages
• Whispering Words
• Silenced Stories
• Forgotten Formats
• Quietly Written
• Veiled Narratives

Academic Freelance Writing Business Names

An academic writing business name should convey professionalism and expertise, appealing to clients seeking scholarly work. Here are 30 name ideas for your academic freelance writing business:

• Scholar Scribes
• Academic Ink
• Essay Experts
• Intellectual Ink
• Research Writers
• Critical Quill
• Scholarly Solutions
• Nota Bene Writers
• Textbook Tales
• Academic Artisans
• Insightful Papers
• Thesis Thinkers
• Write On Academia
• Peer Review Prose
• Scholarly Voices
• Professor’s Pen
• Informed Ink
• Disciplined Drafts
• Publication Partners
• University Writers
• Critique & Craft
• Research Realms
• Academic Articulation
• Scholarly Scripts
• Academic Avenue
• Insight Writers
• Educated Expressions
• Thesis Touch
• Drafted Degrees
• Insightful Arrangements

Travel Freelance Writing Business Name Ideas

A travel-themed name can evoke adventure and excitement, attracting clients who crave compelling travel content. Here are 30 name ideas for your travel freelance writing business:

• Wandering Words
• Travel Tales
• Journey Journalists
• Globetrotter Ink
• The Roaming Writer
• Wanderlust Words
• Voyage Verbs
• Exploration Expressions
• Adventure Articles
• Nomad Narratives
• Travel By Text
• Pathway Prose
• Destination Writers
• Travelogue Tales
• Journey Jots
• Trails of Ink
• Travel Writers Hub
• Excursion Echoes
• Odyssey Authors
• Globe View Writers
• Wander Words Studio
• Explorer’s Ink
• Curated Travels
• Wander Secrets
• Journeys in Prose
• Travel Textures
• Global Scribbles
• Wanderlust Writers
• Map & Manuscript
• Pathfinder Pens
• Travel Inkling

Creative Storytelling Freelance Writing Business Names

A name that embodies creativity and storytelling can attract clients looking for engaging narratives and imaginative content. Here are 30 name ideas for your creative storytelling freelance writing business:

• Story Weaver
• Creative Quests
• Fable Foundry
• Imaginative Inkwell
• Storyteller’s Canvas
• Narrative Nest
• Epic Emissaries
• Story Forge
• Crafted Chronicles
• Fiction Fusion
• Inkspired Stories
• Tales & Texts
• Artful Narratives
• Vivid Tales
• Enchanted Ink
• Word Adventures
• Imaginary Realms
• Fantasy Ink
• Spellbound Scribbles
• Story Scribe
• Colorful Chronicles
• Narrative Odyssey
• Inspired Storytelling
• Mythical Manuscripts
• Wordy Wonders
• Inkling Inspirations
• Dreamweaver Pens
• Creative Echoes
• Stories Unfolded
• Storylight Writers

Key Tips for Naming Your Freelance Writing Business

Choosing the right name for your freelance writing business can be challenging. Use these tips to guide you in making the best choice.

Make It Memorable

A memorable name sticks in people’s minds. Aim for something catchy yet simple, so clients easily recall your business when they need writing services.

Reflect Your Brand

Your business name should match what you offer. Think about the kind of writing you do and make sure the name reflects that. This helps attract the right clients.

Keep It Short

Short names are easier to say and remember. Avoid complicated words or long strings of text that can confuse potential clients.

Avoid Ambiguity

Avoid names that can be misunderstood or have multiple meanings. Clarity helps in ensuring that potential clients understand what you offer right away.

Use Keywords

Incorporate relevant keywords related to writing in your business name. This helps in online searches and attracts clients looking for specific writing services.

Check Availability

Make sure the name you choose isn’t already taken. Check domain names and social media handles to ensure you can have a consistent online presence.

Get Feedback

Ask friends, family, or potential clients for their opinions on your name choices. Sometimes an outside perspective can help you see things differently and make a better decision.

Think Long-Term

Consider how your business might grow. Choose a name that still works if you decide to expand your services in the future.

Final Thoughts

The right name can make your freelance writing business stand out and attract clients. With 420 ideas listed above, you’ll find a name that fits your style and goals. Choose one that best represents your business. If you need more personalized suggestions, try the name generator at the top of the page.

Slava Velikiy, CEO of Rontar and GainRep, has over 20 years of experience in entrepreneurship, project management, and software development. Passionate about innovation and solving real-world problems, he shares his insights on entrepreneurship, leadership, and technology.

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