Starting To Write Your Memoir - Tips Oh, that moment when you put your fingers on the key and start to write your memoir. It’s exciting, isn’t it? Unless, of course, the dreaded writer's block comes to bite you on the bum. Ouch. Wherever you find yourself, sometimes you need a few tips to help you on your way.

1. Starting To Write

2. Starting To Write
Writing a memoir is a journey that begins with a
single step

3. Starting To Write
• Strategies to start writing and keep going until completion
• Set a routine for consistent writing
• Break down the task into manageable sections
• Consider starting in the middle of the story or scene
• Write the first and last chapters as a starting point

4. Just Write
• Just write
• Make it easy – pants or plan – you choose
• Chunk it down into scenes
• Forget grammar and spelling

5. Using Prompts
• Use prompts to overcome writer's block and generate ideas
• Examples of prompts to consider
• Purpose of the chapter in the overall narrative arc
• Key events or plot points
• Conflicts, obstacles, and their resolutions
• Emotional or psychological changes for the protagonist

6. Using Prompts
• Examples of prompts to
consider:
• Revealing new information to
the reader
• Utilising setting, tone, and
mood effectively
• Significant interaction with
secondary characters
• Outcome and progression of
the story

7. Have a Framework
• Themes and Reflections
• Personal growth, resilience, family, love, loss, or any other significant
aspect of your life
• Reflect on their impact on your journey
• Chronological Order
• Does what it says on the tin

8. Use The Narrative Arc Method

9. Ideas
• Free writing to let thoughts flow freely
• Writing letters to someone you trust
• Recording your story as an alternative to writing
• Sketching out scenes and key moments
• Embracing imperfection and allowing for revisions

10. Keep Going
• Experiment with different approaches to find what works for you
• Remember that the first draft doesn't have to be perfect
• Give yourself permission to write badly and revise later
• Don't be afraid to continue the writing journey

11. Next Steps
• Get your plan for inspiration
• Write the first and last chapters
• Write badly
• Write in scenes
• Reflect often

12. www.memoirmadeeady.co.uk